[sci.space.shuttle] Shuttle Status for 04/05/89

yee@trident.arc.nasa.gov (Peter E. Yee) (04/06/89)

           KSC SPACE SHUTTLE PROCESSING REPORT - WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5, 1989

                      STS-30  -  ATLANTIS (0V 104)  -  PAD 39-B

               The interface verification test of the Magellan payload was
          successfully completed ahead of schedule earlier today. The test
          verifies connections between the orbiter and the payload. The
          end-to-end test of the Magellan and Interial Upper Stage and
          ground stations is planned for Saturday.

               Yesterday, technicians replaced a seal on the last high
          pressure oxidizer turbo pump after a detailed inspection that was
          prompted by an unusual noise heard during the installation. The
          pump is now being bolted back into place allowing technicians to
          begin making over 30 connections necessary to complete the
          installation later this week.

               The Countdown Demonstration Test is scheduled to begin
          Thursday, April 6 and will culminate with a simulated engine
          cutoff at 11 a.m. Friday. The test serves as a dress rehearsal
          for the flight crew and launch team.


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

               Orbiter systems testing is underway today including checkout
          of the forward reaction control system. Orbiter systems are being
          checked out as return-to-flight activities continue. Leak and
          functional testing of the auxiliary power units is scheduled this
          week. Thermal protection system operations are continuing.


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

               Technicians have removed two of the main engines and the
          last engine is being removed today. One of the engines will be
          sent back to Rocketdyne in Canoga Park, Calif. for repairs to a
          crack in its main comubustion chamber. Removal of the SHARE heat
          pipe is also scheduled to begin today. A systems test of the
          power reactant storage and distribution system is planned this
          week.


                      STS-28 SOLID ROCKET BOOSTERS  -  VAB/RPSF

               The left aft booster was transferred from the RPSF to the
          VAB Monday and stacked on the mobile launcher platform.
          Technicians are hooking up electrical umbilicals to the booster
          today. The left aft center segment is scheduled to be transferred
          to the VAB transfer aisle today in preparation for stacking.
          Meanwhile, other segments are being prepared for stacking in the
          RPSF.