[sci.space.shuttle] Shuttle Status for 02/15/89

yee@ames.arc.nasa.gov (Peter E. Yee) (02/16/89)

           KSC SPACE SHUTTLE PROCESSING REPORT - WEDNESDAY, FEB. 15, 1989

                        STS-29  -  DISCOVERY (OV 103)  -  VAB

               The first two new oxidizer turbo pumps are mounted to the
          central flange on two of the main engines. Rocketdyne technicians
          are mechanically connecting the pumps to the engines today. The
          last pump is scheduled to arrive tonight and will be taken to the
          pad after the receiving inspections are complete.  Installation
          of the three pumps and the associated testing is scheduled to be
          completed prior to the end of this month.

               A 22-hour interface verification test of the Tracking and
          Data Relay Satellite and its Inertial Upper Stage is underway
          today in parallel with pump installation activities.  The test
          verifies connections between the payload and the orbiter.


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

               The orbiter's waste containment system (WCS) was installed
          yesterday and is being connected today. Functional checkout of
          the WCS will commence after hookups are complete. The latch for
          the payload bay doors was installed and checked out. Thermal
          protection system operations are continuing. The flight tires are
          scheduled to be installed on Friday and Saturday.


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

               Orbiter communications systems testing is underway this
          week. The nose cap was installed yesterday and Rockwell
          technicians are scheduled to install Columbia's new chin panel
          behind the cap today. Power up testing is continuing. Technicians
          are continuing to bond tiles.


                        STS-30 SOLID ROCKET BOOSTERS  -  VAB

               The right forward segment, the last motor segment for the
          STS-30 set, was transferred to the VAB today for mating
          preparations. The right forward assembly is in the VAB in
          preparation for stacking on the solid rocket motor segments.  The
          external tank will be mated to the boosters this month after
          stacking operations are complete.