yee@ames.arc.nasa.gov (Peter E. Yee) (09/07/88)
KSC SPACE SHUTTLE PROCESSING REPORT FOR - Tues. Sept. 6, 1988
STS-26 - DISCOVERY (OV 103) - PAD 39-B
STS-26 mission specialists Dave Hilmers and John Lounge
participated in the interface verification test over the weekend.
The test verified critical connections between the orbiter and
Tracking and Data Relay Satellite and its Inertial Upper Stage.
Today an end-to-end test between the TDRS ground stations, the
orbiter and the payload is underway.
The STS-26 flight crew is scheduled to arrive at KSC today
about 2 p.m. to prepare for the Countdown Demonstration Test
(TCDT). The test is scheduled to begin tomorrow at 6 a.m. at the
T-19 hour mark. Activities during the countdown will represent
launch countdown events in a condensed version. The T-0 remains
scheduled for 10 a.m. Thursday.
While here, the flight crew will be trained in emergency
egress procedures at the launch pad and practice driving in the
M-113 personnel carrier tanks. In addition they will receive the
standard TCDT briefings on the status of the STS-26 vehicle.
Over the weekend, the three gaseous oxygen flow control
valve poppets were removed from Discovery and taken to the
Rockwell Service Center. The valve poppets were removed so
engineers could determine why two of the valves were sluggish
during the Flight Readiness Firing. Some contamination was found
on the poppets and they were sent to the Rockwell facility in
Downey, Calif. where further evaluation and analysis is underway.
STS-27 - ATLANTIS (0V 104) - OPF BAY 2
Both orbital maneuvering system pods have been installed on
the vehicle and testing of the connections is planned this week.
The third main engine is scheduled to be installed late this
week.
STS-28 - COLUMBIA (OV 102) - OPF BAY 1
Installation of Columbia's radiators began last Friday.
Orbiter inspections and return-to-flight modifications are
continuing.
STS-27 SOLID ROCKET BOOSTERS - VAB
The right forward segment was mated to the right stack over
the weekend. All solid rocket motor segments for the STS-27 set
have been assembled and the forward assemblies/nose cones are
scheduled to be installed this week.