DATE SET FOR TAKE-OFF

A new model of the space shuttle Columbia, which exploded on re-entry last year, will be ready to fly in the Spring, experts at NASA have said.

Scientists have redesigned the shuttle to make it safer, correcting the flaws that caused the blast in February 2003.


Seven astronauts were killed when the craft desintegrated above Texas as it glided towards a landing in Florida.

A investigation into the incident found the shuttle was doomed by loose insulation foam that struck its wing shortly after take off.

NASA spokesman Bill Readdy said: "A year ago, I said that return to flight was going to be difficult.

"I'm happy to report that a year later, we have been making steady progress on that path to return to flight next spring."

The modified shuttle is destined to dock at the orbiting International Space Station between March 16 and April 18.

The space station relies on shuttle flights to ferry equipment needed for its construction.

Programme manager Bill Parsons said: "It has been a hard year. We are in familiar territory now, getting the vehicle ready. That work is going well, on schedule."

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I'm so glad to hear this news. The two disasters that have involved the shuttles
have been such a big set back to space exploration. Lets hope that the new design is better suited for it's intended purpose.

Good on them! Lets hope that this launch goes off without a hitch and is a success not only for nasa but the human race. lets get back up there into space and explore!!!

Hopefully it wont crash or have a malfunction.