yee@trident.arc.nasa.gov (Peter E. Yee) (08/21/90)
KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT - THURSDAY, AUGUST 16 1990 8:30 A.M.
STS-35 - COLUMBIA (OV 102) - PAD 39-A
The helium signature leak test of the shuttle's three main
engines and main propulsion system is set to begin at about 10
a.m. today. This test is designed to identify any leaks within
the system using gaseous helium. Retest of orbiter main propul-
sion system flow control valves delayed the test a few hours.
Yesterday, the Orbiter Midbody Umbilical Unit was connected to
the shuttle.
Preparations for servicing the orbiter with hypergolic
propellants are continuing. Servicing is set to begin Friday af-
ternoon and will continue through the weekend. The pad will be
closed for this operation. Monomethylhydrazine and nitrogen
tetroxide will be loaded into the orbiter's onboard storage tanks
for the orbital maneuvering system pods and the reaction control
system.
Today, KSC managers will meet for the routine Launch Readi-
ness Review to go over the status for launching Columbia and the
Astro payload on Mission STS-35.
The Flight Readiness Review, where shuttle managers set the
official launch date, is scheduled for Aug. 20-21 here at Kennedy
Space Center.
STS-38 - ATLANTIS (OV 104) - OPF BAY 2
Access to the vehicle is being established. The orbiter will
spend about four weeks in the OPF being readied for the STS-38
mission. Meanwhile, technicians are removing the 17-inch discon-
nect assembly and feedline from the external tank. The feedline
and assembly will be shipped to Marshall Space Flight Center
this weekend.
STS-41 - DISCOVERY (OV 103) - OPF BAY 1
Rigging of the main landing gear doors and tile operations
around the doors are underway. All areas of the vehicle are being
closed out for roll to the VAB next week. Work to install the
galley is underway. The date for rolling the vehicle over to the
VAB is being evaluated. The routine rollover review meeting will
be held Friday.