yee@trident.arc.nasa.gov (Peter E. Yee) (12/14/90)
KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT - Thursday, Dec. 13, 1990 10 a.m.
STS-35 - COLUMBIA (OV 102) - DRYDEN
Turnaround operations to prepare the orbiter Columbia for
the return trip to Florida are continuing. Pending good weather
and no problems, Columbia is scheduled to depart Edwards early
Sunday morning. The 747 shuttle carrier aircraft/orbiter will be
making several refueling stops across the country, including a
planned overnight stay at Kelly Air Force Base, San Antonio,
Texas, because of the extra weight due to Astro.
Once back at KSC, Columbia will be located in the Vehicle
Assembly Building for about one month, until Discovery is ready
to be transferred out of the OPF.
STS-39 - DISCOVERY (OV 103) - OPF BAY 1
Technicians are scheduled to install the nose cap today.
Checks of the left orbital maneuvering system pod are underway. A
test of the nose wheel steering system is set for today and a
brake anti-skid test is planned tomorrow. Discovery is being
prepared for rollover to the Vehicle Assembly Building the end of
January.
STS-37 - ATLANTIS (OV 104) - OPF BAY 2
The number 2 main engine was removed overnight. The other
two engines are being removed today. They will be taken to the
engine shop in the VAB for routine tests and checks.
Technicans are deconfiguring the midbody from the previous
mission. The nose cap is scheduled to be removed tomorrow. In-
spections of the cavity for the forward reaction control system
are underway. Testing of the orbiter's communications system is
underway.
STS-39 SOLID ROCKET BOOSTERS - VAB
Stacking operations are continuing in the VAB. The left for-
ward assembly was mated yesterday and the right forward assembly
is ready to be mated today. Closeouts are underway on all joints.
The external tank is scheduled to be mated to the boosters
on Dec. 18.