Watching video of some pre-Challenger launches I noticed the test director using the callsign "LTD" instead of "NTD". Was this designation used for all pre-Challenger launches? Or was it changed away from NTD in anticipation of SLC-6 launches where the test director wouldn't actually be a "NASA Test Director" and instead be an Air Force officer?
At some point during the post Columbia stand-down, there was a news item regarding an upside-down installed actuator in the rudder/speed brake of Discovery. Is there any documentation about this and/or the work to replace it available?
It's discussed in "Space Shuttle Program Action 11" in the Implementation Plan, which can be found at this link:http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/58541main_RTF_rev2.pdf
Hello all.Question about the Malarkey Milkshake performed during STS-39. I'm reading from the mission press information that the OMS firings for plum observations by the SPAS/IBSS were done with only one engine and that this was the first time that a single OMS engine firing was performed.I'd like to know why they decided to do the firing with only one engine? Was only for fuel savings or for what else?Thanks very muchDavide
When I was at the Atlantis exhibit a few months ago I noticed the "No Step" markings on the elevons. This would imply that, like an airliner, walking on the other parts of the wing was OK. Was it normal for technicians to walk on the orbiter wings for normal repairs and maintenance? Also, if I recall, Columbia and Challenger had tiles on part of the wing surface. Were technicians allowed to walk on these?
When the USAF was developing SLC-6 for Space Shuttle launches there were concerns that gaseous hydrogen could fill up the main engine ducts provoking a detonation during lift off, possibly damaging the shuttle. I don't understand this issue. Why a shuttle on SLC-6 would have this problem? Couldn't they use burnoff preigniters as on the launch pad at the KSC?ThanksDavide
Where are the SRB casings now?
What is this feed line next to the LO2 gaseous press line on the ET for STS-1? http://images.ksc.nasa.gov/photos/1981/high/KSC-381C-2366.03.jpg It's not on the tank for STS-7, which is the same SWET as that for STS-1. http://www.nasa.gov/images/content/2163main_sts7_et_hi.jpg