[sci.space.shuttle] Shuttle Status for 10/04/89

yee@trident.arc.nasa.gov (Peter E. Yee) (10/09/89)

[I've been on travel, hence the delay in getting this out. -PEY]

            KSC SPACE SHUTTLE PROCESSING REPORT - WEDNESDAY, OCT. 4, 1989

                       STS-34  -  ATLANTIS (OV 104) - PAD 39-B

               Overnight, technicians removed and replaced one of two
          command and control computers for the Inertial Upper Stage and
          retest is underway. This computer experienced bit errors during
          yesterday's IUS simulated countdown and a decision was made to
          replace the unit with a spare on site.

               Closeouts of the aft compartment are underway. These
          activities include final inspections, removal of non-flight
          protective covers, removal of platforms and taking photos.

               At about midnight tonight, the pad will be cleared of all
          non-essential personnel for final ordnance operations. The pad
          will be cleared through tomorrow while the ordnance devices are
          being connected and checked.

                     STS-33  -  DISCOVERY (OV 103)  -  OPF BAY 1

               Preparations to transfer Discovery to the Vehicle Assembly
          Building are underway for noon tomorrow. The orbiter transporter
          will be used to haul Discovery several hundred yards to the
          transfer aisle. By using the transporter, the landing gears will
          be retracted for flight in the OPF versus in the VAB, thereby
          saving time in the transfer aisle.

                       STS-32 - COLUMBIA (OV 102) - OPF BAY 2

               Preparations to install the three main engines are underway
          today. The first engine is scheduled to be installed tomorrow.
          Checks of the orbital maneuvering system, water spray boilers and
          power reactant storage and distribution system are continuing
          today.

               The chin panel was removed so engineers could inspect the
          area for water intrusion. No evidence of water was found and the
          panel was reinstalled yesterday.

                         STS-33 SOLID ROCKET BOOSTERS - VAB

               The external tank and solid rocket boosters were mated last
          week and preparations to mate the orbiter Discovery to the stack
          are underway.

                         STS-32 SOLID ROCKET BOOSTERS - VAB

               The left forward center segment is being mated to the stack
          today. The left forward solid motor segment is scheduled to be
          transferred to the VAB this weekend and stacked next week.