yee@trident.arc.nasa.gov (Peter E. Yee) (12/21/89)
KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT - WEDNESDAY, DEC. 20, 1989
STS-32 - COLUMBIA (OV 102) - PAD 39-A
Today, work continues to validate systems at Pad 39-A to be
used in loading liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen propellants
into the orbiter's onboard storage tanks. One of the major pieces
of equipment being validated is the Orbiter Midbody Umbilical
Unit (OMBUU) at the Pad used to service the orbiter with
propellants during the launch countdown. Today, leak checks of
connections between the OMBUU and the orbiter's service panel
near the aft fuselage are planned.
Earlier plans to load propellants into three of the five
power reactant storage and distribution system tanks this week
have been changed. Procedures for the propellant load need to be
rewritten and reviewed by engineers prior to the operation. A
step in the procedure involving swaping hoses between the various
tank sets is being revised to preclude interference with
equipment in the vicinity.
Closeouts of the aft compartment are underway with the
flight doors scheduled for installation today. Final vehicle
power down is planned for midnight Thursday. Launch of mission
STS-32 is planned for Jan. 8 at 8:06 a.m. EST.
STS-36 - ATLANTIS (OV 104) - OPF BAY 1
Operations scheduled this week include main engine
installation activities, midbody closeouts, inspection of the
thermal protection system, and preparations to power down for the
holidays.
STS-33 - DISCOVERY (OV 103) - OPF BAY 2
Power up post-flight systems testing and inspections are
scheduled this week. Technicians are readying the vehicle for the
upcoming holidays. Later this week, the payload bay doors will be
closed and the orbiter will be powered down.
STS-36 SOLID ROCKET BOOSTERS - VAB
Field joint closeouts are continuing. The external tank is
scheduled to be mated the end of the week prior to the holidays.
STS-31 SOLID ROCKET BOOSTERS - VAB
Stacking operations of the left aft booster are underway in
the VAB high bay 1 on mobile launcher platform 2. The next
segment, the left aft center, will be stacked after the holidays.