[sci.space.shuttle] Shuttle Status for 06/09/89

yee@trident.arc.nasa.gov (Peter E. Yee) (06/09/89)

             KSC SPACE SHUTTLE PROCESSING REPORT - FRIDAY, JUNE 9, 1989

                     STS-28  -  COLUMBIA (OV 102)  -  OPF BAY 1

               A functional test of the external tank doors and a main
          propulsion system and main engine end-to-end test are underway.

               Workers are repairing a piece of ground support equipment,
          called a Thompson rail, necessary for removing and replacing the
          main engine liquid hydrogen turbo pump. The rail's shaft and gear
          failed during proof testing. New pieces will be fabricated for
          the rail. In the meantime, technicians are scheduled to replace
          the heat shields around main engine number 1 in preparation for a
          positive pressure structural leak check of the orbiter's aft
          compartment. After the rail is ready to support the pump
          replacement, officials will determine whether the operation will
          take place in the OPF or after the orbiter is vertical.

               The landing gears are being checked out for flight this week
          with a functional test planned for next week. Technicians are
          rigging the landing gear doors for a tight fit and smooth
          closure. Thermal protection system operations are continuing.

               Columbia's target date for tow to the Vehicle Assembly
          Building for mating with its external tank and solid rocket
          boosters is June 23.

                      STS-30  -  ATLANTIS (OV 104) - OPF BAY 2

               Removal preparations are underway today for the right
          orbital maneuvering system pod. The pod will be transferred to
          the maintenance facility for repairs. Checkouts of the power
          reactant storage and distribution system are continuing. Testing
          of the communications system are underway. Leak and functional
          tests of the auxiliary power units is continuing.

                       STS-33  -  DISCOVERY (OV 103)  -  OMRF

               Power down work scheduled today includes modification of the
          crew seats to allow more room for the crew when they wear the
          partial pressure suits.  Discovery will be transferred to bay 1
          when Columbia is moved to the VAB in June.

                         STS-28 SOLID ROCKET BOOSTERS - VAB

               Closeouts of the boosters and tank are underway. Workers are
          installing closeout covers over cables.

                         STS-34 SOLID ROCKET BOOSTERS - RPSF

               The left aft booster was transferred from the Rotation
          Processing and Surge Facility to the VAB transfer aisle
          yesterday. Stacking is scheduled to begin on Wednesday.