Launch controllers condition the engines by heightening pressure on core stage tanks to keep in a stable temperature range. Engine 3 is where the issue with the bleed process was first noted.
A small crack in the thermal protection system material on one of the flanges on the core stage was also found. Flanges connecting joints are used at the top and bottom of the inter-tank so both tanks can be seamlessly attached to it.
NASA engineers continue to troubleshoot and assess the situation. But today’s launch is scrubbed. And it will be September before there is another likely launch window.
