yee@trident.arc.nasa.gov (Peter E. Yee) (12/16/89)
KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT - FRIDAY, DEC. 15, 1989
STS-32 - COLUMBIA (OV 102) - PAD 39-A
Workers are continuing 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. This unit is connected to a service
panel on the orbiter and is used to feed propellants into the
orbiter's onboard power reactant storage and distribution system
tanks during the launch countdown. Validations of the gaseous
oxygen vent arm have been completed.
Ordnance installation and checks of firing circuits are
planned for Saturday. Early Sunday, workers are scheduled to load
liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen into dewars (large storage tanks)
on the launch tower. Closeouts of the aft compartment are underway.
Launch of mission STS-32 remains scheduled for no earlier than
Dec. 20; however, if work is slightly behind schedule, a launch on
Dec. 21 would be likely. The window for Dec. 20 opens at 6:26 p.m.
and closes at 7:24 p.m. EST. The launch countdown would begin at
4 p.m. EST three days before launch.
STS-36 - ATLANTIS (OV 104) - OPF BAY 1
Testing of the right orbital maneuvering system pod has been
completed to date. A crew equipment interface test is scheduled
for tomorrow. Installation of the three main engines is
scheduled to begin today. Next week, interface verifications tests
of the main engines are planned.
STS-33 - DISCOVERY (OV 103) - OPF BAY 2
Power up post-flight systems testing and inspections are
scheduled this week. All three main engines have been removed and
taken to the VAB for post-flight inspections and for the
replacement of several components. Workers are preparing to
offload the auxiliary power unit catch bottles this weekend.
STS-36 SOLID ROCKET BOOSTERS - VAB
Joint closeouts are underway. The external tank is scheduled
to be mated to the boosters next week.
EXTERNAL TANK 35 - TURN BASIN
External tank number 35, designated for use on Mission STS-
35, arrived by barge in the turn basin yesterday and will be
offloaded today and taken to the VAB.