NASASpaceFlight.com Forum
NASA Shuttle Specific Sections => Atlantis (Post STS-135, T&R) => Topic started by: Chris Bergin on 05/31/2011 08:32 pm
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Coverage of Atlantis' trip to Pad 39A for STS-135.
This is the one stop shop for her rollout, pad flow - through to S0007 (Launch Countdown) operations.
Resource links:
STS-135 articles to date:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/tag/sts-135/
New L2 STS-135 Special Section available here:
http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?board=35.0
The L2 section already includes numerous mission baseline presentations, exclusive photos from engineers, videos, daily internal processing, JSC Sims, Orbiter Rollout Review presentations and so on - also includes the mission presentations and about to move into the Flight Readiness Review (FRR) presentations.
Atlantis' centralized forum section:
http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?board=3.0
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Rollout scheduled for 8pm local.
Two articles for Atlantis' Rollout:
STS-135: Atlantis preparing for rollout amid pride and disappointment:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/05/sts-135-atlantis-preparing-rollout-amid-pride-disappointment/
STS-135: Atlantis rollout – Tanking Test and debris investigation on tap:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/05/sts-135-atlantis-rollout-tanking-test-debris-investigation/
Many articles to follow for Atlantis' pad flow.
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Took a lot of work to get 135 to even happen from the guys at NASA and with lots of ups and down I'm glad its happening. I'm going to be sad though tonight, we'll never witness the crawler take a shuttle to the pad again.. something a lot of us has grown up watching. Godspeed Space Shuttle Program & Atlantis.
Orbiter
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There she is
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visible now
http://yfrog.com/user/schierholz/photos
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Looks like they've swung the Pad A water tank camera over to the VAB, too...
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A live stream http://www.livestream.com/newchannel/popoutplayer?channel=spaceflightnow
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better view:
http://twitpic.com/photos/NASAKennedy
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security helicopter
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A live stream http://www.livestream.com/newchannel/popoutplayer?channel=spaceflightnow
Is this going to be the only source for live video?
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Lets roll...:)
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A live stream http://www.livestream.com/newchannel/popoutplayer?channel=spaceflightnow
Is this going to be the only source for live video?
NASA TV said they would cover it.
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rollout started!
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Lets roll...:)
Autobots, roll out! errr wait... that was Discovery who's getting the movie fame. #blast!
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nice - lucky person
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Chris,
Do you know if NASA PR is attempting to somehow photo both landing and rollout into one pic? If's it's even possible? Maybe by Heli or Aircraft?
Thx.
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Chris,
Do you know if NASA PR is attempting to somehow photo both landing and rollout into one pic? If's it's even possible? Maybe by Heli or Aircraft?
Thx.
No idea.
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well there was a little bit of motion, but appears to have stopped
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Chris,
Do you know if NASA PR is attempting to somehow photo both landing and rollout into one pic? If's it's even possible? Maybe by Heli or Aircraft?
Thx.
They said at the presser Atlantis will be at the pad by the time Endeavour lands.
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Okay, the tow vehicle is hooked up and ready to pull!
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well there was a little bit of motion, but appears to have stopped
Yeah, from the ground here it's hard to see any movement. Same could be said of the giant line of cars winding its way here. Lots of employees streaming in.
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Edit: no, just my imagination
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Aproximately 8:40 local for rollout to start.
Still have a lot of employees coming in with family backed up in traffic. They want everyone to have a chance to see it not stuck in traffic.
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I wonder if there's a technical issue, or just more pics with deserving employees inside.
But you'd think they'd want to get her outside while there's still some daylight left, even though she is is beautiful under the xenons....
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Aproximately 8:40 local for rollout to start.
Still have a lot of employees coming in with family backed up in traffic. They want everyone to have a chance to see it not stuck in traffic.
Oops!! Guess that's my answer!!
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Techs are repairing a minor hydraulic leak on a corner valve for the jacking & elevation system on the crawler-transporter.
http://twitter.com/#!/NASAKennedy
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This, among many other reasons (bearing cool-down periods, etc.) are why it's possible that it won't be hard down at the pad when Endeavour (hopefully) touches down.
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Aproximately 8:40 local for rollout to start.
Still have a lot of employees coming in with family backed up in traffic. They want everyone to have a chance to see it not stuck in traffic.
Hearing 8:50 now
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minor leak on the jacking system
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rolling out
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We've got a number of CT guys on site, but they'll all be there in the VAB. I actually think one of our members is driving! :)
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all of the CT guys:
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We've got a number of CT guys on site, but they'll all be there in the VAB. I actually think one of our members is driving! :)
Then I will be waiting for our updates from inside the crawler! ;D
Kidding of course!
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I could watch back to back shuttle missions like this until the cows come home.. *sniff*
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The VAB will be empty for some time to come.
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VAB starting to look real empty...:(
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Really puts the size of her back into perspective after watching all the video from in space the past couple weeks. I kinda forget how humongous they truly are!
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VAB starting to look real empty...:(
its almost surreal that this is actually the last time for this... :(
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harddown scheduled for 3:30 am
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Hello gorgeous!!
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Really puts the size of her back into perspective after watching all the video from in space the past couple weeks. I kinda forget how humongous they truly are!
And the VAB looks even bigger. Just imagine what a Saturn V must have looked like rolling out of those doors? Add another 200 ft onto the top of the external tank of the Shuttle stack.
Man that Shuttle stack is a looker.
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After 30 years of following shuttle missions it is a weird feeling knowing this is the final roll-out.
Keith
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Wow! Are there usually that many people hitching a ride on the crawler!?!
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Remember, Discovery's going in the VAB for a while.
Next stack to leave the VAB will be SLS. Let's hope the leaders in power don't frak that up like they have with Shuttle's retirement.
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Hard down estimate 2:30 am Central
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This, among many other reasons (bearing cool-down periods, etc.) are why it's possible that it won't be hard down at the pad when Endeavour (hopefully) touches down.
And, at this point if everything goes perfectly, it won't be hard down until an hour after landing.
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I'd laugh if the music was coming from Atlantis herself. Trying to remember which panel the CD player is on ;)
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And that is for the live feed
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This crew have been well trained in dealing with the media.
Kinda expecting a "Win the future" quote at this rate.
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This crew have been well trained in dealing with the media.
Kinda expecting a "Win the future" quote at this rate.
I am starting to hate the term "bitter, sweet"...
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i think after this mission i am gonna retire from following the space program Hail Atlantis thanks for the memories 104
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rex seems really excitied
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Anyone there from NSF? I have a question - how do they feel about the really tight crew timeline.
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I really like this crew. They are really good about focusing on the mission but they know just how historic this is and they seem like they really love the shuttle.
"They will have to pry us out of her after landing"
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They are giving good answers to these questions on the future in saying how great this vehicle is and how it will be missed. I think they have limits on what they can truly say about it.
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Atlantis has an Atlantis smell :D
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I love this crew already. Very well spoken for the final mission. :)
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I love this crew already. Very well spoken for the final mission. :)
I want to echo this. They are very good with the media and just seem like a lot of fun. Looking forward to the mission..but of course at the same time not! ;)
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and thats all
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The shot with the kids waving the American flag as Atlantis rolls beyond in the background is a keeper. Real postcard stuff.
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Anyone there from NSF? I have a question - how do they feel about the really tight crew timeline.
I was here, but not at the crew event. I was with Atlantis.
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Anyone know if they intend to light up Atlantis for the benefit of the Endeavor crew? (Suppose it might be a bit of a distraction, though.....)
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looks like she stopped
edit: moving now
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Just back from a very bittersweet event. I was fortunate enough to see Apollo 10, 11, 12, and 13 rollout and this was almost as impressive.
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just past the LC-39 viewing gantry near the A/B split
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Some great pictures here, thank you.
:-)
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Atlantis fighting for the camera time! Typical diva.
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arriving at the LC-39A turn to the pad ramp
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Atlantis has made the turn, now approaching the LC-39A ramp.
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past perimeter gate
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Would the rollout crew be able to hear Atlantis's sonic booms over the noise of the crawler? I don't have a sense of how loud the CT is.
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Getting closer to the pad.
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Starting to see her on the pad camera.
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Space Pete, Ya know Landing is about to happen in the thread under this one lol :P
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Space Pete, Ya know Landing is about to happen in the thread under this one lol :P
Heh, don't worry - I wouldn't miss it for the world! :)
Now that Endeavour is safely down, back to pad pictures:
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Atlantis' final journey to the pad is complete.
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwxqsud0amI
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Looks like Atlantis is hard-down now.
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Access arm and beanie cap rotated across:
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Sun rising on Atlantis for the first time during her pad flow:
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Has the crawler moved away already (think I can see it in Ford's first posted picture above)?
When is the RSS scheduled to be moved?
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The RSS was still at PARK at 850am this morning. However, they were working at the base of the RSS, so they might be preparing to move it.
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There's a line of storms moving in now, so I doubt they'll be moving much for the next few hours ;)
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There's a line of storms moving in now, so I doubt they'll be moving much for the next few hours ;)
Is that not a reason to get the RSS shut sharpish?
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There's a line of storms moving in now, so I doubt they'll be moving much for the next few hours ;)
Is that not a reason to get the RSS shut sharpish?
Under different circumstances, perhaps. (Like, for instance, with Endeavour.)
Via L2, they need to do an APU hotfire, and this is the typical time to do it.
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Just had a lightning strike less than 1/3rd of a mile from the pad.
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There's a line of storms moving in now, so I doubt they'll be moving much for the next few hours ;)
Is that not a reason to get the RSS shut sharpish?
Under different circumstances, perhaps. (Like, for instance, with Endeavour.)
Via L2, they need to do an APU hotfire, and this is the typical time to do it.
Thanks! Fingers crossed then.
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There's a line of storms moving in now, so I doubt they'll be moving much for the next few hours ;)
Is that not a reason to get the RSS shut sharpish?
Under different circumstances, perhaps. (Like, for instance, with Endeavour.)
Via L2, they need to do an APU hotfire, and this is the typical time to do it.
Thanks! Fingers crossed then.
It shouldn't be too much of a worry; the vehicle has good protection at the pad, even with the RSS retracted in the park position. The orbiter TPS/exterior has water protection (waterproofing, thruster plugs) and the pad has lightning protection.
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I thought strikes under .45nm were a potential issue regardless?
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I thought strikes under .45nm were a potential issue regardless?
Yes, they'll have some extra reviews for close ground strikes.
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Interesting tidbit - the lightning strike near the pad was the result of a system that I chased with major damage in parts of Michigan just a few days prior...
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Interesting tidbit - the lightning strike near the pad was the result of a system that I chased with major damage in parts of Michigan just a few days prior...
Just to clarify - was that a system with major damage that you chased, or a system that you chased with major damage? ;)
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Interesting tidbit - the lightning strike near the pad was the result of a system that I chased with major damage in parts of Michigan just a few days prior...
Check out the satellite loop that takes the system from off the New England coast to Florida at the Univ of Wisc satellite blog....
http://cimss.ssec.wisc.edu/goes/blog/
Another loop at:
http://goes.gsfc.nasa.gov/goescolor/goeseast/hurricane2/movie/latest.mov
(but it will go away as the loop is updated).
I first heard about this storm's long trip on the Weather Channel earlier today.
bob
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rdale that high is known as the ring of fire?
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Out of curiosity, would NASA consider forgoing a landing day (ie EOM, for KSC) and simply go with two days for a pick em? for instance, for STS-134 the first landing day (EOM) the only landing site called up was KSC, then Edwards would have been activated the next day. To buy time, why not skip that EOM day or select EDW as primary and add it to the docked timeline to buy transfer time, ?
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Out of curiosity, would NASA consider forgoing a landing day (ie EOM, for KSC) and simply go with two days for a pick em? for instance, for STS-134 the first landing day (EOM) the only landing site called up was KSC, then Edwards would have been activated the next day. To buy time, why not skip that EOM day or select EDW as primary and add it to the docked timeline to buy transfer time, ?
Uh... because who can predict the weather with any degree of certainty 14+ days ahead of time? Answer: No one. We all know this. There's no guarantee Edwards weather would be acceptable, just like there's no guarantee Kennedy weather will be acceptable.
Furthermore, weather isn't the only thing that can prevent landing. We know this as well. It's routinely stated the the +2days at the end of the mission are for SYSTEMS and weather-related landing wave-offs (note which one comes first there). Those days are there to protect the flight crew's safety, and per the Shuttle flight rules, they have to be be there.
It has never been under consideration and will never be for this flight. There's a detailed article on here about the timeline get-wells for STS-135 that outlines all the options under consideration: http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/04/troubled-sts-135-mission-timeline-under-review/
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Out of curiosity, would NASA consider forgoing a landing day (ie EOM, for KSC) and simply go with two days for a pick em? for instance, for STS-134 the first landing day (EOM) the only landing site called up was KSC, then Edwards would have been activated the next day. To buy time, why not skip that EOM day or select EDW as primary and add it to the docked timeline to buy transfer time, ?
If you'd like to fork over the extra million plus bucks it takes to get her cross country........ thinking this topic has been discussed a few times or a variation of it.
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If Atlantis lands after July 20, will the landing time be shifted towards day or night time ? Currently, scheduled landing time is 7 a.m. EDT on July 20.
I personally, hate to see her landing in darkness at night!
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RSS going to PARK.
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And we're parked!
(And a shot of Chris' RSS car he gets after this mission... :P)
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If Atlantis lands after July 20, will the landing time be shifted towards day or night time ? Currently, scheduled landing time is 7 a.m. EDT on July 20.
I personally, hate to see her landing in darkness at night!
If I'm not mistaken, landing time would get earlier every day.
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I personally, hate to see her landing in darkness at night!
There would be, however, a certain metaphorical sense to it.
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If Atlantis lands after July 20, will the landing time be shifted towards day or night time ? Currently, scheduled landing time is 7 a.m. EDT on July 20.
I personally, hate to see her landing in darkness at night!
It is a little more complicated. A one day slip can result in the first landing attempt to be 17 orbits later. So a one day slip could result in a landing 30 to 40 minutes later. Over a period of several days the landing like the launch window is about 24 minutes earlier each day.
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I personally, hate to see her landing in darkness at night!
There would be, however, a certain metaphorical sense to it.
Hmmm ... Douglas MacArthur vs. Dylan Thomas.
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a few shots from around the pad for the fun of it
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Finally got a few photos posted from Tuesdays rollout. Enjoy!
More photos of the move can be found here.
http://scriptunasimages.smugmug.com/Galleries/Nasa-Space-Shuttle-Program/STS-135/ (http://scriptunasimages.smugmug.com/Galleries/Nasa-Space-Shuttle-Program/STS-135/)
(http://scriptunasimages.smugmug.com/Galleries/Nasa-Space-Shuttle-Program/STS-135/i-4J3RH86/0/M/IMG1438-S.jpg)
(http://scriptunasimages.smugmug.com/Galleries/Nasa-Space-Shuttle-Program/STS-135/i-MhGv4XB/0/L/IMG1496-S.jpg)
(http://scriptunasimages.smugmug.com/Galleries/Nasa-Space-Shuttle-Program/STS-135/i-7JLmxN4/0/L/IMG1739-S.jpg)
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Nicely done Walter :)
Processing update for her early pad flow, with a feature on the lightning detection system, given the relevance to the strike noted in the article:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-atlantis-undergoing-checks-lightning-storm/
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Mooooooore panos from the NASATech people :)
http://nasatech.net/STS-135Rollouta110531/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135Rolloutb110531/
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Mooooooore panos from the NASATech people :)
http://nasatech.net/STS-135Rollouta110531/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135Rolloutb110531/
Can't believe I'm saying this, but not their best work. Terrible resolution. Maybe a problem with the camera settings or the upload?
Great views though!
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Hmmm, looks super on my PC, so wonder if you might have to reload?
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Hmmm, looks super on my PC, so wonder if you might have to reload?
Tried, twice. All the edges are jagged.
Matters not, I know how awesome Atlantis looks ;) :)
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Mooooooore panos from the NASATech people :)
http://nasatech.net/STS-135Rollouta110531/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135Rolloutb110531/
Can't believe I'm saying this, but not their best work. Terrible resolution. Maybe a problem with the camera settings or the upload?
Great views though!
I take it you let it load colour? Looks ok to me, But zooming in is pretty useless as it's pixel heaven.
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Mooooooore panos from the NASATech people :)
http://nasatech.net/STS-135Rollouta110531/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135Rolloutb110531/
Can't believe I'm saying this, but not their best work. Terrible resolution. Maybe a problem with the camera settings or the upload?
Great views though!
I take it you let it load colour? Looks ok to me, But zooming in is pretty useless as it's pixel heaven.
I've never seen jagged edges on any of their previous images - they were sharp as a tack. I can see a jagged edge on the ET just from zoomed all the way out.
Again, the views are awesome, and after all, she's more more important. I'll just convince myself it was done with a 4MP camera and be happy with what I see :)
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I've never seen jagged edges on any of their previous images - they were sharp as a tack. I can see a jagged edge on the ET just from zoomed all the way out.
Again, the views are awesome, and after all, she's more more important. I'll just convince myself it was done with a 4MP camera and be happy with what I see :)
Robert I think it is just your machine, as even when I zoom in I do not see jagged edges. Maybe try a different browser?
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I see what he's talking about - particularly the edge of the ET against the sky. Moreover, the black backpack sitting right next to the camera is awfully grainy. These definitely suffer in comparison to say, lsullivan's pics.
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Monday...final look at Raffaello MPLM before it's sealed for flight. About 4000 lbs food & clothes...~6000 lbs science and ISS spares.
So, MPLM hatch closure is this week. The canister goes out to the pad on the evening of Thursday 16th June.
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Thought this worth a quick mention:
Final shuttle flight from 39A is using MLP3, which in a former life was ML1.
ML1 was using for the first ever flight from 39A, Apollo 4, followed by the historic Apollo 8 and 11 missions.
So its a nice think to note that we have come completely full circle as we head into a pause in ops from LC39
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Panos of Atlantis in the rain:
http://nasatech.net/STS-135_OnPada110601/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135_OnPadb110601/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135_OnPadc110601/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135_OnPadd110601/
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Entire NASA HD Video File Here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIbjAptOtQI
Spotted at 04:35 someone using a 3D camera to film rollout.. *dances*
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Panos of Atlantis in the rain:
http://nasatech.net/STS-135_OnPadd110601/
Hey.... I'm in that photo! No joke... closest to edge of MLP on the deck. Cool.
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I asked this back on the OPF thread, but views were inconclusive at the time.
I take it that STS 135 will not now bring PMA 3 home?
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I asked this back on the OPF thread, but views were inconclusive at the time.
I take it that STS 135 will not now bring PMA 3 home?
No, PMA-3 will not be returning to Earth on STS-135, it will remain on ISS and will be used by future commercial vehicles once a docking adapter is added.
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"Final space shuttle to feature 'nose art'"
http://www.collectspace.com/news/news-060611a.html
Looks like ET-138 gets a logo on the flight intertank access door, too.
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Sweet. :)
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Sweet. :)
Agreed. A giant Snoopy (or Marvin the Martian) wouldn't hurt either...hehe :)
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Cool view inside of the MPLM Rafaello, packed with Cargo, and the STS-135 crew in CEIT
http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=4
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anyone got a idea what time the tanking test is
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anyone got a idea what time the tanking test is
I don't see a tanking barchart on L2, but for STS-133 the chilldown was at 5:00am EST, and ops continued until safing started at 1:00pm EST (now EDT). 10:00 am was the end of fastfill and into stable replenish. I think they will follow same to get everything done in daylight hours. Of course they could start a little later now that daylight is longer, but it should hold reasonably true.
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Pad flow update via L2:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-camera-modification-aimed-filming-footage-et-138s-death/
New thread will be used for the camera mod.
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So I know this picture is of rollover but that thread was locked; it's just too cool not to share.
Atlantis Final Rollover caught by Orbiting Satellite :)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/digitalglobe-imagery/5734496916/in/photostream (http://www.flickr.com/photos/digitalglobe-imagery/5734496916/in/photostream)
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That's awesome Sarah!
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tanking starts around 7am wed morning no tv
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MPLM endcone now buttoned up for flight.
More photos here: http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=226
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Harwood's posted the personnel for this launch.
http://www.cbsnews.com/network/news/space/home/flightdata/personnel.html
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HELP! Does anyone know the alternative launch windows for Atlantis? I know the 7/8 launch window is 10 minutes. If that is scrubbed, I am trying to find out what the alternative launch times are. Can anyone help?
Thanks!
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HELP! Does anyone know the alternative launch windows for Atlantis? I know the 7/8 launch window is 10 minutes. If that is scrubbed, I am trying to find out what the alternative launch times are. Can anyone help?
They will have about a 10-minute window every day until about the end of July. There are other activities that would preclude a launch attempt on a few days, such as a Delta 4 launch in mid-July.
After that, they would have similar opportunities beginning in mid-August.
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Harwood's posted the personnel for this launch.
http://www.cbsnews.com/network/news/space/home/flightdata/personnel.html
Cool! Rob and Josh PAOing, so we've got the A-Team back.
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HELP! Does anyone know the alternative launch windows for Atlantis? I know the 7/8 launch window is 10 minutes. If that is scrubbed, I am trying to find out what the alternative launch times are. Can anyone help?
They will have about a 10-minute window every day until about the end of July. There are other activities that would preclude a launch attempt on a few days, such as a Delta 4 launch in mid-July.
After that, they would have similar opportunities beginning in mid-August.
Thanks for the speedy reply. Would it be approximately at the same time or a different time, maybe by only a few minutes? I am trying to figure out some travel plans right now for the Atlantis launch. Thanks.
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Welcome to the site's forum!
Let me screenshot this from a L2 presentation (from when it was the June 28 launch date). We'll get an update at the STS-135 MOD FRR next week.
It shows how the window slides as the date slides.
Click to enlarge.
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A good view inside the MPLM prior to aft endcone closure. You can see how packed it is in there.
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HELP! Does anyone know the alternative launch windows for Atlantis? I know the 7/8 launch window is 10 minutes. If that is scrubbed, I am trying to find out what the alternative launch times are. Can anyone help?
They will have about a 10-minute window every day until about the end of July. There are other activities that would preclude a launch attempt on a few days, such as a Delta 4 launch in mid-July.
After that, they would have similar opportunities beginning in mid-August.
Thanks for the speedy reply. Would it be approximately at the same time or a different time, maybe by only a few minutes? I am trying to figure out some travel plans right now for the Atlantis launch. Thanks.
Each successive day after July 8 will be 23-25 minutes earlier.
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Each successive day after July 8 will be 23-25 minutes earlier.
Jim - if you check Chris' post right after the question, you'll see a graphic that shows more precise times.
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HELP! Does anyone know the alternative launch windows for Atlantis? I know the 7/8 launch window is 10 minutes. If that is scrubbed, I am trying to find out what the alternative launch times are. Can anyone help?
They will have about a 10-minute window every day until about the end of July. There are other activities that would preclude a launch attempt on a few days, such as a Delta 4 launch in mid-July.
After that, they would have similar opportunities beginning in mid-August.
Thanks for the speedy reply. Would it be approximately at the same time or a different time, maybe by only a few minutes? I am trying to figure out some travel plans right now for the Atlantis launch. Thanks.
Each successive day after July 8 will be 23-25 minutes earlier.
Just to note that daily window listings from July 8 - 28 can be found on Bill Harwood's excellent STS-135 Flight Data web page:
http://www.cbsnews.com/network/news/space/home/flightdata/main.html
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CTS for the tanking test later today. Will have an article on ahead of it.
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Heads up on some televised events Thursday and Friday -- Ascent and Rendezvous sims (well, replays) are at least on the NTV schedule today. Hopefully the footage won't be heavily edited. :)
June 16, Thursday
1 p.m. - NASA Messenger Science News Conference – HQ (Public, HD and Media Channels)
2 - 3 p.m. - Media Q and A Session with STS-135 Crew in Space Shuttle Flight Control Room – JSC (Public, HD and Media Channels)
3 - 5 p.m. - Replay of STS-135 Ascent Flight Control Team Simulation – JSC (Public, HD and Media Channels)
June 17, Friday
11:05 a.m. - ISS Expedition 28 Educational In-Flight Event with the State University of New York, Oneonta, N.Y. - JSC (All Channels)
4:30 - 6:30 p.m. - Replay of STS-135 Rendezvous Simulation with Shuttle and ISS Flight Control Teams – JSC (Public, HD and Media Channels)
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Article on the pad flow, tanking test preps (which start today) and the latest on the ET camera mod:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-atlantis-et-138-wednesdays-tanking-test/
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MPLM now being placed on the weighing station ahead of going into the canister.
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And with that, the final Space Shuttle payload moves into the canister.
To the SSPF and the payload processing teams, who have sent every ISS module into space in pristine condition, we say thank you. :'(
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Since this is the last one, here's the whole day whether anything is happening or not. Alot of people having their picture taken..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxmRvSmOm7U
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Looks like stormy weather over KSC, is it effecting work at the pad? http://www.wunderground.com/cgi-bin/findweather/getForecast?query=Titusville%2C+fl
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Winds hit 74mph at the landing strip and 70+mph at some of the towers - there is no work at the pad in these conditions.
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This has been a very electric storm - 3 strikes on or near the pad.
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Winds hit 74mph at the landing strip and 70+mph at some of the towers - there is no work at the pad in these conditions.
I hoped not! Yikes :(
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There also were some signs of hail around the pad on radar, but no ground reports and it was just a weak signal so I doubt it. Severe threat is done, but still some thundershowers around.
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Just a little wet out there at the moment
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There also were some signs of hail around the pad on radar, but no ground reports and it was just a weak signal so I doubt it. Severe threat is done, but still some thundershowers around.
One question is whether the storms impacted (or could impact) the tanking test timeline this afternoon...would guess they have time to either catch up or move things to the right a bit. RSS retract for the test was timelined for later this evening.
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There also were some signs of hail around the pad on radar, but no ground reports and it was just a weak signal so I doubt it. Severe threat is done, but still some thundershowers around.
One question is whether the storms impacted (or could impact) the tanking test timeline this afternoon...would guess they have time to either catch up or move things to the right a bit. RSS retract for the test was timelined for later this evening.
Well, it has delayed the timeline. According to the barchart posted on L2, the OWP Curtain Walls were scheduled between 1400L and 1900L and it has not happened. Neither has GVA Initial Activation and GVA Vent Extend And Lower. Those two events were scheduled for 1600L and 1700L.
And it won't happen any time soon as lightning still occurring near the pad.
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There were 3 strikes under 1/4mi from the pad but they weren't terribly powerful. There were two almost exactly 1/2mi that were VERY strong.
As Dave noted - there are still storms in the area. With sunset rapidly approaching, I'd expect them to clear for ops in an hour or so.
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Spaceflightnow.com's live stream of multiple cameras at pad A: http://www.livestream.com/spaceflightnow
Quite the light show going on right now.
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About 30 minutes to RSS retract on the schedule. Clearly that's not going to be on time.
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Spaceflightnow.com's live stream of multiple cameras at pad A: http://www.livestream.com/spaceflightnow
Quite the light show going on right now.
Seen a couple good ones on there (not captured though)
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Nothing from NASA on the expected RSS retract time.
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Nothing from NASA on the expected RSS retract time.
Based on when these storms began, I estimate that they're at least 4-5 hours down on the timeline. So my estimate for RSS Rotation is around 0130-0230L.
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Might not see RSS for a while now, cell moving in from the north.
Orbiter
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Ok, per L2 latest is they are seven hours down on the schedule. RSS rotation to park now 0045-0100, with Tanking Test now starting with loading at 1100 local.
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RSS Rotation to PARK is now in work!
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RSS Rotation complete.
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Good morning Atlantis.
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SRB and wing leading edge close-up:
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couple of morning images ahead of the test
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and one more for good measure :)
(here's to a successful tanking test today!)
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Is Tanking still scheduled for 1100 local?
Thanks!
Ben
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Just got an update via L2, Ben. Now a 1pm start. ERB still checking lightning data from overnight.
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By the way, the ERB are highly unlikely to see a problem (it would have been obvious via the ERB meeting last night), it's just due process.
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EXposure forecast slide for today:
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Padrat just tweeted "Block valves are now open and we've cleared the pad".
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According to the "Latest Space Shuttle News" on the Nasa website the tanking test is to start at 12:30 PM EDT.
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Yep, moved up 30 mins and underway.
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according to padrat via twitter, the LH2 chilldown has begun
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12:25 for the start of LOX chilldown.
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Articles for the tanking test:
Part 1 Monday:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-atlantis-et-138-wednesdays-tanking-test/
Part 2 Wednesday - just published:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-et-138-tanking-test-following-weather-delay/
Also about 50 articles on the Stringer cracks are included in this news article tag:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/tag/et/
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Padrat says he's seeing wet ECO sensors. Wet is good.
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Nice shot there of the TSM
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Nice shot there of the TSM
Speak of the devil ;)
May your flanges remains intact, sir!
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I hope so....
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various images
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She's breathing! :)
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I make it around 20 minutes to fast fill. Then two hours to topping/stable replenish.
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LOX and LH2 now entering fast fill....
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Sorry, phone call :)
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LOX and LH2 now entering fast fill....
Cool (no pun intended), thanks! :)
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Wish there was a single camera view on the intertank. This is the best I can do.
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Finally they panned around so I could see the GUCP (on the tiled image set only though)
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And the intertank area (center left image)
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they are going up and down the ET now (orbiter side)
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I know that our engineers, at least, will do a system scan with the cameras, usually after we are in stable replenish.
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I know that our engineers, at least, will do a system scan with the cameras, usually after we are in stable replenish.
Well, please ask them to use a camera that I can at least see full screen of :) hehe
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I know that our engineers, at least, will do a system scan with the cameras, usually after we are in stable replenish.
Well, please ask them to use a camera that I can at least see full screen of :) hehe
Or ask the guys that called up those 9 particular cameras on the board you're looking at...but then those aren't NASA or USA, they're media. :)
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I know that our engineers, at least, will do a system scan with the cameras, usually after we are in stable replenish.
Well, please ask them to use a camera that I can at least see full screen of :) hehe
NASA have a live stream of channel 8 here: http://science.ksc.nasa.gov/shuttle/countdown/video/ But it's not the best view.
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Someone heard me :)
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and here come the storms....
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and here come the storms....
Looks like this time the storms will pass east of the KSC:
http://goo.gl/XPwpv
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Into topping and the GUCP is good.
However, there's been an exceeded SSME LCC limit which will require a R&R effort and assessments on the launch date are being evaluated based on work.
Will write up the L2 notes.
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Looks like the storms are staying along the sea breeze and should avoid the pad with this current batch.
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Could get sporty with the weather, but they'll be detanking soon.
Again, no word of any problems with the tank, so ET-138's behaved itself. SSME-3 however.
Going to step off the thread for a bit and write up the notes, add it to the article.
One official note is PWR (who are the SSME guys) say they "might" still make July 8. We'll keep a close eye on it.
"THIS is why we test".
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Into topping and the GUCP is good.
However, there's been an exceeded SSME LCC limit which will require a R&R effort and assessments on the launch date are being evaluated based on work.
Will write up the L2 notes.
Remember here that Mike Moses specifically mentioned in the 134 post-landing presser that they had "2 days contingency" on paper but that was only minimal work planned for the week following the Tanking Test and that there's more wiggle room in reality than on paper. This might not be a schedule hit at all if that's true.
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Remember here that Mike Moses specifically mentioned in the 134 post-landing presser that they had "2 days contingency" on paper but that was only minimal work planned for the week following the Tanking Test and that there's more wiggle room in reality than on paper. This might not be a schedule hit at all if that's true.
As long as that can run in parallel with other activities (like payload install, TCDT, etc.)...
But I'm sure we'll get an official assessment before too long. (And if not today, it'll come up tomorrow.)
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Updated the main article with the SSME-3 MFV issue notes. Will be more on this, probably a new article, to follow.
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-et-138-tanking-test-following-weather-delay/
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Ice team on site
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One official note is PWR (who are the SSME guys) say they "might" still make July 8. We'll keep a close eye on it.
"THIS is why we test".
Absolutely agree on the latter -- it may be a side effect of the test, but it's an effective screen for issues such as the one's seen during the first tankings for the last two missions. And as ChrisG noted it may still be possible to make the current schedule.
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Nice to see that the GUCP was absolutely rock solid this time. While I was there didn't see ANYTHING on the leak detectors.
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Nice to see that the GUCP was absolutely rock solid this time. While I was there didn't see ANYTHING on the leak detectors.
That's great to hear. A little TLC goes a LONG way :)
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Remember here that Mike Moses specifically mentioned in the 134 post-landing presser that they had "2 days contingency" on paper but that was only minimal work planned for the week following the Tanking Test and that there's more wiggle room in reality than on paper. This might not be a schedule hit at all if that's true.
As long as that can run in parallel with other activities (like payload install, TCDT, etc.)...
But I'm sure we'll get an official assessment before too long. (And if not today, it'll come up tomorrow.)
"minimal work" -- not no work.
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"minimal work" -- not no work.
It's going to be interesting to see how it goes (although I guess it always is if you're a junkie like me).
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ice team member in view
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Well the tank seems to be behaving. I haven't seen anything that 'popped out' at me :)
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Last one from me
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Note: the ice team seems to have left (saw image of vehicles driving away)
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Great work with the images Robert. Waiting on confirmation of detanking.
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KSC confirm detanking in progress.
No issues noted by FIT, so a good tanking test, and we can still say that despite the SSME MFV, given the issue was spotted, and the TT meant it wasn't something that might of appeared on launch day.
And as Padrat noted, today was another good day for the GUCP fans :)
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And as Padrat noted, today was another good day for the GUCP fans :)
Yeah, I've accepted the ECO sensors as fixed, but GUCP is still iffy. But with one flight left for this configuration (assuming it changes for SLS), looks like those guys got it nailed down for STS-135.
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A close-up view at this time
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The forecast must be heavy storms tonight!
Big cell to the West.
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The forecast must be heavy storms tonight!
Big cell to the West.
Not necessarily moving towards the Cape -- those seem to be developing along I-75.
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The forecast must be heavy storms tonight!
Nowhere near KSC. That activity is west of Orlando and moving south and west. That would keep it far from the shuttle.
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No major update on the SSME-3 MFV as they wait to intert the tank. R&R is scheduled for next week at present, to be followed by retests. Hope they can still make July 8, but they need to map out a timeline/schedule first - which is when we'll update where things stand.
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Who said Florida had a drought ;) Storms are possible yet again today, and there's already a nice line forming near Daytona Beach and moving south towards the pad. After this the threat should be more isolated the next few days, but still can't rule out a weather interruption to pad work on occasion.
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No major update on the SSME-3 MFV as they wait to intert the tank. R&R is scheduled for next week at present, to be followed by retests. Hope they can still make July 8, but they need to map out a timeline/schedule first - which is when we'll update where things stand.
I'm wondering what the valve re-test will involve. I take it it won't be a tanking test, but Helium leak testing perhaps?
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No major update on the SSME-3 MFV as they wait to intert the tank. R&R is scheduled for next week at present, to be followed by retests. Hope they can still make July 8, but they need to map out a timeline/schedule first - which is when we'll update where things stand.
I'm wondering what the valve re-test will involve. I take it it won't be a tanking test, but Helium leak testing perhaps?
As per engineers on L2, doubtful (VERY, VERY doubtful -- virtually no chance) of a special Tanking Test for this. Will be standard retests and press to launch if those retests are successful. In that case, launch day will be your Tanking Test.
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Canister has been rotated to vertical:
http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=4
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Heads up on some televised events Thursday and Friday -- Ascent and Rendezvous sims (well, replays) are at least on the NTV schedule today. Hopefully the footage won't be heavily edited. :)
In the middle of run #4 of the ascent sim here...some shots from inside the Shuttle FCR at the end of run #3...
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And from the front...
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Who said Florida had a drought ;) Storms are possible yet again today, and there's already a nice line forming near Daytona Beach and moving south towards the pad. After this the threat should be more isolated the next few days, but still can't rule out a weather interruption to pad work on occasion.
How is it looking for your expert view for the payload loading day ? and tonight.
I seem to see a bit of rain tonight and then again tomorrow afternoon in the forecast from my untrained view.
thanks
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It's summer in Florida so I can't guarantee dry - but with today looking completely clear everywhere around KSC there doesn't appear to be too much concern. Nothing big heading in the rest of the week either.
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NASA TV Video: Raffaello Packed Up for Atlantis' STS-135 Mission.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjJRyFNtzzk
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Latest pics of PLC, RSS and Atlantis:
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You can just see the PLC in the RSS in this one:
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It's getting up there!
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Further up:
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PLC bottom now in place:
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An illuminated Atlantis:
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Looks like someones got their truck stuck.
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Atlantis, RSS and PLC:
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Payload bay doors, wings and engine pods close up:
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Problem with the payload canister (S0600 Vertical Payload Operations). Only just hearing about it via Chris G and Larry (MaxQ, who takes the cool photos) noting they've heard it, and asmolenski noted references to it, so moving I'm checking with the KSC guys. Standby.
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No problem for the payload transfer to the orbiter side, per the canister issue.
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An illuminated Atlantis:
http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=25342.0;attach=305729;image (http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=25342.0;attach=305729;image)
(http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=25342.0;attach=305729;image)
What is the pad structure apparently adjacent to Atlantis' crew compatment in this photo?
I realise that it's a perspective thing, but I can't see what it actually is in the other shots.....
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An illuminated Atlantis:
http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=25342.0;attach=305729;image (http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=25342.0;attach=305729;image)
What is the pad structure apparently adjacent to Atlantis' crew compatment in this photo?
I realise that it's a perspective thing, but I can't see what it actually is in the other shots.....
It's where they service the GOX vent hood or beanie cap. You can see the cap just above it.
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Any updates on the SSME-3 MFV timeline?
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Any updates on the SSME-3 MFV timeline?
Nothing seems to have changed from early next week timeframe.
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Any updates on the SSME-3 MFV timeline?
Still in work. Was hoping for a full timeline today, but they are holding with MFV replacement being "planned for early next week and retest requirements are being evaluated" per NTD on L2.
The R&R is not the tough part (as much as it's a big heavy piece of hardware), it's the retests which will decide the outcome, as much as they will make July 8 if the R&R goes to plan (because the spare should not suffer from the same issue).
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Any updates on the SSME-3 MFV timeline?
Still in work. Was hoping for a full timeline today, but they are holding with MFV replacement being "planned for early next week and retest requirements are being evaluated" per NTD on L2.
The R&R is not the tough part (as much as it's a big heavy piece of hardware), it's the retests which will decide the outcome, as much as they will make July 8 if the R&R goes to plan (because the spare should not suffer from the same issue).
Just a thought: Do they run the "retest" tests on the current (suspect) valve before replacement to show failure? Then replace the valve and then run the "retest" test to show success? I realize there are cryogenic differences which may lead to "won't know for sure until launch day."
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Any updates on the SSME-3 MFV timeline?
Still in work. Was hoping for a full timeline today, but they are holding with MFV replacement being "planned for early next week and retest requirements are being evaluated" per NTD on L2.
The R&R is not the tough part (as much as it's a big heavy piece of hardware), it's the retests which will decide the outcome, as much as they will make July 8 if the R&R goes to plan (because the spare should not suffer from the same issue).
Just a thought: Do they run the "retest" tests on the current (suspect) valve before replacement to show failure? Then replace the valve and then run the "retest" test to show success? I realize there are cryogenic differences which may lead to "won't know for sure until launch day."
I believe they will R&R the part, then FRT the new part to ensure it's looking good. The replaced part will be inspected back in the shop, thus confirming the issue.
It's far more expansive than that, so I'll go back over the L2 notes and aim to write it up.
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Full mission timeline overview by Chris Gebhardt
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-final-flights-timeline-takes-shape/
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RSS Rotation is complete
Atlantis is hidden again...
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Check out GSFC's great RRM minisite:
http://ssco.gsfc.nasa.gov/robotic_refueling_mission.html
Includes images and overview documents! :)
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Thanks for the reference--good read.
For those interested, RRM will live on ELC-4.
Of course, it makes one ponder if future satellites will be more "refuel friendly", at least in terms of the sealing of fuel tanks before launch.
Check out GSFC's great RRM minisite:
http://ssco.gsfc.nasa.gov/robotic_refueling_mission.html
Includes images and overview documents! :)
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Glad when the shuttle makes the news, but hate when they have so many technical errors. Even when it's just local news.
http://www.baynews9.com/article/news/2011/june/265267/Work-intensifies-Monday-for-last-shuttle-launch
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Glad when the shuttle makes the news, but hate when they have so many technical errors. Even when it's just local news.
http://www.baynews9.com/article/news/2011/june/265267/Work-intensifies-Monday-for-last-shuttle-launch
The most important error being the launch date. Jeez. I wonder how many will screw up their plans based on that error.
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Why are there people out at the pad right now setting up a tent structure on the top near the ET nose? I have a pic but it won't upload. Camera 001
(Edit - added a daytime picture from either earlier today or yesterday, it appears the bars of the structure were up then, guess there is something up there that needs protection from ??, so much so that adding the tent was done at midnight?)
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Why are there people out at the pad right now setting up a tent structure on the top near the ET nose? I have a pic but it won't upload. Camera 001
(Edit - added a daytime picture from either earlier today or yesterday, it appears the bars of the structure were up then, guess there is something up there that needs protection from ??, so much so that adding the tent was done at midnight?)
Interesting. Obviously a protective area to prevent sand/dust/wind from getting in, or to maintain temperature (but thinking the former). Looks to be around/near a lifting mechanism.
See window in bottom left on attached - best I could find so far
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Okay, found the answer on the L2 processing thread.
This is to gain access to the intertank region to do NDE testing following the tanking test.
edit: I should say this is to 'support' intertank access. So this could be a staging area
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Interesting. Obviously a protective area to prevent sand/dust/wind from getting in, or to maintain temperature (but thinking the former). Looks to be around/near a lifting mechanism.
See window in bottom left on attached - best I could find so far
When was that taken? Could it be something to do with the x-ray stuff. The other though was perhaps it was to be done earlier in the day but because of another storm they could not do it & had to wait until it was safe to work. I found this for weekend work -
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/main/index.html
Busy Shuttle Preps Weekend
Sat, 18 Jun 2011 06:29:15 AM PDT
A busy weekend is under way at NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Pad 39A in Florida.
With space shuttle Atlantis’ STS-135 mission payload now secured inside the pad’s rotating service structure, the RSS was closed Saturday morning, and Atlantis' payload bay doors are scheduled to be opened Saturday night. It's all part of the preparations to install the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module and other payloads bound for the International Space Station into the shuttle’s cargo bay on Monday.
Also on Saturday, technicians begin high-tech X-ray scans of the tops and bottoms of 50 support beams, called stringers, on the shuttle-facing side of Atlantis’ external tank. The scans are expected to take about a week to complete and confirm there are no issues with the tank stringers.
Technicians also begin preparations to replace a suspected leaky valve in Atlantis’ space shuttle main engine No. 3.
And Atlantis’ four veteran astronauts are scheduled to fly in their T-38 aircraft from NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston to Kennedy on Monday. They’re set to arrive at about 5:45 p.m. EDT to being their prelaunch countdown dress rehearsal, called the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), and related training. Their arrival at Kennedy’s Shuttle Landing Facility will be carried live on NASA TV and on the web at www.nasa.gov/ntv.
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Interesting. Obviously a protective area to prevent sand/dust/wind from getting in, or to maintain temperature (but thinking the former). Looks to be around/near a lifting mechanism.
See window in bottom left on attached - best I could find so far
When was that taken? Could it be something to do with the x-ray stuff.
captured the image live :)
Yes, see the post previous to yours: it supports NDE testing.
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Okay, found the answer on the L2 processing thread.
This is to gain access to the intertank region to do NDE testing following the tanking test.
edit: I should say this is to 'support' intertank access. So this could be a staging area
Thanks a bunch! Oh, sidenote, I'm bummed you won't make it down for launch (@ least that's the last I remember you saying) - will miss your modeling catwalk skills at the NSF dinner :)
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Okay, found the answer on the L2 processing thread.
This is to gain access to the intertank region to do NDE testing following the tanking test.
edit: I should say this is to 'support' intertank access. So this could be a staging area
Thanks a bunch! Oh, sidenote, I'm bummed you won't make it down for launch (@ least that's the last I remember you saying) - will miss your modeling catwalk skills at the NSF dinner :)
Haha..right. I know who YOU are now! ;)
Ah well, 2 launches in a row with no scrubs - I can't get luckier than that (well except being in a room with like-minded shuttle huggers) :)
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXc7vNFOEkI
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I believe the MPLM on STS 126 currently holds the record for carrying the heaviest payload.
This being the last MPLM, will it surpass the weight carried on 126?
Thank you.
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Installing the last payload of the Space Shuttle Program.... Don't know how to feel today.
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Is it appropriate to ask questions here? If not, I apologize. But I never knew that the payload was installed on the pad. Just assumed it was done in the VAB, since there's plenty of heavy lifting equipment there, etc. What is the reason for doing it on the pad?
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Is it appropriate to ask questions here? If not, I apologize. But I never knew that the payload was installed on the pad. Just assumed it was done in the VAB, since there's plenty of heavy lifting equipment there, etc. What is the reason for doing it on the pad?
Clean-room requirements - which the VAB does not have.
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Glad when the shuttle makes the news, but hate when they have so many technical errors. Even when it's just local news.
http://www.baynews9.com/article/news/2011/june/265267/Work-intensifies-Monday-for-last-shuttle-launch
The most important error being the launch date. Jeez. I wonder how many will screw up their plans based on that error.
Looks like they have fixed the error on flight date. That is the cable news channel for those of us in the Tampa cable area so lots of people who might have eventually come over for the launch may have seen the article. Looks like the date was fixed pretty quick though as it says last updated on 6/18 and the posts pointing out the article and mentioning errors were 6/18 evening/late night.
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I believe the MPLM on STS 126 currently holds the record for carrying the heaviest payload.
This being the last MPLM, will it surpass the weight carried on 126?
Thank you.
From what I've seen, no. The MPLM weight (in terms of cargo) on STS-135 will not exceed the MPLM cargo weight on STS-126. But I have not yet seen the final MPLM weight from STS-135.
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I believe the MPLM on STS 126 currently holds the record for carrying the heaviest payload.
This being the last MPLM, will it surpass the weight carried on 126?
Thank you.
From what I've seen, no. The MPLM weight (in terms of cargo) on STS-135 will not exceed the MPLM cargo weight on STS-126. But I have not yet seen the final MPLM weight from STS-135.
The MPLM mass on STS-135 is 25,500 pounds, whereas the MPLM mass on STS-26 was 28,106 pounds - so STS-126 was heavier. However, I believe CDR Chris Ferguson said that the STS-135 MPLM will be the heaviest ever for landing.
All 16 MPLM rack bays will be fully loaded with cargo for STS-135, and six Resupply Stowage Platform (RSP) racks have been modified to enable them to carry more cargo than ever before. In the attached image, you can see that the RSPs on the left and right sides are packed with cargo from "floor to ceiling", which has never been done before.
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I believe the MPLM on STS 126 currently holds the record for carrying the heaviest payload.
This being the last MPLM, will it surpass the weight carried on 126?
Thank you.
From what I've seen, no. The MPLM weight (in terms of cargo) on STS-135 will not exceed the MPLM cargo weight on STS-126. But I have not yet seen the final MPLM weight from STS-135.
The MPLM on STS-135 will be the heaviest MPLM ever flown for both launch and landing. All 16 rack bays will be fully loaded with cargo, and six Resupply Stowage Platform (RSP) racks have been modified to enable them to carry more cargo than ever before.
In the attached image, you can see that the RSPs on the left and right sides are packed with cargo from "floor to ceiling", which has never been done before.
But what's the weight? The last weight I saw for Raffaello was not heavier for launch than Leonardo was for STS-126.
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I believe the MPLM on STS 126 currently holds the record for carrying the heaviest payload.
This being the last MPLM, will it surpass the weight carried on 126?
Thank you.
From what I've seen, no. The MPLM weight (in terms of cargo) on STS-135 will not exceed the MPLM cargo weight on STS-126. But I have not yet seen the final MPLM weight from STS-135.
The MPLM on STS-135 will be the heaviest MPLM ever flown for both launch and landing. All 16 rack bays will be fully loaded with cargo, and six Resupply Stowage Platform (RSP) racks have been modified to enable them to carry more cargo than ever before.
In the attached image, you can see that the RSPs on the left and right sides are packed with cargo from "floor to ceiling", which has never been done before.
But what's the weight? The last weight I saw for Raffaello was not heavier for launch than Leonardo was for STS-126.
Yup, you are right - corrected my original post. ;)
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Installing the last payload of the Space Shuttle Program.... Don't know how to feel today.
I know how I feel, and I'm sure it's only minor compared to how you and your buddies feel.
Chin up, it's been a great ride. (that's the best I can do for now)
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Since it's quiet now, here's a unique shot of the crane at the pad.
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I believe the MPLM on STS 126 currently holds the record for carrying the heaviest payload.
This being the last MPLM, will it surpass the weight carried on 126?
Thank you.
From what I've seen, no. The MPLM weight (in terms of cargo) on STS-135 will not exceed the MPLM cargo weight on STS-126. But I have not yet seen the final MPLM weight from STS-135.
The MPLM on STS-135 will be the heaviest MPLM ever flown for both launch and landing. All 16 rack bays will be fully loaded with cargo, and six Resupply Stowage Platform (RSP) racks have been modified to enable them to carry more cargo than ever before.
In the attached image, you can see that the RSPs on the left and right sides are packed with cargo from "floor to ceiling", which has never been done before.
But what's the weight? The last weight I saw for Raffaello was not heavier for launch than Leonardo was for STS-126.
Yup, you are right - corrected my original post. ;)
Final weight of STS-135 MPLM is 25,359 lbs. STS-126's MPLM was 28,100 lbs.
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MFV R&R work is now in work. Will write up a flow article as there's a lot going on.
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Padrat,
Not sure now to feel either. Back in grad school, I worked on an HST team and we came down to the site for launches. Although I knew the missions would someday come to an end, it just seems unreal now that the day is here. We were there for Endeavour's last launch and the rollout of Atlantis for the last time. That rollover brought it home in a personal way the human story here. Thank you for all your hard work.
SW
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A little eye candy as the sun sets at KSC :)
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Well, today was just.......different. Started out pretty normal, the usual procedures, conversations, joking, etc. Hell, even our manager and the move director, who both are usually straight and serious, were in lighter spirits and even cracking the joking comment or to and getting a chuckle. It was just ..... weird. It was actually a pretty smooth transfer all in all. But when we finally transfered the weight to the Orbiter, disconnected the J-hooks, and started preparing to back the PGHM away, you could just feel the atmosphere change. For about the last hour, the room was quiet save for the usual communications. No joking or talking, strictly business. I just don't know, it was just surreal, probably even more so than my first payload transfer. There was even a small memorial on the back PCR wall for Jim. Almost seemed fitting, considering the situation. Just an all around weird day.....
I mean, if this is how it felt today, I can't begin to imagine what its going to be like when Atlantis takes to the heavens for the last time.
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Well, today was just.......different. Started out pretty normal, the usual procedures, conversations, joking, etc. Hell, even our manager and the move director, who both are usually straight and serious, were in lighter spirits and even cracking the joking comment or to and getting a chuckle. It was just ..... weird. It was actually a pretty smooth transfer all in all. But when we finally transfered the weight to the Orbiter, disconnected the J-hooks, and started preparing to back the PGHM away, you could just feel the atmosphere change. For about the last hour, the room was quiet save for the usual communications. No joking or talking, strictly business. I just don't know, it was just surreal, probably even more so than my first payload transfer. There was even a small memorial on the back PCR wall for Jim. Almost seemed fitting, considering the situation. Just an all around weird day.....
I mean, if this is how it felt today, I can't begin to imagine what its going to be like when Atlantis takes to the heavens for the last time.
I don't know how anyone on here can respond to that...not unless they've worked the flow. Very touching comments Sir.
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Well, today was just.......different. Started out pretty normal, the usual procedures, conversations, joking, etc. Hell, even our manager and the move director, who both are usually straight and serious, were in lighter spirits and even cracking the joking comment or to and getting a chuckle. It was just ..... weird. It was actually a pretty smooth transfer all in all. But when we finally transfered the weight to the Orbiter, disconnected the J-hooks, and started preparing to back the PGHM away, you could just feel the atmosphere change. For about the last hour, the room was quiet save for the usual communications. No joking or talking, strictly business. I just don't know, it was just surreal, probably even more so than my first payload transfer. There was even a small memorial on the back PCR wall for Jim. Almost seemed fitting, considering the situation. Just an all around weird day.....
I mean, if this is how it felt today, I can't begin to imagine what its going to be like when Atlantis takes to the heavens for the last time.
I'm glad you posted that. Needs to be known!
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Written a large article on the MFV and stuff, will be on shortly, but for now, here's some NASATech goodies (panos of Atlantis at the pad):
Here's the pans from the media event on Friday with Atlantis:
http://nasatech.net/STS-135PadACargo110617/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135PadA235Level110617/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135PadA195FSS110617/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135PadA215FSS110617/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135PadA215RSS110617/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135PadA255RSS110617/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135PadA135FSS110617/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135PadAHingeFSS110617/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135PadA-MLPa110617/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135PadA-MLPb110617/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135PadA-MLPc110617/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135PadA-MLPd110617/
http://nasatech.net/STS-135PadA-MLPe110617/
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Big flow update via L2 and a lot on the MFV issue on SSME-3:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-crew-arrives-tcdt-mfv-work-begins-ssme-3/
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Here's the pans from the media event on Friday with Atlantis:
Thanks for linking these up Chris. I was in the group with John, and it was interesting to see how these were done. He was very patient waiting for the rest of us to take our shots and clear out.
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I mean, if this is how it felt today, I can't begin to imagine what its going to be like when Atlantis takes to the heavens for the last time.
Disheartening.
I will not have a smile on my face.
:-(
Thank you all for the good work.
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I don't know how anyone on here can respond to that...not unless they've worked the flow. Very touching comments Sir.
Well spoken.
Knowing how sentimental I feel myself over all of this, knowing the lump I'm going to have in my throat and the tears I'll have in my eyes when Atlantis launches for the last time, speaking as a fan I can never start to imagine how all the guys who have been involved in the program over years must feel.
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If STS 135's MPLM is the heaviest ever and she will visit the ISS in a ~37km higher (more efficient) orbit (which is better for other VVs) why wasn't the ISS placed in that orbit earlier?
Can STS 135 only go to the higher orbit with less crew?
Or were the other payloads carried, much heavier?
Chris noted in his recent article "the higher operating altitude of the ISS will not be an issue, and any reduction in Shuttle payload capacity is negligible".
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Small HD video file of External Tanking Scanning / Engine Valve Work
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGJEQ87f5cA
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Crane and shuttle at pad:
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Whole bunch of new photos on here: http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=4
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Big flow update via L2 and a lot on the MFV issue on SSME-3:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-crew-arrives-tcdt-mfv-work-begins-ssme-3/
Excellent summary, thanks!
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Big flow update via L2 and a lot on the MFV issue on SSME-3:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-crew-arrives-tcdt-mfv-work-begins-ssme-3/
Excellent summary, thanks!
Thanks :)
And I'll quickly add updated notes that the MFV is coming out today and retests are planned for this weekend.
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Being a 3D videographer I love seeing this yet again for STS-135.
Big 3D camera by the looks of it for TCDT Arrival.. *Hopes they capture launch in 3D too*
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If STS 135's MPLM is the heaviest ever and she will visit the ISS in a ~37km higher (more efficient) orbit (which is better for other VVs) why wasn't the ISS placed in that orbit earlier?
Can STS 135 only go to the higher orbit with less crew?
Or were the other payloads carried, much heavier?
Chris noted in his recent article "the higher operating altitude of the ISS will not be an issue, and any reduction in Shuttle payload capacity is negligible".
We've already stated in this thread that STS-135's MPLM is NOT the heaviest MPLM flown at launch. That distinction goes to STS-126/Endeavour.
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SSP FRR has Atlantis is on track for July 8 going into Agency FRR. 29 SSP FRR presentations uploaded to L2.
Going through them all now, and numerous articles will follow.
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SSP FRR has Atlantis is on track for July 8 going into Agency FRR. 29 SSP FRR presentations uploaded to L2.
Very good news...but don't uncross my fingers, yet?
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SSP FRR has Atlantis is on track for July 8 going into Agency FRR. 29 SSP FRR presentations uploaded to L2.
Very good news...but don't uncross my fingers, yet?
Not until she's back on the ground :D
It's the usual saying of anything could happen between now and launch, but this was a good hurdle to jump. Such as, if there was a real threat at this stage, you'd get to see it on the documentation. All looks good, SSME is pending due to MFV, but that was expected.
Agency FRR mostly works on the SSP FRR documentation, so pending good retests on the SSME-3 MFV and no new issues, so far so good for July 8.
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STS-135 Special Topics, Mission Timeline Get-wells Reviewed - by Chris Gebhardt:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-special-topics-timeline-get-wells-reviewed/
Will set up a FRR specific thread this week, as we're going to be producing numerous mission overviews via the presentations.
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Chris,
I had nvr seen the immersive shots before! Amazing!!! It's like being there! :o
Do you have the link for immersives for the STS-133 flight? (If they did them) I got to see her launch, so would be special to have that link.
Thx.
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Chris,
I had nvr seen the immersive shots before! Amazing!!! It's like being there! :o
Do you have the link for immersives for the STS-133 flight? (If they did them) I got to see her launch, so would be special to have that link.
Thx.
To which shots do you refer?
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Chris,
I had nvr seen the immersive shots before! Amazing!!! It's like being there! :o
Do you have the link for immersives for the STS-133 flight? (If they did them) I got to see her launch, so would be special to have that link.
Thx.
To which shots do you refer?
I would guess the pans that you posted the links to a page or so back -- and they are amazing! Much appreciated. :)
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I think he wants the panos for STS-133 which Chris posted here (http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=22764.msg640150#msg640150)
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Hi
Don't know if this is the right place to post as I don't post that much on here but I do tend to read the forum quite often.
Is there by any chance that this unseasonal storm that's currently moving through the American mid-west, bringing the risk of flooding, strong winds and tornadoes to some southern states could effect KSC and maybe delay the launch date or may even require a rollback of Shuttle Atlantis out at Pad 39A to the VAB?
I also see there is a Hurricane called Beatriz that is moving along the Mexican coast on a northwesterly track as well now according to the BBC America's weather forecast.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/weather/hi/news/newsid_9518000/9518932.stm
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Hi
Don't know if this is the right place to post as I don't post that much on here but I do tend to read the forum quite often.
Is there by any chance that this unseasonal storm that's currently moving through the American mid-west, bringing the risk of flooding, strong winds and tornadoes to some southern states could effect KSC and maybe delay the launch date or may even require a rollback of Shuttle Atlantis out at Pad 39A to the VAB?
I also see there is a Hurricane called Beatriz that is moving along the Mexican coast on a northwesterly track as well now according to the BBC America's weather forecast.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/weather/hi/news/newsid_9518000/9518932.stm
Beatriz fell apart , besides it is moving west, away from Florida. As long as nothing cooks up in the Atlantic Basin of course !
As far as the storms, welcome to summer in the South. Those systems come in so fast there would not be time to roll Atlantis back, the RSS is in place along with other Weather protection. Cross your fingers when the storms come along.
And Rdale psoted awhile back on the launch viewing thread that the 27 day Accuweather forecast looks great (We're joking around with this one !! Ha !)
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I think he wants the panos for STS-133 which Chris posted here (http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=22764.msg640150#msg640150)
Thx Tez & Chris!
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Is there by any chance that this unseasonal storm that's currently moving through the American mid-west, bringing the risk of flooding, strong winds and tornadoes to some southern states could effect KSC and maybe delay the launch date or may even require a rollback of Shuttle Atlantis out at Pad 39A to the VAB?
The chances are astronomically low; it would be unprecedented. The Continental United States is large -- while some areas in the midwest are flooding, Houston (for example) is in a deepening drought.
I also see there is a Hurricane called Beatriz that is moving along the Mexican coast on a northwesterly track as well now according to the BBC America's weather forecast.
As noted, that's an Eastern Pacific tropical system -- it's also incredibly rare for one of those to cross over into the Atlantic. In all likelihood, the only possible issue would be from a tropical system in the Atlantic -- however, it's very early in the Atlantic hurricane season and there are currently no Atlantic storms. (The Eastern Pacific generally has a different dynamic.)
A good rule of thumb on weather that might afftect NASA operations is keep an eye on posts from Chris or Rob (rdale) -- if any of the centers goes on hurricane alert, you'll see them note it promptly.
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I think he wants the panos for STS-133 which Chris posted here (http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=22764.msg640150#msg640150)
Ah yes. Thanks for linking him up :)
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From NASA Twitter feed:
STS-135 is targeted to launch at 11:26aET/15:26 UTC July 8 with 2 launch attempts in 3 days (July 8-10) then options July 16-31.
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From NASA Twitter feed:
STS-135 is targeted to launch at 11:26aET/15:26 UTC July 8 with 2 launch attempts in 3 days (July 8-10) then options July 16-31.
Yes, 48 hours turnaround to allow the launch team to get home and get enough rest. They'll be in the same crazy traffic as the rest of us. So one attempt on the 8th, another on the 10th if needed. Then due a Delta IV launch, after 7/10 they would stand down till at least 7/16.
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From NASA Twitter feed:
STS-135 is targeted to launch at 11:26aET/15:26 UTC July 8 with 2 launch attempts in 3 days (July 8-10) then options July 16-31.
Yes, 48 hours turnaround to allow the launch team to get home and get enough rest. They'll be in the same crazy traffic as the rest of us. So one attempt on the 8th, another on the 10th if needed. Then due a Delta IV launch, after 7/10 they would stand down till at least 7/16.
Is there any chance that they'll ask the delta IV to wait as they have in the past with other rocket launches? Or is this delta launch time sensitive?
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Yes, 48 hours turnaround to allow the launch team to get home and get enough rest.
That decision still depends on the timing and the nature of a scrub, if there is one.
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Yes, 48 hours turnaround to allow the launch team to get home and get enough rest.
That decision still depends on the timing and the nature of a scrub, if there is one.
I was told this by a mission controller (The 48 hour turnaround) this morning. Also I got this from KSC this morning after that : "Currently, STS-135 is targeted to launch on July 8 at 11:26 a.m. EDT (15:26 UTC). We have the option for two launch attempts in three days (July 8-10) before the launch team would have to stand down for a Delta IV rocket launch scheduled for July 14. The Eastern Range is unavailable from July 11-15. The next window would extend from July 16-31. "
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I have SO enjoyed this thread! I just want to thank you all for such informative posts and articles. It's great reading and I really enjoy understanding the science, preparations, etc behind what I'll be witnessing. I'm sure the others in my party will quickly get bored with me as I point out things and my "Did you know...." injections, lol. I have a feeling reading all of this is going to make what I see more special than I could ever imagine. My curiosity has been peaked and I don't think it will end with Atlantis. I'm eagerly awaiting the "announcement" on 7/8 ;D. Thanks again for taking the time to post although I'm sure you all enjoy every minute of it.
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Yes, 48 hours turnaround to allow the launch team to get home and get enough rest.
That decision still depends on the timing and the nature of a scrub, if there is one.
I was told this by a mission controller (The 48 hour turnaround) this morning.
Those aren't incompatible. As noted during the last launch countdown, if a scrub is called, it depends on when. If it were called early enough, before a lot of the spectator traffic comes in, the 24-hour turnaround option is available.
What's more common, especially if the weather is marginal, is to take the count down to the last planned hold. In that case, given the expected crowd conditions for the first launch attempt, 48 hours is more likely if that attempt was called off based on weather.
It's unlike the Shuttle program to dismiss an available option until they have no choice. Hopefully they don't have to worry about it, but they wouldn't have to make that call until launch day.
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Is there any chance that they'll ask the delta IV to wait as they have in the past with other rocket launches? Or is this delta launch time sensitive?
I'm wondering about this too. What's the rationale for having a ready-to-launch Shuttle stand down for a Delta launch? Seems (to someone with very little knowledge of such things) like it'd be a lot more expensive, a lot more work, and a lot more risk to have a Shuttle sit on the pad rather than a rocket.
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Is there any chance that they'll ask the delta IV to wait as they have in the past with other rocket launches? Or is this delta launch time sensitive?
I'm wondering about this too. What's the rationale for having a ready-to-launch Shuttle stand down for a Delta launch? Seems (to someone with very little knowledge of such things) like it'd be a lot more expensive, a lot more work, and a lot more risk to have a Shuttle sit on the pad rather than a rocket.
I hear ya, surprising to me also, but nothing I am hearing is pointing to pushing the Delta launch. All I know is it is an Air Force bird they are launching. I think it's already been delayed once ? If anyone can confirm that, please do. Might be why they won't wait for the Shuttle.
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Is there any chance that they'll ask the delta IV to wait as they have in the past with other rocket launches? Or is this delta launch time sensitive?
I'm wondering about this too. What's the rationale for having a ready-to-launch Shuttle stand down for a Delta launch? Seems (to someone with very little knowledge of such things) like it'd be a lot more expensive, a lot more work, and a lot more risk to have a Shuttle sit on the pad rather than a rocket.
I hear ya, surprising to me also, but nothing I am hearing is pointing to pushing the Delta launch. All I know is it is an Air Force bird they are launching. I think it's already been delayed once ? If anyone can confirm that, please do. Might be why they won't wait for the Shuttle.
Delayed from June 23, I believe.
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/03/live-delta-iv-nrol-27/
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Is there any chance that they'll ask the delta IV to wait as they have in the past with other rocket launches? Or is this delta launch time sensitive?
I'm wondering about this too. What's the rationale for having a ready-to-launch Shuttle stand down for a Delta launch? Seems (to someone with very little knowledge of such things) like it'd be a lot more expensive, a lot more work, and a lot more risk to have a Shuttle sit on the pad rather than a rocket.
I hear ya, surprising to me also, but nothing I am hearing is pointing to pushing the Delta launch. All I know is it is an Air Force bird they are launching. I think it's already been delayed once ? If anyone can confirm that, please do. Might be why they won't wait for the Shuttle.
It has nothing to do with Shuttle having seniority. The Air Force has booked the range for July 11-15, and they have every right to use the range for a launch in the time regardless of anyone else's schedule. If other vehicles get delayed, it's not the Air Force's fault or concern. It would be the same if Shuttle scheduled the range for a specific date, and then an Atlas delayed and wanted the same date as Shuttle. Shuttle would have every right to say, "No. We booked the range and need to get our vehicle off the ground."
In the past, we have seen the Air Force both yield to and not yield to Shuttle. Totally depends on the payload and the nature of the situation.
And who's to say it would be more expensive and dangerous to have Shuttle wait out Delta than Delta delay for Shuttle? The Delta will be just as "ready-to-launch" as Shuttle by this point. Delta and Boeing are also being paid by the Air Force to launch a satellite and could stand to lose money if they delay because of Shuttle.
There are many pieces at play here, but it's really not productive to start thinking about this until we're into a scrub for Shuttle. I understand there's curisoity, but there's really nothing anyone can say aside from "We don't know what the outcome will be until we're into a launch scrub scenario for Atlantis. Obviously, if they launch on 8th, 9th, or 10th, than this is a non-starter. And NASA is being VERY responsible in informing the rather large number of people coming to the launch of what the windows are for Atlantis's mission. :)
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Thanks Chris, as always you wrap it all up in a nice neat package !! ;-)
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Is there any chance that they'll ask the delta IV to wait as they have in the past with other rocket launches? Or is this delta launch time sensitive?
I'm wondering about this too. What's the rationale for having a ready-to-launch Shuttle stand down for a Delta launch? Seems (to someone with very little knowledge of such things) like it'd be a lot more expensive, a lot more work, and a lot more risk to have a Shuttle sit on the pad rather than a rocket.
I hear ya, surprising to me also, but nothing I am hearing is pointing to pushing the Delta launch. All I know is it is an Air Force bird they are launching. I think it's already been delayed once ? If anyone can confirm that, please do. Might be why they won't wait for the Shuttle.
It has nothing to do with Shuttle having seniority. The Air Force has booked the range for July 11-15, and they have every right to use the range for a launch in the time regardless of anyone else's schedule. If other vehicles get delayed, it's not the Air Force's fault or concern. It would be the same if Shuttle scheduled the range for a specific date, and then an Atlas delayed and wanted the same date as Shuttle. Shuttle would have every right to say, "No. We booked the range and need to get our vehicle off the ground."
In the past, we have seen the Air Force both yield to and not yield to Shuttle. Totally depends on the payload and the nature of the situation.
And who's to say it would be more expensive and dangerous to have Shuttle wait out Delta than Delta delay for Shuttle? The Delta will be just as "ready-to-launch" as Shuttle by this point. Delta and Boeing are also being paid by the Air Force to launch a satellite and could stand to lose money if they delay because of Shuttle.
There are many pieces at play here, but it's really not productive to start thinking about this until we're into a scrub for Shuttle. I understand there's curisoity, but there's really nothing anyone can say aside from "We don't know what the outcome will be until we're into a launch scrub scenario for Atlantis. Obviously, if they launch on 8th, 9th, or 10th, than this is a non-starter. And NASA is being VERY responsible in informing the rather large number of people coming to the launch of what the windows are for Atlantis's mission. :)
This right here? Exactly why I love this site.
Thanks, Chris.
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Crew are on their way to the pad!
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Nice shot of the white room now.
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Tight fit in there!
Pilot now in the white room.
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Sandra Magnus now there.
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Rex Walheim now the last into the white room.
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Lovely photo being captured now..
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They talked at the presser yesterday about how everything is taking a bit longer in training and prep because so many deserving folks are stopping them to tell them stories, ask for pictures, etc, in light of the historic cricumstances of the last flight. And it's just awesome that they are taking the time for that.
Great to see them taking pictures with the photographers!! :-)
I am mesmerized watching this, even though I don't have any sound. I'd have loved to hear Walheim explain the mirror strapped to his wrist. Anyone know why he has that?
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Hatch seal being cleaned.
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Shot from Pad 39-B I think looking towards Atlantis, Didn't think they'd still have cameras.
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Shot from Pad 39-B I think looking towards Atlantis, Didn't think they'd still have cameras.
That's the camera site up on the Pad B water tower. (OTV-160)
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Shot from Pad 39-B I think looking towards Atlantis, Didn't think they'd still have cameras.
That's the camera site up on the Pad B water tower. (OTV-160)
Aha thanks for the exact location. Suppose it's just the actual pad cameras they would have removed.
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I'd have loved to hear Walheim explain the mirror strapped to his wrist. Anyone know why he has that?
I noticed this on a video I saw on youtube last week. It looked like it was used to see the view out the window during launch. I assume they can only see sky (or space) if they can even see out the window at all during launch, so they use the mirror to see 'around the corner' (remember they're strapped in pretty well).
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Sorry if this has been asked/discussed before. I've read through a lot but can anyone tell me why it's only a four person crew this time?
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Sorry if this has been asked/discussed before. I've read through a lot but can anyone tell me why it's only a four person crew this time?
Since there is no rescue shuttle for STS-135, the crew had to be limited to the number of people that could be brought down in Soyuz's in less than a year. This number worked out to four.
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Sorry if this has been asked/discussed before. I've read through a lot but can anyone tell me why it's only a four person crew this time?
Since there is no rescue shuttle for STS-135, the crew had to be limited to the number of people that could be brought down in Soyuz's in less than a year. This number worked out to four.
Full explanations can be found on the primary news portion of our site: http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/
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Pad Flow update via L2, and more on the ET camera which will film ET-138's destruction:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-atlantis-tcdt-external-tank-death-camera-ready/
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Pad Flow update via L2, and more on the ET camera which will film ET-138's destruction:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-atlantis-tcdt-external-tank-death-camera-ready/
Thanks for keeping us up to date with the flow even when there aren't problems! I don't have L2, wish I did and will at some point, as I hear it's amazing, but even without L2, this is still the best site for space flight by miles.
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Pad Flow update via L2, and more on the ET camera which will film ET-138's destruction:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-atlantis-tcdt-external-tank-death-camera-ready/
Good article. Seems like we shouldn't get our hopes up too high on the camera, with so many things that could lead to poor and/or limited video (tumbling causing LOS, plasma obscuring view, lack of receivers past EI, etc.).
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Pad Flow update via L2, and more on the ET camera which will film ET-138's destruction:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-atlantis-tcdt-external-tank-death-camera-ready/
Thanks for keeping us up to date with the flow even when there aren't problems! I don't have L2, wish I did and will at some point, as I hear it's amazing, but even without L2, this is still the best site for space flight by miles.
Might want to think about sooner rather than later, since this is your last chance to see L2 during a Shuttle mission.
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Pad Flow update via L2, and more on the ET camera which will film ET-138's destruction:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-atlantis-tcdt-external-tank-death-camera-ready/
Thanks for keeping us up to date with the flow even when there aren't problems! I don't have L2, wish I did and will at some point, as I hear it's amazing, but even without L2, this is still the best site for space flight by miles.
Might want to think about sooner rather than later, since this is your last chance to see L2 during a Shuttle mission.
Very true, although I think L2's secret strength is the new vehicles. No other site comes close to touching this site for things like SLS and so on. Some sites are going to completely run out of things to write about after STS-135. Thankfully this one's probably going to grow even more, even after the last orbiter is sent to her retirement home.
Truly awesome site, from top to bottom. Not sure what it'd be like without here.
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Pad Flow update via L2, and more on the ET camera which will film ET-138's destruction:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-atlantis-tcdt-external-tank-death-camera-ready/
Thanks for keeping us up to date with the flow even when there aren't problems! I don't have L2, wish I did and will at some point, as I hear it's amazing, but even without L2, this is still the best site for space flight by miles.
Might want to think about sooner rather than later, since this is your last chance to see L2 during a Shuttle mission.
Very true, although I think L2's secret strength is the new vehicles. No other site comes close to touching this site for things like SLS and so on. Some sites are going to completely run out of things to write about after STS-135. Thankfully this one's probably going to grow even more, even after the last orbiter is sent to her retirement home.
Truly awesome site, from top to bottom. Not sure what it'd be like without here.
I can totally agree - I recently signed up for 2 months, especially for the coverage of STS-135, but now as I see the tons of information, I already decided to sign up again :) Concentrating on STS-135 for now, and afterwards diving into all the other fascinating topics...
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Appreciate the above :)
On STS-135, I'll write up the FRR content on the MFV....
Per L2 NTD info this morning, MFV retest is scheduled for this weekend and will include SSME 3 FRT on Saturday and He Signature test on Sunday.
No new IPRs of note, Atlantis behaving like a good girl on 39A. Let's just hope she's not cooking up a surprise ;)
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Pad Flow update via L2, and more on the ET camera which will film ET-138's destruction:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-atlantis-tcdt-external-tank-death-camera-ready/
Thanks for keeping us up to date with the flow even when there aren't problems! I don't have L2, wish I did and will at some point, as I hear it's amazing, but even without L2, this is still the best site for space flight by miles.
Your compliments and flattery are appreciated, I'm sure--but if you want to ensure that they can keep doing the good work of updating and maintaining information---VOTE WITH YOUR POCKETBOOK and get an L2 subscription. It's only $20 USD to try it. Even if you don't appreciate the expanded content, it's a worthy donation to the cause!
Think about how sad you'd be if you came along one day, and got a message that the site had been closed.
You've surely spent $20 bucks on less worthy 'endeavour's, I know I have!
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Great words, thanks a lot! :)
Latest Article now on:
STS-135: Engineers retesting MFV – ET-138 stringer inspections completed:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-engineers-mfv-et-138-stringer-inspections-completed/
A pad flow update, large MFV update via L2 content and bit of fun at the end of the article ;D
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This part is brilliant...
While the owner of the ring may have received an ear-bashing from his wife, the engineer can look forward to proudly announcing he was reunited with the space flown ring by Atlantis when she returns to her Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF)… providing she doesn’t take the opportunity to propose to another vehicle whilst on orbit.
I'm already seeing it tweeted around :D
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Thanks! Wasn't sure how that'd go down in a technical article ;D
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How is there a picture of it if the ring is lost?
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How is there a picture of it if the ring is lost?
Maybe it's his wife's ring in the photo? ???
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How is there a picture of it if the ring is lost?
It's an example of what it looks like.
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Any particular reason why Leonardo has flown more missions (8 with PMM mission) than Raffaello (3 without STS-135)? Raffaello had been grounded after STS-114 in July 2005 while Leonardo since then have flown all MPLM missions.
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Any particular reason why Leonardo has flown more missions (8 with PMM mission) than Raffaello (3 without STS-135)? Raffaello had been grounded after STS-114 in July 2005 while Leonardo since then have flown all MPLM missions.
Not sure there was any reason other than it was cheaper to focus only on flying one MPLM for the remainder of the Program after STS-114 - something that became impossible with the decision to leave an MPLM permanently on ISS on STS-133 and fly STS-135.
Money is also the reason why MPLM Donatello was never completed and flown. It became cheaper to not completely finish it and just tailor the MPLM cargo to those elements capable of being flown up and back on Leonardo and Raffaello.
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Any particular reason why Leonardo has flown more missions (8 with PMM mission) than Raffaello (3 without STS-135)? Raffaello had been grounded after STS-114 in July 2005 while Leonardo since then have flown all MPLM missions.
Not sure there was any reason other than it was cheaper to focus only on flying one MPLM for the remainder of the Program after STS-114 - something that became impossible with the decision to leave an MPLM permanently on ISS on STS-133 and fly STS-135.
Money is also the reason why MPLM Donatello was never completed and flown. It became cheaper to not completely finish it and just tailor the MPLM cargo to those elements capable of being flown up and back on Leonardo and Raffaello.
Also interesting to note: Raffaello was the RTF payload after Columbia, and will now become the final Shuttle payload - full circle.
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Great words, thanks a lot! :)
Latest Article now on:
STS-135: Engineers retesting MFV – ET-138 stringer inspections completed:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-engineers-mfv-et-138-stringer-inspections-completed/
A pad flow update, large MFV update via L2 content and bit of fun at the end of the article ;D
Brilliant article Chris!
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Any particular reason why Leonardo has flown more missions (8 with PMM mission) than Raffaello (3 without STS-135)? Raffaello had been grounded after STS-114 in July 2005 while Leonardo since then have flown all MPLM missions.
Not sure there was any reason other than it was cheaper to focus only on flying one MPLM for the remainder of the Program after STS-114 - something that became impossible with the decision to leave an MPLM permanently on ISS on STS-133 and fly STS-135.
1. Thanks Chris G and Space Pete for your replies. In that case, may be it was just a NASA decision to move forward with Leonardo instead of Raffaello until STS-135 came in.
2. Is STS-135 the most heaviest payload for Raffaello missions? (As the forum said, Among all MPLM missions that distinction goes to STS-126)
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Unspecified Hydraulic leak has resulted in a delay to the completion of the retests on SSME-3's MPV to Monday am. Classed as IPR-53.
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Is this a serious issue?
Orbiter
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Is this a serious issue?
Orbiter
Don't know yet, but I doubt it.
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This part is brilliant...
While the owner of the ring may have received an ear-bashing from his wife, the engineer can look forward to proudly announcing he was reunited with the space flown ring by Atlantis when she returns to her Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF)… providing she doesn’t take the opportunity to propose to another vehicle whilst on orbit.
I'm already seeing it tweeted around :D
Yeah, next time an X37 lands, I'll consider some orbital mischief afoot...hehee :)
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Thank you for the article on the latest... I especially enjoyed the "nicknames" for Atlantis (Britney and "the penguin"). Now crazy trying to link in my mind a pop goddess diva and a flightless aquatic bird to Atlantis. Love the imagery!
ccpetersen
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Thank you for the article on the latest... I especially enjoyed the "nicknames" for Atlantis (Britney and "the penguin"). Now crazy trying to link in my mind a pop goddess diva and a flightless aquatic bird to Atlantis. Love the imagery!
ccpetersen
Thanks! Yeah, was funny to see that Penguin nickname on one of the MOD L2 presentations called "Reflections" which is a joke presentation within MOD where everyone (including the top bosses get a ribbing).
This was the slide in question for poor Atlantis...along with another one on that style of presentation ;D
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I always think they look like moths on the back of the tanks; never occurred to me to see a penguin til I saw your article. I'm happy to be coming down to witness the launch of the Penguin in a week and a half! Now I'll really have something to smile about. ;)
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STS-134 IFA Review: SRBs and RSRMs Perform Admirably - by Chris Gebhardt - which holds relation to STS-135 given how much previous flight IFA's relate to the FRRs.
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-134-ifa-review-srbs-rsrms-perform-admirably/
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I always think they look like moths on the back of the tanks; never occurred to me to see a penguin til I saw your article. I'm happy to be coming down to witness the launch of the Penguin in a week and a half! Now I'll really have something to smile about. ;)
I can understand that the A380 be called a whalejet but I will never accept that Atlantis - my top favourite Space Shuttle - be called a penguin.
She is a very beautiful Space Shuttle.
She is simply the best of all Space Shuttles.
Atlantis - you are not a penguin.
:-)
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Atlantis showing a wing:
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Retests complete. Leak was minor, IPR-53 didn't even make the main summary of the NTD report (L2). There's a second version will list it, so we'll see what it was later.
SSME-3 MFV issue now behind us......until launch day ;)
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-engineers-mfv-et-138-stringer-inspections-completed/
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Splendid! So far so good. When I think Penguin, Burgess Meredith comes to mind. I just can't picture Atlantis with a monocle.
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This part is brilliant...
While the owner of the ring may have received an ear-bashing from his wife, the engineer can look forward to proudly announcing he was reunited with the space flown ring by Atlantis when she returns to her Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF)… providing she doesn’t take the opportunity to propose to another vehicle whilst on orbit.
I'm already seeing it tweeted around :D
Great article!
Every time I have been in an OPF or even into the retired 103, the FOD prevention order have been quite clear and enforced strictly. All badges off, or below waist. rings have to be off or taped onto finger. Watches have to be taped too.no cellphones or car keys with unlock/transmitters etc. It has got to be embarrassing having to explain this apparent deviation.
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Atlantis showing a wing:
Don't you mean a flipper?
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Don't you mean a flipper?
Hey, as long as she doesn't waddle off the pad next week, I'm happy! ;D
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Great article by Philip Sloss and Chris Gebhardt:
STS-135: Amended Systems Abort-Once-Around practiced before launch:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-amended-systems-aoa-practiced-before-launch/
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Another awesome morning image.
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Another awesome morning image.
Thank you for posting this. I love the colours.
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Now at dawn:
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From NASA via Facebook
STS-135 is a 12 day mission but there is a desire to save enough power to add another day for cargo transfer to/from the station. If Atlantis launches on the first day and by powering down the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module heater, that is possible.
Orbiter
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Launch preps continue today. The port-o-potties have been delivered to the causeway this morning. ;-)
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Launch preps continue today. The port-o-potties have been delivered to the causeway this morning. ;-)
LOL!! I guess that makes the July 8th date official!!
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Remember, the @NASA twitter feed is using a PAO inside the Agency FRR. Will be smooth sailing and a July 8 date announced later.
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NSF DINNER information before the launch of STS-135/Atlantis has been posted in its own thread! Please follow the instructions laid out in my post at the following link. It is very, very important you provide all the information I request and send it through a PM!
http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=25713.0
HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!
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I always wondered about how they put the payload into the payload bay on the pad. I mean they bring it to the pad in a container, raise the container into the RSS. Close the RSS against the Atlantis. Open the payload bay doors.
But then what? Does it just slide into the bay, does it get turned around first? Does part of the container go into also? Etc...
Thanks!
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I always wondered about how they put the payload into the payload bay on the pad. I mean they bring it to the pad in a container, raise the container into the RSS. Close the RSS against the Atlantis. Open the payload bay doors.
But then what? Does it just slide into the bay, does it get turned around first? Does part of the container go into also? Etc...
Thanks!
From another thread:
OK, I was watching them load an MPLM into a canister. The entire canister doesn't slot into the Shuttle payload bay as-is, does it? It looks like it does, and it also looks too heavy to do it that way.
So how do they do it?
The payload canister does not go inside the Orbiter. The canister is basically a duplicate of the payload bay and is only used to transport the payload out to the pad. Once at the pad the payload is removed from the canister and placed in the Payload Changeout Room. The empty canister is removed from the pad, the RSS is mated, and the payload is transferred from the PCR to the Orbiter.
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My next question would be how are the payloads actually moved? for instance in the canister they are placed and spaced exactly as they will be in the payload bay. So they must be on some kind of racks. So are the payloads and racks moved together into the RSS so the canister can be removed?
Then how are they moved into the payload bay, is the whole thing just slid across into the bay and then bolted down? Are the racks or whatever they are attached to removed for flight or do they become part of the payload bay for flight or not? This has perplexed me for decades. I've never been able to find anything on the web that went into details about this.
After following the Shuttle program for +30 years this has remained the greatest mystery to me!
Thanks again for the info.
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The post-FRR presser NET 3:30 pm EDT.
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My next question would be how are the payloads actually moved? for instance in the canister they are placed and spaced exactly as they will be in the payload bay. So they must be on some kind of racks. So are the payloads and racks moved together into the RSS so the canister can be removed?
Then how are they moved into the payload bay, is the whole thing just slid across into the bay and then bolted down? Are the racks or whatever they are attached to removed for flight or do they become part of the payload bay for flight or not? This has perplexed me for decades. I've never been able to find anything on the web that went into details about this.
After following the Shuttle program for +30 years this has remained the greatest mystery to me!
Thanks again for the info.
This photo from the Kennedy library may explain better. It's inside the RSS.
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OK, I do get it now. that "white beam" with numbers on it takes the payload out, holds it, then after canister removal, puts the payload into bay. Many thanks for this info. No more mysteries left for me (that I know of). Tom
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I always wondered about how they put the payload into the payload bay on the pad. I mean they bring it to the pad in a container, raise the container into the RSS. Close the RSS against the Atlantis. Open the payload bay doors.
But then what? Does it just slide into the bay, does it get turned around first? Does part of the container go into also? Etc...
Thanks!
I'm so glad I wasn't the only one ;).
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Remember, we have a Shuttle Q&A section ;)
FRR about to approve July 8. PAO will tweet it at @NASA.
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And there's the expected confirmation of July 8 via the Agency FRR.
Post FRR presser at 3:30pm. If someone could cover, I'm still writing an article :D
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And there's the expected confirmation of July 8 via the Agency FRR.
Post FRR presser at 3:30pm. If someone could cover, I'm still writing an article :D
I've got it
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And there's the expected confirmation of July 8 via the Agency FRR.
Post FRR presser at 3:30pm. If someone could cover, I'm still writing an article :D
I've got it
Nice one, thanks! ;D
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KSC PAO has released some images from inside the FRR - very unusual! :)
http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=226
Knowledge test: How many NASA managers you name from face only in the photos? :D
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KSC PAO has released some images from inside the FRR - very unusual! :)
http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=226
Knowledge test: How many NASA managers you name from face only in the photos? :D
There was discussion of this FRR being filmed, wasn't there ?
Wonder if it happened
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KSC PAO has released some images from inside the FRR - very unusual! :)
http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=226
Knowledge test: How many NASA managers you name from face only in the photos? :D
Cool; somehow different from the way I imagined the FRR to look. I can only name 4, plus a couple that look vaguely familiar (and I didn't see Mike Moses or Leinbach in the photos unless they were hiding). Where's the cheat sheet?
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racshot, you up on the presser? Don't want to duplicate, but here's my notes in progress:
Gerstenmaier:
- talked about brake fire at landing
- found particle on MFV that could explain leak.
- STS-135 cargo is critical to Station. MDF is 10 days.
Moses:
- STS-134 UA: at SRB sep saw a cylinderical piece of hardware floating by. Focused on a coupler at the SRB-ET attach point. While unlikely, even if that's what it was, it would be ok.
- Tanking test went well. No cracks detected, foam seems to be in good shape.
- Discussed chute failure on SRB - probably rubbed on deployment
- MPLM heaters can be left off for power savings to preserve +1 day option.
- MPLM is 1/3 full of food - 1 year's supply
- downmass is trash and experiments; MPLM is 75-80% full; 100% full if we get extra day.
- FD3 is rendevous; FD4 attach MPLM ; FD5 is EVA
- EVA is to remove failed pump; deploy refueling module
- Flyaround plans: Back off, station will turn 90 degrees (pointed towards shuttle); will fly around the long axis for 1/2 lap
- FD13 is entry, landing around 7A.
Leinbach:
- Ordnance connected last night; payload bay doors close tomorrow.
- Closeout aft on Friday, entire long weekend off. Countdown starts Tuesday.
- No PRSD offload
- Attempts on 8th, 9th, 10th, 2 attempts in 3 days, then standdown for Delta. 24 vs 48 hour scrub will be looked at in realtime.
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Article:
STS-135: FRR sets July 8 Launch Date for Atlantis – Debris misses ISS:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-frr-july-8-atlantis-debris-misses-iss/
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racshot, you up on the presser?
He's got it covered. He just posts the whole lot in one go ;)
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Article:
STS-135: FRR sets July 8 Launch Date for Atlantis – Debris misses ISS:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-frr-july-8-atlantis-debris-misses-iss/
I may be mistake but I believe it's the 3rd time a crew has had to take cover?
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Article:
STS-135: FRR sets July 8 Launch Date for Atlantis – Debris misses ISS:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-frr-july-8-atlantis-debris-misses-iss/
I may be mistake but I believe it's the 3rd time a crew has had to take cover?
Nope, only the second. They've come close to doing it a few other times, but apart from today, they've only ever done it once.
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Article:
STS-135: FRR sets July 8 Launch Date for Atlantis – Debris misses ISS:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-frr-july-8-atlantis-debris-misses-iss/
I may be mistake but I believe it's the 3rd time a crew has had to take cover?
Nope, only the second. They've come close to doing it a few other times, but apart from today, they've only ever done it once.
Wikipedia needs a tweak then:
This partial station evacuation has occurred twice, on 6 April 2003 and 13 March 2009.[186]
And it's source is an article from here: http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2009/09/soyuz-tma-16-launch-to-iss-safe-haven-evaluations/
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I bet Aaron's got no fingers left ;)
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Bill G
July 8th as launch date, in plane 11:26 am
Conducted a through review
Spent a lot of time going through each activity, many unique items
Have a unique contingency plan in case of damage to the orbiter; it’s at least as good / better than the shuttle
Reviewed previous anomalies, tyre fire is a likely a nominal occurrence, didn’t trip any temp sensors. Could be something that happens during day light if fluid is present but we can’t see it
Spent a lot of time on the leaky engine valve, they’ve found a small particle on the valve seat when it was removed.
This flight is incredibly important for the station
Need 10 days to get all the cargo off and return some
Mike Moses
Talked about a debris piece at SRB sep on the previous flight. Done an extensive investigation of returned hardware, nothing is missing. Nothing on the ET in images.
Looked at all components in the system that might look like it, didn’t come up with any candidates
1 component in SRB system looks similar, a grounding strap.
Attaches to ET and SRB. Its 2 connectors that plug into coupler it can detatch on either end. Get the part back on SRB half the time assume it is still attached to ET the other half of the time.
Cant make it become debris in ground testing though.
Used it as worst case scenario though and looked at what might happen if it did come off.
If it did come off we could detect if it hit the shuttle
Tanking test x rays came back fine
Got a good check of the ET foam, performed fantastically
Found a leaky engine valve
SRB parachute failure – hadn’t had many failures before
Was probably deployment damage, rubbing on deployment caused heating
Impact velocity was still fine, designed to only need 2 chutes
12 day mission looking to get an extra day if we go on time we’ll have extra cryo
MPLM has shell heaters, station program has said its ok to leave them off before docking and after undocking.
This should be able to buy us an extra day
MPLM is packed a third full of food (a years worth)
If we get an extra day we can pack the MPLM 100% full for return
FD3 RNDZ and docking
FD4 MPLM install
FD5 EVA – from ISS airlock with station crew
Flyaround will be around the long axis to get a different angle of the hardware
Will only be doing half a lap on the flyaround
7:00am local time landing
Mike Leinbach
Remaining pad flow is standard
Payload bay door closing tomorrow
Will take the holiday weekend off
Delta on the range on the 14th
Have attempts on 8.9, 10th then we have to stand down
If theres a scrub will look at the reason and decide on time for turnaround expect 0.5 / 0.75 million viewers which would cause a delay in people getting home
Questions
Q: 4 separate Soyuz’s to return crew if necessary?
A: Would play it by ear. Could put 2 people on 1 Soyuz. On planning we left all Soyuz’s on original launch date, 7 progresses visiting during that period. Plan is very flexible and have ensured theres a credible plan to get the crew home if necessary. Don’t think it’s a likely case.
Q: Without the shuttle can you bring the station down safely?
A: Yes required to protect propellant on board to adjust attitude of station. Need at least 180 days worth to keep in desired altitude. And 360 before it becomes dangerous. Attitude control is redundant. Can easily put the station on a path that brings it down over the ocean. Can do limited EVA’s out of Soyuz. Attitude control on station can work in a vacuum. Would have to be a unique set of multiple failures before the station became a threat to earth when coming down.
Q: Any ID of the orbital debris today?
A: Doesn’t have an idea, its in an elliptical orbit inclined at 62 degrees did post pass tracking think it came within 335m of station. Closet object ever to station. Working with Russia to try and reduce time needed to do a manoeuvre. Don’t know size or mass yet.
Q: Soyuz seat liners for 135 crew?
A: 1 being flown on 135, others could be brought up on Soyuz or Progress
Q: Details on particle found in fuel valve?
A: Size: 8 microns x 14 microns. Not uncommon to find small contamination on this valve. Filters can handle this debris, this time it just happened to end up on the ceiling have seen this before and its not caused a leak, other times it has. Don’t have root cause yet. Helium purge prevents nitrogen ice forming. Not surprised to not find a smoking gun yet. If it leaks again we can deal with it, no reason to suspect it will though.
Q: How many EVA’s are year will you need to maintain station?
A: 1, mainly for maintenance and a little payload activities. Will wait until we have a collection of tasks we need doing. Russia does about 2 a year. Will use DEXTRE more. Going to change out a power controller with DEXTRE later this year. Will be pushing to see how much maintenance we can do robotically.
Q: Biggest events on station during assembly?
A: When your in MCC any little thing looks like a big deal but then when you step back at the end they aren’t as big. Have the “rats nest” where we have access issues put lots of work in to make sure things don’t go wrong. Have avoided problems lots of times.
Q: How do you separate doing a professional job from thoughts of loosing your job ?
A: Everyone who touches the equipment is a true professional. This professionalism and dedication brings an internal commitment to do the job right. Don’t worry about people doing there job they will do it as perfectly as always. Mood is turning more sombre and were looking forward to the future.
Q: Protecting hardware for SLS?
A: SSME’s were protected in storage a little longer, in case we need them in the future. All SRB hardware is being stored in a reasonable condition. Need a more detailed design before we know if we need to protect plumbing components. Looking at GSE that might be needed by the next program. Ammonia servicing carts for example are being protected. Have 3 categories, wont need, need, may need. Are thoroughly analysing each component. Will continue to do it for the rest of the year.
Q: How many days can you go after the 8th how long can you go before you need to reservice the PRSD?
A: Can go all the way to the 10th. If we haven’t launched by then we’ll talk to the delta program.
Q: Is it a night landing every day apart from the 20th?
A: Yes not looking at doing anything special to make it in the day. Need to do lots of planning to avoid glare etc.
Q: What happens when you get the notice of a conjunction?
A: TPO gets a notice they inform the FD who discuses it with the Russians. The ISS program gets involved if management is needed to make a decision they do. If we know in advance we do paper work and share burn plans. If we don’t know in advance the TPO gets told who tells ISS management who tell general management. Then the crew take shelter in the Soyuz.
Q: How late can you make the +1 decision?
A: Could wait till around FD 5 /6 and will do if the numbers are marginal. Think we would add it around FD 8 / 9. Would like to give the crew a little notice if we do add it.
Q: HLV announcement any time soon?
A: Working on analysis want to get announcement out as soon as we can
Q: If the launch slips significantly how long can you wait on the pad?
A: Have funding to keep trying for a while (a few months). Mission is really critical for the ISS. We need to make sure we don’t cross a safety line due to lack of staff etc.
Q: Was the shuttle program worth the expense?
A: (they joke about who answers, they all do in the end) It’s defiantly worth the money. At the start of the program we could barely do space walks now look at how many we do. We used to go to space then come home, now we can live in space. CFD in terms of debris loss is light years ahead now this benefits aircraft. Understand combustion much better. Setting a high standard for ourselves drives the team. The team we have are the best in the world. We have done a tremendous service for our country. Have developed a technique to remotely scan wires for problems and its now being used around the world. It’s a noble purpose to go do these things in space. Robotics on the station drive surgical robotics. The space program is an inspiration. We’ve gone into international partnerships in LEO. Compares the international partnerships to Star Trek. Exploration is part of the human sole. Learning to live and work in LEO was the next step for humans. We are setting up the next step in the evolution of exploration
Q: What will NASA be doing to inspire children without a launcher?
A: Need to think about how we use station in the real world. With a launch it’s easy to see and feel whats going on. Maybe let student’s program robots that fly on station. Want to make people feel a part of the station. Currently do tweet up’s and use social media to stay connected. Don’t want to loose the momentum we have and keep looking to the future. The space community need to push for the future if we want political support.
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Wikipedia needs a tweak then:
And it's source is an article from here: http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2009/09/soyuz-tma-16-launch-to-iss-safe-haven-evaluations/
The article says:
However, if a debris threat is identified too late, a DAM would not be able to be conducted in time. Such an incident has occurred twice in the last six years or so.
“On 6 April 2003 and 13 March 2009 potential conjunctions were identified too late to perform a Debris Avoidance Maneuver (DAM),” opened a MOD (Mission Operations Directive) presentation – available on L2 – on the subject. Both threats passed by the Station without incident.
I think the Wikipedia editors have misunderstood - the 6 April 2003 event didn't require a Soyuz evacuation (it was probably cleared as safe at the last minute - as we've seen happen before).
I'll correct the Wikipedia article.
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And it's source is an article from here: http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2009/09/soyuz-tma-16-launch-to-iss-safe-haven-evaluations/
Sounds like they're assuming the shelter-in-place for both dates, when I'm not sure I'd infer that from the article. (Yet another reason why it's an adequate source for general information, but not something one can rely on.)
FWIW, this is what the ISS status report said in 2003:
A space debris conjunction of the ISS was tracked and evaluated by MCC-H and MCC-M over the weekend, with the decision point for a DAM (debris avoidance maneuver) early Saturday morning (2:30am). No action was required. [Predictive forward-calculations from tracking data did not show stable convergence for quite some time as the decision point came and went, and the DAM was not considered necessary. The object fluctuated briefly between the "yellow" and "red" probability zones briefly for a period, then turned "yellow" and finally cleared up. The crew was informed of the ongoing tracking before their sleep time.]
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Well done Aaron on the quotes, top work!
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There was discussion of this FRR being filmed, wasn't there ?
Wonder if it happened
NASA TV is running "b-roll" now...looks like they're doing the 24 fps cinematic "thing" on a lot of these.
ITEM 2 - MANAGERS MEET TO ASSESS READINESS OF FINAL SPACE SHUTTLE MISSION - KSC (NEW)
NASA and contractor managers met on June 28 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to evaluate the status of the final space shuttle mission, Atlantis' STS-135 flight to the International Space Station.
The Flight Readiness Review is a standard meeting before all shuttle launches to allow management to assess how all preparations for a mission are progressing. The FRR was held at Kennedy?s Operations Support Building II.
Following the FRR, managers are expected to formally schedule a launch date for Atlantis and its four veteran astronauts. Currently launch is targeted for July 8. STS-135 is the final mission for the Space Shuttle Program.
TRT: 3:24
Super: NASA
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Thanks Aaron!
This one blows the mind (sorry for highlighting it in the processing thread):
Q: Any ID of the orbital debris today?
A: Doesn’t have an idea, its in an elliptical orbit inclined at 62 degrees did post pass tracking think it came within 335m of station. Closet object ever to station. Working with Russia to try and reduce time needed to do a manoeuvre. Don’t know size or mass yet.
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Will the +1 day extension make 135 a 13 day mission (if taken) or still 12 days with one day extra at the ISS?
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I always wondered about how they put the payload into the payload bay on the pad. I mean they bring it to the pad in a container, raise the container into the RSS. Close the RSS against the Atlantis. Open the payload bay doors.
But then what? Does it just slide into the bay, does it get turned around first? Does part of the container go into also? Etc...
Thanks!
I'm so glad I wasn't the only one ;).
I took a quite lengthy series of pics during this last transfer. When I have some time (HA HA!!!!) I'm prob going to go through them and other payload pics that I have and try to post something up for this. Will prob be on L2 though.
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I always wondered about how they put the payload into the payload bay on the pad. I mean they bring it to the pad in a container, raise the container into the RSS. Close the RSS against the Atlantis. Open the payload bay doors.
But then what? Does it just slide into the bay, does it get turned around first? Does part of the container go into also? Etc...
Thanks!
I'm so glad I wasn't the only one ;).
I took a quite lengthy series of pics during this last transfer. When I have some time (HA HA!!!!) I'm prob going to go through them and other payload pics that I have and try to post something up for this. Will prob be on L2 though.
LOL! Ok padrat, I gotcha...will sign up for L2 ;D.
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LOL! Ok padrat, I gotcha...will sign up for L2 ;D.
Probably the wisest thing you'll ever do on the internet, trust me, you'll have no idea what you're about to access (think Christmas where you wander downstairs and find Santa's not only brought you a new bike, but also built you a VAB in the garden ;D
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Will the +1 day extension make 135 a 13 day mission (if taken) or still 12 days with one day extra at the ISS?
As noted in the briefing, the +1 day is not something they will have when they launch. The mission is a 12+0+2 day flight. That's what it's baselined as. That's what it'll launch as. Once they are on orbit and have a chance to look at cryo use by the Fuel Cells and make the evaluations, they could very well have the available prop to get an extra, or +1, day to insert into the docked timeframe of the mission to be used for ISS internal stowage ops. But this is not a certainty... which is why they are saying they "might" have a +1 day.
Likewise, if they don't launch on the 8th, they very well might not have enough cryo to add a +1 day because the cryo boils off inside Atlantis's Fuel Cell cryo tanks - and they've said they're not re-topping PRSD for the 8-10th attempts.
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It's wet wet wet..
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It's wet wet wet..
Yes it is. I was just up in it. Kinda looking like a drowned rat right now....
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It's wet wet wet..
Yes it is. I was just up in it. Kinda looking like a drowned rat right now....
~Pouring a shot o'whiskey for padrat (once he's off the pad, of course)~
This'll warm ya up, son. Keep up the good work.
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Hey, looking at that picture, and not being a Floridian, is it normal for the 10-day forecast to show "Scattered Thunderstorms" each and every frickin' day?
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It's wet wet wet..
Yes it is. I was just up in it. Kinda looking like a drowned rat right now....
~Pouring a shot o'whiskey for padrat (once he's off the pad, of course)~
This'll warm ya up, son. Keep up the good work.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hey, looking at that picture, and not being a Floridian, is it normal for the 10-day forecast to show "Scattered Thunderstorms" each and every frickin' day?
In summer time, YES! ;D This is our normal pattern. It's just took a long time getting started this year, but that's it's here, it's HERE.
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Great article by Philip Sloss and Chris Gebhardt:
STS-135: Amended Systems Abort-Once-Around practiced before launch:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-amended-systems-aoa-practiced-before-launch/
I'm a couple days late on this, but I just wanted to draw attention to this again. That simulation video was one of the most intense things I've ever seen here -- I was riveted for the entire 90 minute length. This article creates great insight into what was going on, along with the media Q+A they held after the sim.
A couple useful links:
Download the video (318 MB!):
http://www.space-multimedia.nl.eu.org/index.php?option=com_docman&task=doc_details&gid=2557&Itemid=
Media Q+A afterwards; fast forward to 15m58s point for NSF (psloss) question about the sim itself:
www youtube com /watch?v=mGvBbZE6EQ0#t=15m58s
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGvBbZE6EQ0#t=15m58s
Great jobs all around!
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It's wet wet wet..
Yes it is. I was just up in it. Kinda looking like a drowned rat right now....
~Pouring a shot o'whiskey for padrat (once he's off the pad, of course)~
This'll warm ya up, son. Keep up the good work.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hey, looking at that picture, and not being a Floridian, is it normal for the 10-day forecast to show "Scattered Thunderstorms" each and every frickin' day?
In summer time, YES! ;D This is our normal pattern. It's just took a long time getting started this year, but that's it's here, it's HERE.
Yeah, you know it's the typical summer weather pattern when the news lists everyday as 50% chance of showers, lol. Guess they figure they have the best odds to be right that way!
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They'll only be half right at 50%. Quick glance does show decreasing storm threats into next week.
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Sounds great - approx when are you opening up the launch weather thread anyway? Over the weekend?
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images of payload bay closure:
http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=4
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images of payload bay closure:
Beautiful historic pictures.
Is it really the last Space Shuttle liftoff?
Hard to imagine...
:-(
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Very nice piece playing on NTV now, 3D model of all the robotics for STS-135.
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STS-135 - Space Shuttle and ISS Program Overview Briefing
http://www.space-multimedia.nl.eu.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6898
STS-135 - Mission Overview Briefing
http://www.space-multimedia.nl.eu.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6899
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Press conferences ended with a lovely HD - if not damp - shot of Atlantis. :D
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Press conferences ended with a lovely HD - if not damp - shot of Atlantis. :D
Looks romantic seeing the pad with the rain drops in the background!
:-)
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When will the crew arrive to KSC?
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When will the crew arrive to KSC?
L-4 Days - Monday, July 4
2:45 p.m. (approximately) - STS-135 astronaut arrival
*STS-135 BRIEFING AND EVENTS SCHEDULE
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/news/135_hours_events.html
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*STS-135 Press Kit (34.9MB PDF)
http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/566071main_STS-135_Press_Kit.pdf
*STS-135 Mission Overview Briefing Materials
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts135/news/mob_063011.html
*STS-135 Spacewalk Overview Briefing Materials
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts135/news/eva_063011.html
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*STS-135 Press Kit (34.9MB PDF)
http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/566071main_STS-135_Press_Kit.pdf
Heh, I was just going to post that it would be out soon...seen a few hard copies here at JSC today and asked for an ETA. Good to see it's up online, since that's a big draw.
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When will the crew arrive to KSC?
L-4 Days - Monday, July 4
2:45 p.m. (approximately) - STS-135 astronaut arrival
*STS-135 BRIEFING AND EVENTS SCHEDULE
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/news/135_hours_events.html
Thanks.
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In the STS-135 press kit:
(1) page 63: The reported mission duration is incorrect.
(2) says that TriDAR will fly with Atlantis? Has this been a very recent decision to add TRiDAR for the mission?
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Latest flow report via L2:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-atlantis-track-tuesdays-s0007-launch-countdown/
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In the STS-135 press kit:
(1) [...]
(2) says that TriDAR will fly with Atlantis? Has this been a very recent decision to add TRiDAR for the mission?
It has been included since at least Sept 2, 2010 when it was listed as an approved payload update at a PRCB (Program Requirements Control Board) meeting - document is on L2.
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JSC2011-E-060144 (29 June 2011) --- NASA astronaut Doug Hurley, STS-135 pilot, walks up the stairs to the Crew Compartment Trainer (CCT) mock-up as the crew of STS-135 trains June 29, 2011 at NASA's Johnson Space Center, Houston. The training marked the crew's final scheduled session in the Space Vehicle Mock-up Facility.
JSC2011-E-060133 (29 June 2011) --- NASA astronaut Rex Walheim, STS-135 mission specialist, walks past the Full Fuselage Trainer (FFT) as the crew of STS-135 trains in the Space Vehicle Mock-up Facility (SVMF) at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston on June 29, 2011. The training marked the crew's final scheduled session in the SVMF.
http://www.spaceflight.nasa.gov/gallery/images/shuttle/sts-135/preflight/ndxpage49.html
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Great pics of the hardware in Building 9. I know JSC was disappointed not getting a flown Orbiter but 2 CCTs, a FFT and the Motion Base System would be great interactive items for Space Center Houston.
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Those photos bring back some happy memories! This building was part of the tour for the STS-132 JSC Tweetup, had a great time listening to the astronauts tell their stories. From the second photo, the place looks more empty than I remember it.
And soon it will all be gone... :'(
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Great pics of the hardware in Building 9. I know JSC was disappointed not getting a flown Orbiter but 2 CCTs, a FFT and the Motion Base System would be great interactive items for Space Center Houston.
Don't rub salt in the wounds. FFT is going to Seattle, the CCTs to Dayton and Udvar-Hazy, and the MBS to College Station.
JSC/SCH is not getting to keep *any* of the major shuttle simulators/mockups. Just a couple of bloody seats.
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Tweet by Rex I think sums it up:
@Astro_Rex
Rex J. Walheim
Emotional day as we finished last Space Shuttle simulation. For way too many people, it means their space days are ending. Very tough!
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Tweet by Rex I think sums it up:
@Astro_Rex
Rex J. Walheim
Emotional day as we finished last Space Shuttle simulation. For way too many people, it means their space days are ending. Very tough!
Yesterday was our final set of LH2 Tankers for the Shuttle program (save for any scrubs, of course). Pretty sobering that it's coming down to the end.
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I have a few questions resulting from some recent comments by SSP folks.
1. In the Post-FRR briefing earlier this week, one of the panelists (Gerst I think) made a reference to an RPCM removal attempt by Dextre, that had failed because of a force imbalance. They had to reprogram Dextre to apply force on both sides of the RPCM to pull it out. Do I have that right, and can anyone point me to more info?
2. Also in that briefing, there was a question about trying to target the landing for July 20th, not just for the historical significance of the date but because that would be the only daylight landing opportunity. Apparently a slide to either side of July 20th means a nighttime landing. Can someone explain why that is?
3. In a recent interview, Chris Ferguson mentioned that the ISS software initially was not prepared to accept the STS-135 MPLM, because it was programmed to expect only one MPLM at a time, and Leonardo is already up there. Anyone know anything more of this?
Thanks!
EDIT: Thanks AnalogMan for the pointer to the article re item #3. Obviously I haven't been keeping up with the front page articles here. Will do that!
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I have a few questions resulting from some recent comments by SSP folks.
[...]
3. In a recent interview, Chris Ferguson mentioned that the ISS software initially was not prepared to accept the STS-135 MPLM, because it was programmed to expect only one MPLM at a time, and Leonardo is already up there. Anyone know anything more of this?
Thanks!
Covered in Chris G's news article:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-special-topics-timeline-get-wells-reviewed/
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Looks great out at KSC today. L-6 days, crew to arrive on Monday.
Orbiter
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1. In the Post-FRR briefing earlier this week, one of the panelists (Gerst I think) made a reference to an RPCM removal attempt by Dextre, that had failed because of a force imbalance. They had to reprogram Dextre to apply force on both sides of the RPCM to pull it out. Do I have that right, and can anyone point me to more info?
Sure.
Last summer, Dextre tried to R&R an RPCM on the P1 Truss, but ran into trouble because the RPCM required more force to remove than they thought, for which the RPCM wasn't certified. They were going to re-attempt, but then the whole Pump Module situation got in the way.
But, seems as Dextre is currently holding onto a CTC (Cargo Transportation Container) from HTV-2, which contains new RPCMs, and "R&R of opportunity" will now be conducted after STS-135, using the new procedures which you described.
So, after STS-135, an RPCM on the P1 Truss will be removed and stowed in the CTC by the SPDM, and then a new RPCM will be removed from the CTC and installed onto the P1 Truss.
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2. Also in that briefing, there was a question about trying to target the landing for July 20th, not just for the historical significance of the date but because that would be the only daylight landing opportunity. Apparently a slide to either side of July 20th means a nighttime landing. Can someone explain why that is?
I wondered about that too, but rationalized it as: they're not going to launch before July 8, so assuming a nominal mission duration, landing will be no earlier than July 20. Sunrise is around 6:38, so even a July 21 landing would be borderline "daylight" per their definition.
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Thanks guys for the answers!
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Anyone have a link to the launch windows for 135? TIA....
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http://spaceflightnow.com/shuttle/sts135/fdf/135windows.html
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STS-135 NASA TV schedule Rev.0
http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/mission_schedule.html
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http://spaceflightnow.com/shuttle/sts135/fdf/135windows.html
Is this accurate for day 2?
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Is this accurate for day 2?
The best thing to do is to go to the original source of that page, which is not SFN, it's Bill Harwood, CBS.
Original content....
http://www.cbsnews.com/network/news/space/home/flightdata/main.html#135_WINDOWS
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Tweet by Rex I think sums it up:
@Astro_Rex
Rex J. Walheim
Emotional day as we finished last Space Shuttle simulation. For way too many people, it means their space days are ending. Very tough!
Yesterday was our final set of LH2 Tankers for the Shuttle program (save for any scrubs, of course). Pretty sobering that it's coming down to the end.
So sad. Hope you get to get tankers in for SLS in not too much into the future.
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Anyone have a link to the launch windows for 135? TIA....
There's a fresh update on the MER Status presentations if someone has permission to capture it out of L2?
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Is this accurate for day 2?
The best thing to do is to go to the original source of that page, which is not SFN, it's Bill Harwood, CBS.
Original content....
http://www.cbsnews.com/network/news/space/home/flightdata/main.html#135_WINDOWS
Thx! So is the in plane time the estimated launch time? Or is the open time? Thx....got some remote video timers to program...
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Anyone have a link to the launch windows for 135? TIA....
There's a fresh update on the MER Status presentations if someone has permission to capture it out of L2?
Chris normally does, so I'll do it.
Screenshot from one of the L2 presentations, latest set. Click the image to see a readable version of it.
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Thx!
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Not much happening at the moment, as it's a lull before the storm (hopefully not literally). S0007 starts tomorrow. Will write a flow update for the countdown.
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Crew to arrive at KSC for launch today at 2:45 pm.
Orbiter
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Crew to arrive at KSC for launch today at 2:45 pm.
They must be flying incognito today. No flightaware track as of yet. NASA tweets they've departed JSC about 10 minutes ago.
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Crew to arrive at KSC for launch today at 2:45 pm.
They must be flying incognito today. No flightaware track as of yet. NASA tweets they've departed JSC about 10 minutes ago.
I *think* PAO do a lot of the astro tweets (some say they don't, some say they do - really don't know) so given it's a US holiday that may be the reason.
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So sad. Hope you get to get tankers in for SLS in not too much into the future.
I won't be around to do it. I've got about 3 weeks left. Plus they still haven't decided what they are going to do with the system (keep it cold and in service, drain the tank and refurbish, etc) so who knows when we'll be taking tankers again.
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I *think* PAO do a lot of the astro tweets (some say they don't, some say they do - really don't know) so given it's a US holiday that may be the reason.
What he means is that Flightaware isn't tracking them... So either they didn't really take off yet (possible but probably not likely) or NASA requested that astronaut flights be hidden from public view by the FAA (more likely but strange not to occur until the last flight. Probably saw the threads here with flight paths posted?)
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I *think* PAO do a lot of the astro tweets (some say they don't, some say they do - really don't know) so given it's a US holiday that may be the reason.
What he means is that Flightaware isn't tracking them... So either they didn't really take off yet (possible but probably not likely) or NASA requested that astronaut flights be hidden from public view by the FAA (more likely but strange not to occur until the last flight. Probably saw the threads here with flight paths posted?)
My reading of their Tweets is that I think this crew is doing them personally -- once they're on orbit, that probably is no longer necessarily a good assumption.
w.r.t. the flight from Ellington, one of their trainers posted they were wheels up a while ago:
http://mobile.twitter.com/mgrabois/status/87918304865435648
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The crew has arrived at the SLF in their two T-38s and is coming to the microphone to say a few words.
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The crew has arrived at the SLF in their two T-38s and is coming to the microphone to say a few words.
These T-38s are really neat!
The Mission crew looked in such great spirits waving their little flags!
Only 4 this time though I am sure they will fill in the work load as if they were more!
I still can't believe that this is the last Space Shuttle flight.
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Pre L2, pad flow processing still good at 39A. IPR-55 (http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-atlantis-track-tuesdays-s0007-launch-countdown/) needs a waiver, but expected via an ERB (Engineering Review Board) today.
S0007 begins at 1pm local.
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STS-135 - Countdown Preview Briefing - July 5
http://www.space-multimedia.nl.eu.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6908
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It's CTS (Call To Stations) for S0007!
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COUNTDOWN CLOCKS ARE TICKING DOWN:
S0007 (Launch Countdown): T-43 Hours. L-70 Hours 21 Minutes.
(Status article in work)
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Not looking too bad out there at the moment.
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Processing (Pad Flow), Weather and Mission Planning latest via L2 - by Philip Sloss and some bloke called Chris Bergin ;D
Philip with the Mr Alibaruho (how awesome is he?) quotes and content.
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/07/sts-135-atlantis-s0007-tasks-weather-concern-launch/
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and some bloke called Chris Bergin ;D
Never heard of him, is he new? he's good :D
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Processing (Pad Flow), Weather and Mission Planning latest via L2 - by Philip Sloss and some bloke called Chris Bergin ;D
Philip with the Mr Alibaruho (how awesome is he?) quotes and content.
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/07/sts-135-atlantis-s0007-tasks-weather-concern-launch/
"As with all recent missions, L2 is providing full exclusive level flow and mission coverage, available no where else on the internet. To join L2, click here: http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/l2"
Nice article, both of you. Straight to the point, just the way I like them!
No kidding, folks. If you ever want to see what it's like on L2 during a Shuttle mission, now is just about your last chance to join and find out. If you're interested enough to be on NSF during a mission, you're interested enough to get a big kick out of L2. It's really quite well worth it.
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Atlantis this morning:
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Per L2 S0007 proceeding well.
T-27 hours, in the four hour BIH.
Latest task relateed to preps for PRSD load - which have been completed. Air to GN2 transition is scheduled to begin at 0745. No IPRs.
On page 4 of 16 of the S0007 barchart presention, L2. Screenshot of where we are on critical path below - click to enlarge:
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KSC:
The Mission Management Team met today and voted unanimously to proceed toward Atlantis' scheduled liftoff at 11:26 amET Friday.
(That's the L-2 MMT).
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Presser.
Mr Moses - All going great, heading into Friday. Laughed at a hire car company phoning him up thinking they won't bother cause the weather is bad? ;D
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Mr L:
Nothing preventing on time lift off. RSS retract tomorrow at 2pm is possible issue.
Kathy doesn't sound very optimistic.
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Kathy:
70 percent no go for Friday.
60 percent no go for Saturday.
Some fella from the BBC (they have a lot there for this) joking about how we only talk about the weather (he's not wrong ;D) leading into how Kathy works the forecast.
Marcia asking if the team would like a number of big scrubs to help keep people in a job.
Won't stop tanking regardless of the forecast, unless it's 100 percent no go.
Mark Kirkman's there. Talking about PRSD if they go after Friday.
Mikes Moses: Would be four hour short if they scrub Friday for the extension day, but that's still something they might be able to buy back.
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Blimey, another BBC fella there...that's at least four then.
David S is one of the big guns too.
Big note is if they get inside T-4 hours and scrub, it may be 48 hour scrub.
No chance of hail in this bad weather.
Bill Harwood on mood. Mike L notes it's getting more and more sober. Millions of people have lived with the Shuttle as part of Americana. Hopes for definition on the next program soon.
39A will remain in Shuttle shape. 39B is becoming a clean pad.
Mike notes Atlantis will be home for the remainder of her life. Want to see Atlantis come home to KSC not California. Looking forward to celebrating her service. Lovely tribute if you play back the video from John 44 later.
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Always fun how much good-natured grief Mike Leinbach gives Kathy Winters. :)
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Mike L notes lots of people, not least from other centers, have taken time to see the vehicles on all of the last three missions and pay tribute to them.
Really wants to see the facilities like the VAB and OPF to be used by commercial vehicles.
Questions about MFV, no concern:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-engineers-mfv-et-138-stringer-inspections-completed/
Got emotional seeing Atlantis at the pad. Remembers being hired as a structural engineer and seeing the facilities he's worked on. Feels very proud.
Hey it's our friend Matt P from New Zealand! Asking about international notes of recognition.
Mike Moses notes that's an example of how it's not just a US space shuttle, and appreciates the support from around the world.
Mike L hopes Kathy has blown the forecast after seeing Endeavour only for 22 seconds after launch :D
Mike L notes, firmly, that his team appreciated his post S0044 comments:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/managers-sls-announcement-after-sd-hlv-victory/
Mike M notes going straight to Mars isn't the right plan. ISS is great for life support learning curve. NEOs is a good idea and the moon is a NEO, could do a flyaround before all the tech is ready. Ultimate focus is Mars.
Mike L: Shuttle program was an evolutionary step. It was a good step. Want to think about living OFF this planet. Moon is a good destination to learn how to live off planet.
500-750K expected Friday. More for Saturday. Interest is pride in the program, pride in America. Wish it was there before as we've lost some of the public interest.
No funding concerns if they slip.
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Known as S0007 Operations, Call-to-Stations (CTS) occured at at 1230 EDT – with the clocks ticking 30 minutes later – ahead of Friday’s launch window
Hurray! Time for a new thread title? Also, is there any indication that Delta IV might be working issues that would lead them to yield the range on July 11/12?
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Known as S0007 Operations, Call-to-Stations (CTS) occured at at 1230 EDT – with the clocks ticking 30 minutes later – ahead of Friday’s launch window
Hurray! Time for a new thread title? Also, is there any indication that Delta IV might be working issues that would lead them to yield the range on July 11/12?
Na, what we do is stay on this thread until pre-tanking, as we have for the past 10 missions. We then go to the launch day live update thread.
No indications on D IV-H having any probs, and as Mike Moses explained, they won't even talk to ULA until they are in a stance were they might like those window options.
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Update from the pad: PRSD LO2 servicing is complete and the tanker has been disconnected and left the pad. The GO for flowing LH2 into the orbiter PRSD tanks have been given.
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No indications on D IV-H having any probs, and as Mike Moses explained, they won't even talk to ULA until they are in a stance were they might like those window options.
It's not a Heavy. It's a standard Medium+ 4,2 with a 4 meter fairing and two GEM-60's.
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PRSD LH2 Servicing is complete. The Tanker just left the Pad.
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39A will remain in Shuttle shape. 39A is becoming a clean pad.
Can someone explain what this means? By "clean" do they mean it will be there ready for use just in case or does this mean something else? Thanks!
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39A will remain in Shuttle shape. 39A is becoming a clean pad.
Can someone explain what this means? By "clean" do they mean it will be there ready for use just in case or does this mean something else? Thanks!
They're taking it down to just the concrete base.
EDIT: Oh I see the typo now.
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I believe that's a typo. Chris prob meant 39B. As far as I know there are no plans currently to demo Pad A
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"Final space shuttle to feature 'nose art'"
http://www.collectspace.com/news/news-060611a.html
Looks like ET-138 gets a logo on the flight intertank access door, too.
FWIW:
http://www.collectspace.com/archive/archive-0711.html#0706111407
Sounds like that didn't work out.
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"Final space shuttle to feature 'nose art'"
http://www.collectspace.com/news/news-060611a.html
Looks like ET-138 gets a logo on the flight intertank access door, too.
FWIW:
http://www.collectspace.com/archive/archive-0711.html#0706111407
Sounds like that didn't work out.
Lol, figures....... Ouch
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T-19hrs and Holding
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And back on to far more important things.
STS-135: Enabling a new era of robotic satellite refuelling in space - by Pete Harding:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/07/sts-135-enabling-new-era-robotic-satellite-refuelling-space/
Absolutely awesome article. Great interview, great content!
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Mikes Moses: Would be four hour short if they scrub Friday for the extension day, but that's still something they might be able to buy back.
Can you explain what that means? four hours short?
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Consumables for the extra day on orbit.
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Mikes Moses: Would be four hour short if they scrub Friday for the extension day, but that's still something they might be able to buy back.
Can you explain what that means? four hours short?
Sure. The consumables would be - for example +20 hours over nominal mission - and they'd need to find a way to stretch it to 24. In reality it'll be about more than that, but they'd be four hours short of desirable.
Launching Friday would hold the most amount of PRSD, and thus would be easier to gain margin to allow for the extension day.
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"Final space shuttle to feature 'nose art'"
http://www.collectspace.com/news/news-060611a.html
Looks like ET-138 gets a logo on the flight intertank access door, too.
FWIW:
http://www.collectspace.com/archive/archive-0711.html#0706111407
Sounds like that didn't work out.
Lol, figures....... Ouch
In defense of the Artist, the door used had a ink stamped part number from the vendor of the door applied in the wrong location. The ink stamp is used for the orientation of the part. They were unable to just flip the door because the lower hole pattern and upper hole pattern are .1 inch different.
We had to eat a lot of crow for not catching the ink stamp location error.
Our motto at MAF is "Finish Strong" of course our fans at KSC have changed it to "Finish Wrong" Our management was more frakked over this than I have seen in a long time.
There was 2 doors involved in this. The door with the art work is going to Marshall for display.
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"Final space shuttle to feature 'nose art'"
http://www.collectspace.com/news/news-060611a.html
Looks like ET-138 gets a logo on the flight intertank access door, too.
FWIW:
http://www.collectspace.com/archive/archive-0711.html#0706111407
Sounds like that didn't work out.
Lol, figures....... Ouch
In defense of the Artist, the door used had a ink stamped part number from the vendor of the door applied in the wrong location. The ink stamp is used for the orientation of the part. They were unable to just flip the door because the lower hole pattern and upper hole pattern are .1 inch different.
We had to eat a lot of crow for not catching the ink stamp location error.
Our motto at MAF is "Finish Strong" of course our fans at KSC have changed it to "Finish Wrong" Our management was more frakked over this than I have seen in a long time.
There was 2 doors involved in this. The door with the art work is going to Marshall for display.
Bummer, as I was looking forward to see that during tanking on Friday, which is one year to the day that ET-138 rolled out at MAF.
Thanks for the additional details.
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And back on to far more important things.
STS-135: Enabling a new era of robotic satellite refuelling in space - by Pete Harding:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/07/sts-135-enabling-new-era-robotic-satellite-refuelling-space/
Absolutely awesome article. Great interview, great content!
I agree, great article!
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They're taking it down to just the concrete base.
EDIT: Oh I see the typo now.
I believe that's a typo. Chris prob meant 39B. As far as I know there are no plans currently to demo Pad A
Thanks guys. Yes, it makes much more sense now if they were talking about 39B.
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Sorry, typo when transcribing pressers happen. Yeah, 39A will remain as is. 39B is the clean pad.
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Fire alarm on the FSS 115' level. Sounds like someone pulled it.
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Fire Dept checking it out, sounds like a false alarm. Prob an accidental activation.
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Sounds like fun PR ;)
T-11 hours. In a long BIH.
Per L2.. PRSD cryo load complete. Preps for ET load complete. Into COM activation is planned for 0730EDT this morning. RSS retract at 2pm Local. Four new IPRs, all cleared bar the root cause of one (chiller breakdown).
Chris G has a really good article via an updated L2 presentation on windows and such, for L-1 article. I'll run the launch day article early tomorrow based on the ET SSP FRR.
This is the last day for this thread. Launch Day Live update thread will start late tonight/early tomorrow, depending where you are.
Snapshot of where we are on the S0007 work, Critical Path element. Page 8 of S0007 if you're on L2.
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Sounds like they're going to move up the RSS Rotation time to 12pm EDT(1600 UTC). Pre-RSS Rotation walkdown at 10:15am EDT(1415 UTC) with observers on station for RSS Rotation at 11:15am EDT(1515 UTC).
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Sounds like they're going to move up the RSS Rotation time to 12pm EDT(1600 UTC). Pre-RSS Rotation walkdown at 10:15am EDT(1415 UTC) with observers on station for RSS Rotation at 11:15am EDT(1515 UTC).
Any reason given for this? I would think they would want keep the RSS around the orbiter as long as possible given the weather forecast.
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Live HD shot of the pad before the Status Briefing.
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and a couple of other angles.
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Hopefully we'll get an answer on the early RSS Rotation question in the Countdown Status Briefing.
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anyone see Jay Barberee (sp?) just get frakked off and walk out of the briefing? What was that about?
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anyone see Jay Barberee (sp?) just get frakked off and walk out of the briefing? What was that about?
I don't know but managed pick up the words "be late" shortly before he left.
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anyone see Jay Barberee (sp?) just get frakked off and walk out of the briefing? What was that about?
He was upset (and apparently pressed for time) and didn't want to hear the payload presentation since the info is included in the press kit.
He's an old coot and just need to go away at this point. He's done some great work in the past but most of his questions nowadays are embarrassing.
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anyone see Jay Barberee (sp?) just get frakked off and walk out of the briefing? What was that about?
Yes, he was basically telling them that they were wasting time doing overview that is in the press kit, and not enough time for questions. When the moderator asked Jay to please not interrupt the speakers, Jay walked out. I have to say that shocked me. He's been present for every single US manned flight, and this being the last, I would figure he would want to be there for every second. I sure wish I was there, sadly, 'seeing a shuttle launch' is now removed from my "Things I want to do before I die.". I'm really shocked that Jay would walk out like that. :(
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It's about to chuck it down by the looks of things.
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this being the last,
It is not the last US manned flight
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Ha, missed another Jay outburst? Will have to wait for the John 44 video as I missed it.
Oh, it's here:
http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=25855.0
So we can use that thread, and keep this one on track.
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if +1 day is very important for the ISS program, can NASA skip Sunday (if Atlantis cant be launched tomorrow)? or re-fill Cyro for Sunday's attempt?
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Just posted by NASA on Facebook:
The Kennedy Space Center Launch Pad 39A Rotating Service Structure, originally scheduled to roll back from space shuttle Atlantis at 2 p.m. EDT, now is targeted to move at noon.
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Just posted by NASA on Facebook:
The Kennedy Space Center Launch Pad 39A Rotating Service Structure, originally scheduled to roll back from space shuttle Atlantis at 2 p.m. EDT, now is targeted to move at noon.
Thanks
Annoyingly unless they move the 'Whats next for NASA briefing' we might miss a bit of it on NTV.
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Just posted by NASA on Facebook:
That was posted in this thread earlier today - here's more timing:
Sounds like they're going to move up the RSS Rotation time to 12pm EDT(1600 UTC). Pre-RSS Rotation walkdown at 10:15am EDT(1415 UTC) with observers on station for RSS Rotation at 11:15am EDT(1515 UTC).
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Just posted by NASA on Facebook:
That was posted in this thread earlier today - here's more timing:
Sounds like they're going to move up the RSS Rotation time to 12pm EDT(1600 UTC). Pre-RSS Rotation walkdown at 10:15am EDT(1415 UTC) with observers on station for RSS Rotation at 11:15am EDT(1515 UTC).
Saw that, but the FB posting was the first official word on the change.
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this being the last,
It is not the last US manned flight
No, but it is the last US space shuttle flight, and Jay is getting up there in years. With no definite date for any other US vehicles, it is likely this is the last US manned flight he will report on, which was what I meant. :)
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RSS Rotation delayed at least an hour due to weather.
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RSS Rotation delayed at least an hour due to weather.
An with every minute delay, weather is getting even more worse.
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Out at the LC-39 obs platform. Pouring right now, but radar looks like it should be stopping soon.
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Getting hard to see her. :(
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Looks like it may have stopped raining ?
Or is just the camera angle ?
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Stopped raining now. Much brighter to the S and SE. Any update on RSS retract time?
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Stopped raining now. Much brighter to the S and SE. Any update on RSS retract time?
Nothing yet
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Rain is still pretty heavy in the south, a car rolled in the median of I-95 due to the severe downpouring
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It is looking much better now...
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Yep, there's a big break before the next area of rain well offshore and that's breaking up a bit too as it approaches KSC. Should be fine for a bit.
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Much brighter out there now
Update: its looking much better now
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Much brighter out there now
To the very left of this picture, just out of frame, but visible if you are watching live on NTV, there is a large mobile crane. What is this crane for?
Are they beginning to dismantle the pad? Or is this some sort of support crane?
thanks
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Much brighter out there now
Are they beginning to dismantle the pad? Or is this some sort of support crane?
thanks
I hope that's a joke? Why would they dismantle it with Atlantis on it.
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Much brighter out there now
To the very left of this picture, just out of frame, but visible if you are watching live on NTV, there is a large mobile crane. What is this crane for?
Are they beginning to dismantle the pad? Or is this some sort of support crane?
thanks
Dismantle the pad?? ;D They aren't going to do that even after shuttle, nevermind a day before launch ;)
It's a support crane for pad operations.
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Lightning warning ended for the pad area so should be able to start back on the RSS procedures.
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Much brighter out there now
To the very left of this picture, just out of frame, but visible if you are watching live on NTV, there is a large mobile crane. What is this crane for?
Are they beginning to dismantle the pad? Or is this some sort of support crane?
thanks
Dismantle the pad?? ;D They aren't going to do that even after shuttle, nevermind a day before launch ;)
It's a support crane for pad operations.
Thanks Chris,
I would hope they wouldn't dismantle the pad before the launch. Theres that white thing with the orange tank and 2 missles on it that are in the way.
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Security said rollback should happen in about 30 minutes (2pm EDT / 18 UTC)
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RSS observers scheduled to be on station at 155pm EDT.
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Confirmed lightning strike at the pad, which requires data reviews by all affected systems - engineering. Already in work
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NASA PAO also noting:
Shuttle launch team evaluating a possible lightning strike that occurred within 1/3 of a mile of KSC’s launch pad 39A. RSS rollback delayed.
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3 lightning strikes at Pad B, one at Pad A. The Pad A strike was VERY powerful at nearly 70,000amps (realize your house uses about 200 amps and most lightning strikes are 20-30,000amps.) On the good news - the 141,000 amp (WOW!) strike was 1.5mi from Pad A while just 1/10th of a mile from Pad B.
The radius cirlce is 0.3 miles.
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anyone get a photo of the lightning strike? and B or A
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Damn Nature, you scary!
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anyone get a photo of the lightning strike?
Must have been before NASA showed the live view of the pad, As I can't see it in my recording. I'm sure the OTV guys will have got it though. :)
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anyone get a photo of the lightning strike?
Good question. I remember it took several days to go back and find one from earlier this year, so I doubt anyone will have it immediately.
Check out the images in this article. Includes lightning system overview too:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/06/sts-135-atlantis-undergoing-checks-lightning-storm/
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It occurred at 12:31:02.4173524pm (+ or - a second ;) )
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Security said rollback should happen in about 30 minutes (2pm EDT / 18 UTC)
So much for moving the RSS rollback up...
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It occurred at 12:31:02.4173524pm (+ or - a second ;) )
Ah shame, during a briefing. From your map it looks like it would have been visible on the live shot we've been getting for a while.
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Confirmed lightning strike at the pad, which requires data reviews by all affected systems - engineering. Already in work
Ouch. How long does this usually take? Is this a potential showstopper for tomorrow's attempt?
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It would be a showstopper if they find damage to the shuttle. I don't know that there is a set timeline.
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From up here on the 10th floor at the MCO airport hotel where I am staying I see a dark black sky in the distance toward KsC and the coast.
I even wonder if they will maintain the flights.
With the news of the lightning hitting the launch pad I don't see Atlantis lifting off in the next 24 hours.
Doubt they will be taking us to KSC and the Causeway tonight.
Patience... mother of all virtues....
:-(
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Confirmed lightning strike at the pad, which requires data reviews by all affected systems - engineering. Already in work
Ouch. How long does this usually take? Is this a potential showstopper for tomorrow's attempt?
If a system was affected, for sure. If no systems were affected, and they'll know "today", then should be ok.
A lot of it is just precaution. The stack is very well protected.
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RSS walkdown complete, no discrepancies.
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How would this situation be different from STS-127 (July 11th attempt - http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=17777.15)? It looks like in that case the lightning strike wasn't really brought up until the tanking MMT.
Edit - more or less answered my own question with further reading - they took 11 hits within 0.3nm, including one that put overvoltage into a couple of the buses. Leaving this post as the above link has some MMT press conference coverage that discusses a bit about their lightning test procedures. It's a short thread; presser is on page 4.
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If a system was affected, for sure. If no systems were affected, and they'll know "today", then should be ok.
A lot of it is just precaution. The stack is very well protected.
Right. Sorry, what I meant was...do we know how long it generally takes to check everything at the pad after a lightning strike? Assuming no damage, does the actual process of checking take up too much time to be able to proceed normally with things, which could nullify a launch attempt tomorrow?
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Good memory fanatic! Ford's recap sort of explains what potential differences... On the good side, this is just one strike versus 11. On the potential bad side, this was much stronger.
===
Not the press conference I wanted to be having today. Did not give the team a go to tank, needed more data on the lightning strikes. If you were here in the cape, had a pretty nice electrical storm. Took eleven strikes within the .3 NM of the pad. If a strike comes into the .3 NM radius, kicks off a formal review of the strike, determine if the strike was big enough to declare a lightning event, then we go from there. Just because we had strikes in the .3 NM, doesn't mean it was a formal event. Of the 11 strikes, 7 hit the CWS (Lightning mast, Water Tower, wires) CWLIS was triggered 7 times, so we know we took 7 hits. That's fine, the system is there for a reason. With a lightning event, you have the initial peak of electricity, then you have the electric field that spreads.. We can monitor actual power voltages on the vehicle systems.. and we've had some voltages over the threshold. This does NOT mean we have damage on the vehicle, we just have to check on it. Had two strikes that triggered buses to hit 110v, 100v is the limit. Teams now need to go off and see if retest is needed. ET is fine, SSMEs were powered up, that's fine, payload just needs to check with JAXA, but we should be fine there. Two areas where we wanted to check were the Orbiter and the SRBs, SRBs have the pyros to eject from the tank.. we can't check the pyros, we don't want to separate the SRBs while we are on the ground (heh). Could have gone a few hours and let the teams work on tanking, but we wanted to let them go off and make sure everything is okay before we launch. Teams recommended it, we just concurred with it.
We have seen NOTHING so far that anything has been affected by the lightning strikes. If we went by the book, and just looked at every circuit, we were looking at 2 weeks to the next attempt. Just want to make sure, again, to check a few systems. We were perfectly happy with the plan to let them work.
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Preliminary good news - the Catenary Wire Lightning Instrumentation System (CWLIS) bulbs did not trigger which would indicate no direct hit. L2 has more on that system.
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Pad Safety was notified that a S0018 walkdown has been requested, sounds similar to http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/03/sts-134-engineers-check-endeavour-damage-tcdt-work/ ?
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We are now getting heavy rain along with lightning and thunder here at MCO.
Live ATC here http://www.liveatc.net/flisten.php?mount=kmco
::)
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We are now getting heavy rain along with lightning and thunder here at MCO.
You are west of KSC and the activity is moving northwest, so will have no impact on the launch or operations.
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https://twitter.com/#!/NASA/status/89038900789645312 (https://twitter.com/#!/NASA/status/89038900789645312)
Teams will begin moving the Rotating Service Structure (RSS) away from space shuttle Atlantis at approximately 2:35 p.m.
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Base Ops says first motion is on hold. There is trouble on the weather circuit between KSC and MOC(?) so no motion until that's repaired.
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Sounds like that might have cleared up. Electricians and other groups ready for lightning walkdown after RSS.
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Pad Safety was notified that a S0018 walkdown has been requested, sounds similar to http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/03/sts-134-engineers-check-endeavour-damage-tcdt-work/ ?
Can a S0018 be done and there still be time for tomorrows launch?
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I'll hazard a guess and say they wouldn't do RSS rollback if they knew the S0018 would take too long for a launch tomorrow?
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I'll hazard a guess and say they wouldn't do RSS rollback if they knew the S0018 would take too long for a launch tomorrow?
Duh, Thanks. :D
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Ugh... new storm popping up near the AFB and moving towards the pad. No lightning yet but the port is back under a Phase II warning.
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Getting REALLY dark at the cape on NASA TV. Personally would prefer a 1 day scrub (If it's possible?????) Saturday is a much better day to watch the lauch without having to worry about work finding out I've bunked off!
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Rollback has commenced per Twitter.
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Ugh... new storm popping up near the AFB and moving towards the pad. No lightning yet but the port is back under a Phase II warning.
Yeah I was just looking at that. It looks like the storms down over Port Canaveral will stay west of the pad, but it looks like there is also some more showers/thunderstorms out over the ocean that could rotate in over Merritt Island in the next hour or two...
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We have movement!
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Gigantic storm here at MCO. Quite a blackout, very heavy.
Listening to ATC outlook not good.
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Looks like the shower near the port won't be getting any stronger so lightning should not be an issue for the pad.
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Lightning walkdown expected to start at 330pm EDT / 1930 UTC.
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There she is! :) I bet she's thinking "Weather looks a bit iffy guys!!" ;)
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Hope the weather doesn't scare her too much.
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Dark skies, but there's a shuttle pointing skywards for the last time.
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There she is! :) I bet she's thinking "Weather looks a bit iffy guys!!" ;)
Nah, more like: "Whats everyone worrying about I could get through those clouds no bother"
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Beautiful!!!! If a bit soggy.
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Glorious! :)
May Fair Winds & Following Seas greet her tomorrow morning!
May the Almighty smile on her and part the clouds for her final journey heavenward!
Besides then I get to see her on the causeway! :D
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If things go well, this should be the final RSS retraction in shuttle history.
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I wish I was driving the RSS electic train cart (I say that all the time, but it's true ;))
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One bitchy lightning strike right above head shook the hell out of me.
Very scary!
:o
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So will some lucky tour group today get to see her in her glory!?
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So will some lucky tour group today get to see her in her glory!?
Tweetup folks are there watching this,
http://yfrog.com/klekqhaj
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I watched the RSS rollback from Port Canaveral on the 1st attempt of STS-134, after those two nasty hail & lightning storms that evening. Even though the launch got scrubbed the following day, seeing the shuttle get revealed like that was awesome and I am glad I got to experience that.
Those tweetup folks have an amazing view!
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Complete!
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Feel like the weather fits the atmosphere
BTW, anyone observing at the pad, we should be venting to the flare stack soon.
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OV-104 U haved served us well u are the only one without a meco on the launch pad GOOOO ATLANTIS!!!!!!!
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How do they remove the plugs on the forward RCS thrusters after the RSS is retracted?
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How do they remove the plugs on the forward RCS thrusters after the RSS is retracted?
They come off during launch, Often see them fly off from the minicam replay inside the Shuttle.
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Beautiful!!!! If a bit soggy.
Nah! Our friends across the pond simply refer to that as "a trifle moist" ;)
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the unpaid members of the nasa security force referring to the alligators around there
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Bill Harwood says the ERB meets at 430p to look at the data.
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Zenons coming on tonight??
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Zenons coming on tonight??
They're on. And it is "xenon".
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she will look really good tonight
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As everyone knows, Chris B will provide live updates via the @NASASpaceflight twitter account.
I (Chris G) will also provide live updates throughout the launch day via twitter @CwG_NSF
So if you don't already follow us on twitter.... DO SO!!!!!!!!!!!! ;D
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A selection of STS-135 Flight Data Files has now been posted by NASA:
http://www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson/news/flightdatafiles/index.html (http://www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson/news/flightdatafiles/index.html)
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How do they remove the plugs on the forward RCS thrusters after the RSS is retracted?
a LOT of wind :)
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NASA: An Engineering Review Board Meeting determined there were no issues with lightning strikes and Atlantis' launch continues on schedule.
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Going to start the launch day thread before I get a nap in the bag, especially as it might be a short day.
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Some shots from the pad I took just after RSS rollback today:
(http://somafm.com/articles/STS135/L-1/DSC_8860.jpg)
(http://somafm.com/articles/STS135/L-1/DSC_8864.jpg)
(http://somafm.com/articles/STS135/L-1/DSC_8874.jpg)
(http://somafm.com/articles/STS135/L-1/DSC_8884.jpg)
(http://somafm.com/articles/STS135/L-1/DSC_8942.jpg)
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Here's the video of the lightning strike:
http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/videogallery/index.html?media_id=100124021
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Data review showed the two strikes occurred at 12:31 p.m. and 12:40 p.m. EDT. The first struck the water tower 515 feet (157 meters) from the pad and the second struck the beach area northeast of the pad.
Looks like the video is of the second strike.
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ARTICLE:
STS-135 LIVE: Atlantis waiting on Tanking MMT outcome - By Chris Gebhardt (most of it) and me (some of the latest):
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/07/sts135-live-attempt-1/
Going to start the launch day update "soon" :)
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May I suggest locking the new thread until 1am to stop people accidently using it?
Right now at the pad it's peeing it down.
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Right now at the pad it's peeing it down.
Yup, veritable downpour.
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Right now at the pad it's peeing it down.
Yup, veritable downpour.
Indeed... and I missed you on the catwalk Robert... :(
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Not sure if this has been shared, but this site lets you track shipping activies.
This is a link to Cape Canaveral. Freedom Star and Liberty Star are listed.
Shows departure date/time and lets you see current possition and track. (they both put out to sea this afternoon)
Enjoy!
http://www.marinetraffic.com/ais/portdetails.aspx?port_id=210
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Zenons coming on tonight??
They're on. And it is "xenon".
So I was one letter off, X is right beside Z. :)
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Not sure if this has been shared, but this site lets you track shipping activies. This is a link to Cape Canaveral. Freedom Star and Liberty Star are listed. Shows departure date/time and lets you see current possition and track. (they both put out to sea this afternoon) Enjoy!
http://www.marinetraffic.com/ais/portdetails.aspx?port_id=210
Here are the direct links that we used last time:
Freedom Star: http://www.marinetraffic.com/ais/shipdetails.aspx?mmsi=337942424&header=true
Liberty Star: http://www.marinetraffic.com/ais/shipdetails.aspx?mmsi=338990000&header=true
Both show still in port but the data is 8 hours old.
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Try this one and see if you have anymore luck
http://www.sailwx.info/shiptrack/
Also depends if they report their position or if they don't.