I'm positive there will be a dual RSS retraction, whether it's needed or not. This is the last time two shuttles will be on the pad at the same time, so NASA will treat us. Somehow.
I'm sorry but there won't be any more opportunities. In order to make the current launch dates, the RSS is needed for servicing and vehicle access. For example, they can't start STS-400 hyper loading preps unless the RSS is in the MATE position. And that is a critical activity. So no more RSS retracts, even for the sake of PR. The only times we're going to see RSS retracts, is when the procedures require it(launch, rollbacks etc).Atlantis on the other hand needs the 39A RSS to support payload ops which currently run until just days before the launch
Why is 39B's RSS retracted on Saturday between 07:00 and 09:00 (I assume 39A will be for payload)?Will they close 39B at all following roll-out?
The shuttle status at:http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/main/index.htmlmentions a Flight Readiness Review on Oct. 2 and 3. Is this the program FRR or is the agency FRR? If this is not the program FRR when is the program FRR?
Quote from: glanmor05 on 09/19/2008 07:24 amWhy is 39B's RSS retracted on Saturday between 07:00 and 09:00 (I assume 39A will be for payload)?Will they close 39B at all following roll-out?Already noted on Wednesday, just a few pages back -- they are doing an APU hot fire before extending the RSS on the STS-400 vehicle at Pad B. The times likely indicate the short period between when the Pad A RSS is retracted for the payload and the when the Pad B RSS is extended after the APU hot fire.
I think PAO deserves thanks for doing this; by and large this is programming that only Shuttle fans would watch.
Should be some good shots later, as there's a helicopter going overhead.
Where is the payload at?
Quote from: glanmor05 on 09/20/2008 02:33 pmWhere is the payload at?Doesn't go to the pad until about 6pm local.