[sci.space.shuttle] Shuttle Status for 02/21/89

yee@ames.arc.nasa.gov (Peter E. Yee) (02/22/89)

            KSC SPACE SHUTTLE PROCESSING REPORT - TUESDAY, FEB. 21, 1989

                     STS-29  -  DISCOVERY (OV 103)  -  PAD 39-B

               Over the weekend, technicians worked to secure the three
          oxidizer turbo pumps on the main engines and are scheduled to
          complete that operation today. Some preliminary leak checks have
          been successfully conducted on the new pumps.

               Tomorrow, workers are scheduled to begin installing the heat
          shields around the main engines.  The helium signature leak test
          of the main propulsion system is scheduled this weekend and a
          test will be conducted to cycle the main engine valves and the
          orbiter's aerosurfaces next week. Preparations for launch are
          scheduled to begin next week.   

               The payload end-to-end test was successfully conducted last
          week verifing communications capabilities between ground stations
          and the TDRS/IUS. Batteries are scheduled to be installed on the
          Inertial Upper Stage this week.


                     STS-30  -  ATLANTIS (0V 104)  -  OPF BAY 2

               Technicians installed the flight tires over the weekend and
          a brake anti-skid test is underway. Checkout of the orbiter's
          flight controls is planned on Wednesday. The crew seats were
          reinstalled over the weekend. The location of the seats will
          allow more room for the crew while in their new launch and entry
          suits.

                Checkout of the main propulsion system is continuing.
          Closeouts of the payload bay are underway. The payload bay doors
          were closed to allow tile operations on the hinges.


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

               Checkout of the main propulsion system and communications
          system is continuing. Return-to-flight modifications are
          underway.


                        STS-30 SOLID ROCKET BOOSTERS  -  VAB

               The right forward assembly for the STS-30 set was mated last
          weekend and closeouts of the booster joints are underway.
          Alignment checks of the boosters is planned this week. The
          external tank is scheduled to be mated to the boosters this
          weekend.