yee@trident.arc.nasa.gov (Peter E. Yee) (10/13/89)
KSC SPACE SHUTTLE PROCESSING REPORT - THURSDAY, OCT. 12, 1989
STS-34 - ATLANTIS (OV 104) - PAD 39-B
Preparations are continuing to remove the number 2 main
engine controller. The launch countdown remains in an extended
hold at the T minus 19 hour mark.
Overnight, workers removed heat shields from the number two
main engine. Today, the hydraulic system is being readied to
position the main engines for access to the controller. The
engine will not be removed for this controller replacement
operation. Removal and replacement of the controller is scheduled
to begin this evening and the goal is to have the new controller
in place tomorrow. Retest of the controller is scheduled to begin
tomorrow and extend through Saturday morning. After a successful
retest, the aft compartment will be closed out for flight and
access platforms and stands will be removed.
Shuttle management will hold a meeting Saturday to discuss
the readiness to pick up with the launch countdown. The goal is
to launch on Tuesday, Oct. 17. The launch window for that day
opens at 12:57 p.m. eastern time and closes at 1:21 p.m.
STS-33 - DISCOVERY (OV 103) - VAB
In the last few days, workers have replaced a seal between
the main combustion chamber and nozzle on the number 2 main
engine. Following the orbiter to external tank mate, checks of
connections between the vehicle elements and launch platform have
been successfully completed.
Preparations to remove a non-flight high pressure oxidizer
turbo pump from engine 3 are underway. Actual replacement is
planned for next week. The radar altimeter was replaced and
retested yesterday. Closeouts of the solid rocket boosters and
external tank are underway.
STS-32 - COLUMBIA (OV 102) - OPF BAY 2
The flight wheels and tires were installed yesterday on the
main landing gears. Checks of the power reactant storage and
distribution system and the freon coolant loop are continuing
today. Thermal protection system operations are continuing.
STS-32 SOLID ROCKET BOOSTERS - VAB
Joint closeouts of the left booster segments are underway.
The left forward assembly was mated to the stack. The right aft
booster is in the VAB transfer aisle being prepared for stacking
on the mobile launcher platform tomorrow.