[sci.space.shuttle] Shuttle Status for 12/14/89

yee@trident.arc.nasa.gov (Peter E. Yee) (12/15/89)

                 KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT - THURSDAY, DEC. 14, 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 are also continuing today.

               Ordnance installation and checks of firing circuits are
          planned for Saturday and closeouts of the aft compartment are
          underway. Syncom batteries are being charged today.

               Launch of mission STS-32 has been rescheduled for Dec. 20.
          The window for that day opens at 6:26 p.m. and closes at 7:24
          p.m. EST.


                       STS-36 - ATLANTIS (OV 104) - OPF BAY 1

               The right orbital maneuvering system pod has been
          mechanically and electrically mated to the vehicle and testing is
          underway today. A functional test of the galley was performed
          yesterday. Installation of the three main engines is planned for
          Friday and Saturday.


                      STS-33 - DISCOVERY (OV 103) - OPF  BAY 2

               Power up post-flight systems testing and inspections are
          scheduled this week. Two of the three main engines have been
          removed and the last engine is scheduled to be removed today.
          After engine removal, workers will be preparing to offload the
          auxiliary power unit catch bottles this weekend.


                         STS-36 SOLID ROCKET BOOSTERS - VAB

               Stacking operations were completed early this morning, then
          the right forward assembly was mated. Joint closeouts are
          underway. The external tank is scheduled to be mated to the
          boosters next week.