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.