NASA changing out windows on Discovery

NASA contractor technicians are replacing two cockpit windows on shuttle Discovery with windows that have passed more stringent pressure tests.

The work is being done in hangar No. 3 of the Orbiter Processing Facility at Kennedy Space Center.

Each shuttle orbiter has six forward and two overhead cockpit windows.

NASA is replacing the No. 3 and No. 5 forward windows on Discovery because they were not subjected to pressure tests at levels that would prove they meet engineering specifications.

The loss of a window in flight would cause a loss of cabin pressure that could force a crew to attempt a risky and unprecedented emergency landing.

NASA earlier this week delayed Discovery's targeted May launch to no earlier than July 1. Mission managers decided to take advantage of the extra time and replace the windows.