STS-131: Special PRCB of RRCS notes split opinion on flight rationale

Friday’s Agency Flight Readiness Review (FRR) will have several dissenters pitching against flight rationale for STS-131’s launch, relating to the faulty helium isolation valve on the Right Reaction Control System (RRCS). While dissent is not uncommon – and more so welcomed – the Special Program Requirements Control Board (PRCB) meeting still has strong support for launch via the powerful Orbiter Project Office (OPO).
STS-131 Processing Latest:

Discovery continues to be processed for an April 5 launch – pending approval at the Agency FRR – with the milestone of final ordnance installation, and preparations for the opening of her Payload Bay Doors (PLBDs) for the installation of the payload being worked.
“Orbiter Mid Body Umbilical Unit mate and leak checks were completed yesterday. Final ordnance installation and connection for flight is complete. Vehicle power up ordnance testing is in work and expected to complete today,” noted NASA Test Director (NTD) processing information on Tuesday (L2).
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“Payload bay doors will be opened today in preparation for payload installation into the Orbiter tomorrow. Aft compartment closeout for flight continues with completion planned Friday. Four waves of LOX tankers were offloaded at the ...