[sci.space.shuttle] Shuttle Status for 04/20/91

yee@trident.arc.nasa.gov (Peter E. Yee) (04/23/91)

          KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT - SATURDAY, APR. 20, 1991 - 10 a.m.

                     STS-39/DoD - DISCOVERY (OV 103) - PAD 39-A
                                  LAUNCH - APRIL 23

                                 LAUNCH MINUS 3 DAYS


          WORK IN PROGRESS:
          - Launch countdown began on time today at 8:45 a.m  at  the  T-43
          hour mark.
          -  Verification that the data processing system and backup flight
          control system are operating.
          - Review of flight software.
          - Shuttle main engine controllers checked out for flight tonight.
          - Final payload servicing operations.


          WORK COMPLETED:
          - Removal of service  platforms  from  the  deck  of  the  mobile
          launcher platform (MLP).
          - Removing handrails from the launch platform.
          - Preparing the MLP hazardous gas detection system for launch.
          -  Removal  of protective covers from the orbiter's reaction con-
          trol system thrusters.
          - Removing platforms from the crew cabin.
          - Payload servicing operations.


          WORK SCHEDULED:
          - STS-39 flight crew arrival at 6:30  p.m.  EDT  tonight  at  the
          Shuttle Landing Facility.
          - First built-in hold at 12:45 a.m. Sunday at the T-27 hour mark.
          Hold will last for 8 hours.
          - Closing the payload bay doors for flight Sunday at 5 a.m.
          - Launch at 7:05 a.m. EDT Tuesday, April 23.


          WEATHER FORECAST:
               Probability  of  launch  weather  criteria  violation at the
          beginning of the launch period is 70  percent.  For  the  overall
          launch period  there is a 50 percent chance for violating weather
          criteria.