Post by: mkirk on 07/24/2006 01:15 am
It is kind of a busy week for STS-115 related activities.
As most of you know rollover of Atlantis to the VAB is set for Monday morning to be followed by mating to the ET/SRB stack.
Also on Monday the Launch Team at the Kennedy Space Center will be in the Firing Room and the Flight Control Team in Houston will be in the Mission Control Center from 7 am to 3:30 pm to participate in Launch Countdown Simulations.
Beginning at around 8 am on Tuesday and lasting until 5 pm on Thursday the STS-115 Astronauts and Flight Control Team will participate in a Long Simulation. This sim picks up with Flight Day 2 activities beginning at the point right after the first sleep period. It will cover the Flight Day 2 thermal protection system surveys which will be conducted with the robot arm and orbiter boom sensor system. The sim will also go into the Flight Day 3 rendezvous and docking procedures with the International Space Station.
Mark Kirkman
Post by: jcopella on 07/24/2006 09:52 pm
Do KSC and JSC do integrated launch countdown sims/training now? (wondering if that's some of the fallout from STS-88...)
When I was there, S0044 was a KSC-only operation. We did two runs, one in the morning, and one in the afternoon. The morning run was usually taken more seriously and better attended, and had all the prime crew attending, along with the management folks over in FR2/ESA. The afternoon tended to be more for trainees and the simulation team's benefit.
Is it still like that?
Post by: jcopella on 07/24/2006 10:30 pm
Post by: mkirk on 07/24/2006 10:59 pm
Quote
jcopella - 24/7/2006 4:39 PM
Mark,
Do KSC and JSC do integrated launch countdown sims/training now? (wondering if that's some of the fallout from STS-88...)
When I was there, S0044 was a KSC-only operation. We did two runs, one in the morning, and one in the afternoon. The morning run was usually taken more seriously and better attended, and had all the prime crew attending, along with the management folks over in FR2/ESA. The afternoon tended to be more for trainees and the simulation team's benefit.
Is it still like that?
Sometimes!
Going into 121 there were many S0044s that were supported by JSC. The level of support also seems to vary. I seem to recall most of them required the actual 121 Ascent Team (in the MCC) for the morning runs and the afternoon runs were manned by a Generic Ascent Team. The Generic Team is usually made up of people who are trying to earn there training certifications.
In case there is any confusion, the S0044 sim today did not involve the 115 Astronauts, however the 115 Ascent Team was to support all of today’s runs…I believe.
The JSC sim that runs Tuesday – Thursday will involve the 115 Astronauts in the Shuttle Mission Simulator.
Mark Kirkman
Post by: Jim on 07/25/2006 01:30 am
Quote
jcopella - 24/7/2006 5:39 PM
Mark,
Do KSC and JSC do integrated launch countdown sims/training now? (wondering if that's some of the fallout from STS-88...)
When I was there, S0044 was a KSC-only operation. We did two runs, one in the morning, and one in the afternoon. The morning run was usually taken more seriously and better attended, and had all the prime crew attending, along with the management folks over in FR2/ESA. The afternoon tended to be more for trainees and the simulation team's benefit.
Is it still like that?
Back during 51-L RTF, the DOD missions had integrated S0044's
Post by: Chris Bergin on 07/26/2006 02:58 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 07/26/2006 03:21 pm
Post by: punkboi on 07/26/2006 03:54 pm
Quote
jacqmans - 26/7/2006 8:08 AM
payload at the pad
Interesting... I thought the payload move was tomorrow
Post by: Chris Bergin on 07/26/2006 06:53 pm
NASA's space shuttle Atlantis is set to embark on a four-mile journey to Launch Pad 39-B at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, Fla. on Monday, July 31. First motion is scheduled for 12:01 a.m. EDT. Atlantis' launch window begins Aug. 28 for an 11-day mission to the International Space Station.
The fully assembled space shuttle vehicle, consisting of the orbiter, external tank and twin solid rocket boosters, will be mounted on a mobile launcher platform and delivered to the pad via a crawler transporter. The process is expected to take approximately six hours.
NASA TV will provide live coverage of the roll out beginning at 6 a.m. EDT as Atlantis approaches the launch pad. Video highlights of the rollout will air on NASA TV's Video File segments. For NASA TV downlink, schedule and streaming video information, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/ntv
Post by: punkboi on 07/26/2006 06:56 pm
Post by: DaveS on 07/26/2006 11:57 pm
ITEM 1 - SPACE SHUTTLE ATLANTIS ATTACHED TO EXTERNAL TANK AND
SOLID ROCKET BOOSTERS – KSC (NEW)
The Space Shuttle Atlantis was attached to its external fuel tank
and twin solid rocket boosters in the Vehicle Assembly Building
at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, Fla., on Monday, July 24.
Atlantis is scheduled to be rolled out to Launch Pad 39-B on
or around July 31. Atlantis' launch window for mission STS-115
begins Aug. 28 and extends through Sept. 13. During its 11-day
mission to the International Space Station, the STS-115 crew of
six astronauts will install the Port 3/4 truss segment with its
two large solar arrays.
TRT: 9:37
Post by: psloss on 07/27/2006 12:06 am
Post by: shuttlefan on 07/27/2006 02:11 am
Post by: hoorenz on 07/27/2006 08:47 am
Post by: jacqmans on 07/27/2006 08:55 am
Time: 4:04 p.m. EDT (20:04 GMT)
For Aug 27 it is about an half hour later....
Post by: hoorenz on 07/27/2006 09:32 am
Post by: John44 on 07/27/2006 01:24 pm
http://www.space-multimedia.nl.eu.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=736&Itemid=2
Post by: DaveS on 07/27/2006 02:36 pm
Post by: punkboi on 07/27/2006 04:01 pm
Quote
hoorenz - 27/7/2006 1:34 AM
Anyone have an estimate what time Atlantis will be launched Aug. 27 or Aug. 28?
4:30 PM EDT (Aug 27)
4:04 PM EDT (Aug 28)
Post by: Rocket Guy on 07/27/2006 04:53 pm
Quote
punkboi - 27/7/2006 11:48 AMQuotehoorenz - 27/7/2006 1:34 AM
Anyone have an estimate what time Atlantis will be launched Aug. 27 or Aug. 28?
4:30 PM EDT (Aug 27)
4:04 PM EDT (Aug 28)
And a full set here:
http://www.spaceflightnow.com/shuttle/sts115/fdf/sts115windows.html
Post by: punkboi on 07/27/2006 06:03 pm
Post by: Mark Dave on 07/27/2006 06:42 pm
Post by: rdale on 07/27/2006 07:57 pm
Post by: ras391 on 07/27/2006 09:03 pm
Post by: DaveS on 07/27/2006 09:49 pm
Quote
ras391 - 27/7/2006 10:50 PMYes, after the Flight Readiness Review on August 15-16.
NASA has now made it official. Launch WINDOW opens Aug. 27th. That is not a launch date. That will come later.
Post by: psloss on 07/27/2006 09:58 pm
Quote
MarkD - 27/7/2006 2:29 PMIt happened during STS-121 (6-7 July); there was a "Media Channel-style" video file item, but it was only shown once a day for a few days. I think it was slightly overshadowed by the SRB camera footage...
I never saw the ET/SRB mating to Atlantis on Video File. Seriously, it not shown whenever Video File is on.
Post by: noname_77065 on 07/27/2006 10:15 pm
Post by: psloss on 07/27/2006 10:22 pm
Quote
noname_77065 - 27/7/2006 6:02 PMAs Rob noted above, the Video File updates -- the FTP file -- are strictly for the Media Channel video file. There is nothing that says what will run on the Public Channel video file.
This is a huge complaint I have with NASA TV. They say something is going to air on Video File on their little online "video file rundown," in this case all of the this weeks's 115 footage, and none of it has aired. :(
This all changed after STS-114, which is when NASA TV sort of went fully digital and split into three channels. (FWIW, originally they eliminated the video file on the public channel after the switch.) And yes, I wish they'd just broadcast the Media Channel video file on all the channels. But I've whined about this before, so 'nuff said by me.
Post by: noname_77065 on 07/27/2006 10:30 pm
Post by: shuttlefan on 07/28/2006 12:06 am
Post by: Do Shuttles Dream on 07/28/2006 12:22 am
Post by: Chris Bergin on 07/28/2006 12:24 am
Quote
Do Shuttles Dream - 28/7/2006 1:09 AM
Anyone finding it surreal to know there's another Shuttle launch coming right after Discovery landed. I don't think we're used to this!
Imagine what is was like in 1985 then! Remember, including the two major downtimes post Challenger and Columbia, the average is 4.5 flights a year.
Post by: Jim on 07/28/2006 02:01 am
Quote
shuttlefan - 27/7/2006 7:53 PM
Is the Shuttle Interface Test underway, has it uncovered any problems yet, and how long of a process is that test? Also, when will they move the Crawler Transporter under the MLP for rollout to the pad? :)
There are never any real problems with the test. If any, they are worked off
Post by: Avron on 07/28/2006 05:11 am
Quote
Do Shuttles Dream - 27/7/2006 8:09 PM
Anyone finding it surreal to know there's another Shuttle launch coming right after Discovery landed. I don't think we're used to this!
And we have a spacewalk comming up... its nuts... bring it on!!!...
Post by: DaveS on 07/28/2006 01:08 pm
Post by: DaveS on 07/28/2006 01:33 pm
Post by: shuttlefan on 07/28/2006 01:53 pm
I think sometimes it depends on the weather. The rollout is set for just after midnight so it should arrive at the pad between 6 and 8am. If severe t-storms are forecasted for that afternoon, they probably will rotate the RSS around the vehicle shortly after it gets to the pad. ;)
Post by: shuttle_buff on 07/28/2006 04:39 pm
I'm assuming back on the mid 1980's the biggest stumbling block to turnaround was tile repair. If they had a vehicle coming back as clean as Discovery was July 17, who knows where we would be today? Shuttle passenger/tourist (module in the cargo bay) transport and space hotels?
If you look at Discovery's underside, notice the dark black tiles and the patterns. Lots of damage (maybe some serious) over the years. That kind of damage after each flight takes time to repair and pull test.
Also notice Atlantis underside in general is much darker, indicating it's not flown as many re-entries (which is true) since the TSP lightens a little with each re-entry.
shuttle-buff
Post by: Jim on 07/28/2006 04:47 pm
Quote
shuttle_buff - 28/7/2006 12:26 PM
I'm assuming back on the mid 1980's the biggest stumbling block to turnaround was tile repair. If they had a vehicle coming back as clean as Discovery was July 17, who knows where we would be today? Shuttle passenger/tourist (module in the cargo bay) transport and space hotels?
shuttle-buff
Not tile repair. Shuttles came back clean before. The turnaround was shorten by omitting tests and working around the clock. It will take time to test all the systems and reconfigure the payload bay. there is only 1 shift/ 5 days a week with some partial 2nd shift.
How would the passengers escape from in the payload bay?
Post by: shuttle_buff on 07/28/2006 05:01 pm
But seriously looking at the underside of Discovery there appears to be groups of tiles inline with the direction of travel which would suggest debris strikes.
And the tile due lighten in color a little with each re-entry?
shuttle_buff
Post by: shuttlefan on 07/28/2006 05:02 pm
Do you remember when STS-70 was launched only six DAYS after STS-71 returned in 1995? :)
Post by: shuttle_buff on 07/28/2006 05:07 pm
Post by: shuttle_buff on 07/28/2006 05:18 pm
http://www.wftv.com/news/9587379/detail.html
Or is this news media hype!
shuttle_buff
Post by: punkboi on 07/28/2006 05:23 pm
Quote
shuttle_buff - 28/7/2006 9:48 AM
And the tile due lighten in color a little with each re-entry?
shuttle_buff
Yep. Just think of charcoal after having a barbecue
Post by: Jim on 07/28/2006 05:38 pm
Quote
punkboi - 28/7/2006 1:10 PMQuoteshuttle_buff - 28/7/2006 9:48 AM
And the tile due lighten in color a little with each re-entry?
shuttle_buff
Yep. Just think of charcoal after having a barbecue
The tiles aren't consumed. The discoloration is from the waterproofing.
Post by: Mark Dave on 07/28/2006 06:02 pm
For a model of the shuttle, the tile decals would fit in well, but if you wish to scrib the tiles on for a full on 3D feel, after the black pain is dry, then dry brush light gray over it. (model builders know this- dry brushing is a light dab into the overcoat pain and lightly brush over the surface.) For example, adding rust to a model ship.
Post by: jacqmans on 07/28/2006 08:22 pm
P3/P4 Truss Segment and Solar Arrays
Vehicle: Atlantis (OV-104)
Location: Vehicle Assembly Building
Launch Date: No earlier than Aug. 27, 2006
Launch Pad: 39B
Crew: Jett, Ferguson, Tanner, Burbank, MacLean and Stefanyshyn-Piper
Inclination/Orbit Altitude: 51.6 degrees/122 nautical miles
On Monday, Atlantis rolled from Orbiter Processing Facility bay 1 to
the Vehicle Assembly Building, where it was lifted into high bay 3
for mating to the external fuel tank and solid rocket boosters.
Mating operations and checkouts are under way. The shuttle is
scheduled to roll to Launch Pad 39B on July 31, with first motion
targeted for 12:01 a.m. EDT. The STS-115 payload was transferred to
the launch pad on Wednesday and is scheduled to be installed in
Atlantis' payload bay on Aug. 2. Mission managers made the decision
to move the opening of Atlantis' launch planning window to Aug. 27.
The decision was made after it was determined that lighting
conditions for launch and external tank separation were sufficient to
support imagery analysis.
The payload for STS-115 is the Port 3/4 truss segment, the next major
addition to the 11-segment integrated truss structure that will
eventually span more that 300 feet. The P3/P4 truss, with its two
large solar arrays, will provide one-fourth of the total power
generation capability of the completed station.
Post by: shuttlefan on 07/29/2006 04:49 pm
Post by: mkirk on 07/29/2006 05:10 pm
Quote
shuttlefan - 29/7/2006 11:36 AM
Does anyone have a processing schedule for Monday when Atlantis arrives at the pad? Will they hotfire test the APUs first or move the RSS around the vehicle right away? Also, how's the weather for tomorrow night's rollout? :)
APU Hotfire/Confidence Run is required for this flow but I haven't seen the Pad Flow Schedule yet.
Mark Kirkman
Post by: punkboi on 07/29/2006 05:11 pm
Quote
shuttlefan - 29/7/2006 9:36 AM
Does anyone have a processing schedule for Monday when Atlantis arrives at the pad? Will they hotfire test the APUs first or move the RSS around the vehicle right away? Also, how's the weather for tomorrow night's rollout? :)
Don't know the answer to the first three....but go to weather.com to check the forecast (type in 32899 as the zip code...though Orlando will come up as the city). The weather for the day will be same as usual... scattered T-storms :)
Post by: rdale on 07/29/2006 07:05 pm
Hit the Launch Weather page, even when there's nothing on the pad they still do detailed forecasts for the complex on the left-hand bar.
https://www.patrick.af.mil/45og/45ws/launch.htm
Post by: DaveS on 07/30/2006 07:45 pm
Post by: shuttlefan on 07/30/2006 09:12 pm
Post by: Jim on 07/30/2006 09:24 pm
Post by: shuttlefan on 07/30/2006 09:54 pm
Post by: rdale on 07/30/2006 10:40 pm
Or did you type that in notepad ;>
Post by: punkboi on 07/30/2006 10:49 pm
Quote
rdale - 30/7/2006 3:27 PM
You read that here? Or another reputable space place?
Or did you type that in notepad ;>
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/main/index.html
Post by: astrobrian on 07/30/2006 10:51 pm
Post by: DaveS on 07/30/2006 10:56 pm
Quote
punkboi - 31/7/2006 12:36 AMThat page was last updated July 28(IE, Friday). So it's not up to date.Quoterdale - 30/7/2006 3:27 PM
You read that here? Or another reputable space place?
Or did you type that in notepad ;>
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/main/index.html
Post by: shuttlefan on 07/30/2006 11:21 pm
Post by: punkboi on 07/30/2006 11:22 pm
Quote
DaveS - 30/7/2006 3:43 PMQuotepunkboi - 31/7/2006 12:36 AMThat page was last updated July 28(IE, Friday). So it's not up to date.Quoterdale - 30/7/2006 3:27 PM
You read that here? Or another reputable space place?
Or did you type that in notepad ;>
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/main/index.html
Damn it-- You noticed. :)
Post by: Mark Dave on 07/30/2006 11:47 pm
Post by: Seattle Dave on 08/03/2006 01:06 am
Post by: Austin on 08/03/2006 03:15 am
Quote
Seattle Dave - 2/8/2006 5:53 PM
So what's next now she's on the pad?
Hot fire of Atlantis' APUs (auxillary power units) tonight (8/2)
Installation of P3/P4 Truss segments in payload bay on Saturday (8/5)
TCDT (Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test) 8/8 - 10 This is a dress rehearsal of the launch countdown (crew will suit up and strap into Atlantis)
Post by: vt_hokie on 08/03/2006 06:36 am
Quote
Austin - 2/8/2006 11:02 PM
Installation of P3/P4 Truss segments in payload bay on Saturday (8/5)
Wow, I didn't realize those were installed after rollout to the pad.
Post by: DaveS on 08/03/2006 11:54 am
Post by: Mark Dave on 08/03/2006 12:24 pm
Post by: Jester on 08/03/2006 12:29 pm
Post by: Davie OPF on 08/03/2006 01:51 pm
Quote
vt_hokie - 3/8/2006 1:23 AMQuoteAustin - 2/8/2006 11:02 PM
Installation of P3/P4 Truss segments in payload bay on Saturday (8/5)
Wow, I didn't realize those were installed after rollout to the pad.
Yes, it wouldn't be feasable to have the payload rolling out with the stack for a number of reasons. You may see the payload arrive at the pad and raised into the RSS for transfer, I noticed you guys followed that here on 121.
Post by: shuttlefan on 08/03/2006 01:59 pm
Post by: DaveS on 08/03/2006 02:58 pm
Quote
shuttlefan - 3/8/2006 3:46 PMNo. In fact it would take more time to remove the payload than it would by rolling back with the payload.
If they would install the payload into the orbiter, then have to roll back because of Tropical Storm Chris, would the payload be removed again prior to rollback? :)
Post by: rdale on 08/03/2006 03:51 pm
Post by: Radioheaded on 08/03/2006 04:29 pm
Quote
rdale - 3/8/2006 11:38 AM
Chris won't be an issue anyways - he's dead...
True enough for the moment. However, small tropical systems such as Chris tend to be very unpredictable. This is true in terms of storm track, as well as rapid strengthening/weakening. That said, I hope your exactly right..........GO ATLANTIS!!!!!
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/03/2006 07:39 pm
Quote
rdale - 3/8/2006 4:38 PM
Chris won't be an issue anyways - he's dead...
Is it me or has the Hurricane season been really quite so far?
Post by: Austin on 08/03/2006 08:04 pm
Quote
Chris Bergin - 3/8/2006 12:26 PM
Is it me or has the Hurricane season been really quite so far?
I wouldn't say that too loud, Chris!
: )
Post by: Mark Dave on 08/03/2006 08:22 pm
Post by: rdale on 08/03/2006 08:57 pm
Quote
Chris Bergin - 3/8/2006 3:26 PM
Is it me or has the Hurricane season been really quite so far?
No, we're actually well ahead of schedule... Normally the third named system doesn't come until late August, and we got Chris a few days ago. First hurricane is usually mid-August.
http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/pastprofile.shtml
Post by: astrobrian on 08/03/2006 11:33 pm
Quote
Chris Bergin - 3/8/2006 2:26 PMQuoteIs it me or has the Hurricane season been really quite so far?I think you just want the storm that would have your name to be a news maker ;) :) :o just kidding
Post by: jacqmans on 08/04/2006 11:31 am
Post by: Mark Dave on 08/04/2006 06:43 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/04/2006 07:06 pm
Tracy Young
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468
STATUS REPORT: S-080406
NASA'S SPACE SHUTTLE PROCESSING STATUS REPORT
Mission: STS-115 - 19th International Space Station Flight (12A) -
P3/P4 Truss Segment and Solar Arrays
Vehicle: Atlantis (OV-104)
Location: Launch Pad 39B
Launch Date: No earlier than Aug. 27, 2006
Launch Pad: 39B
Crew: Jett, Ferguson, Tanner, Burbank, MacLean and Stefanyshyn-Piper
Inclination/Orbit Altitude: 51.6 degrees/122 nautical miles
Early on Wednesday, Space Shuttle Atlantis rolled from high bay 3 in
the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Pad 39B. Early Thursday, the
orbiter's auxiliary power units were successfully test fired. Also on
Thursday morning, the rotating service structure was moved to the
mate position and is now surrounding the orbiter as it sits on the
mobile launch platform. Functional tests and checkout of the shuttle
and pad systems are under way.
The STS-115 payload is scheduled to be installed in Atlantis' payload
bay on Saturday. The payload for STS-115 is the Port 3/4 truss
segment, the next major addition to the 11-segment integrated truss
structure that will eventually span more that 300 feet. The P3/P4
truss, with its two large solar arrays, will provide one-fourth of
the total power generation capability of the completed station.
Mission managers made the decision to move the opening of Atlantis'
launch planning window to Aug. 27. The decision was made after it was
determined that lighting conditions for launch and external tank
separation were sufficient to support imagery analysis.
Next week, the STS-115 crew will visit KSC for a launch dress
rehearsal, called the terminal countdown demonstration test.
Post by: rdale on 08/04/2006 08:20 pm
Quote
MarkD - 4/8/2006 2:30 PM
What is the track of the storm? Will it miss Florida or go there?
It's just a depression, barely any storm activity. http://www.nhc.noaa.gov is the place to go for the latest...
Post by: Austin on 08/04/2006 09:54 pm
Quote
rdale - 4/8/2006 1:07 PMQuoteMarkD - 4/8/2006 2:30 PM
What is the track of the storm? Will it miss Florida or go there?
It's just a depression, barely any storm activity. http://www.nhc.noaa.gov is the place to go for the latest...
Let's hope that Chris remains depressed!!
(not you C.B.) :)
Post by: astrobrian on 08/04/2006 10:36 pm
Post by: Mark Dave on 08/04/2006 10:49 pm
Though one of the cameras on rollout would make a coo launch view. A camera atop the RSS has a great view, but so far all I've seen from that camera are still photos. Such as this one http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/gallery/images/shuttle/sts-121/lores/sts121-s-049.jpg . No video from this camera. That would be cool to see.
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/05/2006 10:32 am
Quote
Austin - 4/8/2006 10:41 PMQuoterdale - 4/8/2006 1:07 PMQuoteMarkD - 4/8/2006 2:30 PM
What is the track of the storm? Will it miss Florida or go there?
It's just a depression, barely any storm activity. http://www.nhc.noaa.gov is the place to go for the latest...
Let's hope that Chris remains depressed!!
(not you C.B.) :)
;) Still a long way off the launch window, so we'll have to wait to see what the weather is like in a few weeks.
Post by: shuttlefan on 08/05/2006 01:58 pm
Post by: shuttlefan on 08/06/2006 01:49 am
Post by: punkboi on 08/06/2006 04:11 am
Quote
shuttlefan - 5/8/2006 6:36 PM
Has anyone heard whether or not the payloads were successfully installed into the payload bay today? ;)
We'd probably have to wait till Monday to find out
Post by: MKremer on 08/06/2006 04:31 am
Post by: shuttlefan on 08/06/2006 03:02 pm
Post by: Jim on 08/06/2006 03:45 pm
Post by: punkboi on 08/06/2006 06:21 pm
Quote
shuttlefan - 6/8/2006 7:49 AM Up here in Canada, it's a Civic Holiday Monday. Is it a holiday south of the border? If that's the case, there likely won't be any pics. of the payload installation until Tuesday. ;)
August is the only month where we don't have a holiday here in Yankee land :)
Post by: Jon_Jones on 08/06/2006 07:21 pm
hopefully we'll get out of an entire month of work. or perpaps I'm just a dreamer on behalf of all lazy people. It's my personal assertion that August is too hot for working.
Post by: dutch courage on 08/07/2006 12:33 pm
http://www.floridatoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060807/NEWS02/608070319/1007
Post by: Wisi on 08/07/2006 07:23 pm
Post by: punkboi on 08/07/2006 10:08 pm
STS-115 crew arrived at KSC around 5:35 PM EDT
http://www.floridatoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060807/BREAKINGNEWS/60807025/1086
Post by: jacqmans on 08/08/2006 03:04 am
Post by: Terry Rocket on 08/08/2006 01:46 pm
http://www.wunderground.com/blog/JeffMasters/comment.html?entrynum=450&tstamp=200608
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/08/2006 01:59 pm
Post by: shuttlefan on 08/08/2006 03:33 pm
Post by: mkirk on 08/08/2006 08:15 pm
The countdown has 3 hours of built in hold time. The first hold is at T-3 hours for 2 hours 40 minutes, the second hold is at T-20 minutes for 10 minutes and the third hold is at T-9 minutes for a duration of 10 minutes.
The 115 crew will depart the O&C for the Launch Pad at 7:45 am and enter the orbiter at around 8:15 am on Thursday.
Mark Kirkman
Post by: jacqmans on 08/08/2006 10:03 pm
Post by: John44 on 08/09/2006 02:59 pm
http://www.space-multimedia.nl.eu.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=754
Post by: punkboi on 08/09/2006 05:20 pm
Post by: punkboi on 08/09/2006 07:58 pm
Post by: Jim on 08/09/2006 08:06 pm
Post by: punkboi on 08/09/2006 08:12 pm
I see, thanks.
Post by: Mark Dave on 08/09/2006 11:28 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/09/2006 11:36 pm
Quote
MarkD - 9/8/2006 7:15 PMThere's an area where the observation gantry is now, which is where I took this back in 1999; the bottom picture (a better NASA-KSC photo) shows the gantry relative to the pads:
The parking spot is that extra road strip that extends off the route to 39B. I'm guessing on that, but i nthe old Apollo Saturn V photos, the giant service tower would sit in that spot.
Post by: Mark Dave on 08/10/2006 01:22 am
Post by: MKremer on 08/10/2006 02:49 am
Post by: Jim on 08/10/2006 11:18 am
Post by: DaveS on 08/10/2006 12:12 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/10/2006 12:21 pm
http://science.ksc.nasa.gov/cgi-bin/rrg2.pl?encoder/lc39.rm
Post by: rosbif73 on 08/10/2006 12:21 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/10/2006 12:38 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/10/2006 12:42 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/10/2006 12:51 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/10/2006 12:52 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/10/2006 12:57 pm
Post by: dutch courage on 08/10/2006 01:12 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/10/2006 01:13 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/10/2006 01:15 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/10/2006 01:16 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/10/2006 01:20 pm
Post by: dutch courage on 08/10/2006 01:51 pm
EDIT: My bad. No leak checks. Thanks DaveS.
Post by: dutch courage on 08/10/2006 01:56 pm
Post by: DaveS on 08/10/2006 01:56 pm
Post by: Mark Dave on 08/10/2006 03:08 pm
Post by: DaveS on 08/10/2006 03:13 pm
Quote
MarkD - 10/8/2006 4:55 PMNo idea. NASA hasn't released any press releases regarding this yet. I suspect they'll do that after next week's FRR at KSC.
What time does launch coverage begin for STS-115?
Post by: Mark Dave on 08/10/2006 03:22 pm
It'll be cool seeing the station being built up some more. Not to mention imagine later ISS coverage on NASA TV the new solar arrays rotating to track the sun. Seeing the simulation is one thing, but the actual footage will be something to not miss.
Post by: psloss on 08/10/2006 03:30 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/10/2006 03:38 pm
Post by: Wisi on 08/10/2006 03:44 pm
Quote
psloss - 10/8/2006 5:17 PM
Not to mention the increase in brightness for ground observations from the second set of solar array wings (at least until one of them is retracted)...
What do you guess, how bright will it be? I think, rightnow the maximum is about -1 magnitude. I didn't find any number in the internet... and how bright will it be wenn assembly is complete? Does anyone know?
Post by: mkirk on 08/10/2006 04:09 pm
Quote
DaveS - 10/8/2006 8:43 AM
No leak checks is being peformed during the TCDT. In fact the hatch is never even latched. It's just being swung into the closed position and then reopened.
Correct, however simulated leak checks are performed.
Mark Kirkman
Post by: jacqmans on 08/10/2006 04:55 pm
Post by: shuttlefan on 08/10/2006 05:46 pm
Post by: Jim on 08/10/2006 05:55 pm
Post by: punkboi on 08/10/2006 06:34 pm
Post by: punkboi on 08/10/2006 07:41 pm
Quote
shuttlefan - 10/8/2006 10:33 AM I'm looking at the KSC Live Video Feeds, specifically the camera angle which shows the top of the left SRB. That yellow panel at the top--is that actually an access door which the technicians use to enter the booster? :)
Post by: psloss on 08/10/2006 09:44 pm
Post by: DaveS on 08/11/2006 12:05 am
And as usual, the mission press kit is online: http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/154433main_sts115_press_kit.pdf
Post by: DaveS on 08/11/2006 01:18 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/11/2006 01:38 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/11/2006 01:47 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/11/2006 01:49 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/11/2006 01:55 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/11/2006 01:57 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/11/2006 02:25 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/11/2006 02:45 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/11/2006 02:52 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/11/2006 02:59 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/11/2006 03:04 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/11/2006 03:20 pm
Post by: dutch courage on 08/11/2006 04:21 pm
Post by: John44 on 08/11/2006 04:35 pm
http://www.space-multimedia.nl.eu.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=758
STS-115 Preflight Briefing B-Roll Feed
http://www.space-multimedia.nl.eu.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=757
Post by: John44 on 08/11/2006 06:37 pm
http://www.space-multimedia.nl.eu.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=759
Post by: John44 on 08/11/2006 07:21 pm
http://www.space-multimedia.nl.eu.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=760&Itemid=2
Tomorrow more online
John
Post by: jacqmans on 08/11/2006 09:07 pm
P3/P4 Truss Segment and Solar Arrays
Vehicle: Atlantis (OV-104)
Location: Launch Pad 39B
Launch Date: No earlier than Aug. 27, 2006 at about 4:30 p.m. EDT
Crew: Jett, Ferguson, Tanner, Burbank, MacLean and Stefanyshyn-Piper
Inclination/Orbit Altitude: 51.6 degrees/122 nautical miles
At Launch Pad 39B, functional tests and checkout of the shuttle and
pad systems are under way. Installation of the elbow camera of the
orbiter's remote manipulator system (robotic arm) is complete. This
weekend, hypergolic propellant loading will begin for the orbiter's
reaction control system, orbital maneuvering system pods and the
auxiliary power units, and for the hydraulic power units of the solid
rocket boosters.
The STS-115 payload was installed in Atlantis' payload bay last
Saturday. The payload for STS-115 is the Port 3/4 truss segment, the
next major addition to the 11-segment integrated truss structure that
will eventually span more that 300 feet. The P3/P4 truss, with its
two large solar arrays, will provide one-fourth of the total power
generation capability of the completed station.
The STS-115 crew visited KSC this week for a launch dress rehearsal,
called the terminal countdown demonstration test. The demonstration
test provided the crew an opportunity to participate in various
simulated countdown activities, and included equipment
familiarization and emergency egress training.
Mission managers will meet next week for a 2-day Flight Readiness
Review, during which they will thoroughly assess the status of Space
Shuttle Atlantis for launch. This meeting will yield a number of key
decisions about STS-115, including selection of an official launch
date.
Post by: mkirk on 08/11/2006 10:18 pm
Quote
jacqmans - 11/8/2006 9:12 AM
STS-116 can fly into the new year (launch December, landing January) if need be...Hale just said...
Yes, but he also said the plan is "not to do so".
Mark Kirkman
Post by: jacqmans on 08/12/2006 08:55 am
Post by: jacqmans on 08/12/2006 09:04 am
Quote
mkirk - 12/8/2006 12:05 AMQuotejacqmans - 11/8/2006 9:12 AM
STS-116 can fly into the new year (launch December, landing January) if need be...Hale just said...
Yes, but he also said the plan is "not to do so".
Mark Kirkman
Yes, but it is good to know that they can do it, gives them more room to launch....
Post by: psloss on 08/12/2006 11:34 am
Quote
jacqmans - 12/8/2006 4:51 AMA little more room: the latest manifest I saw shows a launch cutout for beta angle between Dec. 25 and Jan. 13...
Yes, but it is good to know that they can do it, gives them more room to launch....
Post by: dutch courage on 08/12/2006 12:23 pm
Quote
psloss - 10/8/2006 11:31 PM
Heh...looking through the screen grabs, I don't recall seeing this before...
Color picture at the same spot.
Post by: shuttlefan on 08/12/2006 02:20 pm
Post by: STS-Chris on 08/12/2006 03:05 pm
1 - August 27, 2006 - STS-115 - 12A - Atlantis - P3/P4
(November 11, 2006 - STS-301 - LON for STS-115 - Discovery)
2 - December 14, 2006 - STS-116 - 12A.1 - Discovery - P5, Spacehab-SM, ICC
(February 9, 2007 - STS-317 - LON for STS-116 - Atlantis)
3 - February 22, 2007 - STS-117 - 13A - Atlantis - S3/S4
(May 8, 2007 - STS-318 - LON for STS-117 - Endeavour)
4 - June 11, 2007 - STS-118 - 13A.1 - Endeavour - S5, Spacehab-SM, ESP3
(July 26, 2007 - STS-320 - LON for STS-118 - Atlantis)
5 - August 9, 2007 - STS-120 - 10A - Atlantis - Node 2, PDGF
6 - September 27, 2007 - STS-122 - 1E - Discovery - Columbus, MPESS
7 - November 29, 2007 - STS-123 - 1J/A - Endeavour - JEM ELM-PS, SLP-D1 with SPDM Dextre
8 - February 7, 2008 - STS-124 - 1J - Atlantis - JEM PM, JEM RMS
9 - April 11, 2008 - STS-125 - HST SM-04 - Discovery
(LON STS-325 or STS-199 - Single Pad - Discovery/Endeavour Lifeboat and Rescue - under consideration)
10 - June 19, 2008 - STS-119 - 15A - Endeavour - S6
11 - August 21, 2008 - STS-126 - ULF2 - Atlantis - MPLM Leonardo (last flight of OV-104)
12 - October 30, 2008 - STS-127 - 2J/A - Discovery - JEM EF, JEM ELM-ES, SLP-D2
13 - January 22, 2009 - STS-128 - 17A - Endeavour - MPLM Donatello, LMC
14 - April 30, 2009 - STS-129 - ULF3 - Discovery - ELC1, ELC2 (last flight of OV-103)
15 - July 16, 2009 - STS-130 - 19A - Endeavour - MPLM Donatello, LMC
(October 22, 2009 - STS-131 - ULF4/CLF - Discovery - ELC3, ELC4)
16 - January 21, 2010 - STS-132 - 20A - Endeavour - Node 3 with Cupola (last flight of OV-105)
(July 15, 2010 - STS-133 - ULF5/CLF - Endeavour - ELC5, ELC1).
Post by: shuttlefan on 08/12/2006 06:03 pm
Post by: DaveS on 08/12/2006 10:32 pm
Edit: make that *two pad technicans in SCAPE Suits*
Post by: shuttlefan on 08/13/2006 12:40 am
Post by: Tahii on 08/13/2006 04:09 am
EDIT: bottom picture shows LRCS guages - RCS loading?
Post by: Jamie Young on 08/13/2006 04:20 am
Quote
shuttlefan - 12/8/2006 9:07 AM
Does NASA now have a current plan to have a rescue shuttle on standby for all 16 remaining flights? ;)
The list, posted by STS-Chris, is the one listed on the news site here, which publishes them everything they do a manifest article.
Post by: John44 on 08/13/2006 04:45 pm
http://www.space-multimedia.nl.eu.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=761
Post by: Jester on 08/13/2006 08:39 pm
Post by: tommy on 08/13/2006 10:36 pm
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/13/2006 10:37 pm
Quote
tommy - 13/8/2006 11:23 PM
What number SSMEs are on Atlantis?
ET-124
SRB Set: BI-128
SSMEs: 2050 (#1), 2054 (#2), 2058 (#3)
Post by: Mark Max Q on 08/14/2006 01:35 am
Quote
Chris Bergin - 13/8/2006 5:24 PMQuotetommy - 13/8/2006 11:23 PM
What number SSMEs are on Atlantis?
ET-124
SRB Set: BI-128
SSMEs: 2050 (#1), 2054 (#2), 2058 (#3)
Are these new engines?
Post by: MKremer on 08/14/2006 02:03 am
No "new" engines have been built for some years now since existing engines are refurb'ed and upgraded. NASA keeps a 'pool' of 15 engines for Shuttle operations (engines in the pool are either in refurb, testing, ready, or installed).
Post by: jacqmans on 08/14/2006 02:19 pm
Shuttle communications antenna bolts a concern.....
Post by: Flightstar on 08/14/2006 02:40 pm
Post by: Rapoc on 08/14/2006 02:47 pm
Post by: Jester on 08/14/2006 02:59 pm
Quote
Rapoc - 14/8/2006 4:34 PM
Yeah but not everybody here is on L2!!!
Well that'll be one reason to get it then !
it's not like it costs an arm and a leg....
Post by: Jester on 08/14/2006 03:02 pm
Post by: mainengine on 08/14/2006 03:17 pm
Quote
Chris Bergin - 13/8/2006 5:24 PMQuotetommy - 13/8/2006 11:23 PM
What number SSMEs are on Atlantis?
ET-124
SRB Set: BI-128
SSMEs: 2050 (#1), 2054 (#2), 2058 (#3)
This must be a future flight. Or is it from a reliable consecrated source ?
Sometimes even NASA fail.
The actual hardware configuration is listed in the STS-115 Press Kit at www.shuttlepresskit.com:
SSME 1: 2044 (9th flight)
SSME 2: 2048 (6th)
SSME 3: 2047 (9th)
External Tank: ET-118
SRB Set: BI-127
RSRM Set: 94
On the other hand you may have a look at: http://www.mainengine.gratis-webspace.de/flights/sts115_116.html
Post by: jacqmans on 08/14/2006 07:21 pm
Mission: STS-115 - 19th International Space Station Flight (12A) -
P3/P4 Truss Segment and Solar Arrays
Vehicle: Atlantis (OV-104)
Location: Launch Pad 39B
Launch Date: No earlier than Aug. 27, 2006 at about 4:30 p.m. EDT
Crew: Jett, Ferguson, Tanner, Burbank, MacLean and Stefanyshyn-Piper
Inclination/Orbit Altitude: 51.6 degrees/122 nautical miles
At Launch Pad 39B, functional tests and checkout of the shuttle and
pad systems are under way. Hypergolic propellant loading continues
this week. Ordinance installation is scheduled for Thursday and
Friday. The Orbiter Boom Sensor System sensor package has been
installed and checkouts are complete. T-0 instrumentation
installation is under way. The T-0 umbilicals are connection points
on the aft of the orbiter through which electrical power, fuel and
systems data flow. The instrumentation will provide data during
launch.
On Tuesday and Wednesday, mission managers will meet for the Flight
Readiness Review, during which they will thoroughly assess the status
of Space Shuttle Atlantis for launch. This meeting will yield a
number of key decisions about STS-115, including selection of an
official launch date.
-end-
Post by: Jamie Young on 08/15/2006 04:36 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/15/2006 05:20 pm
ST. LOUIS, Aug. 14, 2006 -- This month's scheduled Space Shuttle Atlantis STS-115 mission resumes assembly of the International Space Station (ISS) with delivery of the Boeing [NYSE: BA] Port 3/Port 4 (P3/P4) truss segment and two power-producing solar arrays. STS-115 is the first assembly mission since November 2002.
"Boeing is responsible for sustainment, integration, the operations element and development of the truss systems and most of the on-board mechanical systems," said Joy Bryant, Boeing vice president and ISS program manager. "We also are responsible for the integration of the international elements."
The 34,885-pound truss is the next major addition to the 11-segment integrated truss structure that eventually will span more than 300 feet and carry power, data and temperature control for the orbital outpost's electronics. The ISS, when completed in 2010, will be equivalent to a five-bedroom house, weigh almost a million pounds and measure as long as a football field including the end zones.
The Atlantis crew will grab the 45-foot long by 15-foot wide truss from the payload bay with the shuttle's robotic arm and pass it to the station's robotic arm, which then will attach it to the P1 truss. P3/P4 will serve as an attachment point for P5, which will fly on a shuttle flight in December.
One of the unique elements of P3/P4 is the Solar Alpha Rotary Joint, located between P3 and P4, which rotates 360 degrees every 90 minutes to keep the solar array wings oriented toward the Sun as the station orbits the Earth.
"While waiting to launch the P3/P4 cargo element, we've been diligent in maintaining the flight hardware to ensure the vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems work as designed when they reach the station," said Chuck Hardison, Boeing ISS site manager at Kennedy Space Center (KSC), Fla. "The entire team is excited about resuming assembly operations."
Boeing designed P3 at Huntington Beach, Calif. Boeing (now Pratt and Whitney) Rocketdyne Power and Propulsion in Canoga Park, Calif., designed P4. Assembly of P3 and P4 in Tulsa, Okla., started in 1997. Boeing delivered P3 and P4 to the Space Station Processing Facility at KSC in 1999 and 2000, respectively. The Boeing-led team joined the components at KSC shortly thereafter. Major subcontractors included Lockheed Martin, Honeywell and Hamilton Sundstrand.
Because launch and installation of the solar arrays and the batteries used to store power when the station is in the Earth's shadow have been delayed so long, the ISS team replaced the lower and upper deck batteries in 2005. The new batteries will last eight to 10 years. NASA, Boeing and Lockheed Martin, who built the solar arrays, conducted extensive testing in July 2003 to ensure the arrays, which are stored in a folded, accordion-style box, properly deploy once on orbit.
Post by: mkirk on 08/15/2006 06:12 pm
Quote
mainengine - 14/8/2006 10:04 AM[/QUOTE]QuoteChris Bergin - 13/8/2006 5:24 PMQuotetommy - 13/8/2006 11:23 PM
What number SSMEs are on Atlantis?
ET-124
SRB Set: BI-128
SSMEs: 2050 (#1), 2054 (#2), 2058 (#3)
This must be a future flight. Or is it from a reliable consecrated source ?
Sometimes even NASA fail.
The actual hardware configuration is listed in the STS-115 Press Kit at www.shuttlepresskit.com:
SSME 1: 2044 (9th flight)
SSME 2: 2048 (6th)
SSME 3: 2047 (9th)
External Tank: ET-118
SRB Set: BI-127
RSRM Set: 94
On the other hand you may have a look at: http://www.mainengine.gratis-webspace.de/flights/sts115_116.html
Okay this is what I have from the Vehicle Integration Handout. This is what was briefed at the TCDT Shuttle Systems Briefing that the crew receives at L-1:
SSME1: 2044 (runtime: 4,607 seconds)
SSME2: 2048 (runtime: 4,109 seconds)
SSME3: 2047 (runtime: 4,608 seconds)
External Tank: ET-118
SRB Set: BI-127
OMS/RCS Pods: Left - LP04/27th flight Right - RP01/33rd flight Forward - FRC4/33rd flight
Fuel Cell 1 - 1479 hours of runtime
Fuel Cell 2 - 0
Fuel Cell 3 - 298 hours of runtime
APU 1 - 20:46:07 (DD:HH:MM)
APU 2 - 18:27:22
APU 3 - 28:22:04
Mark Kirkman
Post by: jacqmans on 08/15/2006 06:25 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/15/2006 06:32 pm
Grey Hautaluoma
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-0668
James Hartsfield
Johnson Space Center, Houston
281-483-5111
MEDIA ADVISORY: M06-130
NASA ANNOUNCES SPACE STATION ASSEMBLY-CHALLENGES INTERVIEWS
As the space shuttle prepares to resume the International Space
Station's construction this month, Mission Operations Space Shuttle
Manager Paul Hill is available by satellite 7 to 9 a.m. EDT Friday,
Aug. 18, to discuss the job ahead. Media interested in interviewing
Hill should contact Debbie Sharp at 281-483-4942 no later than 5 p.m.
EDT Thursday, Aug. 17.
With intricate robotics, frequent spacewalks and the assembly of huge
components, the series of flights to complete the station over the
next four years will be as challenging and complex as any in space
history. Those flights begin with the launch of the Space Shuttle
Atlantis on mission STS-115 as early as Aug. 27. Managers are meeting
this week to set the final launch date.
Hill manages NASA's support for shuttle operations, including the
planning, training and conduct of all missions by the flight crew and
Mission Control, Houston. To complete station assembly, NASA will
perform more spacewalks than in all prior spaceflights. Almost
one-half million pounds of new components will be launched. The
station's electrical power will quadruple, and its living space will
double, equaling that of a five-bedroom house. More than 100 flights
by five types of spacecraft, launched from four nations, will have
helped build the complex.
During Atlantis' mission, a 17.5-ton, bus-sized segment will be added
to the station's girder-like truss backbone. The new piece will
include a second set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated
electronics. The crew will perform three spacewalks to hook up the
new pieces and prepare them for operation.
Late this year, another shuttle flight will rewire the orbiting
complex -- without interrupting the power flow to any systems -- to
bring the new electrical supplies online. Early next year, a third
mission will install another set of solar arrays, batteries and
electronics.
Those missions will set the stage for the addition of new laboratories
from Europe and Japan, which will far surpass any previous research
capability in space.
The interviews with Hill will be carried live on the NASA TV Media
Channel and analog satellite. The analog coordinates are: AMC-6, at
72 degrees west longitude, transponder 5C, 3800 MHz, vertical
polarization, with audio at 6.8 MHz. The Media Channel is available
on an MPEG-2 digital C-band signal via satellite AMC-6, 72 degrees
west longitude, transponder 17C, 4040 MHz, vertical polarization. In
Alaska and Hawaii, it's on AMC-7, 137 degrees west longitude,
transponder 18C, at 4060 MHz, horizontal polarization.
For NASA TV streaming video, scheduling and digital downlink
information, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/ntv
For information about STS-115 and its crew, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle
-end-
Post by: jacqmans on 08/15/2006 06:38 pm
Post by: mainengine on 08/15/2006 08:22 pm
Post by: rdale on 08/15/2006 08:28 pm
Quote
Jamie Young - 15/8/2006 12:23 PM
How's the weather forcast looking for the end of the month, or is it too soon?
Reliable forecasts go out about 2-3 days, guesstimes for up to a week maybe. The long range outlook for Florida calls for temperatures to be above normal and rainfall to run below normal the last week of August.
It's been INCREDIBLY dry in that area this month, with many spots never having seen more than a sprinkle. Quite a change from July's typical afternoon storms...
Post by: mtakala24 on 08/15/2006 09:46 pm
Quote
Jester - 14/8/2006 6:46 PMQuoteRapoc - 14/8/2006 4:34 PM
Yeah but not everybody here is on L2!!!
Well that'll be one reason to get it then !
it's not like it costs an arm and a leg....
well, its twice the amount I pay annually for my other, printed magazine subscriptions here in Finland. And thats too much for a student.
Thats not to say that it is too expensive, though... if it was 50$/€ for a year, I would be in.
Post by: SimonShuttle on 08/15/2006 11:16 pm
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/15/2006 11:19 pm
Post by: DaveS on 08/16/2006 06:14 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/16/2006 06:33 pm
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/16/2006 06:34 pm
Quote
DaveS - 16/8/2006 7:01 PM
The post-FRR news conference should begin soon(NET 2 pm EDT).
No sign of it yet...not even heard anything out of the FRR for a few hours.
Post by: jacqmans on 08/16/2006 06:37 pm
NET 3 p.m. - STS 115 Post-Readiness Review Press Conference - KSC (Media Channel)
Post by: jacqmans on 08/16/2006 06:37 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/16/2006 07:26 pm
Quote
jacqmans - 16/8/2006 2:24 PM
August 16, Wednesday
NET 3 p.m. - STS 115 Post-Readiness Review Press Conference - KSC (Media Channel)
Whats the URL?
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/16/2006 07:29 pm
Quote
Avron - 16/8/2006 8:13 PMQuotejacqmans - 16/8/2006 2:24 PM
August 16, Wednesday
NET 3 p.m. - STS 115 Post-Readiness Review Press Conference - KSC (Media Channel)
Whats the URL?
www.nasa.gov/ntv and then select your favoured media player :)
Post by: Rapoc on 08/16/2006 07:32 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/16/2006 07:40 pm
Quote
Chris Bergin - 16/8/2006 3:16 PMQuoteAvron - 16/8/2006 8:13 PMQuotejacqmans - 16/8/2006 2:24 PM
August 16, Wednesday
NET 3 p.m. - STS 115 Post-Readiness Review Press Conference - KSC (Media Channel)
Whats the URL?
www.nasa.gov/ntv and then select your favoured media player :)
Media Channel ??
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/16/2006 07:40 pm
Quote
Rapoc - 16/8/2006 8:19 PM
Now NET 4 p..m.
Usually it's down to PAO getting charts and stuff together. Not hearing of any issues (bar the usual...such as there's the potential of no go from Engineering and Safety on the IFRs with the ET...but as with 121 it'll be mitigated by LON).
Only pokeouts are what I reported on Monday. We've been putting FRR notes into L2 over the past couple of days...I'll mix in as much as viable into the FRR decision article (pending).
Post by: Mark Dave on 08/16/2006 07:41 pm
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/16/2006 07:41 pm
Quote
Avron - 16/8/2006 8:27 PMQuoteChris Bergin - 16/8/2006 3:16 PMQuoteAvron - 16/8/2006 8:13 PMQuotejacqmans - 16/8/2006 2:24 PM
August 16, Wednesday
NET 3 p.m. - STS 115 Post-Readiness Review Press Conference - KSC (Media Channel)
Whats the URL?
www.nasa.gov/ntv and then select your favoured media player :)
Media Channel ??
Well yes Sir. It's going to be live on NASA TV.
Post by: punkboi on 08/16/2006 07:46 pm
Post by: Shuttle Man on 08/16/2006 08:05 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/16/2006 08:23 pm
Post by: MKremer on 08/16/2006 08:36 pm
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/16/2006 08:46 pm
Post by: DaveS on 08/16/2006 08:49 pm
Quote
MKremer - 16/8/2006 10:23 PMThey have been loading and checking out the EMUs today. Also, they're resuming hyper load tonight so they're trying to get as much done as possible before they tsart clearing the pad for hyper load activities.
I've noticed a lot of White Room activity today (including techs entering/exiting the orbiter).
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/16/2006 08:52 pm
Post by: astrobrian on 08/16/2006 09:04 pm
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/16/2006 09:19 pm
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/content/?cid=4706
There's obviously a few more issues to be worked out via tomorrow's PRCB...as per usual, we'll have the PRCB documents on L2 (easily the most interesting and insightful documents for people interested in the Shuttle).
Post by: MKremer on 08/16/2006 09:49 pm
Quote
astrobrian - 16/8/2006 3:51 PM
Lots of empty seats there for this
It looked like the 'major' news folks were there. The main immediate drama was whether it would be an outright yes or no decision and why.
Everyon else will report the "go" from the video/transcript, and since it *was* "go", they'll fill in the possible show-stoppers as they get more info. (Or some will outright build up comments into doom-and-gloom stories to make some headlines before the final facts are known.)
Post by: astrobrian on 08/16/2006 10:30 pm
Post by: MKremer on 08/16/2006 11:06 pm
Post by: shuttlefan on 08/17/2006 12:52 am
Post by: punkboi on 08/17/2006 01:56 am
Quote
shuttlefan - 16/8/2006 5:39 PM My understanding is that these shorter-than-specification KU-Band antenna bolts were installed in Atlantis before its first flight in 1985. Is that true, and, if so, why was this problem not found before now?
Because this is the result of NASA's reformed safety culture, post-Columbia
Post by: jacqmans on 08/17/2006 03:25 am
P3/P4 Truss Segment and Solar Arrays
Vehicle: Atlantis (OV-104)
Location: Launch Pad 39B
Launch Date: No earlier than Aug. 27, 2006 at about 4:30 p.m. EDT
Crew: Jett, Ferguson, Tanner, Burbank, MacLean and Stefanyshyn-Piper
Inclination/Orbit Altitude: 51.6 degrees/122 nautical miles
At Launch Pad 39B, functional tests and checkout of the shuttle and
pad systems continue. Hypergolic propellant loading continues and
should be complete by Thursday. Ordnance installation is scheduled
for Thursday and Friday. Replenishing of both the liquid hydrogen and
liquid oxygen storage tanks at Pad 39B is under way. The fuel from
these storage tanks will be transferred to the shuttle's external
fuel tank on launch day.
-end-
Post by: SimonShuttle on 08/17/2006 09:05 am
Quote
MKremer - 16/8/2006 5:53 PM
In many cases, the 'doom-and-gloom' stories are from reporters who *don't* attend the NASA briefings.
Most come from the AP, and they are always there.
Post by: dutch courage on 08/17/2006 01:12 pm
Post by: shuttlefan on 08/17/2006 01:58 pm
Post by: Spiff on 08/17/2006 02:17 pm
Post by: rdale on 08/17/2006 02:51 pm
Sort of like your garage - there may be things you should clean up but never get around to it. If you're stuck at home for the next month with nothing do, no TV, no Internet -- odds are good you'll get that cleaned ;>
Post by: shuttle_buff on 08/17/2006 03:58 pm
But all said, after 26 flights with no problems, then is there really an issue?
shuttle_buff
Post by: shuttle_buff on 08/17/2006 04:00 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/17/2006 05:44 pm
Quote
dutch courage - 17/8/2006 8:59 AM
Which self-respecting technician would screw in a bolt with only 2.3 threads? It might have passed the initial torque test but it isn't structurely safe. Especially if it's going to be subjected to a an intense shaking launch enviroment.
And that worries me the most...I really hope that its noted in the Assembly docs.. and in any maintenace docs that were signed off and submitterd for review... if the 25 year foam issue is anything to go by, its noted but no one does a thing about it.. It may just be a blessing to finally find out where the flaw in the process
is, as there must be one for this to be "missed" for that time frame.
I would love to see the design drawings of the interface as well, what I am looking for is the lengths noted and what is listed in the Bill of Materials...
Post by: DaveS on 08/17/2006 07:04 pm
Quote
shuttle_buff - 17/8/2006 5:47 PMThe KU band antenna is not attached to any "walls". It's attached to the starboard(right) payload bay longeron and and rotates outboard when deployed.
Be nice if we could get a close-up look on how the antenna is attached to the wall.
Post by: Avron on 08/17/2006 08:25 pm
http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/shuttle/reference/shutref/orbiter/comm/orbcomm/kuband.html
Post by: Avron on 08/17/2006 08:41 pm
Quote
shuttle_buff - 17/8/2006 11:47 AM
Be nice if we could get a close-up look on how the antenna is attached to the wall.
I cannot see them bolts.
Post by: Bruhn on 08/17/2006 08:54 pm
Quote
dutch courage - 17/8/2006 7:59 AM
Which self-respecting technician would screw in a bolt with only 2.3 threads? It might have passed the initial torque test but it isn't structurely safe. Especially if it's going to be subjected to a an intense shaking launch enviroment.
They could be blind bolts in which case you wouldn't know how many threads are engaged. And like somebody mentioned earlier, they're probably lock wired.
Post by: DaveS on 08/17/2006 10:36 pm
According to that, countdown start is at 6 pm EDT Aug. 24.
Post by: Mark Dave on 08/17/2006 10:56 pm
Post by: DaveS on 08/17/2006 10:59 pm
Quote
MarkD - 18/8/2006 12:43 AMExact T-0:
What times is the launch on the 27th?
EDT: 4:29:55 pm
UTC: 20:29:55
Post by: mkirk on 08/18/2006 12:46 am
http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/154918main_kuband_antenna_access.pdf
Also about T-0; as always the exact time(s) will be refined as we get closer to launch and at the T-9 minute hold. These updates will be based on the latest ISS tracking data.
Current window open: 4:24:55 pm
In plane (preferred): 4:29:55 pm
Current window close: 4:34:54 pm
Mark Kirkman
Post by: Avron on 08/18/2006 12:48 am
Quote
mkirk - 17/8/2006 8:33 PM
Here are a couple of CAD drawings showing how the CAP access will work for the R&R of the Ku antenna bolts.
http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/154918main_kuband_antenna_access.pdf
Also about T-0; as always the exact time(s) will be refined as we get closer to launch and at the T-9 minute hold. These updates will be based on the latest ISS tracking data.
Current window open: 4:24:55 pm
In plane (preferred): 4:29:55 pm
Current window close: 4:34:54 pm
Mark Kirkman
Thank-you sir, it really is like surfing in the Payload bay
Post by: shuttlefan on 08/18/2006 02:00 pm
Post by: shuttle_buff on 08/18/2006 02:10 pm
shuttle_buff
Post by: DaveS on 08/18/2006 03:58 pm
Quote
shuttlefan - 18/8/2006 3:47 PMFLA Today reports that the hyper load has been delayed by lightning warnings over the past 24 hours . NASA managers have also decided to perform the KU band antenna bolt R&R: http://www.floridatoday.com/floridatoday/blogs/spaceteam/2006/08/nasa-orders-up-bolt-swap.html
Have they finished loading the OMS and RCS propellants?
Post by: jacqmans on 08/18/2006 05:39 pm
Post by: mkirk on 08/18/2006 07:55 pm
COUNTDOWN BEGINS AUG. 24 FOR SPACE SHUTTLE ATLANTIS LAUNCH
NASA will begin the launch countdown for Space Shuttle Atlantis'
STS-115 mission at 6 p.m. EDT Thursday, Aug. 24, at the T-43 hour
point. During this mission, Atlantis' crew will resume construction
of the International Space Station, which is the goal of the
remaining space shuttle flights until the spacecraft are retired in
2010.
The NASA Kennedy Space Center launch team will conduct the countdown
from the newly renovated firing room 4 of the Launch Control Center.
The countdown includes 27 hours, 24 minutes of built-in hold time
leading to a preferred launch time at about 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Aug.
27. The launch window for that day extends an additional five
minutes.
This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for
Atlantis and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station.
STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a landing at Kennedy about
12:02 p.m. EDT on Sept. 7.
Atlantis' last mission was STS-112 in October 2002. In preparation for
STS-115, Atlantis was moved into Kennedy's Vehicle Assembly Building
on July 24. Atlantis then was attached to its modified external tank
and solid rocket boosters. Space Shuttle Atlantis was rolled out to
Launch Pad 39B on Aug. 2.
The STS-115 crew is Commander Brent Jett, Pilot Chris Ferguson, and
mission specialists Joe Tanner, Dan Burbank, Heide Stefanyshyn-Piper
and Canadian astronaut Steve MacLean.
During STS-115, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the
17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station.
The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries
and associated electronics. The P3/P4 truss segment will provide
one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed
station.
For information about the STS-115 crew and its mission to the
International Space Station, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle
STS-115 LAUNCH COUNTDOWN MILESTONES AND TIMES
(All times Eastern)
Launch-3 Days (Thursday, Aug. 24)
Prepare for the start of the STS-115 launch countdown
Perform the call to stations (5:30 p.m.)
Countdown begins at the T-43 hour mark (6 p.m.)
Begin final vehicle and facility closeouts for launch
Check out backup flight systems
Review flight software stored in mass memory units and display systems
Load backup flight system software into Atlantis' general purpose
computers
Launch-2 Days (Friday, Aug. 25)
Remove flight-deck platforms (2:30 a.m.)
Complete preparation to load power reactant storage and distribution
system (5 a.m.)
Activate and test navigational systems (7 a.m.)
Flight deck preliminary inspections complete (10 a.m.)
Enter first built-in hold at T-27 hours for duration of 4 hours (10
a.m.)
Clear launch pad of all non-essential personnel
Perform test of the vehicle's pyrotechnic initiator controllers
Resume countdown (2 p.m.)
Begin operations to load cryogenic reactants into Atlantis' fuel cell
storage tanks
(2 p.m.)
Enter 4-hour built-in hold at T-19 hours (10 p.m.)
Demate orbiter mid-body umbilical unit (10:30 p.m.)
Resume orbiter and ground support equipment closeouts
Launch-1 Day (Saturday, Aug. 26)
Resume countdown (2 a.m.)
Final preparations of the shuttle's three main engines for main
propellant tanking (2 a.m.)
Begin filling pad sound suppression system water tank (4 a.m.)
Pad sound suppression system water tank filling complete (7 a.m.)
Close out the tail service masts on the mobile launcher platform
Begin star tracker functional checks (9:50 a.m.)
Enter planned hold at T-11 hours for 13 hours, 34 minutes (10 a.m.)
Activate orbiter's inertial measurement units
Activate the orbiter's communications systems
Install film in numerous cameras on the launch pad (10:55 a.m.)
Flight crew equipment late stow (3:10 p.m.)
Move Rotating Service Structure to the park position (7 p.m.)
Perform ascent switch list
Fuel cell flow-through purge complete
Resume countdown at T-11 hours (11:34 p.m.)
Launch Day (Sunday, Aug. 27)
Activate the orbiter's fuel cells (12:45 a.m.)
Clear the blast danger area of all non-essential personnel
Switch Atlantis' purge air to gaseous nitrogen (1:20 a.m.)
Enter planned 2-hour built-in hold at the T-6 hour mark (4:34 a.m.)
Launch team verifies no violations of launch commit criteria prior to
cryogenic loading of the external tank
Clear pad of all personnel
Resume countdown (6:34 a.m.)
Chilldown of propellant transfer lines (6:34 a.m.)
Begin loading the external tank with about 500,000 gallons of
cryogenic propellants (about 6:44 a.m.)
Complete filling the external tank with its flight load of liquid
hydrogen and liquid oxygen propellants (about 9:34 a.m.)
Final Inspection Team proceeds to launch pad
Enter planned 3-hour built-in hold at T-3 hours (9:34 a.m.)
Perform inertial measurement unit preflight calibration
Align Merritt Island Launch Area tracking antennas
Perform open loop test with Eastern Range
Resume countdown at T-3 hours (12:34 p.m.)
Crew departs Operations and Checkout Building for the pad (12:40 p.m.)
Complete closeout preparations in the White Room
Check cockpit switch configurations
Flight crew begins entry into the orbiter (about 1:10 p.m.)
Astronauts perform air-to-ground voice checks with Launch and Mission
Control
Begin to close Atlantis' crew hatch (about 2 p.m.)
Begin Eastern Range final network open loop command checks
Perform hatch seal and cabin leak checks
Complete White Room closeout
Closeout crew moves to fallback area
Primary ascent guidance data is transferred to the backup flight
system
Enter planned 10-minute hold at T-20 minutes (3:14 p.m.)
NASA test director conducts final launch team briefings
Complete inertial measurement unit preflight alignments
Resume countdown at T-20 minutes (3:24 p.m.)
Transition the orbiter's onboard computers to launch configuration
Start fuel cell thermal conditioning
Close orbiter cabin vent valves
Transition backup flight system to launch configuration
Enter estimated 40-minute hold at T-9 minutes (3:35 p.m.)
Launch director, Mission Management Team and NASA test director
conduct final polls for "go/no go" to launch
Resume countdown at T-9 minutes (about 4:21 p.m.)
Start automatic ground launch sequencer (T-9 minutes)
Retract orbiter crew access arm (T-7:30)
Start mission recorders (T-6:15)
Start Auxiliary Power Units (T-5)
Arm solid rocket booster and external tank range safety safe and arm
devices (T-5)
Start liquid oxygen drainback (T-4:55)
Start orbiter aerosurface profile test (T-3:55)
Start main engine gimbal profile test (T-3:30)
Pressurize liquid oxygen tank (T-2:55)
Begin retraction of the gaseous oxygen vent arm (T-2:55)
Fuel cells to internal reactants (T-2:35)
Pressurize liquid hydrogen tank (T-1:57)
Deactivate bi-pod heaters (T-1:52)
Deactivate solid rocket booster joint heaters (T-1)
Orbiter transfers from ground to internal power (T-0:50 seconds)
Ground Launch Sequencer go for auto sequence start (T-0:31 seconds)
Booster gimbal profile (T-0:21 seconds)
Ignition of three space shuttle main engines (T-6.6 seconds)
Booster ignition and liftoff (T-0)
CREW FOR MISSION STS-115
Commander: Brent Jett
Pilot: Chris Ferguson
Payload Commander (MS1): Joe Tanner
Mission Specialist (MS2): Dan Burbank
Mission Specialist (MS3): Heide Stefanyshyn-Piper
Mission Specialist (MS4): Steve MacLean
SUMMARY OF STS-115 LAUNCH DAY CREW ACTIVITIES
Sunday, Aug. 27
6:30 a.m. Crew wakes up
7 a.m. Breakfast
--10:55 a.m. Television coverage from crew quarters
Noon Weather briefing
--12:10 p.m. Don flight suits
--12:40 p.m. Depart for launch pad
--1:10 p.m. Arrive at White Room and begin ingress
--2:25 p.m. Close crew hatch
--4:30 p.m. Launch
-- Televised events (times may vary slightly)
All times Eastern
-end-
Mark Kirkman
Post by: jacqmans on 08/18/2006 09:50 pm
P3/P4 Truss Segment and Solar Arrays
Vehicle: Atlantis (OV-104)
Location: Launch Pad 39B
Launch Date: Aug. 27, 2006, 4:30 p.m. EDT
Crew: Jett, Ferguson, Tanner, Burbank, MacLean and Stefanyshyn-Piper
Inclination/Orbit Altitude: 51.6 degrees/122 nautical miles
At Launch Pad 39B, hypergolic propellant loading is being completed
today. Following a decision by Space Shuttle Program managers to
remove and replace two Ku-band antenna actuator bolts in the forward
section of the orbiter payload bay, workers are preparing access
platforms and will complete the task over the weekend. The bolts will
be replaced with longer versions to ensure adequate thread
engagement. Ordnance installation is now scheduled for Sunday
evening, pending completion of the bolt replacement.
Earlier this week, flight crew systems workers installed
extravehicular maneuvering units in the crew cabin. The suits are
worn by shuttle crew members for spacewalks.
In Houston, the STS-115 crew is completing its final prelaunch
physicals and a final flight data file review today, before heading
into quarantine this weekend for the Aug. 27 launch.
Post by: jacqmans on 08/18/2006 09:56 pm
News media may obtain STS-115 mission credentials from the KSC Pass
and Identification Office on State Road 3. Badging hours of operation
are listed below.
Tuesday, Aug. 22 -- 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Wednesday, Aug. 23 -- 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 24 -- 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 25 -- 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 26 -- 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 27 -- 5 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
News media are required to be under Public Affairs escort at all times
while at KSC, except when at the News Center or the Complex 39
cafeteria. No photography is allowed anywhere other than from the
Press Site unless prior permission is granted by NASA Public Affairs.
News media are allowed at the Press Site only when Public Affairs
personnel are on duty and the NASA News Center is open.
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/19/2006 12:57 am
Post by: astrobrian on 08/19/2006 03:47 am
Post by: nathan.moeller on 08/19/2006 05:27 am
GO ATLANTIS!!
Post by: Wisi on 08/19/2006 07:45 am
Post by: shuttlefan on 08/19/2006 12:45 pm
Post by: astrobrian on 08/19/2006 01:20 pm
Post by: punkboi on 08/19/2006 07:22 pm
The Johnson Space Center website posted up a nice PDF file showing illustrations of the Ku Box R&R process:
http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/154918main_kuband_antenna_access.pdf
Post by: mkirk on 08/19/2006 10:50 pm
Quote
punkboi - 19/8/2006 2:09 PMThe Johnson Space Center website posted up a nice PDF file showing illustrations of the Ku Box R&R process:
http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/154918main_kuband_antenna_access.pdf
You mean like these from page 16 of this thread? ;) :)
Mark
Quote
mkirk - 17/8/2006 7:33 PM
Here are a couple of CAD drawings showing how the CAP access will work for the R&R of the Ku antenna bolts.
http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/154918main_kuband_antenna_access.pdf
Also about T-0; as always the exact time(s) will be refined as we get closer to launch and at the T-9 minute hold. These updates will be based on the latest ISS tracking data.
Current window open: 4:24:55 pm
In plane (preferred): 4:29:55 pm
Current window close: 4:34:54 pm
Mark Kirkman
Post by: haywoodfloyd on 08/20/2006 02:04 pm
Post by: punkboi on 08/20/2006 05:03 pm
Quote
mkirk - 19/8/2006 3:37 PMQuotepunkboi - 19/8/2006 2:09 PMYou mean like these from page 16 of this thread? ;) :) MarkThe Johnson Space Center website posted up a nice PDF file showing illustrations of the Ku Box R&R process:
http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/154918main_kuband_antenna_access.pdf
Quotemkirk - 17/8/2006 7:33 PM Here are a couple of CAD drawings showing how the CAP access will work for the R&R of the Ku antenna bolts. http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/154918main_kuband_antenna_access.pdf Also about T-0; as always the exact time(s) will be refined as we get closer to launch and at the T-9 minute hold. These updates will be based on the latest ISS tracking data. Current window open: 4:24:55 pm In plane (preferred): 4:29:55 pm Current window close: 4:34:54 pm Mark Kirkman
My post was for those who were too lazy to go back through the thread to see if it was already mentioned. Like me. ;)
Post by: James Lowe1 on 08/20/2006 09:53 pm
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/21/2006 08:54 pm
Katherine Trinidad
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-3749
James Hartsfield
Johnson Space Center, Houston
281-483-5111
MEDIA ADVISORY: M06-133
NASA FLIGHT DIRECTOR AVAILABLE AS SHUTTLE COUNTDOWN STARTS
As the launch countdown starts for NASA's Space Shuttle Atlantis, one
of Mission Control's leaders for the flight is available for live
interviews from 7 to 9 a.m. EDT Thursday, Aug. 24.
Lead International Space Station Flight Director John McCullough will
be available live from the Johnson Space Center, Houston, via the
NASA TV analog satellite. To interview McCullough, media must contact
Debbie Sharp at 281-483-5111 by 3 p.m. EDT Wednesday, Aug. 23.
Atlantis' flight, designated STS-115, is set to launch Sunday, Aug.
27. McCullough will oversee the complex attachment of a 17.5-ton,
bus-sized section of girder-like truss to the International Space
Station. The new component, called the P3/P4 truss, includes a second
set of huge solar arrays for the station and the first giant rotary
joint to allow the panels to follow the sun.
Intricate work with the shuttle and station robotic arms and three
spacewalks will attach the new segment. The installation and
unfolding of the arrays will require precise choreography between
Mission Control and the STS-115 astronauts and station crew members.
Atlantis' flight begins a series of station assembly flights that
will be as challenging and complex as any in space history.
The interviews will be carried on NASA TV's Media Channel and analog
satellite. For NASA TV streaming video, scheduling, analog and
digital downlink information, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/ntv
For information about STS-115 and its crew, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle
Post by: jacqmans on 08/21/2006 09:02 pm
P3/P4 Truss Segment and Solar Arrays
Vehicle: Atlantis (OV-104)
Location: Launch Pad 39B
Launch Date: Aug. 27, 2006, 4:30 p.m. EDT
Crew: Jett, Ferguson, Tanner, Burbank, MacLean and Stefanyshyn-Piper
Inclination/Orbit Altitude: 51.6 degrees/122 nautical miles
At Launch Pad 39B, workers have completed hypergolic propellant
loading of the orbiter and solid rocket boosters. Following a
decision by Space Shuttle Program managers to remove and replace two
Ku-band antenna actuator bolts in the forward section of the orbiter
payload bay, workers spent the weekend preparing access platforms,
performing the bolt replacement and then removing the temporary
access equipment. The bolt replacement was completed early Sunday.
Later on Sunday, the orbiter's payload bay doors were closed and
ordnance installation was initiated, with completion early on Monday.
Technicians are now closing out the orbiter's aft compartments and
pressurization of the orbiter's maneuvering system, reaction control
system and main propulsion system will begin tomorrow. Stowage of
flight crew equipment in the crew module is ongoing.
In Houston, the STS-115 crew began their health stabilization period
in preparation for the Aug. 27 launch.
Post by: jacqmans on 08/21/2006 09:45 pm
Tricky Replacement Brings Peace of Mind
08.21.06
Shuttle program managers can breathe a collective sigh of relief now that a delicate procedure has been completed: the replacement of some very hard-to-reach but crucial bolts on Space Shuttle Atlantis.
Over the weekend, on Launch Pad 39B at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers completed the difficult task of replacing two of four actuator bolts holding Atlantis' main communications antenna in place. The repair job required building a special platform so the workers could reach the top of the space shuttle's 60-foot-long payload bay. This enabled technicians to successfully remove the two shorter bolts securing the antenna and install longer ones.
Post by: nitin52 on 08/22/2006 05:02 am
It was planned to replace all the four bolts, but as per NASA (http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/behindscenes/bolt_replacement.html)
they have replaced only two of four actuator bolts. Why?
Post by: punkboi on 08/22/2006 05:23 am
Quote
nitin52 - 21/8/2006 9:49 PM Hello, It was planned to replace all the four bolts, but as per NASA (http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/behindscenes/bolt_replacement.html) they have replaced only two of four actuator bolts. Why?
Probably more hazardous to attempt to replace all four bolts than expected. That, and only two of the bolts were too short to be threaded properly
Post by: rdale on 08/22/2006 09:24 am
Not at all... The plan going in was to replace two, so why replace four?
I'm curious if the tech was able to determine whether the two bolts of concern were correctly in place to begin with?
Post by: MKremer on 08/22/2006 12:00 pm
(To check torque they would have had to cut the lock wires, so replacing the bolts before wiring them back up wouldn't be that much extra work.)
Post by: Avron on 08/22/2006 02:57 pm
Quote
MKremer - 22/8/2006 7:47 AM
According to the Reuters story here, the bolts were still holding correct torque. To me that says the mount would have been fine if left as is. It's still curious why the wrong bolts were spec'd and installed in all the orbiters in the first place, though.
(To check torque they would have had to cut the lock wires, so replacing the bolts before wiring them back up wouldn't be that much extra work.)
Likewise.. I am also curious how the wrong bolt lengths got speced... If only we could get the BOM from the original design.. it would give us a good starting point
Post by: Avron on 08/22/2006 03:52 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/22/2006 04:42 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/22/2006 05:00 pm
Longueuil, Quebec, August 22, 2006 – Media are invited to the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) for the launch of NASA's Atlantis Space Shuttle set for August 27, 2006 at 4:30 p.m. with Canadian astronaut Steve MacLean onboard. Mission STS-115 marks the renewal of assembly missions for completion of the International Space Station. Astronaut MacLean will take part in his second space flight during which he will become the very first Canadian to operate the Canadarm2 in space. He will also be performing a spacewalk during this mission to the Space Station.
CSA Astronaut Dave Williams, member of the crew STS-118 currently set for launch in June 2007, will be on-site to underline this event with CSA employees and their families.
What: Launch of Atlantis Space Shuttle for STS-115 mission
When: Sunday, August 27, 2006
Who: Dave Williams, Canadian Space Agency Astronaut
Schedule: 2:30 p.m. Autograph session for kids with Dave Williams
3:45 p.m. Event starts. Review of Mission STS-115 with Dave Williams
4:10 p.m. Presentation of a video-message by Steve MacLean
4:15 p.m. Question period for employees and their families
4:40 p.m. One-on-one interviews
Journalists are invited to contact CSA Media Relations by phone or e-mail to indicate their interest in attending the launch event or to identify special requirements. Media briefings will also be organized at various dates throughout the mission.
To listen to the comments provided by Dave Williams, media are invited to call at 1 (888) 265-0903, passcode: 738498.
Information
For more information on the STS-115 mission or to schedule interviews with CSA spokespersons, please contact CSA Media Relations at (450) 926-4370. For details on the mission, visit the Canadian Space Agency's website at www.space.gc.ca/sts-115.
Post by: jacqmans on 08/22/2006 09:20 pm
George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468
RELEASE: 53-06
AIRSPACE, BRIDGES AND WATERWAY RESTRICTIONS IN EFFECT FOR STS-115
For the STS-115 launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis, NASA managers are
urging all aircraft pilots and boaters to fully comply with the
airspace, bridges and waterway restrictions imposed around Kennedy
Space Center prior to and during shuttle launches and landings.
"As always, we are coordinating with officials from the U.S. Air Force
Eastern Range, Federal Aviation Administration and the U.S. Coast
Guard to help provide a safe launch environment for the shuttle crew
and for interested spectators," said KSC Launch Director Mike
Leinbach. "Violating these restrictions is not only unsafe for the
astronauts and support crews, it's unsafe for the violator."
The first launch opportunity is Sunday, Aug. 27, with liftoff targeted
for 4:30 p.m. EDT. This launch time is approximately in the middle of
a 10-minute launch window. At NASA's request, Air Force and Coast
Guard surveillance aircraft will patrol KSC's airspace boundaries on
launch day. Violators will be intercepted by patrol forces,
thoroughly investigated and subject to FAA enforcement action. A
number of restrictions remain in effect around KSC during the hours
immediately following the launch of a space shuttle.
The following are restrictions that apply to pilots, boaters and motor
vehicle operators using the airspace, waterways, or roads and bridges
that lead to KSC.
KSC AREA AVIATION RESTRICTIONS
For the launch of Atlantis on mission STS-115, all restricted areas
surrounding KSC will be active and the area covered by flight
restrictions has once again been expanded for this launch. The length
of time the restrictions will be in effect prior to launch has also
been extended.
Due to international terrorist activities, heightened security is
essential to protect the space shuttle as a national asset. An
inadvertent unauthorized incursion into the area of the Cape
Canaveral Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) could cause a scrub in
the launch of Atlantis, the activation of airspace defenses and an
FAA enforcement action. Local pilots are asked to help NASA by
respecting these temporary but necessary restrictions so the launch
can occur on time and without incident.
The Eastern Range restricted airspace for KSC and Cape Canaveral Air
Force Station is in effect on a continuous basis and is off limits to
general aviation pilots. Access is limited to official aircraft only.
The restricted airspace normally covers the area bounded by the
Indian River to the west, Port Canaveral to the south, the city of
Oak Hill to the north, and three miles over the Atlantic Ocean to the
east.
On launch day, these restricted areas will be expanded by the TFR and
will be activated at approximately launch minus 7 hours. It will
continue in effect until approximately 20 minutes after launch, after
which the standard restricted areas for KSC and Cape Canaveral Air
Force Station will be in effect. On Aug. 27, the TFR will be
activated at 9:24 a.m. EDT. The launch is targeted to occur at 4:30
p.m. EDT. Should the launch be scrubbed during the terminal
countdown, the TFR will remain in effect until 5:54 p.m. For the next
launch attempt, pilots should check NOTAMS for the hours the TFR will
be in effect.
General aviation and VFR operations are prohibited within a
30-nautical-mile radius of Launch Pad 39-B from the surface to (but
not including) 18,000 feet (located on the Melbourne VOR/DME
004-degree radial at 30.6 nautical miles). Among the public-use
general aviation airports affected within this area are Space Coast
Regional Airport in Titusville, Arthur Dunn Airpark in Titusville,
Merritt Island Airport on Merritt Island and Massey Ranch in
Edgewater.
Within an airspace radius between 30 and 40 nautical miles of Pad
39-B, a discrete transponder code must be obtained and clearance
granted from air traffic control before entering this airspace.
Continuous radio communications must be maintained.
Before flight, pilots should contact the St. Petersburg FAA Flight
Service Station at 1-800/WxBrief (1-800/992-7433) for details of the
restrictions contained in the NOTAMS. In flight, outside Orlando
Class B airspace, pilots should contact Orlando Approach control on
134.95. In the Melbourne area, contact Orlando Approach control on
132.65. In the New Smyrna Beach area, contact Orlando Approach
control on 125.35. Flight Service can also be reached locally by
radio on the Titusville RCO at 123.6 or the Melbourne RCO on 122.6.
Advisories will also be available from the control tower at Space
Coast Regional Airport in Titusville at 118.9 megahertz.
Among the public-use airports affected within the 30- to
40-nautical-mile radius in which flight is permitted but under
positive air traffic control are Orlando International Airport,
Orlando Executive Airport, Orlando-Sanford International Airport, the
New Smyrna Beach Municipal Airport, Melbourne International Airport
and Valkaria airport. Pilots are encouraged to consult the most
recent FAA aeronautical chart for Orlando Class B airspace dated Feb.
16.
BRIDGES AND ACCESS HIGHWAYS CONTROLLED FOR LAUNCH
The opening and closing of bridges over waterways surrounding KSC will
be strictly controlled during the hours immediately before and after
the launch period for each space shuttle mission.
Bridges affected by the launch include:
* Port Canaveral Barge Canal (State Road 401);
* Indian River/NASA Causeway West (Intracoastal Waterway);
* Merritt Island Barge Canal (Merritt Island State Road 3);
* Haulover Canal Bridge (State Road 3, north of KSC).
Restraints on bridge openings for boat traffic begin three hours
before launch. The bridges may be opened for five minutes at the
following points in the launch countdown: T-180 minutes, T-150
minutes, T-120 minutes, T-90 minutes and T-65 minutes. Adding 20
minutes to these times and subtracting that amount from the opening
of the launch window (4:24 p.m.) will result in an approximate time
of openings.
Bridges will remain closed to boat traffic until 90 minutes after
liftoff (T+90). They may then open for five minutes at T+90, T+120
minutes and T+150 minutes. Bridge operations will return to normal
three hours after launch (T+180 minutes).
Should the shuttle be required to perform a return-to-launch-site
landing at KSC, all bridges would remain closed to boat traffic from
45 minutes before landing until at least one hour after landing.
State Road 3 from the Gate 2 Pass and Identification Building to State
Road 405 (NASA Causeway) via Space Commerce Way will be closed on
launch day, Aug. 27, beginning at 8:30 a.m. NASA Causeway between the
KSC Visitor Complex and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame will also be
closed starting at that time. Only badged employees and guests with
passes will be permitted access. These roads will reopen
approximately two hours after launch.
On the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge, State Road 406 and County Road
402 leading to Titusville, as well as State Road 3 south of the
Haulover Canal bridge, will close at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 23,
and reopen approximately two hours after launch.
KSC AREA BOATING RESTRICTIONS
Waterways and boating near KSC will be strictly controlled prior to
and during the launch of Atlantis on STS-115.
Safety and security requirements, including Air Force range safety
impact limit lines, will go into effect as early as three days before
launch. Other requirements will be phased into effect through sunset
the night before launch. A general description of the area follows:
ATLANTIC OCEAN: Beginning on L-3 days (Thursday, Aug. 24, at 8 a.m.)
and continuing through launch, a general exclusion zone will be in
effect three miles offshore from the Haulover Canal, near the north
end of KSC, and southward to Port Canaveral. Four hours prior to
launch, all ocean-going traffic will be restricted from entering an
area measured from nine miles north and south of the launch pad and
extending 64 miles east into the ocean. An additional three-mile-wide
exclusion zone will be extended eastward along the flight path of the
space shuttle.
INDIAN RIVER: Restrictions apply from the NASA Causeway north to the
Haulover Canal and east of the Indian River's main channel.
Restrictions begin on L-3 days (Aug. 24).
MOSQUITO LAGOON: This area south of the Haulover Canal in the Mosquito
Lagoon is off limits to all boats beginning the day before launch
(L-1 day).
BANANA RIVER: Security limits begin at the Banana River Barge Canal
south of KSC at the State Road 528 crossing and extend north. This
restriction is effective 16 hours prior to launch.
All boating restrictions will be lifted approximately one hour after
launch.
Boating interests should monitor Coast Guard Channel 16 broadcasting
from Port Canaveral. The Coast Guard, the Fish and Wildlife Service,
and KSC security forces share responsibility for enforcing the
boating guidelines.
-end-
Post by: jacqmans on 08/22/2006 09:43 pm
SUNNYVALE, Calif., August 21, 2006 -- The second of four pairs of massive solar arrays and a Solar Alpha Rotary Joint (SARJ), built by Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] at its Space Systems facility in Sunnyvale, will be launched aboard the space shuttle Atlantis to the International Space Station (ISS) as early as August 27, 2006. Atlantis’ launch window extends through September 13, 2006. During the 11-day STS-115 mission, astronauts will connect the package of giant solar arrays and the rotary joint – incorporated into an integrated truss segment – to the Station. A second rotary joint and a third pair of solar arrays will be delivered to ISS on STS-117.
"The second pair of solar arrays will nearly double the power available to the Space Station, and we’re very proud to play a role in this vitally important international mission,” said Brad Haddock, Lockheed Martin ISS program director. “The first arrays have performed superbly, and beyond expectation, and we’re confident that this addition to ISS will further harness the Sun's energy for the Space Station and provide the power required for many years to come.”
The Space Systems ISS solar arrays are the largest deployable space structure ever built and are by far, the most powerful electricity-producing arrays ever put into orbit.
When the Station is completed a total of eight flexible, deployable solar array wings will generate the reliable, continuous power for the on-orbit operation of the ISS systems.
The eight array wings were designed and built under a $450 million contract from the Boeing-Rocketdyne Division in Canoga Park, Calif., for delivery to the Boeing Company and NASA.
Each of the eight wings consists of a mast assembly and two solar array blankets. Each blanket has 84 panels, of which 82 are populated with solar cells. Each panel contains 200 solar cells. The eight photovoltaic arrays thus accommodate a total of 262,400 solar cells. When fully deployed in space, the active area of the eight wings, each 107 by 38-feet, will encompass an area of 32,528-sq. ft., and will provide power to the ISS for 15 years.
The SARJ, 10.5 ft in diameter and 40 inches long, will maintain the solar arrays in an optimal orientation to the sun while the entire space station orbits the Earth once every 90 minutes. Drive motors in the SARJ will move the arrays through 360 degrees of motion at four degrees per minute. The joints must rotate the arrays smoothly without imparting vibrations to the laboratories and habitation modules on the station that would impact microgravity-processing activities. At the same time, 60 kW of power at 160 volts and multiple data channels are carried across each joint by copper “roll rings” contained within.
In addition to the arrays and SARJ, Space Systems in Sunnyvale designed and built other elements for the Space Station. The Thermal Radiator Rotary Joints (TRRJ) – each five and a half feet long and three feet in diameter – were launched in 2002. The two joints maintain Space Station thermal radiators in an edge-on orientation to the Sun that maximizes the dissipation of heat from the radiators into space.
Space Systems also produced the Trace Contaminant Control System ?– launched to ISS as an element of the U.S. Destiny Laboratory module in 2001 – an advanced air processing and filtering system that ensures that over 200 various trace chemical contaminants, generated from material off-gassing and metabolic functions in the Space Station atmosphere, remain within allowable concentration levels. It is an integral part of the Space Station's Cabin Air Revitalization Subsystem.
Contact:
Buddy Nelson
(510) 797-0349
[email protected]
Post by: jacqmans on 08/23/2006 05:39 pm
P3/P4 Truss Segment and Solar Arrays
Vehicle: Atlantis (OV-104)
Location: Launch Pad 39B
Launch Date: Aug. 27, 2006, 4:30 p.m. EDT
Crew: Jett, Ferguson, Tanner, Burbank, MacLean and Stefanyshyn-Piper
Inclination/Orbit Altitude: 51.6 degrees/122 nautical miles
At Launch Pad 39B, closeout of the orbiter's aft compartments
continues, and pressurization of the orbiter's maneuvering system,
reaction control system and main propulsion system is under way.
Stowage of flight crew equipment in the crew module is ongoing.
Payload bay preparations will resume Wednesday. Final closeouts on
the solid rocket boosters and the external fuel tank will be
completed today.
In Houston, the STS-115 crew is conducting the final ascent simulation
today. The crew will arrive at Kennedy Space Center on Thursday.
Post by: Avron on 08/23/2006 06:32 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/23/2006 06:56 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/23/2006 06:57 pm
Post by: astrobrian on 08/23/2006 08:55 pm
Quote
Avron - 23/8/2006 1:19 PM 6pm ET tomorrow we start the countdown.... two in the same year.. its been awhile
Living up the moment, as we know it could all change quickly, but agreed, far too long since this has happened
Post by: jacqmans on 08/23/2006 09:07 pm
P3/P4 Truss Segment and Solar Arrays
Vehicle: Atlantis (OV-104)
Location: Launch Pad 39B
Launch Date: Aug. 27, 2006, 4:30 p.m. EDT
Crew: Jett, Ferguson, Tanner, Burbank, MacLean and Stefanyshyn-Piper
Inclination/Orbit Altitude: 51.6 degrees/122 nautical miles
At Launch Pad 39B, closeout of the orbiter's aft compartments
continues, with aft door installation expected later today. Once the
doors are installed, workers will begin aft confidence testing. This
involves powering up and testing all of the aft systems, such as the
main propulsion system circuits. Pressurization of the orbiter's
maneuvering system, the reaction control system and the main
propulsion system has been completed. Stowage of flight crew
equipment in the crew module is ongoing, and the crew cabin and White
Room are being prepared for launch. Technicians will open the payload
bay doors today to allow for the charging of the payload batteries.
The payload bay doors will be closed for flight on Thursday. Final
closeouts on the solid rocket boosters and the external fuel tank
will be completed today.
Post by: DaveS on 08/23/2006 10:43 pm
Post by: dutch courage on 08/24/2006 12:52 pm
Quote
DaveS - 24/8/2006 12:30 AM
The water bags for the SRBs are being installed:
Could you describe the water bags in the picture and its function?
Thanks.
Post by: Jim on 08/24/2006 01:10 pm
Post by: Wisi on 08/24/2006 01:17 pm
http://www.spaceflightnow.com/shuttle/sts115/060824wx.html
Sunday: 70 percent go
Monday: 80 percent go
Tuesday: 80 percent go
Post by: dutch courage on 08/24/2006 03:01 pm
Quote
Jim - 24/8/2006 2:57 PM
The waterbags are the red objects on the left of the SRB skirt. They absorb the SRB ignition pressure impulse
Is this extra ignition pressure absorption on top of the water suppression system?
Any idea about the size of the bags?
Post by: ruthsarian on 08/24/2006 03:40 pm
Quote
Is this extra ignition pressure absorption on top of the water suppression system?This explains them a little bit. About the best pictures I've been able to find to give a sense of scale on these water bags are from a model of a launch comlex.
Any idea about the size of the bags?
I'd be interested if anyone can point to sources for further information on these water bags. Such as, if they're there to help suppress a pressure pulse at booster ignition, why are they located in front of the stack rather than under it (or under the wings of the orbiter).
Post by: DaveS on 08/24/2006 03:58 pm
Post by: Jim on 08/24/2006 04:00 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/24/2006 04:04 pm
Quote
DaveS - 24/8/2006 11:45 AMMissed that announcement by PAO...did they say which hold the six hours will be added to (27 or 19)?
Countdown clock will start in 19 minutes at the T-43 hour mark(1 day and 19 hours). The countdown was to have started at 6 pm EDT, but it has been moved up 6 hours to noon EDT.
Thanx.
Post by: DaveS on 08/24/2006 04:08 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/24/2006 04:20 pm
Quote
DaveS - 24/8/2006 11:55 AMWhat was the reason for this? Are they trying to move the PRSD load to a shift less likely to have weather issues?
No, they didn't. But I guess it will be at the T-27 hour hold. I hope that Bill Harwood will revise the countdown chart to reflect the new countdown start time.
Post by: mkirk on 08/24/2006 04:45 pm
Quote
psloss - 24/8/2006 11:07 AMQuoteDaveS - 24/8/2006 11:55 AMWhat was the reason for this? Are they trying to move the PRSD load to a shift less likely to have weather issues?
No, they didn't. But I guess it will be at the T-27 hour hold. I hope that Bill Harwood will revise the countdown chart to reflect the new countdown start time.
Yes that is the reason.
PRSD load will occur earlier, rougly 7:00 - 7:30.
Mark Kirkman
Post by: jacqmans on 08/24/2006 04:56 pm
Post by: mkirk on 08/24/2006 05:02 pm
Quote
psloss - 24/8/2006 10:51 AMQuoteDaveS - 24/8/2006 11:45 AMMissed that announcement by PAO...did they say which hold the six hours will be added to (27 or 19)?
Countdown clock will start in 19 minutes at the T-43 hour mark(1 day and 19 hours). The countdown was to have started at 6 pm EDT, but it has been moved up 6 hours to noon EDT.
Thanx.
The hold at T-19 hours will be extended from a 4 hour built in hold to a 10 hour built in hold. T-19 is the BIH that allows you to catch up on PRSD acivities if they run behind after coming out of the T-27 BIH.
Mark Kirkman
Post by: psloss on 08/24/2006 05:23 pm
Quote
mkirk - 24/8/2006 12:49 PMThanks, Mark.
The hold at T-19 hours will be extended from a 4 hour built in hold to a 10 hour built in hold. T-19 is the BIH that allows you to catch up on PRSD acivities if they run behind after coming out of the T-27 BIH.
Mark Kirkman
Post by: Austin on 08/24/2006 05:26 pm
Quote
mkirk - 24/8/2006 9:49 AM
The hold at T-19 hours will be extended from a 4 hour built in hold to a 10 hour built in hold. T-19 is the BIH that allows you to catch up on PRSD acivities if they run behind after coming out of the T-27 BIH.
Mark Kirkman
By the way, good question at the briefing this morning, Mark regarding the P3/P4 truss power configuration.
Post by: mkirk on 08/24/2006 06:50 pm
Mark Kirkman
Post by: mkirk on 08/24/2006 08:09 pm
LAUNCH COUNTDOWN BEGAN AUG. 24 FOR SPACE SHUTTLE ATLANTIS
NASA began the countdown for the launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis on
mission STS-115 at noon EDT Thursday, Aug. 24, at the T-43 hour
point. During this mission, Atlantis' crew will resume the
construction of the International Space Station, which is the goal of
the remaining space shuttle flights in the program.
The Kennedy Space Center launch team will conduct the countdown from
the newly renovated Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center. The
countdown includes 33 hours, 24 minutes of built-in hold time leading
to a preferred launch time at about 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 27,
with a launch window extending about five minutes.
This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for
orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space
Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned KSC
landing at about 12:02 p.m. EDT on Sept. 7.
Atlantis rolled into KSC's Orbiter Processing Facility on Oct. 18,
2002, after returning from its last mission, STS-112. Its next
mission was planned to be STS-114; however, during the program delays
following the loss of orbiter Columbia, Atlantis was reassigned to
mission STS-115. The orbiter rolled out of the facility's bay 1 and
into the Vehicle Assembly Building on July 24. While in the
building's high bay 3, Atlantis was mated to its modified external
tank and solid rocket boosters. The entire space shuttle stack was
transferred to Launch Pad 39B on Aug. 2.
The STS-115 crew includes Commander Brent Jett, Pilot Chris Ferguson,
and Mission Specialists Joe Tanner, Dan Burbank, Heidemarie
Stefanyshyn-Piper and Steve MacLean of the Canadian Space Agency.
During mission STS-115, Atlantis will dock with the station and the
crew will perform three spacewalks. The astronauts will deliver and
install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment to the
station's girder-like truss backbone. The new piece will include a
second set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated
electronics. Together, the trusses and solar arrays will provide
one-fourth of the total power-generation capability of the completed
station.
To prepare for the extravehicular activities, the spacewalkers will
perform a new "campout pre-breathing exercise." These crew members
will reside in the station's airlock overnight, where the pressure
will slowly be reduced. Harmful gases will thereby be removed from
their blood, allowing them to gradually acclimate to the lower
pressure they will encounter outside the station. Provisions are
onboard to support as many as three additional spacewalks, if
required to complete mission objectives.
For information about the STS-115 crew and the mission to the
International Space Station, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle
(end of general release)
COUNTDOWN MILESTONES
*all times are Eastern
Launch-3 Days (Thursday, Aug. 24)
Prepare for the start of the STS-115 launch countdown
Perform the call to stations (11:30 a.m.)
Countdown begins at the T-43 hour mark (noon)
Begin final vehicle and facility closeouts for launch
Check out backup flight systems
Review flight software stored in mass memory units and display systems
Load backup flight system software into Atlantis' general purpose
computers
Remove flight-deck platforms (8:30 p.m.)
Complete preparation to load power reactant storage and distribution
system (11 p.m.)
Launch-2 Days (Friday, Aug. 25)
Activate and test navigational systems (1 a.m.)
Flight deck preliminary inspections complete (4 a.m.)
Enter first built-in hold at T-27 hours for duration of 4 hours (4
a.m.)
Clear launch pad of all non-essential personnel
Perform test of the vehicle's pyrotechnic initiator controllers
Resume countdown (8 a.m.)
Begin operations to load cryogenic reactants into Atlantis' fuel cell
storage tanks (8 a.m.)
Enter 10-hour built-in hold at T-19 hours (4 p.m.)
Demate orbiter mid-body umbilical unit (4:30 p.m.)
Resume orbiter and ground support equipment closeouts
Launch-1 Day (Saturday, Aug. 26)
Resume countdown (2 a.m.)
Final preparations of the shuttle's three main engines for main
propellant tanking (2 a.m.)
Begin filling pad sound suppression system water tank (4 a.m.)
Pad sound suppression system water tank filling complete (7 a.m.)
Close out the tail service masts on the mobile launcher platform
Begin star tracker functional checks (9:50 a.m.)
Enter planned hold at T-11 hours for 13 hours, 34 minutes (10 a.m.)
Activate orbiter's inertial measurement units
Activate the orbiter's communications systems
Install film in numerous cameras on the launch pad (10:55 a.m.)
Flight crew equipment late stow (3:10 p.m.)
Move Rotating Service Structure to the park position (7 p.m.)
Perform ascent switch list
Fuel cell flow-through purge complete
Resume countdown at T-11 hours (11:34 p.m.)
Launch Day (Sunday, Aug. 27)
Activate the orbiter's fuel cells (12:45 a.m.)
Clear the blast danger area of all non-essential personnel
Switch Atlantis' purge air to gaseous nitrogen (1:20 a.m.)
Enter planned 2-hour built-in hold at the T-6 hour mark (4:34 a.m.)
Launch team verifies no violations of launch commit criteria prior to
cryogenic loading of the external tank
Clear pad of all personnel
Resume countdown (6:34 a.m.)
Chilldown of propellant transfer lines (6:34 a.m.)
Begin loading the external tank with about 500,000 gallons of
cryogenic propellants (about 6:44 a.m.)
Complete filling the external tank with its flight load of liquid
hydrogen and liquid oxygen propellants (about 9:34 a.m.)
Final Inspection Team proceeds to launch pad
Enter planned 3-hour built-in hold at T-3 hours (9:34 a.m.)
Perform inertial measurement unit preflight calibration
Align Merritt Island Launch Area tracking antennas
Perform open loop test with Eastern Range
Resume countdown at T-3 hours (12:34 p.m.)
Crew departs Operations and Checkout Building for the pad (12:40 p.m.)
Complete closeout preparations in the White Room
Check cockpit switch configurations
Flight crew begins entry into the orbiter (about 1:10 p.m.)
Astronauts perform air-to-ground voice checks with Launch and Mission
Control
Begin to close Atlantis' crew hatch (about 2 p.m.)
Begin Eastern Range final network open loop command checks
Perform hatch seal and cabin leak checks
Complete White Room closeout
Closeout crew moves to fallback area
Primary ascent guidance data is transferred to the backup flight
system
Enter planned 10-minute hold at T-20 minutes (3:14 p.m.)
NASA test director conducts final launch team briefings
Complete inertial measurement unit preflight alignments
Resume countdown at T-20 minutes (3:24 p.m.)
Transition the orbiter's onboard computers to launch configuration
Start fuel cell thermal conditioning
Close orbiter cabin vent valves
Transition backup flight system to launch configuration
Enter estimated 40-minute hold at T-9 minutes (3:35 p.m.)
Launch director, Mission Management Team and NASA test director
conduct final polls for "go/no go" to launch
Resume countdown at T-9 minutes (about 4:21 p.m.)
Start automatic ground launch sequencer (T-9 minutes)
Retract orbiter crew access arm (T-7:30)
Start mission recorders (T-6:15)
Start Auxiliary Power Units (T-5)
Arm solid rocket booster and external tank range safety safe and arm
devices (T-5)
Start liquid oxygen drainback (T-4:55)
Start orbiter aerosurface profile test (T-3:55)
Start main engine gimbal profile test (T-3:30)
Pressurize liquid oxygen tank (T-2:55)
Begin retraction of the gaseous oxygen vent arm (T-2:55)
Fuel cells to internal reactants (T-2:35)
Pressurize liquid hydrogen tank (T-1:57)
Deactivate bi-pod heaters (T-1:52)
Deactivate solid rocket booster joint heaters (T-1)
Orbiter transfers from ground to internal power (T-0:50 seconds)
Ground Launch Sequencer go for auto sequence start (T-0:31 seconds)
Booster gimbal profile (T-0:21 seconds)
Ignition of three space shuttle main engines (T-6.6 seconds)
Booster ignition and liftoff (T-0)
CREW FOR MISSION STS-115
Commander: Brent Jett
Pilot: Chris Ferguson
Payload Commander (MS1): Joe Tanner
Mission Specialist (MS2): Dan Burbank
Mission Specialist (MS3): Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper
Mission Specialist (MS4): Steve MacLean
SUMMARY OF STS-115 LAUNCH DAY CREW ACTIVITIES
Sunday, Aug. 27
6:30 a.m. -- Crew wakes up
7 a.m. -- Breakfast
*10:55 a.m. -- Television coverage from crew quarters
Noon -- Weather briefing
*12:10 p.m. -- Don flight suits
*12:40 p.m. -- Depart for launch pad
*1:10 p.m. -- Arrive at White Room and begin ingress
*2:25 p.m.-- Close crew hatch
*4:30 p.m. -- Launch
* Televised events (times may vary slightly)
All times Eastern
-end-
Mark Kirkman
Post by: psloss on 08/24/2006 09:34 pm
http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=4
Post by: jacqmans on 08/24/2006 09:38 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/24/2006 09:43 pm
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/main/index.html
The Atlantis crew arrived at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida today to begin final preparations for mission STS-115. Flying T-38 trainer jets, the astronauts landed at the Shuttle Landing Facility at 11:30 a.m. EDT.
Commander Brent Jett introduced the crew and spoke briefly about the upcoming mission to the International Space Station. "Speaking for myself and my fellow crewmates, I can assure you that we are ready for the challenge and we're ready to restart the assembly sequence." He added, "We have a saying back in Texas: 'It's time to walk the walk.' "
Mission Specialist Joe Tanner expressed the crew's appreciation to all the space workers who have worked tirelessly to prepare for the mission, adding, "When we climb aboard Atlantis on Sunday, we do so with confidence that the vehicle is ready, prepared by the best technicians, engineers and managers in the business."
Later today, Jett and Pilot Chris Ferguson will return to the runway to practice landings in the Shuttle Training Aircraft.
The countdown officially began at noon EDT today, at the T-43 hour mark. The countdown includes about 36 hours of built-in hold time prior to a targeted 4:30 p.m. EDT launch on Sunday; it is the middle point in the launch window that extends for 10 minutes.
At the 10 a.m. Countdown Status Briefing, NASA Test Director Steve Payne reported that the launch team is working no issues, saying, "Atlantis is in excellent shape and we're on track for the preparations for Sunday's launch to bring the P3 and P4 truss to the orbiting space station and return her crew safely home."
STS-115 Payload Manager Robbie Ashley expressed satisfaction that the P3/P4 segment would be joined to the space station soon, adding, "it's been a long time coming." He said, "We're anxious to see them get on orbit and perform the job they were intended to do."
Shuttle Weather Officer Kathy Winters provided a generally positive outlook for launch day conditions. "Overall the weather is looking pretty good for launch day. We do have a 30 percent chance of weather prohibiting tanking in the morning," she said. "We have a 30 percent chance of weather prohibiting launch." She added, "Generally, pretty good weather when it comes to an afternoon summertime day here in Florida."
The next status briefing is scheduled for 10 a.m. EDT Friday and will be carried live on NASA TV.
Post by: jacqmans on 08/24/2006 09:51 pm
P3/P4 Truss Segment and Solar Arrays
Vehicle: Atlantis (OV-104)
Location: Launch Pad 39B
Launch Date: Aug. 27, 2006, 4:30 p.m. EDT
Crew: Jett, Ferguson, Tanner, Burbank, MacLean and Stefanyshyn-Piper
Inclination/Orbit Altitude: 51.6 degrees/122 nautical miles
At Launch Pad 39B, closeout of the orbiter's aft compartments is
complete and the aft doors have been installed. Technicians have
finished performing the aft confidence test, which involves powering
up and testing all of the aft systems, such as the main propulsion
system circuits. The payload bay doors will be closed today for
flight.
The start of the launch countdown was moved from 6 p.m. to noon
Eastern time today to allow for earlier loading of fuel for the power
reactant storage and distribution system. The goal is to finish the
system loads before the predicted afternoon thunderstorms on Friday.
Additional hold time will be added at the T-19 hour mark, extending
the hold from four hours to 10 hours. After T-19, the schedule will
proceed as normal, culminating in a launch on Sunday at 4:30 p.m.
Eastern time.
The STS-115 crew arrived at 11:30 a.m. today at the Shuttle Landing
Facility from Johnson Space Center in Houston. They will spend the
next days prior to launch going over their flight plans.
U.S. Air Force weather officers are forecasting a 30-percent chance of
weather prohibiting a launch attempt on Sunday. The primary weather
concerns are anvil clouds, showers and thunderstorms within 20
nautical miles of the Shuttle Landing Facility.
Post by: Wisi on 08/24/2006 09:59 pm
Great Statement! By Steven MacLean I think.
Post by: DaveS on 08/24/2006 10:16 pm
Post by: anik on 08/25/2006 09:25 am
Flight Plan (PDF 1.5 Mb) (http://www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson/pdf/155555main_FLT_PLN_115_F_1.pdf)
PDRS Checklist (PDF 36.8 Mb) (http://www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson/pdf/155556main_PDRS_115_F_C.pdf)
EVA Checklist (PDF 38.7 Mb) (http://www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson/pdf/155553main_eva_115_f_c.pdf)
Post by: Wisi on 08/25/2006 09:42 am
Post by: anik on 08/25/2006 10:00 am
Quote
Wisi - 25/8/2006 1:29 PM
What does PDRS mean? something robotics-related obviously...
PDRS = Payload Deployment and Retrieval System
Quote
Wisi - 25/8/2006 1:29 PM
BTW do you have any abbreviation-explanation-thread here or do you know a site somewhere? I don't want to ask all the time...
http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/random-quotes/view-acronyms.asp
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/25/2006 11:55 am
Post by: DaveS on 08/25/2006 12:24 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 02:10 pm
Post by: DaveS on 08/25/2006 02:22 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 02:39 pm
Quote
DaveS - 25/8/2006 10:09 AM
Currently at T-24:54:30 and counting. Next hold is at T-19H and lasts for 10 hours instead of usual 4. Countdown clock: http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/launch/index.html
Thanks...
http://countdown.ksc.nasa.gov/shuttle/countdown/cdt/
Post by: Mark Nguyen on 08/25/2006 03:59 pm
Mark
Post by: MKremer on 08/25/2006 04:07 pm
Post by: Jim on 08/25/2006 04:15 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/25/2006 05:58 pm
Post by: Mark Dave on 08/25/2006 06:16 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 06:19 pm
Post by: Mark Dave on 08/25/2006 06:25 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/25/2006 06:26 pm
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Avron - 25/8/2006 2:06 PMIt's much better now:
That weather does not look good.... Sunday 40% chance of nasties comming in...
(Seriously, it's only a factor for keeping up with the timeline...the weather pattern is supposed to change favorably by launch time.)
Post by: Austin on 08/25/2006 07:04 pm
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Avron - 25/8/2006 11:06 AM
That weather does not look good.... Sunday 40% chance of nasties comming in...
The reports I'm looking at are still showing only 30% chance of precip at launch time. Again, if you've lived in Florida, you know that the weather can go from good to bad, and vice verca very quickly. It all comes down to what mood Mother Nature's in around the 4 o'clock hour eastern time Sunday.
We also look good for Monday and Tuesday's forecast. I really don't think that weather is going to be a show-stopper.
Post by: mkirk on 08/25/2006 07:04 pm
Mark Kirkman
Post by: Jim on 08/25/2006 07:12 pm
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mkirk - 25/8/2006 2:51 PM
The O2 portion of the PRSD load is complete. H2 still needs to be done. There is plenty of hold time available at T-19 hours (10) to pick up once the weather here improves. Wx definately sucks right now!
Mark Kirkman
Mark, where are you at, right now?
Post by: hoorenz on 08/25/2006 07:24 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 07:33 pm
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Austin - 25/8/2006 2:51 PMQuoteAvron - 25/8/2006 11:06 AM
That weather does not look good.... Sunday 40% chance of nasties comming in...
The reports I'm looking at are still showing only 30% chance of precip at launch time. Again, if you've lived in Florida, you know that the weather can go from good to bad, and vice verca very quickly. It all comes down to what mood Mother Nature's in around the 4 o'clock hour eastern time Sunday.
We also look good for Monday and Tuesday's forecast. I really don't think that weather is going to be a show-stopper.
Mentioned on this mornings L-2 conf..
Post by: mkirk on 08/25/2006 07:56 pm
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Jim - 25/8/2006 1:59 PMQuotemkirk - 25/8/2006 2:51 PM
The O2 portion of the PRSD load is complete. H2 still needs to be done. There is plenty of hold time available at T-19 hours (10) to pick up once the weather here improves. Wx definately sucks right now!
Mark Kirkman
Mark, where are you at, right now?
Most of my time for the next 3 days, assuming no scrubs, will be spent at the Press Site.
Mark Kirkman
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 08:07 pm
Post by: mkirk on 08/25/2006 08:13 pm
Mark Kirkman
Post by: dutch courage on 08/25/2006 08:19 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 08:29 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/25/2006 08:35 pm
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Avron - 25/8/2006 4:16 PMhttp://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/nasafact/count4rss.htm#midbody
OMBUU demate.. what is this?
Obviously, that's going to have to wait for the PRSD load to finish...
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 08:39 pm
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psloss - 25/8/2006 4:22 PMQuoteAvron - 25/8/2006 4:16 PMhttp://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/nasafact/count4rss.htm#midbody
OMBUU demate.. what is this?
Obviously, that's going to have to wait for the PRSD load to finish...
Thank you -- Sir..
Post by: Wisi on 08/25/2006 08:57 pm
Post by: DaveS on 08/25/2006 09:07 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/25/2006 10:00 pm
And the payload bay doors on Space Shuttle Atlantis have closed...
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 10:00 pm
Post by: astrobrian on 08/25/2006 10:03 pm
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/25/2006 10:04 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 10:05 pm
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astrobrian - 25/8/2006 5:50 PM
status changed from NET to "next" so it should be coming up fairly soon :)
Post by: Jamie Young on 08/25/2006 10:06 pm
And the weather guy.
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 10:11 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 10:12 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 10:13 pm
Post by: astrobrian on 08/25/2006 10:13 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 10:14 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 10:15 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 10:16 pm
Post by: astrobrian on 08/25/2006 10:16 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 10:16 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/25/2006 10:16 pm
Advisory through 9 pm local...
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 10:17 pm
"We are proud!''
Post by: jacqmans on 08/25/2006 10:17 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 10:20 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/25/2006 10:22 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/25/2006 10:23 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 10:23 pm
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psloss - 25/8/2006 6:09 PM
Sunday weather at KSC sounds like it will be dependent on the location of the high pressure ridge...it may not be far enough north by Sunday...
Get out the FANS ....
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/25/2006 10:23 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/25/2006 10:24 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/25/2006 10:26 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/25/2006 10:27 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/25/2006 10:31 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/25/2006 10:32 pm
Post by: astrobrian on 08/25/2006 10:33 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/25/2006 10:34 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 10:36 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/25/2006 10:39 pm
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Avron - 26/8/2006 12:23 AM
On storms.... KSC is end game.. on emeg.. contingency - sts only
And if that happends early end of the mission, but to early to tell now, the Storm is way to far out...
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 10:39 pm
Post by: DaveS on 08/25/2006 10:39 pm
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Avron - 26/8/2006 12:23 AMYes. ISS can be handled by MCC-M(Mission Control Center-Moscow).
On storms.... KSC is end game.. on emeg.. contingency - sts only
Post by: psloss on 08/25/2006 10:39 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/25/2006 10:40 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/25/2006 10:41 pm
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DaveS - 25/8/2006 6:26 PMThey've done that before -- STS-112 was delayed because of it...can't remember how much of the evacuation was done for Hurricane Rita last year...QuoteAvron - 26/8/2006 12:23 AMYes. ISS can be handled by MCC-M(Mission Control Center-Moscow).
On storms.... KSC is end game.. on emeg.. contingency - sts only
Post by: jacqmans on 08/25/2006 10:42 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 10:42 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/25/2006 10:49 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 10:59 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/25/2006 11:00 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/25/2006 11:01 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/25/2006 11:02 pm
Post by: gordo on 08/25/2006 11:04 pm
Funny how the hacks go all out to really dig up a story; MCC in the path of a storm was getting the better of this being essentially one of the most complex missions ever.
Post by: psloss on 08/25/2006 11:19 pm
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gordo - 25/8/2006 6:51 PMIn this case, I'd give them a pass...the pre-flight briefings and the post FRR briefing have happened in the last two weeks -- most of the mission questions have been asked by many of these same folks just recently.
Great quote by Leroy Cain " Our Priority (if we need to come home early) is to leave the truss on orbit................no1 priority to have it attached to the ISS!
Funny how the hacks go all out to really dig up a story; MCC in the path of a storm was getting the better of this being essentially one of the most complex missions ever.
Hard not to focus on the weather in general given the lightning strike and weather holding up the orbiter cryo load, no technical issues, and what's sounding to me like a closer shave in the Sunday forecast on whether the high-pressure ridge will have moved far enough to the north...and Ernesto is going to be a discussion topic just in general, too.
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/26/2006 12:45 am
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hey you - 25/8/2006 6:54 PM
Presumably this fits under prelaunch preparations:
The pdf documents referred to elsewhere in this particular forum seem to suggest that there is no
lunch time on launch day for the crew. With a 6:30 AM (or so) wakeup, my stomach may growl for them.
On landing day, no time seems to be shown for breakfast prior to the landing which is a 5 hour gap (or so).
That tiger in my stomach may be growling again for them.
Am I missing something (besides food)? Yes, I am aware that they go on a drinking binge (non-alcoholic)
prior to re-entry but my impression that is water only.
Comments?
Signed:
Hey You
Post by: spaceshuttle on 08/26/2006 07:23 am
Post by: norm103 on 08/26/2006 08:20 am
Post by: mainengine on 08/26/2006 08:40 am
Are there no real news on the mission ?
Post by: jacqmans on 08/26/2006 10:12 am
P3/P4 Truss Segment and Solar Arrays
Vehicle: Atlantis (OV-104)
Location: Launch Pad 39B
Launch Date: Aug. 27, 2006, 4:30 p.m. EDT
Crew: Jett, Ferguson, Tanner, Burbank, MacLean and Stefanyshyn-Piper
Inclination/Orbit Altitude: 51.6 degrees/122 nautical miles
At Launch Pad 39B, final launch preparations continue. The payload bay
doors were closed for flight last night, and loading of the fuel for
the power reactant storage and distribution system is now under way.
Weather delays interrupted the PRSD loading earlier this afternoon,
but the task is expected to be completed later this evening. No
impact to the remaining schedule is expected. Also, the Tyvek ring
covers have been installed on the forward reaction control system
thrusters. These covers protect the thrusters from inclement weather.
They are designed to release from the orbiter shortly after launch,
as the shuttle clears the tower.
Mission managers met at KSC this afternoon to further discuss progress
made and give final approval to continue with launch activities. No
problems were discussed that would prevent an on-time launch on
Sunday.
Weather forecasters indicate the launch day probability of weather
prohibiting launch is 40 percent. A Bermuda high pressure ridge
located over the Florida Straits is creating a southwesterly flow
over Central Florida, bringing afternoon thunderstorms for the next
two days. The primary concerns on Sunday are anvil clouds, showers
and thunderstorms within 20 nautical miles of the Shuttle Landing
Facility.
Post by: rdale on 08/26/2006 10:55 am
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mainengine - 26/8/2006 4:27 AM
what shall we do with this stupid press con photos we've seen a thousand times before?
Are there no real news on the mission ?
Not really in the middle of the night - what are you looking for that you aren't seeing here?
Post by: gocamels on 08/26/2006 12:25 pm
For what it's worth, here's the most recent model run forecast tracks on Ernesto...
http://thestormtrack.com/images/tropical/aal052006/track5day.png
Post by: rdale on 08/26/2006 12:38 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/26/2006 01:08 pm
http://www.floridatoday.com/floridatoday/blogs/spaceteam/2006/08/weather-forecast-worsens-again.html
Post by: jacqmans on 08/26/2006 02:16 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/26/2006 02:17 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/26/2006 02:19 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/26/2006 02:19 pm
todays work:
Comms
Late stow
Rss
back on track
Post by: Avron on 08/26/2006 02:23 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/26/2006 02:24 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/26/2006 02:27 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/26/2006 02:27 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/26/2006 02:27 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/26/2006 02:29 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/26/2006 02:30 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/26/2006 02:30 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/26/2006 02:31 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/26/2006 02:34 pm
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jacqmans - 26/8/2006 10:16 AMSort of -- if they're Easterlies, they usually push the storms inland and away. The problem for Sunday is that they aren't forecast to have "set up" or be that strong and may not push the storms far enough west of the SLF to be go for RTLS.
sea breeze could bring in bad weather....
Post by: psloss on 08/26/2006 02:39 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/26/2006 02:42 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/26/2006 02:44 pm
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jacqmans - 26/8/2006 10:29 AMRight -- Sunday/Monday and Wednesday/Thursday...but given the "macro" weather elements in play, Sunday/Monday/Tuesday might have some appeal...
Yep, monday and Tuesday are best for launch weather wise... and they said before that they could try 4 launch attempts in 5 days...
Post by: Avron on 08/26/2006 02:48 pm
Post by: Avron on 08/26/2006 02:50 pm
Post by: dutch courage on 08/26/2006 02:52 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/26/2006 02:56 pm
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dutch courage - 26/8/2006 10:39 AMNot sure the "long and short" of it, but I believe those cranes are used to clear the MLP deck of equipment used during the pad flow but not necessary for the terminal count...
Is there any work going on at the pad? I don't recall having seen that white crane before.
Post by: Austin on 08/26/2006 03:52 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/26/2006 04:38 pm
Post by: dutch courage on 08/26/2006 05:06 pm
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Austin - 26/8/2006 5:39 PM
I'm still going to be a stubborn optimist and say that we'll have a window of acceptable weather at launch time tomorrow, with surrounding clouds providing some dramatic ascent pictures.
There's only a 10 minute lauch window. If it's clear they will launch...
Post by: MKremer on 08/26/2006 05:21 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/26/2006 05:28 pm
Post by: astrobrian on 08/26/2006 05:49 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/26/2006 05:55 pm
STS-115 Payload Manager Robbie Ashley reported all is "go" with the shuttle payload, the integrated P3/P4 truss segment for the International Space Station.
With weather ranking as the potential spoiler for launch day, Shuttle Weather Officer Kathy Winters said that on Sunday the launch team will still be dealing with afternoon storms, with the chance of "no go" for weather now at 60 percent. Winters also reported that forecasters are watching Tropical Storm Ernesto, expected to grow into a hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico, even though it posses no direct threat to launch.
This evening at Launch Pad 39B, the rotating service structure is scheduled to move away from the shuttle at about 7 p.m. EDT and Atlantis will stand ready for liftoff.
Launch coverage begins at 10:30 a.m. EDT on Sunday.
Post by: jacqmans on 08/26/2006 06:12 pm
Post by: Austin on 08/26/2006 06:17 pm
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dutch courage - 26/8/2006 9:53 AMQuoteAustin - 26/8/2006 5:39 PM
I'm still going to be a stubborn optimist and say that we'll have a window of acceptable weather at launch time tomorrow, with surrounding clouds providing some dramatic ascent pictures.
There's only a 10 minute lauch window. If it's clear they will launch...
Yep. Just like STS-121. 10 minutes of cooperation from the weather gods is all we need.
Post by: DaveS on 08/26/2006 06:20 pm
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Austin - 26/8/2006 8:04 PMThey need more than 10 minutes of cooperation, for RTLS. That's why the first launch attempt of STS-121 was scrubbed, RTLS weather was "no-go".
Yep. Just like STS-121. 10 minutes of cooperation from the weather gods is all we need.
Post by: Austin on 08/26/2006 06:23 pm
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DaveS - 26/8/2006 11:07 AMQuoteAustin - 26/8/2006 8:04 PMThey need more than 10 minutes of cooperation, for RTLS. That's why the first launch attempt of STS-121 was scrubbed, RTLS weather was "no-go".
Yep. Just like STS-121. 10 minutes of cooperation from the weather gods is all we need.
[10 minutes] Intended figuratively, not literally!
Post by: MKremer on 08/26/2006 06:32 pm
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DaveS - 26/8/2006 1:07 PMQuoteAustin - 26/8/2006 8:04 PMThey need more than 10 minutes of cooperation, for RTLS. That's why the first launch attempt of STS-121 was scrubbed, RTLS weather was "no-go".
Yep. Just like STS-121. 10 minutes of cooperation from the weather gods is all we need.
Not to mention the TAL site conditions.
Post by: Wisi on 08/26/2006 06:37 pm
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MKremer - 26/8/2006 8:19 PM
Not to mention the TAL site conditions.
But these are go for sunday/monday/tuesday.
Post by: MKremer on 08/26/2006 07:03 pm
Post by: Wisi on 08/26/2006 07:32 pm
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MKremer - 26/8/2006 8:50 PM
Never trust a 3-day forecast. ;)
That's right, after launch weather coming down from 70% go to 40% go, you never know... :(
Post by: Sergi Manstov on 08/26/2006 08:08 pm
Launch delayed to Monday http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=4039&start=1
Post by: rdale on 08/26/2006 08:48 pm
Post by: STS-Chris on 08/26/2006 09:15 pm
Post by: psloss on 08/26/2006 09:25 pm
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STS-Chris - 26/8/2006 5:02 PMNo -- the timeline is pushed back by however much the delay is, so about 24 hours right now. There's also bad weather in the area right now, anyway.
Will the RSS roll back from the orbiter at 7 p.m. EDT?
Post by: Zachstar on 08/27/2006 09:45 pm
[IMG=http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/3306/115issorbitermc6.jpg]
Post by: punkboi on 08/28/2006 05:41 pm
Post by: nathan.moeller on 08/28/2006 05:45 pm
Post by: jacqmans on 08/28/2006 06:08 pm
Post by: MKremer on 08/28/2006 06:09 pm
Post by: punkboi on 08/28/2006 06:48 pm
Post by: DaveS on 08/28/2006 06:56 pm
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punkboi - 28/8/2006 8:35 PMThe December window for 116 is made on the assumption that the daylight launch window requirement is lifted and night launches are allowed once again.
What I don't get is why there's only a 1-day launch window, December 23, for Atlantis when the launch window for Discovery on 116 opens on December 14.
Post by: nathan.moeller on 08/28/2006 07:53 pm
Post by: rdale on 08/28/2006 08:00 pm
Post by: nathan.moeller on 08/28/2006 08:03 pm
Post by: DaveS on 08/28/2006 08:17 pm
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nathan.moeller - 28/8/2006 9:50 PMThree days. This is to ensure that Discovery is back on the ground before new year.
Makes sense. So how long is Discovery's window for 116 (starting December 14)?
Edit:
Do a search on "Year End Roll Over" or "YERO".
Post by: zerm on 08/28/2006 08:24 pm
Post by: rdale on 08/28/2006 09:19 pm
By 10am.
http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=4056&start=16
Post by: Austin on 08/28/2006 10:13 pm
Nothing anyone can do about the elements.
Post by: punkboi on 08/28/2006 10:15 pm
Post by: Austin on 08/28/2006 10:17 pm
Post by: Jim on 08/28/2006 11:02 pm
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Austin - 28/8/2006 6:00 PM
Regardless of whether or not a rollback is necessary (which appears very likely), I really think that the folks in the OPF should be commended. Keep in mind that Atlantis hasn't flow since 92', and there was some concern about them being rusty. Yet all the way down to T-11 there were no major technical issues being worked. Yes, there were still major countdown milestones to pass, but they had apparently provided a very clean bird.
Nothing anyone can do about the elements.
The same people process all the orbiters. Why would the work on Atlantis be different than Discovery? Same people did the same work on both.
Post by: Austin on 08/28/2006 11:14 pm
Post by: Jim on 08/28/2006 11:31 pm
Post by: Austin on 08/28/2006 11:41 pm
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Jim - 28/8/2006 4:18 PM
Why would they be rusty?
Jim -- I wasn't expressing my feelings here. In the lead up to launch day I had heard several members of the media make comments that this might be a concern, but as I said in the post, I think they should be commended for their work in preparing Atlantis.
Quote
And that is the way they are suppose to do their jobs, a clean bird
I couldn't agree more!
Post by: rdale on 08/28/2006 11:42 pm
Post by: nathan.moeller on 08/29/2006 12:10 am
Post by: Jim on 08/29/2006 12:31 am
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nathan.moeller - 28/8/2006 7:57 PM
I definitely agree that the Atlantis-exclusive folks should be commended. T.
there is no such a thing as Atlantis-exclusive workers
Post by: nathan.moeller on 08/29/2006 01:18 am
Post by: Jim on 08/29/2006 01:59 am
Post by: shuttlefan on 08/29/2006 02:21 am
Post by: astrobrian on 08/29/2006 02:30 am
Post by: shuttlefan on 08/29/2006 02:33 am
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astrobrian - 28/8/2006 9:17 PM
If Iam correct in what I recall from yesterdays briefing, it is the last thing before rollback so I would venture to say within an hour would be a good guess. 9am?
You mean within an hour from now, or an hour before rollback starts?
Post by: rdale on 08/29/2006 02:35 am