NA_-TM 107561

KSC-KHR 17

MARCH 1993

Chronology of KSC and

KSC Related Events for

1992

(NASA-TM-I07561) CHRONOLOGY OF

AND KSC RELATED EVENTS FOR 1992

Annual Report (NASA) 283 p

KSC N93-27285

Unclas

G3/99 0164770

k...,, National Aeronautics and

Space Administration

John F. Kennedy Space Center

KSC FORM 16-12 (REV. 7/02)
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CHRONOLOGY OF KSC

AND KSC RELATED EVENTS

FOR 1992

BY KEN NAIL, JR.

KSC LIBRARY ARCHIVIST
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FOREWORD

This 1992 Chronology is published to fulfill the requirements of KMI 2700.1 (as

revised) to describe and document KSC's role in NASA's progress. Materials for

this Chronology were selected from a number of published sources. The

document records KSC events of interest to historians and other researchers.

Arrangement is by date of occurrence, though the source cited may be dated one

or more days after the event.

-...j Materials were researched and prepared for publication by Historian-Archivist Ken

Nail, Jr. (EG&G FLORIDA, Inc.). The 1992 Chronology includes an index

beginning on page 257. For the added convenience of researchers, each entry

has been headlined. Comment on the Chronology should be directed to the John

F. Kennedy Space Center, LIBRARY-E, Kennedy Space Center, Florida, 32899.

Walter L, Covin_o_l

Center Services
VV
TABLE OF CONTENTS

JANUARY .................................................. 1

FEBRUARY ................................................ 24

MARCH .................................................. 45

APRIL ................................................... 65

MAY ..................................................... 83

JUNE ................................................... 103

JULY ................................................... 128

AUGUST ................................................ 154

SEPTEMBER ............................................. 177

OCTOBER ............................................... 200

NOVEMBER .............................................. 224

DECEMBER .............................................. 243

INDEX .................................................. 257
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JANUARY

Janumy 1: CRIPPEN BECOMES DIRECTOR TODAY

Robert L Cdppen, 54, becomes Kennedy Space Center's fifth director today; he was

preceded by Dr. Kurt I-!. Debus, Lee Scherer, Richard G. Smith and Forrest S. McCastney.

KSC Launch Director Robmt B. Sieck said, "Cdp understands the work environment down

here, the priorities and the critical areas because he was here for years [1986-1989].

That knowledge I think he will apply to his management style as he becomes shepherd

of all of this." Cdppen joined NASA as an astronaut in 1969 and flew as pilot in April 1981

on Columbia's first flight; later he commanded three Shuttle missions. He is the first

former astronaut to become a NASA field center director;,Cdppen is no longer on active

flight status.- Norman Parrnat, Chairman of NASA's Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel,

said, 'I like Bob Cdppen very much. I don't always agree with what he does, but that's

part of the game. He's his own man.' [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. IA, Jan. 1, 1992,

Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, pp. IOE & 9E, Dec. 29, 1991.]

Jaraumy 2: STS42: DISCOVERYU ATE

At Launch Complex 39A, hydraulic tests have been completed on Discovery's solid rocket

boosters (SRBs). Work in progress: post-holiday deconfiguration; preparations for

electrical power up; preparations for loading of hypergolic fuels next week; launch pad

validations; helium signature test preparations; power reactant and storage distribution

system T-O checks. Work scheduled: main engine frequency response test; helium

signature test; terminal countdown demonstration test (January 6-7}; crew arrival (January

5); night readiness review (January 9). The IntemaUonai Microgravtty Laboratory is in the

Orbiter payload bay and has been closed out for flight. The payload bay doors are not

scheduled to be opened priorto flight. [KSC SHUTTLE STATU_; REPORT, 10 a.m., Jan.

2. 1991.]

g PRO(_SSING UPDA't_: A_

Auxiliary Power Unit 2 has been removed from Atlantis in OPF Bay 2 and the removal of

APU 1 is underway. Other activities now in progress: heat shield removal for inspection;

resumption of SRB stacking operations in the VAB; continuation of closeouts of solid

rocket booster joints. Scheduled work: lower main landing gear and opening the

payload bay doors. Testing of NASA's Atmospheric Laboratory for Applications and

Sciences is complete and cioseouts have begun, rKSCSHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10

a.m., Jan. 2. 1991.]

g . OPt= HIGH BAY 1: ENDEAVOUR

Ku-band power amplifier tests and brake anti-skid tests have been completed on

Endeavour in OPF Bay 1. Work in progress: thermal protection system operations;

insulation of main propulsion system lines in the aft compartment; midbody cioseouts.

The INTELSAT rebooster pedgee kick motor is scheduled to arrive at the Astrotech

(Titusville, FL) facility for flight processing atthe end of January. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT, 10 _Lm., Jan. 2, 1991.]

---J 1
[] COLUMBIA'S ONGOING MODIFICATIONS

The Space Shuttle Columbia remained powered up through the holidays, allowing work

on the vehicle to continue. Structural inspections and tests in critical areas are part of

the modifications and refurbishments scheduled for this week. Columbia is targeted for

its ferry flight return to KSC around the end of January. Processing will then begin for its

next mission, STS-50, the first extended duration Orbiter mission scheduled to last 13

days, [KSC SHUTTLE STA'I"U8 REPORT. 10 a.m., Jan. 2, 1991.]

_lnualy _

n

The post-holiday deconfiguration of Discovery at Launch Complex 39A has been

completed along with SRB hydraulic tests and crew compartment vent door cycling and

checks. Work in progress: electrical power up; main engine frequency response test and

ball seal leak checks; preparations for loading of hypergolic fuels next week; launch pad

validations; helium signature test preparations; power reactant and storage distribution

system T-0 checks. Scheduled work: helium signature test; pre-launch propellant

servicing; TCDT, LRR, FRR and launch of STS 42 in the third week of January. [KSC

SHU'FFLE STATUS REPORTS. 10:00 a.m., Jan. 3, 1991, "Workers Back at KSC,' FLORIDA

TODAY, p. 3A, Jan. 3, 1992.]

A'n.ANTIS IN OPF HIGH BAY 2

Testing of NASA's Atmospheric Laboratow for Applications and Sciences is complete and

closeouts have begun in OPF High Bay 2. Atlantis' APU units 1 and 2 have been

removed; hydraulic operatlo_ have been completed and the Orbiter's lending gear have

been lowered. Work in progress: auxillaw power unit 3 leak and functional test;

preparations for removal of main engines next week; main engine heat shield removal;

preparations for lnsiallatlon of _ cell 1; SRB stacking _ in the Vehicle

Assembly Building; continuing doseouts of solid rocket booster joints in the VAB; water

spray boiler checkout and service and forward reaction control system checkout and

functional test. The payload bay doors are scheduled to be opened shortly. [KSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORTS, 10:00 a.m., Jan. 3, 1991 .]

n ENDEAVOUR IN OPF HIGH BAY 1

Endeavour's Ku-band power amplifier tests and brake anti-skid tests have been

completed in OR: High Bay 1. Work in progress: electrical power up; electrical

verifications; flash evaporator checks and water spray boiler servicing; main engine

controller tests; thermal protection system operations; insulation of main propulsion

system lines in Endeavour's att compartment;, midbody closeouts; main engine heat

shield seal leak tests. Scheduled work: Ku-band system checks and APU leak and

functional test. The INTELSAT rebooat perigee kick motor is scheduled to arrive at the

Astrotech (Titusville, FL) facility for flight processing at the end of January. rKSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORTS. 10:00 a.m., Jan. 3, 1991.]

rl COLUMBIA IN PALMDAI.JE,CA

The Space Shuttle Columbia remains powered up as structural inspections and tests in

critical areas continue. Managers will be meeting later next week to determine the

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delivery date of the vehicle back to KSC. Columbia is targeted for its ferry flight retum

near the end of this month. Once back at KSC, processing will then begin for its next

mission, STS 50, the first extended duration Orbiter mission scheduled to last 13 days.

[KSC SHU'I'r'LE STATUS REPORTS, 10:00 a.m., Jan. 3, 1991.]

[1 TCDT BEGINS TODAY

Discovery's STS 42 crew will arrive at Kennedy Space Center today to take part in the

two-day Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test which begins at 11 a.m. The crew

Includes Commander Ronald Qrabe, PilotStephen 8. Oswald, Mission Specialists Norman

E Thagard, David C. Himem and WJam F. Readdy and Payload Specialists Roberta L

Bo_dlar (Canadian Space Agency) and UIf Medoold (European Space Agency.) [Brown,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Jan. 5, 1992, Brown, FL,ORIpA TOI_AY, Jan. 6, 1992.]

Janumy 5: lge SHm'rLE LAUNCHPLANS

Target dates for hine 1992 shuttle launches have been announced:

Jan. 22

March 14

Apdl 9

June 3

July 2

Discovery

STS42

Endeavour

STS49

Columbia

8"m50

Atlantis

STS46

i

Seven astronauts on a seven-day mission

carrying a pressurized Spacelab module

configured as the International Microgravity

Laboratory

Seven astronauts on an eight-day mission

carrying Spaceiab hardware configured as

AT1.AS-01, a laboratory for studying the sun

and Earth's atmosphere.

8even astronauts on a seven-day mission, the

first voyage of NASA's newest Orbiter. Spacewalking astronauts will rescue a stranded

Inteisat 6 communications satellite.

Seven astronauts on a planned 13-day

mission, the first so-called Extended Duration

Orbiter mission, which would be the longest in

Shuttle program history. In the cargo bay will

again be a pressurized Spacelab module

configured as the United States Microgravity

L orat .

Seven astronauts on a seven-day mission

carrying the Italian Tethered Satellite System

experiment and EURECA, a European Space

Agency pallet of experiments that will be

deployed then retrieved six months later

during another Shuttle flight.
n

August12

Sept. 24

Oct. 15

Dec. 3

Endeavour

STS 47

Columbia

STS52

D ovary

STS53

Endeavour

STS54

Seven astronauts on a seven-day mission with

a Spacelab configured with experiments

sponsored by Japan. The mission will feature

Mark C. Lee and N. Jan Davis, the first married

astronaut couple to fly in space together.

Sk astronauts on a nine-day mission carrying

the Laser Geo_namics Satellite, a passive

spacecratt that will reflect laser beams shot

from Earth so eclentl=s, for e_rnple, can

measure movement in the i_u_t's crust

Five ammnau= on a four-day mission to

deploy a secret Defense Department satellite,

believed to be an advanced photo

reconnaissance spacecraft.

Five astronauts on a six-day mission to deploy

NASA's fifth Tracking and Data Relay Satellite.

CRIPPEN TO MAKE ROUNDS IN BI::IE_ARD

Incoming KSC Director Robeet L _ has a full round of meetings scheduled, starting

with an afternoon press conference tomorrow (January 6). Cdppen will also address the

space center's 20,000 employees on the 6th. Over the next three weeks, he will meet

with _ leaders throughout B_ County including the Flodda Space Business

Roundtable headed by former U. S. Rep. BII Nelsmt and Lyle Holoway of McDonnell

Douglas' Delta launch team. [,New KSC Director Begins His Rounds in Brevard,"

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 9E, Jan. 5, 1992; GUsch, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL, Jan. 7, 1992.]

g STS42 CREW AT Ksc

The crew of Dbcovery's _ 42 mission anlved at Kennedy Space Center today for a

two-day practice countdown. "We're really pleased to be here. NASA has a very

ambitious 1992 on its schedule, and we're just proud and excited to be the first ones up,"

said Commander Ronaid C:=rabe. "We're really anxious to get on with our launch," he

added. The crew includes: Pilot Stephen S. Oswald, Mission Specialists Norman E.

Thagard, David C. I-hlmem and William F. Readdy and Payload Specialists Roberta L

Bondar and Ulf Medoold. The practice countdown begins January 6 and concludes with

a mock launch on January 7. ['Astronauts Arrive at KSC," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Jan.

6, 1992, Brown, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 4A, Jan. 6, 1992; Halvomon, FLORIDA TODAY, Jan.

7, 1992.]

Jmlualy 6: s'rs ENG E'rEST DONE

Discovery's main engine flight readiness test for its upcoming STS 42 mission has been

completed at Launch Complex 39A. Work in progress: Terminal Countdown

Demonstration Test (TCDT); T minus zero is planned at 11 a.m. tomorrow with a

simulated main engine cutoff; STS-42 flight crew emergency egress training at the launch

pad; helium signature leak test of the three main engines and main propulsion system;

preparations to load hypergolic propellants on board the Orbiter for use by the in-flight

engines and thrusters; Launch Readiness Review. Scheduled work includes: STS 42

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crew wake up at 6 a.m. and crew departure from the 0 & C Building at 7:45 a.m. January

7; crew arrival at LC 39A at 8:15 a.m.; the crew will depart for Johnson Space Center after

the TCDT; loading hypergolic propellants into the Orbiter set to begin January 8 and

continue through January 10; the Flight Readiness Review is planned for January 9 and

launch remains targeted for the third week in January. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT,

10 a.m., Jan. 6, 1992.]

Work in progress on the Space Shuttle Atlantis include¢ electrical and mechanical

connection of fuel cells I and 2; functional testing of _ forward reaction control system;

inatallatlon of the Orbiter's brakes in preparation for itsSTS 45 flight; inspections of the

radiators; reinstallation of several reinforced carbon T-seals and panels On the leading

edges of the wings; the seals have successfully passed inspact|ons and are in good

condition; preparations to remove the three main engines; stacking of the right forward

assembly in the Vehicle Assembly Building. fKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m.,

Jan. 6, 1992.]

ENDEAVOUR IN OpF_M,Y 1

In Orbiter Processing Bay 1, Endeavour continues to be prepared for its debut flight in

April. Work in progress: inspections of the liquid hydrogen 17-inch disconnect umbilical;

leak and functional tests of the flash evaporator system; cloeeouts of the midbody;

Installation of tiles around the nose landing gear;, preparations to service the Orbiter with

potable water;,thermal protection system operations. Scheduled work Includes systems

testing of the microwave scanning beam landing system and stnJctural leak checks of the

drag chute pod. fKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.rn., Jan. 6, 1992.]

ICSC:. JOB CtJ_ _

By 1996 there will be 5,000 fewer jobs at Kennedy Space Center, according to NASA

officials. That represents a 20 percent cut in the 25,000-member workforce. The drop

in KSC employment will come in one of three ways: shifts of contract employees from

Shuttle to Space Station; attrition; layoffs. New KSC Director Robert L Cdppen, who held

his first press conference as director, said, 'Rve-thousand (lobs) would be significant to

be done by attrition across the program. ! believe there will have to be reductions to

accomplish those kinds of numbers.' NASA plans to cut its employment by 3 percent a

year for the next five years. "It's not going to occur all at once," said Crippen. "We're

trying to do it in 3 percent bites. We do want it to occur gradually." The employment shift

is part of NASA's plan to shift its focus from the Shuttle Program to new projects which

the agency has in store for the next century. 'Why are we doing it?'. Crippen asked

rhetorically. 'The why is that it is NASA's ambition - and rightfully so - to be doing other

exciting things and exploring new horizons. That includes building space station

Freedom; it includes going back to the moon and erecting a lunar base, and then

sending people on to Mars. All of those things cost money, and there aren't going to be

many new bucks for NASA to work with,' he said. "Consequently, we need to be able to

reduce programs llke Shuttle - but do it safely - so that we can do these other exciting

things." Crippen also referred in his press conference to NASA's plan to fly as many as

nine Shuttle missions this year. 'It's a real challenge to be able to talk about the flight

rate that we're talking about and do it safely, yet stgl be able to do it more economically."

[Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, pp. 1A-2A, Jan. 7, 1992, "NASAto Cut 5,000 Space Shuttle

Jobs in 5 Years,' THE NEW YORK TIMES, p. A12, Jan.8, 1992.]

5
Janua_7: TCDT: HILMEFIS FOURTH

"This Is the fourth time around for me, but it never gets old," said astronaut David C.

Hiimem about his participation in the pre-launch Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test

for STS 42. 'Every time I come out here for one of these countdown demonstration tests,

the old adrenalin gets flowing and the butterflies start to chum around in the stomach.'

HUmers and his crew mates have been training for this mission for two years. "We're

looking forward to coming back here in two weeks and doing it," he said. The other

members of the STS 42 crew are: Commander Ronald Grebe, Pilot Stephen S. Oswald,

Mission Specialists Wlam R Readdy and Norman I= Thaga¢l and Payload Speciaiists

L Bondar and Ulf Mmtxz_ [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Jan. 7, 1991 .]

g sm4r= LRRCOMPLL=n 

The Launch Readiness Review for Discovery's STS 42 mission has been completed; there

are no significant issues or concerns. Kennedy Space Center spokesman M'_h Vames

reported, 'Everything went as planned in today's countdown test for the upcoming launch

of Discovery. The managers feel we have a healthy vehicle and are on schedule for a

launch later this month." Discovery's helium signature leak test and the STS 42 flight

crew training at Launch Complex 39A have also been completed. Launch Complex 39A

will be closed late today to nonessential personnel during the loading of toxic propellants.

Work in progress: Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) concluded today on

schedule at 11 a.m. with a simulated main engine cutoff and preparations are underway

to load hypergollc propellants on board the Orbiter for use by the in-flight engines and

thrusters. Scheduled work: STS 42 flight crew departure this afternoon; loading

hypergoUc propellants beginning today and through Friday (January 10); the Flight

Readiness Review for 8"1"S42 begins January 9. rKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10

a.m., Jan. 7, 1992, Banke, FLORIDA "_I_AY,, p. 4A, Jan. 8, 1992.]

n ATLANnS' HEAT _ REMOVED

In OPF Bay 2, technicians have removed the heat shields from around the three main

engines of Atlantis. Work in progress: leak checks of helium regulators in the midbody

of the Orbiter;,tests of the Ku-band antenna; electrical and mechanical connection of fuel

cells I and 2; functional testing of the forward reaction control system; Installation of the

brakes; inspections of the radiators; relnstallation of several reinforced carbon T-seals and

panels on the leading edges of the wings - the seals were inspected and are in good

condition; disconnecting the three main engines from the orbiter. [KSC SHUI-rLE

STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Jan. 7, 1992.]

Janualy 9: FRROPENS

Kennedy Space Center hosts the STS 42 Right Readiness Review today at which

government and Shuttle contractor managers will set an official launch date for

Discovery's mission; current plans target January 22 for liftoff. Officials noted that the

schedule still has three days of padding in it so the launch date might be moved up. At

Launch Complex 39A, workers continue loading toxic propellants into onboard storage

tanks; this operation is expected to be concluded January 10. At LC 39A, workers

repaired tiled on the Orbiter's underside. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Jan. 9, 1992,

KSC SHUTI'LE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., Jan. 9, 1992, Campion & Malone, Note to

Editors: NASA ManaQers Set Launch Date for STS 42 Jan. 9, 1992.]

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g ATLANTIS PROCE.SSING REPORT

All three main engines have been removed from Atl_tis_in OPF Bay 2. In addition, the

Orbiter's Nose landing gear wheels have been mounted and the Main Propulsion System

4-inch quick disconnect line has been inspected and found to be in good shape. Work

in progress: voltage tests of the fuel cells; tests of the Ku-band antenna; reinstallation of

T-seals on the leading edges of the wings; main landing gear wheels are being mounted.

[K$C SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., Jan. 9, 1992.]

n ENDEAVOUR HATCH _ REPLACED

In OPF Bay 1, technicians have replaced and completed an initial fit check an air lock

hatch seal on Endeavour. Work in progress: midbody closeouts; thermal protection

system operations and leak checks of the environmental control life support system.

[KSC SHUTI'LE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., Jan. 9, 1992.]

Janualy 10: IML IN DISCOVERY PAYLOAD BAY

The International Microgravity Laboratory is in Discovery's payload bay and has been

closed out for flight and the bay doors are not scheduled to be opened prior to flight.

Some middeck experiments are being prepared for installation aboard the vehicle just

prior to flight. Work in progress: loading hyperbolic fuels on Orbiter and solid rocket

boosters and preparations for ordnance operations next week. Work scheduled: troubleshooting of electrical connections between Orbiter avionics bay and helium isolation valve

on engine number 3; ordnance installation January 13. [KS(_ SHLrI'rLE STATUS

REPORT. 10 a.m., Jan. 10, 1992.]

n ATLANTB IN OPF BAY 2

Testing of NASA's Atmospharic Laboratory for Applications and Sciences is complete and

cloeeouts have begun in preparation for Atlantis' _ 44 mission; voltage tests on fuel

cells have been complete d, Work in progress: preparations for removal of helium tank

next week; water spray boiler checkout ,sendce, leak and functional tests; preparations

for Installation of main engine; auxiliary power unit hot lube oil flush preparations; solid

rocket booster stacking operations in the Vehicle Assembly Building and continuing

closeouts of SRB joints in VAB. Work scheduled: installation of main engines and

removal and replacement of helium tank. [K_,C SHLrl"rl.E STATU=$ REPORT, 10 elm.,

Jan. 10, 1992.]

I] , INT_ T SCHEDULED TO ARRIVE

-. Endeavour's main payload for its maiden STS 49 miselon - the INTELSAT reboost pedgee

kick motor : is scheduled to _ at the Astrotech (Tltusville, FL) facility for flight

processing at the end of this month. The Orbiter has had its gaseous oxygen flow control

valve installed. Work in progress: electdcai verifications; flash evaporator checks and

. water spray boiler servicing; fuel cell checks; thermal protection system operations;

_i. Insulation of............ main propulsion system lines in aft compartment; midbody closeouts and

i ibiank_ in_ali_t[o=n,i-eft_ar_ciextemai tank door checks and inspections. [KSC SHUTTLE

STATUS REPORT, i0 a.m., Jan. 10, 1992.]

7
g COL,UMBIA UPDATI_

The Space Shuttle Columbia remains powered up as structural inspections and tests in

critical areas continue. Managers will be meeting today to determine the delivery date

of the vehicle back to KSC. Columbia is targeted for its ferry flight return near the end

of the month or early next month. Once back at KSC, processing will then begin for its

next mission, STS 50, the first extended duration Orbiter mission scheduled to last 13

days. [KSC SHUTrl_E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Jan. 10, 1992.]

I1 SAFETY AND SHUTTLE LAYOFFS

U. S. Rep. Jim Bacchus (D-Orlando, FL) wants Congress to investigate the impact of

NASA's planned layoffs on Shuttle safety. He said, "We must not permit pressure for

cost-cutting or the desire for Increased efficiency to undermine our commitment to safety

as our paramount pdodty. I have quite a few questions, and I intend to ask them.

However NASA restructures or consolidates Shuttle activities, it must not be done in a

way that undermlnes our ability to fly safely. My Impression Is that the Shuttle processing

activities slnce Challenger have worked very well. And In restructuring or consolidating

I don't want to break up a team that has been working very well.' New KSC Director

Robert L Crippen, speaking to the space center workforce January 6, said that he has

made flight safety the most important issue of his tenure. 'There have been some

Insinuations that my arrival here at KSC was going to put a different focus on safety,'

Cdppen said..well...read my lips. Safety is our No. 1 concem and it will remain so."

[Halvorson, FLORIDA TOI_AY, p. 1A, Jan. 11, 1992.]

11 AMB/_qSADOR TO LEAVE lCSC

The Ambassador, a full-scale replica of a Space Shuttle Orbiter, will soon depart Kennedy

Space Car_er after being toured by nearly 2 million visitors during its year-long stay at

KSC's Spaceport USA. The highly popular, free exhibit is scheduled to remain on display

at Spaceport USA through January 19. Ambassador'_ ownem Irvln and Kenneth Reid

Productior_ Inc., have plans to send the high-fidelity replica Orbiter overseas. Under a

lease agreement between the owners and TW Racreetional Services, Inc., operators of

Spaceport USA for NASA, the Ambassador arrived in December 1990 for an expected

stay of four months. The lease was extended until this mont due to a change in the

owner's plans. 'This has been a super exhibit," said Ed I-lardsoR Chief of KSC's Visitor

Center Office..we're delighted so many people have had the opportunity to se what a

Shuttle Orbiter really looks-like, both outside and in. We hope those who haven't had a

chance to see it will have an opportunity before it leaves.' Due to the popularity of

Ambassador, NASA and TWRS are developing plans for a permanent replica Space

Shuttle Orbiter. I'NAS/VKSC NEWS RELF_SE NO, 3-9_.. Jan. 10, 1992, Hall, FLORIDA

TODAY. p. 1B, Jan. 11, 1992.] Kennedy Space Center Spaceport USA News ReleasA

NT05 95. Jan. 10, 1992; Reitz, FLORIDA TOI_AY, p. 2B, Jan. 20, 1992.]

Jantmy 12: M 3R VALVEPFK)BLEM:Dm,(X)V 

'We don't have any reason to be pessimistic yet,' said KSC Bruce B_ regarding

test which last week revealed a valve that regulates the flow of helium to main engine No.

3 was not working as it should. The problem has not repeated during subsequent tests

and workers do not understand why the valve failed to work properly the first time.

Officials have determined that the valve is not a risk to spaceflight because helium can

be delivered to the main engines in a number of ways. More tests will be conducted on

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January 13; routine preparations continue with the next major task being the completion

of ordnance install=ion. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Jan. 13, 1992, Banke, FLORIDA

p. 3A, Jan. 13, 1992.]

January 13: ORDNANCE INSTALLED: DISCOVERY

After Shuttle managers reviewed tests on a potentially faulty helium valve, Discovery was

cleared for launch on its STS 45 mission January 22. 'We retested it and everything

checks out. It's go for flight; we're on schedule,' said Kennedy Space Center

spokeswoman Lisa Malone. Shuttle managers are treating the problem with the valve as

an unexplained anomaly and the Orbiter will fly as it Is. There Is no concem about the

safety of the launch because the valve is part of a redundant system that provides helium

to the engines. The crew is expected to arrive at KSC at 9:00 a.m. on January 19; the

countdown to launch begins at 1:00 p.m., said Malone.

g

Installation of ordnance devices on Discovery have been completed at Launch Complex

39A; successful replacement and retest of wiring for a valve between the helium supply

tank and the No. 3 main engine in preparation for STS 42 have been completed as well.

Work in progress: preparations to install the two contingency space suits into the

Orbiter's aldock; launch countdown preparations; close outs of the avionics bays in the

aft compartment; cleaning of the aft compartment; final preparations of the auxiliary power

units and hydraulics system; initi_ close outs of the three main engines. Work

scheduled: purges of the external tank January 14; close out the aft engine compartment

for flight January 17; crew arrival January 19; launch countdown begins January 19 with

launch at 8:53 a.m. EST, January 22, [KSC SHUTTLE _r'ATUS REPORT. 11 A. M., Jan.

13, 1992, Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Jan. 14, 1992.]

A_: S'P3 45 _ ACTIVITIES

The three main engines of Atlantis have been installed as have been the waste

containment system and the main landing gear tires. Atlantis is being readied for itsSTS

45 mission in OPF Bay 2; the following activities are on the current processing schedule:

installation of auxiliary power units 1 and 2; functional testing of the orbital maneuvering

system and reaction control system; leak and functional tests of the water spray boilers

and of the waste containment system; calibration of the inertial measurement system.

[KSC SHU3"rl._ STATUS REPORT, 11 A. M., Jan. 13, 1992.]

I] ENDEAVOUR: LEAK CHECKB OF WATER

in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 1, Endeavour has had its potable water system checked

for leaks, Work in progress includes: full testing of the extemal tank latches; functional

test of the crew module side hatch; leak tests of the crew cabin, environmental control

life support system and flash evaporator system; cioseouts of the midbody; installation

of tiles; thermal protection system operations. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11 A.

M., Jan. 13, 1992.]

I1 COLUMBIA MODIFICATIOI_ UPDATE

_ .: .... _ +

" " Power up work this week on Columbia includes tests of the auxiliary power units and the

...... environmental contr_ life system. Work is continuing to install the regenerable carbon

dioxide removal system in the middeck. Modifications to install the drag chutes are

continuing. The extended duration orbiter pallet is scheduled to arrive at KSC today by

_._J 9
C5 aircraft; the pallet will be transferred to the VAB high bay 2 for storage and checkout.

Columbia is targeted to return to Florida on February 8; there will be a two-day ferry flight

from California to Florida beginning February 7. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11

A. M., Jan. 13, 1992.]

Janumy 14: DELAY FOR ENDEAVOUR?.

NASA may have to delay the maiden launch of Endeavour, the newest Space Shuttle.

•We're reviewing our schedules dght now and how much work we have left in the hangar

and how much time we need to complete that work," said _ Malone, a Kennedy Space

Center spokespersoR Workers put in voluntary overtime to help overcome as much as

a six-week prooasaing delay for the Orbiter. ffEndeavour were on time, it would be rolled

over to the VAB on February 14 and rolled out to Launch Complex 39B on February 21.

Managers will meet January 15 to determine new target dates for these processing

milestones. The NASA headquarters launch schedule shows a May launch date for

Endeavour. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Jan. 15, 1992, Banke, FLORIDA TODAY_ p.

1A, Jan. 16, 1992.]

January 16: ORDNANCEoPEnA'nONSCOMPt.E'rED

Final ordnance operations have been completed on Discovery prior to the launch of its

STS 42 mission on January 22. Work in progress: pressurization of the hypergolic

propallant tanks for flight; launch countdown preparations; preparation of the avionics

bays in the air compartment for flight; cleaning of the aft compartment; final preparations

of the auxillaw power units and hydraurms system;, closeouts of the three main engines.

Scheduled work includes: removal of service platforms from the launch platform; close

out of the aft engine compartment for flight tomorrow;, STS 42 flight crew arrives January

19 at 9:00 a.m.; launch countdown begins at 1:00 p.m. on the 19th and launch is targeted

for 8:53 a.m. Januaw 22. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS RI_RT, 11 elm., Jan. 16, 1992.]

n ATLANnSSTS mocEss ) Actwmi 

Technicians working in OPF Bay 2 have finished filling and bleeding the hydraulic system

of the Space Shuttle Atlantis. Activities in progress: testing of the nose wheel steering

system and the communications system; functional testing of the orbital maneuvering

system, reaction control system and the waste containment system; checkout of two

newly installed helium tanks for the main propulsion system; configuring of the payload

bay for the STS 45 payloads and leak and functional tests of the water spray boilers. The

ATLAS payload is scheduled to arrive at the Orbiter Processing Facility on January 22.

I'KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11 elm., Jan. 16, 1992.] ...............

I], ENOEAVOUR'SPt X 'SS,, ActwmEs

_ the .... activities underway tn OPF Bay 1 in the processing of the Space Shuttle

Endeavour are the following: removal of the main landing gear roll around tires end

installation of flight tires; tests of the main propulsion system's gaseous oxygen system;

sampling and adjusting of the water loops; structural leak checks of the drag chute pod;

leak tests of the crew cabin; leak checks of the environmental control life support system;

leak and functional tests of the flash evaporator system; closeouts of the midbocly;

installation of tiles; thermal protection system operations; fit checks of the Orbiter's waste

containment system, rKSC SHU'R'LE STATUS REPORT, 11 elm., Jan. 16, 1992.]

V

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!1 COLUMBIA'S MODIRCATION PROGRESS

Final preparations arebeing made on Columbia to finish the modification work planned

at Palmdale, CA. Technicians are completing work on wire trays in the midbody of the

Orbiter. Closure of the payload bay doors is scheduled this weekend; final tests of the

hydraulic system are planned. Work is continuing to install the regenerable carbon

dioxide removal system in the Orbiter;, modifications to Install the drag chute are

continuing. The mock orbital maneuvering system pods are scheduled to be installed late

next week and the tail cone is targeted for installation late this month or early next month.

The chin panel and the forward reaction control system simulator have been Installed

already. The extended duration Orbiter pallet is being stored in the VAB high bay 2

where it will be checked out for Installation in Columbia's payload bay. The retum of

Columbia is planned for February 8 at the end of a two-day ferry flight from Caiifomia.

[KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., Jan. 16, 1992.]

Janualy 17: P ULROAD CONmACr AW,.a oSo

Railroad Track Construction Corp. (SL Augustine, FL) has been awarded a three-year,

$2,889,826 contract to maintain the 40-mile railroad system at Kennedy Space Center.

The contract is the third the firm has received for providing this service to the space

center. The first contract was awarded in 1983; under the terms of the contract, the

company maintains the tracks, right-of-way, grade crossings and crossing signals. The

12-mile main line of the KSC railway is primarily used to transport Space Shuttle solid

rocket booster (SRB) segments that arrive from Utah. This part of the railway runs from

a point where it meets the Florida East Coast Railway two miles north of T'dusvilleto a

distn'bution and handling facility just north of the Vehicle Assembly Building. From the

distribution center, the segments are transported by truck to the VAB. Once in the VAB,

four segments are assembled to make up one of the Shuttle's two SRBs. After launch,

the spent boosters are recovered, refurbished and sent back as Individual segments to

Utah. The rest of the railroad includes track west and south of the VAB to the Locomotive

Maintenance Facility, as well as northeast to Space Shuttle Launch Pads 39A and 39B.

From the pads, the line runs south along the Atlantic coastline to Cape Canaveral Air

Force Station (CCAFS). The KSC railroad is also used to transport other fuels for the

Shuttle and additional space hardware for both NASA and CCAFS, the site of commercial

unmanned rocket launches. TNASA/KSC NEWS RELEASE NO. 7-92, Jan. 17, 1992.]

17," TANKS READIED FOR FUGi-ff

'We're stillright on schedule,' said Kennedy Space Center spokeswoman Lisa Malone of

the preflight preparations being made at Launch Complex 39A. KSC's Payload Manager

Mi(e I_ranan said, "We're looking good and we'll be ready to go next week.' Discovery's

hypergoii¢ propellant tanks have been pressurized for its STS 42 mission which begins

at 8:53 a.m., January 22. Work in progress: launch countdown preparations; removal

of thruster covers from the reaction control system; stowing flight crew equipment in the

middeck; tests of the leak detectors and hazardous gas system at the launch pad;

washing down the mobile launcher platform and flame trench; preparation of the avionics

bays in the aft compartment for flight; cleaning of the aft compartment and installation of

its flight doors. The removal of service platforms from the launch platform is scheduled.

[KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Jan. 17, 1992, Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p.

4A, Jan. 17, 1992.]
n sirs 4,5 .PROCESSING: ATLANTIS

Atlantis' STS 45 ATLAS payload is scheduled to arrive at Kennedy Space Center's OPF

Bay 2 on January 24, two days after the planned launch of Discovery on its STS 42

mission. STS 45 work in progress: leak checks of the main propulsion system;

installation of an improved auxiliary power unit in the No. 2 slot; inspections of the

windows in the crew cabin; testing of the nose wheel steering system and

communications system; functional testing of the orbital maneuvering system, reaction

control system and the waste containment system; configuring the payload bay for the

ATLAS payload. [KSC SHUI"R.E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.nt, Jan. 17, 1992.]

g ENDEAVOUR: WORK IN _

Processing activities Include: Installation ofthe Orbiter's flighttires; preparation to service

the ammonia boiler;,tests of the flight control aerosurfaces and the main propulsion

gaseous oxygen system; sampling and adjusting of the water loops; structural leak

checks of the drag chute pod; leak tests of the crew cabin; leak checks of the

environmental control life support system; leak and functional tests of the flash evaporator

system; closeouts of the midbody; installation of tiles; thermal protection system

operations and fit checks of the Orbiter's waste containment system. [KSC SHU'I-I'I.E

STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Jan. 17, 1992.]

_19: APOLLO 11 SOCIETY_ TOWER PLANS

The Apollo 11 Society continues to plan and hope for the rescue and preservation of the

launch tower from which the Apollo 11 moon landing mission was begun. Today the

tower is located in KSC's Industrial Are¢ it has been cut into sections and has been

rusting away since 1984. The Apollo 11 Society wants the tower saved in its entirety and

displayed upright and they want it declared a national monument: "The mission of Apollo

11 was to put a human being on the moon, an actual act of stepping onto another

heavenly body in the cold reaches of space, an act that will be perceived by future

generations as a stepping stone to the universe,'according to Society President Bill

Biving_ The pdmary stumbling block to the restoration of the tower is the price tag,

estimated to be $20 million or more. [Fiodni, FLORIDA TOI_.AY, pp. 1A-2A, Jan. 19, 1992;

'Agencies' Mission: Save the Tower,' FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Jan. 19, 1992; 'Launch

Towers,' FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Jan. 19, 1992.]

g CREW OF STS 42 ARRIVES TOOAY

The seven-member crew of Discovery's STS 42 mission is expected to ardve at Kennedy

Space Center today about 9 a.m. EST. The crew includes: Commander Ronald Grabe;

Pilot Sllmphen 8. Oswald; Mission Specialists Dmdd C. Hirrmm, Wiam F. Readdy and

Norman E. "ntegmd; Payload Specialists l:lobmla L BocKIm (Canada) and UIf Mecbofd

(European Space Agency.) [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Jan. 19, 1992.]

_20: LAUNCH MINUS TWO IDAY_

Launch of the Space Shuttle Discovery on its STS 42 mission remains scheduled for the

opening of the two-hour and 48 minute window, or at 8:53 a.m. EST Wednesday, January

22. A major task of the countdown today is loading liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen

into the Orbiter's onboard fuel cell storage tanks. Launch Complex 39A is cleared of all

non-essential personnel for this operation which begins at 11 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m.
Engineersaretroubleshootinga recordercalledmodularauxiliarydatasystem(MADS)

locatedin the Orbiter'smiddeck. MADS records information such as temperatures,

vibrations, pressures of various systems on the Orbiter such as the main engines, the

orbital maneuvering system and reaction control system. Data recorded by MADS is

reviewed after the mission. MADS supplements existing Orbiter instrumentation. The

exact problem with MADS has not yet been determined. Engineers plan to remove and

replace the recorder; changeout and retest operations are expected to be completed by

noon on Tuesday. The seven-member flight crew arrived yesterday (January 19) to begin

final preparations for the launch. Today, the crew wig have a bdef medical exam, perform

m _._::ks of tl._ir _:lUi_ _n:l rmimv_l_ i_L OornrnanderFIonaid Grab_ and

Pilot Stephen S. Oswald are scheduled to practice approaches to the SLF in the Shuttle

Training Aircraft and in their T-38 jets today. The STS 42 launch countdown began at 1

p.m. yesterday as scheduled; the count entered the first of several built-in holds at 5 a.m.

This hold is four hours long. Ovemight, firing room 3 console engineers prepared

Discovery's three main engines for flight, including power up of the controllers, purges

of the engines and functional checks. The rotating service structure is scheduled to be

moved away from the launch vehicle at 1 p.m. Tuesday (January 21); loading of a haft a

million gallons of liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen propellants into the external tank is

scheduled to begin at 12:33 a.m. Wednesday (January 22). Discovery will be carrying

the International Microgravity Laboratory into space for a seven-day flight with the landing

planned at Edwards Air Force Base, CA, More than 200 scientists from 16 countries are

participating in the IML Investigations. Tomorrow (January 21), beginning at 9 a.m.,

technicians will load flight expedmen_ tn nine middeck lockers in the Orbiter's middeck.

Because of their nature, these expedmants require late stowage into the vehicle. Weather

forecasts for January 22's launch indicate there will be an 80 percent chance of having

acceptable weather at the opening of the window and a 90 percent chance for good

weather dudng the entire launch window. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 'Launch

Minus Two Days', 9.30 a.m.,. Jan. 20, 1992, Lean/, THE NEW YORK TIMES, p. A7, Jan.

21, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, Jan. 20, 1992.]

Janumy 21: LAUNCH MINUS ONE DAY

Launch of Discovery's STS 42 mission remains scheduled for the opening of the two-hour

and 48 minute window, or at 8:53 =int. EST Wednesday, January 22. Ovemight,

engineers replaced a modular auxillaty data system [see story above]. Members of the

flight crew were bdefed this morning on the status of the vehicle, payload and weather.

Red team members - Mission Specialists WiBam F. Reick_, David C. Hiimem (who

replaced the late Manley "Sonny"Carter who was killed in a plane accident last year) and

Payload Specialist UIf Mertx)ld - are scheduled to be awakened at 8 p.m. tonight in

preparation for the launch. Blue team members - Commander RmmkJ Grabe, Pilot

Stephen S. Oswakl, Mission Specialist Norman E. Thagard and Payload Specialist

I:lobe¢=L Bondar - are scheduled to be awakenedat about 4 a.m. EST tomorrow for

the flight. Yesterday, liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen reactants were successfully

loaded into the Orbiter's onboard fuel cell storage tanks. The Orbiter's communications

systems have been activated. The countdown for STS 42 began at 1 p.m. Sunday as

scheduled. The count entered another built-in hold at 5 a.m. today which extends until

6:33 p.m. tonight. The rotating service structure will be moved away from the launch

vehicle at noon today. Loading of half a million gallons of liquid oxygen and liquid

hydrogen propellants into the external tank will occur beginnlng at 12:33 a.m. Wednesday

(January 22). This morning, the Intemational Microgravity Laboratory in Discovery's

payload bay was powered down in preparation for launch. Shortly after launch, crew

members will activate the systems aboard IML Today, technicians will load dozens of
n

experiments in nine lockers in the Orbiter's middeck. Because of their nature, these

experiments require late stowage into the Orbiter. Forecasts for launch indicate there will

be agO percent chance of having acceptable weather at the open_gof the window and

a 95 percent chance for good weather during the entire launch window. The expected

temperature at launch time is 54 degrees. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 'Launch

Minus One Day,' 9:30 a.m., Jan. 21, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 10E, Jan. 19,

1992.]

RSK: MOST INTERNA'noNAI. MISSION EVER

It is the most international mission that we have ever undertaken," said NASA Space

Science Chief Lmmad A. Ftsk in a Kennedy Space Center press conference televised

over closed circuit television from the Press Site near the Vehicle Assembly Building.

Shuttle Program Director Leonard S. Niofmlson said, "We're really ready to go.' Weather

is forecast to be 95 percent favorable for launch tomorrow morning. [Banke, FLORIDA

TODAY.p.6A,Jan.22,1992.]

Jaraumy 22: S'P3 42 LAUNCHES 1 HOUR I,ATE

"We've had a flight every month and a half for well over three years," remarked Admiral

Richard I-L Truly following the successful launch of STS 42. "The achievement is flying

this many flights and to do it safely on a regular basis." Discovery's launch was the 20th

successful launch after the Challenger 51-L accident January 28, 1986. The STS 42 crew

Included: Commander Ronald Grabe, Pilot Stephen 8.. Oswald, Mission Specialists

Nomtan E. Tha0ard. Wllam F. Readily and David C. l-Bmem and Payload Specialists

I:lobem= L Bondar (_ and Uif IVledx_ (Germany). Problems delayed the launch

of Discovery on its _ 42 mission for an hour this morning; the Orbiter finally lifted off

at 9:52:33.0491 a.rn. EST and headed for an orbit 187 miles above the Earth. Late in the

countdown three problems were det_ed: sensors near the launch pad noted an

electrical charge in the atmosphere which was outside launch limits; a switch on one of

Discovenj's fuel cells was found to be faulty but mission managers decided there was no

danger to flight safety; the Orbiter's rear engine compartment and payload bay were

purged of high levels of gaseous oxygen. Preliminary reports Indicate the boosters look

very good. Thorough inspections will be conducted at Hangar AF at Cape Canaveral Air

Force Station. Both solid rocket boosters are estimated to arrive at Port Canaveral at 9

p.m. tonight. High sea state conditions make the towing operation slower. There are 30

knot winds and 10 foot waves. They willremain overnight in port and the ships will begin

the tow to Hangar AF at sunrise tomorrow. They impacted the Atlantic Ocean due east

of Jacksonville. Larger than normal crowds were on hand to view the launch; officials

estimated the spectators to number between 40,000 and 45,000 persons. Landing is

plarined on Wednesday, January 29, at Edwards Air Force Base (CA) at approximately

11:05 a.m. EST. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.nt, Jan. 23, 1992, Lean/, THE

NEW YORKTIM_S, p. A11, Jan. 23, 1992, Halvorson and Benke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A2A,jan. 22,1992.]

g X-15 _ JOINS SPACE MIRROR

Air Force Major Michael J. Adams, who was promoted to astronaut status posthumously,

was killed while flying the X-15 experimental aircraft on November 15, 1967. Adams' name

will be added to the Astronauts Memorial Foundation's Space Mirror along with that of

Astronaut Manley "Sonny=Carter, who was killed last year in a plane crash. AMF founder

and chairman Alan Helman said, 'AMF is proud to honor both of these courageous men

14

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by adding their names alongside the 14 other men and women who gave their lives in the

exploration of space." The names will be added in mid-February when workers replace

several panels that have cracked since the May 9 dedication of the national monument.

[Beecken, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1B, Jan. 23, 1992.]

g Busy FEBRUARY FOR KSC WORKERS

Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Launch Director Robert B. Siack said today that next

month will be "busy times for those that are still on the ground.' The agenda features:

the ratum to KSC of Discovery from its planned Edwards Air Force Base (CA) landing and

the return to flight status of the Space Shuttle Columbia which returns from extensive

modifications undergone the past few months in Paimdaie, CA. On February 16, Atlantis

will be rolled from its hangar to the Vehicle Assembly Building for mating with its external

tank and solid rocket boosters; rollout is targeted for February 24 followed a month later

(March 23) with launch. Endeavour, the newest Space Shuffle, will be rolled from OPF

Bay 1 to the VAB in late February; the Orbiter will have its malden launch in late April or

early May. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, Jan. 23, 1992.]

January 23: STS 45 PROCESSING; OPF BAY 2

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 2, technicians continue processing the Space Shuttle

Atlantis. Work in progress includes: leak checks of the main propulsion system;

servicing of the auxiliary power units with lube oil; installation of windows in the crew

cabin and of heat shields around the main engines; testing of the communications

system; functionai testing of the orbital maneuvering system and reaction control system;

cor_gudng the payload bay for the STS 45 payloads. Scheduled work: ATLAS payload

arrtval set for Jenuary 25 whereupon it will be Installed in the cargo bay; the Crew

Equipment Interface Test with the STS 45 flight crew on February 1. [KSC SHUTTLE

STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., Jan. 23, 1992.]

g ENDEAVOUR:PROCEF, INGSTATUS

In OPF Bay 1, technicians are working on the following Endeavour activities: installation

of the flight tires; preparations for a test of the flight control aerosurfaces; servicing of the

potable water system; installation of the waste containment system; stowing of the Kuband antenna; closure of the payload bay doors; tests of the main propulsion gaseous

oxygen system; leak tests of the crew cabin; leak checks of the environmental control life

support system; closeouts of the midbody; installation of tiles and thermal protection

aystam operations. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., Jan. 23, 1992.]

!1 COLUMBIA IN PALMDN.E, CA

The mock orbital maneuvering system pods are scheduled to be installed later this week.

The tail cone is scheduled to be installed late this month or early next month. The

extended duration Orbiter pallet is being stored in the VAB high bay 2 where it will be

checked out for installation in Columbia's payload bay. Columbia is targeted for its return

to Florida on February 8. There will be a two-day ferry flight from Califomia to Florida

beginning February 7. Columbia will be in OPF Bay 3 for STS 50 processing. [KSC

SHUTn.E STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., Jan. 23, 1992.]

15
Jarma_24: BUSH LAUNCHES ISY

President George Bush today kicked-off Intemation_ Space Year (ISY) - a year-long,

worldwide celebration of space cooperation and discovery. Participating in the White

House even were NASA Administrator Richard H. Truly, the crews of four of NASA's most

recent Space Shuttle missions, ISY dignitaries, and students and teachers from the Young

Astronaut Program. During ISY, 29 space agencies and ministries from around the world,

10 international organizations and the United Nations will celebrate the spirit of discovery

and will work together to promote a new era of global cooperation and to increase

knowledgeofplanetEarth. NASAhasbeendasignmedbyCongressas the lead U.S.

agency responsible for developing and monitoring 1BY events domestically and

internationally. Dr. I.mmacd A. F'mk NASA's Associate Administrator for Space Science

and Applications, is the lead representative for the U.S. ISY initiative. In 1985, the late

Senator Spark MaCmxtaga (D-Hawal_ proposed a 1992 Intemational Space Year to

commemorate the 500th anniversary of Columbus' discovering the New World and the

35th anniversary of the International Geophysical Year that ushered in the space age.

Congress adopted ISY in 1986 and the United Nations General Assembly endorsed it in

1989. Today it has developed into a worldwide space activity. The U. S. International

Space Year Association (US-ISY) was established with support from NASA to provide

information on ISY events. US-ISY publishes a list of activities that can be obtained by

writing US-ISY, 600 Maryland Avenue, SW, Suite 600, Washington, D.C., 20024, or by

phoning 202/863-1734. iNASNKSC NEWS RELEASE NO: 9_-12, Jan. 24, 1992.]

g BSCOVBW: SReSARm ATHANG AF

W

The right hand STS 42 solid rocket booster ardved at Hangar AF this morning where it

is being hoisted out of the water and into its stand. The Freedom Star and the left hand

booster am due at Hangar AF this morning. Workers will wash down the boosters and

safe them. today and will take the weekend off. A thorough inspection will be conducted

on Monday (January 27). The boosters will be disassembled and sent back to Thiokoi

(Brigham City, LIT) for refurbishment. The forward and aft skirts wigbe refurbished at KSC

by USBI. Discovery's landing at Edwards Air Force Base (CA) is scheduled for 11:06 a.m.

EST. |KSC SHUTI'LE STATUS RI_PORT, 11 a.m., Jan. 24, 1992.]

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I1 A11.AN11S:APUSSERV¢,i 

The auxiliary power units of Atlantis have been serviced with lube oil; three windows have

been installed in the crew cabin and functional tests of the orbital maneuvering system

and reaction control system have also been completed by technicians preparing the

Orbiter for its STS 45 mission in OPF Bay 2. Work in progress: leak checks of the main

propulsion system; installation of heat shields around the main engines; cleaning of the

payload bay; configuring of the payload bay for the _ 45 payloads. Work scheduled:

ATLAS payload is scheduled to arrive at the OPF January 25 for installation in the payload

bay; the Crew Equipment Interface Test with the STS 45 flight crew onboard is scheduled

for February 1. IXSC SHU'I'n.E STATUS REPORT. 11 a.m., Jan. 24, 1992.]

g ENDEAVOUR IN OPF BAY 1

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 1, Endeavour is being prepared for a test of its flight

control aerosurfacas; Endeavour's maiden launch will be the STS 49 mission scheduled

for late April or early May of this year. Other processing work in progress: installation of

the waste containment system; preparing the hydraulic system for the flight control test;
preparationsforthe structuraleaktests;stowingtheKu-bandantenna;closureof the

payload bay doors; tests of the main propulsion system; leak tests of the crew cabin; leak

checks of the environmental control life support system; closeouts of the midbody of

Endeavour; thermal protection system operations; test of the nose wheel steering system.

[KSC SHUT_E STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., Jan. 24, 1992.]

!1 COI,UMI_IA'_ FII_. RN PREPARATIONS

The mock orbital maneuvering system pods are scheduled to be installed later this week;

the tail cone is scheduled to be Installed late this month or early next month. The

extended duration Orbiter pallet is being stored in the VAB high bay 2 where it will be

checked out for installation in Columbia's payload bay. Columbia is targeted to return to

Florida on February 8. There will be a two-day ferry flight from Califomia to Florida

beginning February 7; Columbia will be in OPF Bay 3 for STS 50 processing. [KSC

SHUI"I'I_ _I'ATUS REPORT, 11 a-re., Jan. 24, 1992.]

v

Januay 2s: DC,COVERYTO GETMAKEOVER

First, it was Columbia; now, it's Discovery which is scheduled for extensive modifications

which are expected to take some 222 days in a processing hangar. Kennedy Space

Center Director Robect L Cdppon said, "it will be the same kind of things we did on

Columbia." NASA plans to spend a total of $33 million refurbishing both Discovery and

•Atlantis. The expense of modifying Columbia in California came to approximately $24

million. Chrb Fa_ey is in charge of modifying Discovery; "Inany kind of vehicle, whether

it's a plane or a car or whatever, you have to stop once in awhile and do maintenance.'

Managers are hoping that it wig save time to do Discovew's overhaul at KSC. "There may

not be many mission specific things you can do, but whatever you can do, it's to your

advantage to do them here,"accordingto Fairey. Among the 41 modifications planned

for Discovery are:the installation of a drag chute, upgraded auxiliary power units and an

Improved nosewheei steedng system. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, pp. IOE & 9E, Jan. 26,

1992.]

Janualy 27: EXTRA DAY _ TO DI_:OVII_RY

This moming, Shuttle managers decided to extend Mission STS 42 one extra day. The

crew has conserved enough consumables to safely extend the flight which was originally

scheduled to land on Wednesday. Landing is now planned on Thursday [January 30]

shortly after 11 a.re. EST at Edwards Air Force Base (CA) on orbit 129. A post-flight

assessment of the STS 42 solid rocket boosters is planned today at Hangar AF. Last

week, workers washed and safed the boosters. The boosters will be disassembled and

shipped back to Thiokol (Brigham City, UT) for refurbishment. The forward and aft skirts

will be refurbished here by USBI. As the crew of Discovery prepared to extend their stay

in space by one day, MissionSpecialist Dr. Norman E _ took on extra work to give

fellow crewmember Dr. Robela L Bondar could relax. He said, "l_e been here before.

This is Roberta's first tdp; give her a chance to look out the window.' Thagard is making

his fourth Shuttle flight and will have accumulated a record of more than 600 hours in

space. "[Banke,FLORIDA TO.DAY, p. 1A, Jan. 27, 1992, Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A,

Jan. 28, 1992, "Shuttle May Stay Aloft An Extra Day," USA TODAY, p. 3A, Jan. 27, 1992,

"NASA Considers Extending Shuttle Mission," THE NEW YORK TIMES, p. A6, Jan. 27,

1992, KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Jan. 27, 1992, Banke, FLORIDA TODAY,

p. 1A, Jan. 29, 1992, Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Jan. 30, 1992, "Day Before Landing,

Shuttle Crew Eases Up," THE NEW YORK TIMES, p. A7, Jan. 30, 1992.]

"-_- 17
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WlLUAM R. SCHINDLEFL DEAD AT 64

The father He De]taProgram, _ FL_, died t_ay at I.oma _nda University

Medical Center (Loma Unda, CA). He helped pioneer the Delta Program for NASA. In

1991, Schindler was awarded the Specia[AnhinvRm_.nt Awnrd nf thn Nntinnnl RnnP.nEh Jh

"for management of the evolutionary development of the Delta Program.' He also

received the NSC's Astronautics Engineer Award (1980) and NASA's Distinguished

Service Award. [Bailey, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 9E, Feb. 2, 1992.]

LAUNCH FM.ES MAY EA,SE

This month, NASA began its final phase of *field mi" flight tests to study launch-related

weather at its Flodcla launch site. "Field mills"are instruments that detect the presence

of electric charges in the atmosphere. Results from earlier flights demonstrated that

present weather rules fully protect space launch vehicles from tTiggerecllightning hazards.

However, there is strong evidence that a number of rules are overly conservative and

potentially, could delay launches under weather conditions that do not pose any real

lightning threats. A NASA Learjet from Langley Research Center (Hampton, VA) has been

flown in the vicinity of NASA Kennedy Space Center, FI., and USAF launch facilities at

Cape Canaveral, FL, collecting meteorological data and atmosphedc electric field strength

data. Seasonal data has been taken for two summer seasons and one previous winter

season. The flight test series just underway, the last in the series, is planned for 8 weeks.

'In a limited number of cases to date,' said WBam Bihner, NASA Airborne Field Mill

Program Manager, 'the weather was in violation of launch commit criteria as written, but

we d_ n_ rtles_m arl _ haz_ _ft. it h_u_ very prom_ng th_ _ t_

conclusion of the program we will be able to recommend changes to present launch

commit criteria that will maintain launch safety while reducing launch restrictions,' The

set of criteria most likely to be relaxed are those that govern launches through or near

cumulus clouds, large puffy clouds that appear most often in the spring or summer. The

next best candidate for relaxation are those associated with laye,:ed clouds, seen most

often in the winter. The layered cloud phenomena has the greatest impact on Space

Shuttle and other rocket launches from the Kennedy Space Center and the USAF Eastem

Test Range.

There are six natural and triggered lightning constraints that can delay a launch. Flight

data was collected for each. The first rule prohibits a launch within 10 nautical miles of

any type of lightning 30 minutes prior to launch. The second prohibits a launch through

or near cumulus clouds, depending upon the combination of distance and temperature

at the cloud top. The remaining rules deal with the intensity of the electric field as

measured at the surface, the presence or absence of vertically continuous layers of

clouds and the presence of disturbed weather (moderate or greater precipitation) or

debris clouds associated with a thunderstorm. Safely opening the launch window even

a little in the thunderstorm-prevaient Central Flodda area could result in a significant

reduction of lightning-related launch delays. Electrically charged clouds, believed to be

lightning conducive, pass over the Cape Canaveral area more than I00 days each year,

especially from May to September. A lightning strike to a vehicle can be triggered when

the vehicle passes near a thunderstorm or even through an electric field left from a

decaying thunderstorm. Components In the rocket or its payload can be damaged by

the strike. A change in lightning rules will not occur immediately, Bihner said. Enough

data must be collected to be considered statistically significant and the conclusions must

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be scientifically validated, then Air Force and NASA officialswill have to approve changes,

he said. The process will be slow and deliberate because safety is Involved, he added.

Funding for the joint NASA-Air Force Airbome Field Mill Program is provided by the NASA

Headquarters Office of Space Flight, Washington, D.C., and the USAF Space Systems

Division, Los Angeles. Participants in the field mill program are drawn from the USAF

45th Space Wing and three NASA centers. The Marshall Space Flight Center (Huntsville,

AL) designed and fabricated the onboarcl electric field sensors and is responsible for data

processing, archlvlng and analysis. Langley is providing the aircraft and all flight support.

Kennedy is providing real-time weather data,aircr'_ guidance and real-time ground

station support dudng data gathering flights. The aircraft is controlled from and data

collected atthe 45th Space Wing's Range Operations Control Center. fNASA]KSC NEWS

REI, FJkSE_NO; 92-, Jan. 27, 1992.]

g All.ANTIS: ATLAS PAYI_OAD I.N_"T/ui _'n

The ATLAS payload has been installedin Atlantis in OPF Bay 2; pressure checks of the

main landing gear tires have also been completed in preparation for the Orbiter's

upcoming STS 45 mission. Work in progress: preparations for payload testing this week

to verify connections between the Orbiter and ATLAS; tests of the main propulsion system

and main engines; servicing of the ammonia system and the potable water system;

installation of the heat shields around the main engines and the windows in the crew

cabin; conflgudng the payload bay for the STS 45 payloads. Work scheduled:

Installation of the Shuttle Solar Backscatter Ultraviolet (SSBUV) payload into the payload

bay tomorrow (January 28); ATLAS payload interface verification test this week; Crew

Equipment Interface Test with the _ 45 flight crew on February 1. rKSCSHUTrl.E

STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Jan. 27, 1992.]

ENDEAVOUR: FCFR 1T=ST

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 1, technicians have completed Endeavour's Flight

Control Frequency Response Test and scheduled the installation of the Orbiter's drag

chute. Work in progress: Instaliation of the waste containment system; structural leak

tests; tests of the main propulsion system; leak tests of the crew cabin; leak checks of the

environmental control life support systemi closeouts of the mldbody; thermal protection

system operations; test of the nose wheel steedng system. [KSC SHUTTLE .STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m., Jan. 27, 1992.]

The external tank for Columbia's STS 50 mission is scheduled to arrive in the KSC tum

basin today. The- tank will be transferred to its cell- in the VAB. The mock orbital

maneuvering system pods are scheduled to be installed for the fern/flight. The tall cone

is scheduled to be installed later this week. Columbia is scheduled to return to Florida

on February 8. Columbia will be processed for STS 50 in OPF Bay 3. [KSC SHUTFLE

STATUS RI_PORT, 10 a.m., Jan. 27, 1992.]

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Januay 2s: CHALLENGE ASTRONALrrs EMBEn 'D

At the annual Astronaut Memorial Ceremony (Titusville, FL), former astronaut and

Grumman Technical Services President Fred Haise said that pushing back the frontiers

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of space carries risk and the possibility of heartbreak. 'That's why we're here today," he

said. "But if the Challenger crew were with us, they would say, 'Press on, the price is

worth it. Humans have been placed on this spacecraft Earth with the ability, uniquely, to

leave it. I believe the ultimate destiny of the human race is to explore and populate other

planets.' Haise was lunar module pilot on the ill-fated Apollo 13 mission in 1969. "We did

not want our failure to slow down or halt the quest, and I know the Challenger crew would

feel the same,' he said. At the close of the ceremony, the approximately 100 people in

attendance placed flowers at the Astronaut Memodal which commemorates both the

Challenger crew and those who died in the Apollo 204 fire January 27, 1967. [Fiodni,

FLORIDA TODAY. Jan. 29, 1992.]

DISCOVERY: _DAY7

Discovery's landing and the and of its STS 42 mission is planned for Thursday (January

30) at 11:09 a.m. EST at Edwards Air Force Base (CA) on orbit 129. The STS 42

boosters are being prepared for disassembly and shipment back to Thiokol (Brigham City,

u'r) for refurbishment. The forward and aft skirts will be refurbished here by USBI. [KSC

SHUI"R.E STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Jan. 28, 1992, K$C SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT,

10 a.m., Jan. 29, 1992.]

ATLANTIS; AMMONIA SYSTEM SERVICED

Technicians in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 2 have finished servicing the Orbiter's

ammonia system. Work in progress: Installing the Shuttle Solar Backscatter Ultraviolet

(SSBUV) payload into the payload bay; praparatlons for payload testing this week to verify

connections between the Orbiter and ATLAS and the SSBUV; tests of the main propulsion

system and main engk'te¢ preparations to sen_ce the potable water system; installing

heat shields around the main engines; conflgudng the payload bay for the STS 45

payloads. Work scheduled: ATLAS payload interface verification test this week; Crew

Equipment Interface Test with the 8"P3 45 flight crew on February 1. rKSC SHU'I-R.E

STATUSREPORT,10 Jan.28, 1997_]

ENDEAVOUR: _ ACTNrnEs

Workers have installed the waste containment system in the Space Shuttle Endeavour.

Other work in progress includes: structural leak tests of all areas of the Orbiter;,tests of

the main propulsion system; leak tests of the crew cabin; leak checks of the

environmental control life support system; closeouts of the midbody; thermal protection

system operations; test of the nose wheel steering system; installation of the drag chute.

|KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Jan. 28, 1992.]

COLUMBI_ FERRY _ PREPARATIOI_

The external tank for STS 50 arrived at Kennedy Space Center by barge yesterday

(January 27) and was transferred to the checkout and storage cell in the Vehicle

Assembly Building. The mock orbital maneuvering system pods are being installed this

week in preparation for the ferry flight; the tail cone is scheduled to be installed later this

week. Columbia will return to KSC on February 8 and begin processing activities for STS

50 in OPF Bay 3. [KSC SHU'I-I"LE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Jan. 28, 1992.]

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,_ 29:. SSBUV INSTALLED ON ATLANTIS

The Shuttle Solar Backsoatter Ultraviolet (SSBUV) payload has been installed into the

payload bay of Atlantis in preparation for its upcoming STS 45 flight. Work in progress:

installing sleep stations in the middeck; preparations for payload testing this week to

verify connections between the Orbiter and ATLAS and the SSBUV; tests of the main

propulsion system and main engines; preparations to service the potable water system;

Installing heat shields around the main engines; configuring the payload bay for the STS

45 payloads. Work scheduled: ATLAS payload Interface verification test tonight; Crew

Equipment Interface Test with the _ 45 flight crew on February 1; frequency response

test of the aerosurfaces next week; functional test of the landing gear next week. [KS_

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Jan. 29, 1992.]

n ENDEAVOUR;RADARAL METERTESTS

Tests of Endeavour's radar altimeter am underway in OPF Bay 1. Other work in progress

Includes: fit checks and installation of the waste containment system; structural leak tests

of all areas of the Orbiter;,tests of the main propulsion system; leak tests of the crew

cabin; leak checks of the environmental control life support system; cioseouts of the

midbody; thermal protection system operations. [KSC SHU'I'TLE STATUS REPORT, 10

a.m., Jan. 2.9, 1992.]

Janmwy 30: LC _B READY FOR ENDEAVOUR

Managers at Kennedy Space Center have decided that Launch Complex 39B will be

ready to support the maiden voyage of Endeavour on mission _ 49 later this year. Pad

39B, one of two KSC Shuttle launch facilities, has undergone an estimated $3.5 million

in modifications and repairs to the structure and associated payload handling facilities.

The extensive work has been conducted over the past half year and will provide KSC

again with two pads available for Shuttle launches. 'We needed six months because of

two pdmary modifications that were time drivers,' said F. C. "Sonny"Jones, NASA Project

Manager. One driver was the mmovai of the Payload Ground Handling Mechanism

platform and replacement with the Clean Access Platform (CAP), along with the

installation of a manrated CAP hoist system. The second modification was a complete

rework of the Environmental Control System. This included the control system, control

room and installation of a new reinforced cooling tower. A total of 51 modifications to Pad

B were made. rNASA/KSC HEWS RELEASE NO: 13-92. Jan. 30, 1992.]

n A'It./ 2 LAUNCHDELAYED

A fuel leak has delayed the launch of an Air Force Atlas 2 rocket with its military

communicatJons payload for at least a week. The launch was to have occurred January

31 at 6:30 p.m. The delay will move up the launch of an Air Force Delta 2 at Cape

Canaveral Air Force Station. The Delta is expected to launch with a $65 military

navigation satellite on February 3 between 6:45 p.m. and 7:18 p.m. ['Booster Problem

Stalls Atlas Flight,' FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Jan. 28, 1992, 'Atlas 2 Uftoff Put Off 1 Week,'

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, ,Jan. 30, 1992.]

[] DISCOVERy LANDS AT EDWARDS

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TheSpaceShuttleDiscoverylandedthismomingat 11:07a.m.at Edwards Air Force

Base, CA; STS 42 concluded on orbit 129. Main gear touchdown was on runway 22 at

mission elapsed time of 8 days, 1 hour, 14 minutes, and 45 seconds. Discovery's stay

in Califomia will be extended about one week while the Orbiter Columbia is ferried from

Palmdale, CA, to Florida. Discovery's ferry flight to Florida is scheduled to begin February

11 and conclude at Kennedy Space Center the following day. KSC's Shuttle recovery

team is at the Dryden Flight Research Facility to prepare the Orbiter for the retum to

Florida; later today, Discovery will be towed to the Mate Demate Device where technicians

can gain access to various areas of the vehicle. Hydrolaalng activities are underway at

Hangar AF to prepare the _ 42 boosters for disassembly and shipment back to Thiokol

(Brigham City, UT) where they will be refurbished. The forward and aft skirts will be

refurbished at the space center by USBI. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11:30 a.m.,

Jan. 30, 1992, Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, Jan. 31, 1992.]

n OFIBmg:I/PAYLOAD CONNECTION8 "tESTED

Technicians in Orbiter Processing Bay 2 are currently testing the connections between

Atlantis and ATLAS and the Orbiter and the SSBUV. Also underway are leak and

functional tests of the auxiliary power units; functional testing of the extemal tank doom;

Installation of sleep station pallets in the middeck; tests of the main propulsion system

and main engines; servicing of the potable water system; installation of heat shields

around the main engines. Scheduled work: Crew Equipment Interface Test with the STS

45 flight crew in attendance on February 1; a frequency response test of the aerosurfaces

next week and a functional test of the landing gear next week. [KSC SHU1"I1.E STATUS

REPORT. 11:30 a.m., Jan. 30, 19_..]

n ENDEAVOUR: LEAK C:HECICSCOMPLETED

Leak checks of Endeavout's main propulsion system have been completed during

processing of the Orbiter for its maiden voyage, b-'q'S49. Work in progress: tests of the

radar altimeter;,fit checks of the middeck lockers; Installation of panels in the middeck;

structural leak tests of all areas of the Orbiter;,tests of the main propulsion system; leak

checks of the environmental control life support system; cioseouts of the midbocly;

thermal protection system operations. [KSC SHU'I'I'L.E STATUS RI_PORT, 11:30 a.m.,

Jan. 30, 1992.]

Janualy 31: BSCOVEm': INSPECTIO 

Middeck experiments have been removed from Discovery and inspections of the Orbiter's

thermal protection system are underway now that the vehicle has been towed to the Mate

Demate Device at the Dryden Flight Research Facility in California. Drying operations on

Discovery's three main engines are underway. A nominal two-day ferry flight from

California to Florida will bring Discovery into KSC on February 12; several refueling stops

are required due to the weight of the International Microgravity Laboratory payload which

remains in the Orbiter's cargo bay. [KSC SHU'I'I'LE _FI'ATUS RI_PORT, 10:30 a.m., Jan.

31,199 ]

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n ATLANI"_: APU TESTS RNISHED

Leak and functional tests of Atlantis' auxiliary power units have been completed by

technicians in OPF Bay 2 at Kennedy Space Center. Work in progress: functional tests

22
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of the external tank doom; Installation of sleep station pallets; interface connection

verifications; main engine and main propulsion system tests and servicing of the potable

water system. Scheduled work includes: CELT,frequency response test of aerosurfaces

and functional tests of the landing gear. [KSC SHUTI'LE STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m.,

Jan. 31, 1992.]

OPF BAY 1; ENDEAVOUR PROCESSING

In OPF Bay 1, technicians are conducting electrical redundancy tests of Endeavour's

orbital maneuvering system. Other work In progress Includes: connections of fluid lines

to auxillan/power unit no. 1; tests of the radar altimeter;,fit checks of the middeck lockers;

installation of panels in the middeck; structural leak tests of all areas of the Orbiter;,tests

of the main propulsion system; leak checks of the environmental control life support

system; closeouts of the midbocly; thermal protection system operations. Leak tests of

the crew module are also scheduled. Meanwhile, work on Columbia is nearing

completion to ready the vehicle for the ferry flight from California to KSC on February 8.

Columbia is scheduled to be processed for the STS 50 mission in OPF Bay 3. [KSC

SHUTTL_ STATUS REPORT 10:30 a.m., Jan. 31, 1992.]

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FEBRUARY

FebruaW DELTA LAUNCH SE_TFOR 4TH

The Air Force will launch its first Delta 2 rocket in seven months on February 4. The

launch window extends from 6:46 p.m. until 7:18 p.m. Anne McCauley, spokeswoman

for Delta's manufacturer McDonnell Douglas Space Systems Co. said, "Our launch team

is anxious and ready.' The Delta will carry the 12th Navstar GPS satellite; these satellites

aid navigation U. S. ships, submarines, jets, bombers and tankers and guide troop

manetNem throughout the world. [Halvomon, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 7A, Feb. 2, 1992;

Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 10E, Feb. 2, 1992.]

g KUt,'E =ELD/KP W SLYERSNOOPY

Air Force Majors Thomas _ and Jack Kumedlek:l have been awarded the SilverSnoopy

by Astronaut Frederick Gregory. ['Outstanding Service," FLORIDA TODAY. p. 9E, Feb.

2, 1997_]

Fetxuay3." COLUMBIA'S MODIRCATIONS

The Space Shuttle Columbia is scheduled to retum to the Orbiter fleet at Kennedy Space

Center on February 8, completing a six-month modification pedod at Shuttle

manufacturer, Rockwell International (Palmdale, CA). 'We're pleased with the work

Rockwell has performed to upgrade Columbia. A lot of cooperation between all parties

Involved was necessary to bring us to this point and we are upbeat," said Bascom

Munah, Columbia's Processing Manager. The senior Space Shuttle will leave Palmdale

(CA) aboard the Shuttle Carder Aircraft (SCA) on February 7 and land the following day

of the Shuttle Landing Facility at Kennedy Space Center. One of the more significant

changes made to Columbia will allow the Orbiter to fly longer missions, up to 16 days.

The experience gained from these longer flights wig be used to planned crew activities

aboard Space Station Freedom. Changes made to equip the Orbiter for extended flight

Include Increasing the vehicle's power and waste collection capacity, adding a

regenerating system for removing carbon dioxide from the crew cabin atmosphere,

installing two additional nitrogen tanks for the crew cabin atmosphere, and adding extra

middeck lockers.

A pallet of extra tank sets to hold liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen reactants is required

to support the extended Shuttle missions; these four tank sets, In addition to the four

already onboard Columbia, will supply the Orbiter's fuel cells which produce electrical

power and ddnking water. Called the Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet, this pallet

was built to hold the four oxidizer and four fuel tanks required for longer space missions.

It arrived at Kennedy Space Center the second week of January (1992) and is being

processed and tested in a designated area of the Vehicle Assembly Building. It will be

mounted near the rear bulkhead of the Orbiter's payload bay and connected to

Columbia's systems. Approximately fifty (50) other modifications were made to Columbia,

including improved nose wheel steering capability, carbon brakes, improved auxiliary

power units and installation of five new general purpose computers. Developmental flight

instrumentation that is no longer required was removed. In addition, Columbia was

outfitted with a drag chute pod and its thermal protection system was enhanced. As part

of periodic maintenance, Columbia underwent the most extensive structural inspections

performed on an Orbiter to date. Visual and borescope inspections were performed to

identify any fatigue, stress or cracks in the Orbiter's structure. This trip marked the

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second time Columbia was shipped to the manufacturing plant for modifications since it

inaugurated NASA's Space Shuttle Program eleven years ago with the launch of STS 1

on April 12, 1981.

Hundreds of modifications were made to Columbia during an 18-month period in 1984-85,

primarily to add improved components, to structurally beef up the Orbiter and to remove

some of the development flight instrumentation required to fully understand the operation

of the new Shuttle. In 1989, an additional 250 modifications were made to Columbia as

part of the retum4o-flight Improvements. Following its last flight, STS 40, Columbia was

prepared for shipment to Califomla; the Orbiter was ferried to the Rockwell plant in

Palmdale on August 9, 1991, where it has been ever since. Preparations for Columbia's

next flight - STS 50 in June - willtake place in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3. The 15-

foot-wide EDO pallet will be Installed and tested in the Orbiter's payload bay. Major

components of the Orbiter will be installed in the OPF, including both orbital maneuvering.

system pods, the forward reaction control system and the three rnaln engines. The

United States Microgravity Laboratory, primary payload for Mission STS 50, will be

Installed in Columbia's payload bay and tested in the OPF. Launch of STS 50 will be

from Launch Complex 39A. [NASA/KSC NEWS RELEASE NO. 15-92. Feb. 3, 1992.]

FUEL LEAK DB.A_ DELTA LAUNCH

"There's no doubt in my mind that it will be at least a week and probably more. We're

puffing together a plan, and it will be later this week before we're ready to say when we

can fly," said the commander of the Ist Space Launch Squadron It. Col. P,an_ Moyer

about the delay in launching the Delta 2 rocket at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The

postponement was due to a toxic fuel leak in the second stage of the Delta 2.. [Banke,

FLORIDA TODAY, Feb. 4, 1992.]

DISCOVERY AT DRYDEN i

Work is progressing well at Dryden Flight Research Facility (CA) to prepare the Space

Shuttle Discovery for its return trip to Florida. Residual hypergolic propellant was

offioaded this weekend. Today, the tall cone is scheduled to be Installed and all areas

of the vehicle will be buttoned up. Booster disassembly operations are continuing at

Hangar AF on the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The segments will be sent to their

Thiokol manufactudng plant (Brigham City, UT) where they will be refurbished. The aft

skirts are being removed today. [KSC SHUTTt_ STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m., Feb. 3,

1992.]

ATLANTIS: cErr COMPLETED

In OPF Bay 2, STS 45 crew members have participated in a successful Crew Equipment

Interface Test (CELT); functional tests of the external tank doors and the close out of

wings and flipper doors for the Orbiter's transfer to the VAB have also been completed.

Work in progress: Interface verification tests between the ATLAS and the SSBUV

payloads; functional test of the radiator latch; installing sleep station pallets in the

middeck; tests of the main propulsion system and main engines; servicing of the potable

water system; removal of APU No, 1; closing out of the aft compartment. Scheduled

work: frequency response test of the aerosurfaces later this week; functional test of the

landing gear next week; transferring the Orbiter to the VAB, i.e., rollover, next week. [KSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m., Feb. 3, 1992.]

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g .END.E,AVOUR: CREW MODULE LEAK'llES'I1ED

In OPF Bay 1,the crew module has been successfully tested for leaks and APU No. 1 has

been installed in Endeavour. The radar altimeter has also been tested. Work in progress:

installation of window no. 6; electrical redundancy tests of the orbital maneuvering

system; f'_ checks of the middeck lockers; Installation of panels in the middeck; structural

leak tests of all areas of the Orbiter;,tests of the main propulsion system; leak checks of

the environmental control life support system; closeouts of the midbody; thermal

protection system operations. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m., Feb. 3,

1992.]

Felxlmly 4: ATLAS-1/SSBLN: INTERFACE

Interface verification tests between the ATLAS and SSBUV payloads aboard Atlantis are

being conducted in OPF Bay 2. Other work in progress includes: preparations for the

fight control test of the aerosurfaces; servicing of the potable water system; closing out

of the aft compartment. Work scheduled: frequency response test of the aerosurfaces

later this week; functional test of the landing gear next week; transferring the Orbiter to

the Vehicle Assembly Building next week. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPO..RT,10:30 a.m.,

Feb. 4, 1992.]

rl E94DEAVOfJR: TEXT_IC_3 _ INSTALLED

Workers have completed installing Endeavour's text and graphics system aboard the

Orbiter in OPF Bay 1. Work in progress Includes: installation of window no. 6;

conflgudng the aft flight deck for the _ 49 mission; structural leak tests of all areas of

the Orbiter;,tests of the main propulsion system; leak checks of the environrnentai control

r,fe su . yStem; installstion the waste of the

midbody; thermal protection system operations, rKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10:30

a.m., Feb. 4, 1992.]

I] UFESCIENCES 0ooM KSC

The Director of Medical Operations at Kennedy Space Center, Dr. Paul _ said

today that life sciences research at KSC will be shut down by October 1. Buchanan said

as many as 33 jobs and a source of additional Income for dozens of other KSC

employees will be cut. He said only projects directly related to Shuttle operations would

continue. 'Everything else goes," he said. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, Feb. 5, 1992.]

Fetxuay IOO0curs

NASA officials said today that by 1996 as many as 1,000 Shuttle processing jobs may be

cut at Kennedy Space Center;,the cuts would save $550 million. Of the thousand, about

400 would be cut by October 1, according of Director of Shuttle Operations and

Management Jay Honeyoult. Of the remaining 600 potential cuts, current plans project

the elimination of about 150 slots per year for each of the following four years.

Nationwide, NASA plans to cut Shuttle work forces by 5,000 persons during the next five

years. Local cuts will be made in the work forces of Lockheed Space Operations Co. and

its subcontractors. Lockheed spokesman J. B. Klump said that attrition may account for

some of the reduction; the 1,000 jobs to be eliminated are in addition to the 400 cut in

1991. KSC Launch Director Robect B. Sieck said, "We won't sacrifice safety. If we're not

able to do it, the impact will be schedule only.' The cuts in Shuttle employment may be

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offset in part by the expected 650 new hires at KSC to work on the Space Station

Program; 75 persons will be hired in 1992. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Feb. 6, 1992,

Date, THE ORLANDO SE.NTINEL, pp. A-1 & A-4, Feb. 5, 1992.]

n ATLANTIS: LANDING GEAR TESTED

A functional test of Atlantis' main landing gear has been completed in OPF Bay 2. Work

in progress: leak tests of the main engines; reroutJng a cable for the GRILLE

spectrometer, one of the A'n,A8 experiments; preparations for the flight control test of the

aerosurfaces and to service the potable water system; closing out the Orbiter's midbody

and aft compartment. Work scheduled: frequency response test of the aerosurfaces later

this week; rolling the Orbiter over to the VAB next week. [KSC SHUTI'LE _. ATUS

REPORT, 11:00 a.m., Feb. 5, 1992.]

g ENDEAVOUR: WASTE S_3"EM INSTALI.JED

The waste containment system has been mechanically installed aboard Endeavour during

processing of the fleet's newest Orbiter in OPF Bay 1. Work in progress: hooking up the

waste containment system; leak and functional tests of the auxiliary power units;

configuring the aft flight deck for the STS 49 mission; tests of the main propulsion system

and of the environmental control lifesupport system; closeouts of the midbody and wings

and thermal protection system operations, rKSC SHU'I'n.E STATUS REPORT. 11:00 a.m.,

Feb. 5, 1992.]

D CARTEWADAM8 ADOED TO _

While the new Astronauts Memodal is closed three weeks for repairs, two new panels will

be .added to the monument to recognize the late Manley "_ Cacter who died last

year in a commuter airplane crash and Air Force Pilot Michael J. Adanl-who died in a

November 1967 X-15 crash. National T_ Safety Inspectors cited faulty

propeller parts in the accident which took Carter's life. ['Memodal Closed," FI,ORIDA

TODAY. Feb. 5, 1992, "Faulty Propeller Parts Cited in Astronaut's Plane Crash," FLORIDA

TODAY. p. 2A, Feb. 4, 1992.]

Fe e=ay WEATHER DELAY8 ATLA,g-2 I,AUNCH

Windy weather has forced the postponement until February 8 of the launch of an Atlas-2

rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The launch will mark the first mission of

the Atlas-2 for the Air Force, according to spokeswoman Terd Bracher. The rocket will

carry the first militanj satellite in the Defense Satellite Communication System network; it

will replace an aging satellite already in orbit. [Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. IA, Feb.

7, 1992, Date, THE ORLANDO SI_NTINEL, Feb. 6, 1992.]

g WEATHERST/CLSCOLUMB RETURN

The Space Shuttle Columbia'splanned retum to Kennedy Space Center may be delayed

by inclement weather in California, according to KSC spokeswomen Lisa Malone. Rain

has the potential of harming the Orbiter's delicate thermal protection system. Columbia

has been bolted to its 747 Shuttle Carder Aircraft for the ferry flight to Flodda. ['Rain

Might Douse Shuttle's Retum Plan,' [FLORIDA TODAY, p. 8A, Feb. 7, 1992.]
g ATI.ANllS: ROU_OVER SCHEDULED

Atlantis will be rolled over from OPF Bay 2 to the Vehicle Assembly Buildingnext week

for mating with its STS 45 external tank and solid rocket boosters. Work in progress: test

of a replaced cable for the GRILLE spectrometer - an ATLAS experiment; replacement of

the rudder speed brake thermal clip; preparations for the flight control test of the

aerosurfaces; closing out the Orbiter's midbody and aft compartment. [F40RIDATODAY,

p. 8A, Feb. 7, 1992.]

I1 ENDEAVOUFI: _ UNOB:IWAY/OPF BAY 1

Work in progress upon Endeavour includes: a functional test of the extemal tank doors;

installation of the drag chute; hooking up the waste containment system; leak and

functional tests of the auxiliary power units; configuring the aft flight deck for the STS 49

mission; tests of the main propulsion system and of the environmental control life support

system. [FLORIDA TODAY. p. 8A, Feb. 7, 1992.]

February 7: ATI,ANTIS: CABLE REPLA_

Workers in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 2 have successfully retested a replaced cable

for the GRILLE spectrometer, one of the ATLAS experiments which are Atlantis' prime STS

45 cargo. The Orbiter's rudder speed brake thermal clip has also been replaced. Work

in progress: cleaning and inspecting the cargo bay; stowing the Ku-band antenna for

flight; preparations for the flight control test of the aerosurfaces; closing out the Orbiter's

midbody and aft comparlmec¢ Work scheduled: closing the payload bay doors for flight

tomorrow night (February 8); function_ test of the galley Sunday night; flight control test

of the aerosurfaces Sunday; tnmsferdng the Orbiter to the Vehicle Assembly Building on

Wednesday (February 12) for mating with the external tank and solid rocket boosters;

rollout to Launch Complex 39A targeted for February 19. [KSC SHLrl"n.E STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m., Feb. 7, 1992.]

11 ENDEAVOUR:ET DOORSTESTED

Workers in OPF Bay 1 have tested Endeavour's extemal tank doom. Work in progress

includes: installation of the drag chute; leak and functional tests of the auxiliary power

units; cordlgudng the aft flight deck for the STS 49 mission; tests of the main propulsion

system and of the environmental control life support system; structural leak tests, rKSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT , 10 a.m., Feb. 7, 1992.]

F S:. ,SILVER SNOOPY FOR AKE

Je_ Aim, an employee of Boeing Aerospace Operations inc., has been awarded a

•Silver Snoopy" by NASA astronaut _ H. Ne_rnmt. Boeing General Manager Dean

HeJng said, 'Jeff [Ake] played a kay role in the hydrogen leak detection investigation.'

Helling added, "Ittakes a large team of people to put America in space. Jeff is a symbol

of someone who made the extra effort on behalf of the space program." ['Boeing

Employee Wins 'Silver Snoopy',' F4ORIDA TODAY, p. 9E, Feb. 9, 1992.]

n A'n,,AS2 LAUNCH SCRUBBED, AGAIN

A problem with the Atlas-2's guidance system and a stuck valve caused the second

attempt to launch the rocket to be scrubbed; current plans call for a Sunday (February

V

V

28 V

i
9) launch during a window which extends from 6:31 to 7:43 p.m. Air Force Captain Ken

Warren said, "We think we've got some resolution of the problem. We'll have meetings

this morning [February 9] looking at the situation, and that's when we'll decide if it's ready

to go.' The first launch attempt was scrubbed due to high winds at Launch Complex 36A

at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Feb. 9, 1992.]

g WEATHER DELAYS COLUMBIA RETURN

Bad weather inthe southwestern United States caused the cancellation of Columbia's first

leg of its ferry flight home to Kennedy Space Center. The takeoff from Rockwell

International's Palmdale, CA, plant is scheduled for February 9 at 10 a.m. The Orbiter

and its Shuttle Carder Aircraft is expected to arrive at K$C's Shuttle Landing Facility at

about mid-day February 10. Columbia's next mission - STS 50 - will be the first longduration flight and it is scheduled to begin on June 3. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p.

2A, Feb. 9, 1992.]

FalanJa COLUMBIA RETURNS TQ KSC

Columbia retumed home to Kennedy Space Center at 6:08 p.m. after a one-day, crosscountry ferry flight. 'It's great, said Grant Cams, Columbia's Vehicle Manager at KSC.

"We're real pleased." Among the modifications made to the oldest Orbiter: a drag

parachute added to make landings safer and increase chances of landing at KSC; a

backup nosewheel steedng system; equipping the Orbiter to stay in orbit up to 28 days,

four times the average length of Shuttle missions so far. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A,

Feb. 10, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Feb. 9, 1992.]

F_ 10: ATt.AS: 11-111:_TRYTHE CHARM

On its third attempt, the Air Force su_ily launched its 15-story Atlas 2 rocket at 7:41

p.m. tonight. The launch had originally been set for 6:30 p.m., but a system malfunction

delayed the liltolf. "Right now rm the happiest colonel in the United States Air Force,'

said Col. Steve Purdy, Mission Director and Director of the DSCS Program. "We got off

a superb launch." Tonight's was the first launch of an Atlas 2 rocket; the first launch of

a new series of military communications systems and the first launch of an Atlas from LC

36A since May 19, 1983, when an Atlas-Centaur carrying an Inteisat-5 communications

satellite was launched. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 3A, Feb. 10, 1992, Haivorson,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Feb. 11, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SENTJNEL, Feb. 11, 1992.]

n COLUMBIA PROCESSING FOR STS _,UND. I_RWAY

Columbia, just rstumed from California, was towed today into OPF Bay 3 to be processed

for its June _ 50 mission involving the Spacelab module. The Shuttle Carder Aircraft

which bore Columbia to KSC has rstumad to California for the ferry flight of Discovery

which landed at Edwards Air Force Base on January 30. NASA has only one set of

specially-made doors which cover portions of an Orbiter's underside and allow the vehicle

to be bolted to the transport plane. For these reasons, NASA can conduct only one ferry

flight at a time. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Feb. 11, 1992.]

Febcuaw 11: ATLANTIS: GALLEY'rESTS

In OPF Bay 2, technicians processing Atlantis for STS 45 have tested the vehicle's galley,

completed strongback removal; closed the Orbiter's payload bay doors and finished
thermal protection system water proofing. Work in progress: preparations for power

down later today; aft closeouts; structural leak checks and positive pressure checks.

Work scheduled: weight and center of gravity evaluations; positioning of Orbiter

transporter for mating; rolling Atlantis over to the Vehicle Assembly Building on February

13 at 8:00 a.m. rKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m.i Feb. 11, 1992.]

V

n ENDEAVOUR: S'TI:IAy VOLTAGE CHI_C,I_

In OPF Bay 1, technicians have completed stray voltage checks on Endeavour in

preparation for its 8"i"849 mission in ApriL Workers have also installed nose landing gear

tires and completed tipper door closeouts. They are conducting water system checks

and external tank door functional tests. Installation of the Orbiter's drag chute is

underway, too. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. t0 a.m., Feb. 11, 1992.]

g COLUMBIA: _ SO _ UNDERWAY

Having been rolled from the Shuttle Landing Facility to OPF Bay 3, the Space Shuttle

Columbia is now undergoing processing for its June _ 50 mission in which it will take

the United States Microgravity Laboratory into space. The Orbiter has been positioned,

jacked and leveled and readied for weight and center of gravity evaluations. Work in

progress: removal of doors to gain access to aft and forward compartments; removal of

ferry flight tail cone. Work scheduled: power up operations and opening payload bay

doors, set for February 14. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Feb. 11, 1992.]

g DI6COVERY: DELAYED AT

Discovery could not be mated with the 747 Shuttle Carder Aircraft as scheduled yesterday

due to the intense rain in the southern California region. Mating operations will resume

when the rain subsides sufficiently to allow engineers to attach the aft compartment ferry

flight doors. The eadleat possible departure from Dryden is Wednesday moming with a

tentative an'lval at Kennedy _pace Center set for February 13. Another 24 hour weather

delay is possible, however, as rains are forecast to continue throughout today, rKSC

SHUI"n._ STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Feb. 11, 1992.]

V

FebnJary 12: TRULYRESme=S

Richard H. Truly resigned today as NASA Administrator. "Frankly it wasn't what I had

planned. It's a situation where the president decided...to make a change," Truly said.

The Administrator will stay on the job until April 1. John LogsdoR Head of Space Policy

Studies at George Washington University said, 'This clears the deck for a NASA

management committed to the kind of space program that the White House wants to put

in place. Truly was fighting a kind of rear guard action for the kind of program he thought

the country should have.' Former NASA Administrator Thomas O. Paine said that he was

•taken completely by surprise. I had rather thought that we on the Augustine commission

had served as a bridge between the two sldee [White House and NASA]," he said, and

•as a result had cooled some of the friction.' [Hoiton, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL, pp. A-1

& A-IO, Feb. 13, 1992; Hoversten, USA TODAY, p. 3A, Feb. 13, 1992; Halvorson and

Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Feb. 13, 1992; Eisler and Lunner, FLORIDA TODAY, pp.

1A-2A, Feb. 13, 1992; Sawyer, THE WASHINGTONPOST, pp. A1-A44, Feb. 13, 1992;

Eisler and Banke, FLORIDA TODAY p. 4A, Feb. 14, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY,

p. 1A, Feb. 15, 1992; Leafy, THE NEW YORK TIMES, p. 7, Feb, 15, 1992; Holton, THE

ORLANDO SENTINEL, pp. A-1 & A-5, Feb. 20, 1992.]
TRULYLETTEnOF RESIGNA ON

February i0, 1992

Dear Mr. President:

it is with the deepest regret that I submit this letter of resignation as the Administrator of

NASA. As we discussad when we met today, and because NASA is without a Deputy,

I will remain until April 1.

This action will conclude almost 37 years of continuous military and govemment service

for me. I have been unbelievably prtvilegad to have had so many challenging

essignments in aviation, space flight, military command and public administration over

these years. In our nation's space business, I have enjoyed jobs in avery comer of it;

civilian and military, highly ctassifiad and open, flight and management.

In the last six years since I arrivad to join the NASA leadership just alter the Challenger

tragedy, I have watched the talented men and women of this elite agency turn heartbreak

end disarray into the impressive achievements and superb organization of today. With

20 safe and successful Shuttle flights in the past 40 months, scientific discoveries pouring

in, Space Station Freedom on track, and our wind tunne.l,stesting the airframes and

spacecralt of tomon'ow, they deserve to be very, very proud. With your support, their

opportunities to inspire America's pao.pie and drive our counW's competitiveness are

boundless. Their achievements result from working daily in a fishbowl world of difficult

and exacting tasks, tough judgments and carefully balanced risks;not an endeavor which

some would have you think has quick, brilliant and easy solutions.

I think that the job of leading these people is the best one in Washington, and I am proud

to have had that privilege. Cody and I particularly want to thank you and Barbara for the

personal times you have shared with us over the years.

Sincerely,

FUchadH.Tn y

Administrator

Vice Admiral, U.S. Navy (Ret.)

g ,

[Letterfrom Richard H. Truly to President Geor.qe Bush, Feb. 10, 1992; SEE ALSO: Letter

from President Bush tO NASA Administrator_Truly, Feb. 12, 1992; "Bush Puts NASA In A

Bind,' THE ORLANDO SEN'rlNEL, p. A-8, Feb. 18, 1992_]

CRIPPEN STATEMENT ON TRtJt.Y _'rlON

New Kennedy Space Center Director _ L Cdppen issued the following statement

concerning Administrator Truly's resignation: "_ H.] Truly is an outstanding leader

and a close friend. He has made Immeasurable contributions to the nation's space

program from his time as an astronaut through his tenure as Administrator. NASA is a

stronger, more vigorous agency as a result of Dick's leadership and we will continue to

build on the strong foundation he has established.' rCRIPPEN STATEMENT. KSC

Newsmom, Feb. 13, 1992; Sawyer, THE WASHINGTON POST, pp. A1-A44, Feb. 13,

1992.]
[] UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA WINS KSC CONTRACT

The University of Florida's College of Medicine has been awarded a $2831070 contract to

provide emergency medical physicians at Kennedy Space Center during Space Shuttle

launches and landings. This is the renewal of an agreement signed originally in 1980.

The four university physicians, who are uniquely skilled trauma specialists, will work with

and enhance the capabilities of the KSC medical staff who are located throughout the

space center dudng launch and landing operations, ff a mishap were to occur during

launch or landing, two of the university physicians and KSC medical personnel would

travel in a _age van to the site of the accident to treat and stab_ize any of the astronaut

crew who might be injured. The two remaining university physicians would be st_ioned

et the Occupational Health Facility to assist NASA and EG&G Flodda Inc. medical

personnel as needed. Shands Hospital (University of Florida, Galnasvtile, FL) has been

designated as the pdmary medical cam facility for the astronauts, ff injuries to crew

members were severe enough to call for an emergency aldilt, U.S. Air Force hencopters

would transport the astronauts, under the cam of Air Force physicians, to Shands if their

conditions allowed the time necessary. Otherwise, they would be flown to a local

hospital. [NAS.4VK$C,Press Release No. 92-17, Feb. 12, 1992.]

n WEATHER DELAYS DISCOVERY FERRY FUGHT

Inclement weather has held up the retum of Discovery from CalifomleL KSC spokesman

Mitch Vamas said, 'We'll just have to wait and see how it goes.' Weather conditions will

dictate the departure time; fog is expected to be in the area, Meanwhile, Atlantis has

been towed from its processing hangar to the Vehicle Assembly Building to be mated with

its external tank and solid rocket boosters. RoUout to Launch Complex 39A is expected

next week. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 4A, Feb. 14, 1992, Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY,

p. 7A, Feb. 15, 1992; Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. IA, Feb. 16, 1992.]

Felxumy 13: TFU.Y _ TOUGH 11ME FOR NASA

NASA Administrator Ridmrd FLTnJly predicted *rough seas and turbulent times' ahead

for the space agency. 'Whet happens on Apdl 2? Well, the tnJthful answer is I'm not

sum. Any time leadership changes In an organization, it can be a time of rough seas and

turbulent times. In the Navy when you're entedng very tough situations and rough sees,

there's a saying called 'steady as she goes.' That's what rd like to impart to you today,"

he said to agency employees. [Eisler and Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, Feb. 14, 1992;

•Ouster of Truly Might Be Big Blow to NASA,' FLORIDA TODAY, p. 8A, Feb. 14, 1992;

Hoiton, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL Feb. 14, 1997_]

FabllLUy 14." TOVAe

Yesterday, Atlantis was transferred from OPF Bay 2 to the Vehicle Assembly Building; first

motion occurred at about 9:30 a.m. and the vehicle was in theVAB transfer aisle at 10:10

elm. Work in progress: hard mete operations to attach the Orbiter to its external tank;

tail service mast umbilical mates between the vehicle and the mobile service platform.

Monoball umbilical connections am scheduled; rollout to Launch Complex 39A Is set for

February 20. [KSC SHU'_ STATI.J...S.. REPORT, 10 elm., Feb. 14, 1992.]
\ /

v

a I_NDEAVOUR; DRAG CHUTE INST_

In OPF High Bay 1, technicians have installed a drag chute in the Space Shuttle

Endeavour and placed a camera in the vehicle's midbody section. Work in progress:

potable water system checks; external tank door functional tests; TACAN installations;

flight deck work and checkouts; midbody and wing closeouts; installation of drag chute

door;, thermal barrier work; auxiliary power unit heater checks. Technicians have also

scheduled tests of Endeavour's landing gear functions. [K$C SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT. 10 a.m., Feb. 14, 1992.]

g COLUMBIA:POWERON

Workers in OPF High Bay 3 have completed cleaning Columbia's aft compartment and

installed strongbacks on payload bay doom. Work in progress: preparations to open the

vehicle's payload bay doors and removal of the last ferry kit items. Power on operations

are scheduled. [KSC SHUTrLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Feb. 14, 1992.]

g BscovEw MATEDFORFERRYFUGHT

The Orbiter was mated to its 747 Shuttle Carder Aircraft last night at about 11:00 p.m.,

EST. Managers at Dryden hope to fly Discovery and the 747 to Biggs Army Air Field (El

Paso, TX) for a refueling stop. If weather permits, the vehicle may continue on to Kelly

Air Force Base (San Antonio, TX) where it will remain overnight. The trip will continue

February 15 with another refueling stOP at Columbus Air Force Base (Columbus, MS).

Columbia will most likely remain there through the night though it may be carded as far

east as Eglln Air Force Base (Eglin AFB, FL). At this point it is unlikely the Orbiter will

arrive back at Kennedy Space Center before midday on February 16. [KSC _HUTTLE

STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Feb. 14, 1992.]

Febmmy 16: SPACECONGnEssUNEUP

New Kennedy Space Center Director Robat L Cdppen will make the keynoteaddress

at the 29th annual Space Congress in Cocoa Beach, FL, this year. Sponsored by the

Canaveral Council of Technical Societies, the speakers will address topics including

Department of Defense space operations, Space Shuttle operations and payloads, space

education and plans for the space station and tdps to the Moon and Mars. This year's

Space Congress will feature the following speakers: [See Table next page.]

-_.t 33
SPEAKER PosmoN

ROBERTL CRIPPEN DIRECTOR, KENNEDYSPACECENTER

BRIG.GEN.JIMMEYMORRELL COMMANDER, 45131SPACEWING,PAFB

RICHARDKOHRS

LT.GEN.EDWARDBARRYJR.

LT.GEN.THOMASMOORMANJR.

BREWSTERH.SHAWJR.

ROBERTBROWN

DIRECTOR, SPACESTATIONFREEDOM,

NASA

COMMANDER, AIRFORCESPACE

SYSTEMSDIVISION(LOSANGELES,CA)

COMMANDER, AIR FORCE SPACE

COMMAND, PETER,SON AFB (CO)

DEPUTY DIRECTOR, SPACE SHUTTLE

OPERATIONS, KSC

DEPUTY ASSOCIATE ADMINISTRATOR,

OFFICE OF HUMAN RESOURCES &

EDUCATION, NASA

STEVEN HAWLEY ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, AMES RESEARCH

CENTER (MOFFETr FIELD, CA)

MICHAEL GRIFRN DIRECTOR, OFRCE OF EXPLORATION,

NASA

JAMES ROSE

GREGORY RECK DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF SPACE

TECHNOLOGY, NASA

HOWARD BENEDICT

['Stars of Space Program Head to 29tl

9E, Feb. 16, 1992.]

DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF COMMERCIAL

SPACE, NASA

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MERCURY SEVEN

FOUNDATION

Annual Space Congress," FLORIDA TODAY, p.

n LC 30B FIEADY FOR ENDEAVOUR

•The pad [LC 39B] and all the supporting structures will be ready for Endeavour's launch,'

according to S. W. "Buz" Brown, Pad Manager for Lockheed Space Operations Co.

•We've been able to accomplish some major modifications. It was a major effort across

the board,' added Gale Chdslensm_ I.SO Supervisor of Integrated Operations at LC 39B.

[Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 10E & 9E, Feb. 16, 1992.]

n DELTA MISSION RESCHEDUI.ED

A Delta rocket carrying a Navstar satellite tq _nhRrhd¢_! fnr liftnff frnm_npn Cnnnvnrnl Air

Force Station February 18 between 5:49 p.m. and 6:20 p.m. "It will be nice to see the

Navstars flying again," said Air Force spokeswoman Tent Bracher. Navigational and

contamination problems have grounded the Navstar launch progrnm _innn IP=,¢l:.l, dv Thp

V

34
\ J

Delta mission was originally planned to begin February 4, but a fuel leak in the rocket's

second stage de!aye d the liftoff. A faulty valve has been replaced; tests on the valve

were completed this week. [Halvorson,- FLORIDA TOD/_.Y. Feb. 13, 1992; Halvorson,

FLORIDA TODAY. p. I OE, Feb. 16, 1992.]

O DISCOVERY HOME AGAIN

Once again, Kennedy Space Center has on hand the full, four-Shuttle fleet. Discovery

landed atop its 747 Shuttle Cartier Aircraft today at 1:44 p.m., after a flight from Kelly Air

Force Base (San Antonio, 13q. In the 747 were dozens of KSC workers who had been

in California preparing the Orbiter for its fern/flight to Florida. Chrb Faimy, KSC Manager

of Orbiter Preiaunch Processing, said, 'It's nice to see the team come back. They've

been out in California for a long tirne. We're definitely glad to see Discovery home.' Early

Sunday, Columbia was flown to Columbus Air Force Base (Columbus, MS) for a refueling

stop before continuing to Brevard County where the paired vehicles descended to 2,000

feet above the Atlantic Ocean; it flew north and south several times along the beach from

KSC to Patrick Air Force Base to show off Discovery to crowds below. "1think it's nice to

do it for the people because it's their airplane,' said Frank Madow, pilot of the SCA.

Modifications to Discovery will be done at Kennedy Space Center to save money;

Columbia has just returned from Paimdaie, CA, where it underwent extensive

modifications. Discovery will go to the VAB sometime in September to prepare it for an

October launch, according to Fairey. Atlantis, meanwhile, is on target for its expected

March 23 launch; the Orbiter is currently in the VAB for mating and testing and will be

rolled to Launch Complex 39A on February 20. [Banke, FLORIDA TOI_AY, p. 3A" Feb. 17,

1992.]

Fe_ 18: DELTA LAUNCHES TONIGHT

....... = == ............

Despite stormy weather and heavy cloud clover the Air Force hoped to launch a Delta 2

rocket this evening between 5:49 p.m. and 6:20 p.m. bdnging to an end a seven-month

delay in launches of navigation sateilltes. The Delta would place into orbit the sixth

Global Positioning System Satellite; the last one launched was July 3, 1991. The launch

was postponed because of thick clouds over the launch pad, according to officials. On

the 19th the window extends from 5:45 p.m. till 6:16 p.m.; Air Force meteorologists

suggest, however, that the weather for the 19th is also forbidding - just a 10 percent

chance of favorable conditions. Air Force rules prohibit launches under cloudy conditions

because of the danger oflightning strikes. [Date, THE ORL_,NDO SENTINEL, p. A-4, Feb.

18, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Feb. 18, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY,

p. 1A, Feb. 19, 1992.]

g A_:_ I_ACE_

The Shuttle Interface Test is underway in OPF Bay 2 where Atlantis is being prepared for

its STS 45 mission; electrical connections between Atlantis and its extemal tank were

completed February 15. Rollout to Launch Complex 39A is set for February 20. On

February 27, the STS 45 crew will fly to KSC to take part in the Terminal Countdown

Demonstration Test, looking to a launch on March 23. Atlantis will carry a Spacelab pallet

of Instruments designed to study Earth's atmosphere and the sun's effect on it. [KSC

SHU'I'rLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Feb. 18, 1992; "KSC Workers Prepare Atlantis For

Thursday's Tdp to Launch Pad," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Feb. 18, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA

TODAY, p. 5A, Feb. 19, 1992.]

35
[] ENDEAVOUR: FUEL CB, J-S _ UP

In OPF Bay 1 where Endeavour is being processed for its malden voyage - STS 49 -

technicians have hooked up the Orbiter's fuel cells. Work in progress: tests of the Tacan

system; leak and functional tests of the waste containment system; checks of the system

for the extravehicular mobility units; configuring the aft flight deck for the STS 49 mission.

A Crew Equipment Interface Test with the STS 49 flight crew is scheduled for this

weekend. [KSC SHUTrLE _I"ATU$ REPORT, 10 a.m., Feb. 18, 1992.]

g cow/ MOCKOMSPO0 REMqV 

A functional test of Columbia's mdletom is underway in OPF Bay 3 where technicians are

also removing the mock right orbital maneuvering system pod and the main propulsion

system temperature probes and check valves. The left mock OMS pod will be removed

on February 20. [KSC SHUTn_ STATUS RF.,poRT, 10 a.m., Feb. 18, 1992.]

g DISCOVERY IN OPF BAy 2

Having finally retumed from California, Discovery is now in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay

2 where preparations are underway to open the Orbiter's payload bay doors; remove the

ferry flight tail cone and to power up the vehicle. Post-flight inspections and deservicing

operations are also underway. On February 23, the Intemationai Microgravity Laboratory

payload will be removed, rKSC SHU'I'rLE STATUS Ri_PORT, 10 a.rn., Feb. 18, 1992.]

Fe ,ay 20: NAMEDACnNO , )M" ;TI T0fl

Administrator _ H. Truly today announced the appointment of Aaron Cohen,

Director of tl_e Johnson _ Center, as Acting _ Adminisuator. In making this

announcement, Truly said, 'Aaron Cohen's appointment, which has been closely

coordinated with the White House, is one that pleases me greatly. Aaron's long

experience as a top-flight engineer and manager wig assist me greatly in the day-to-day

o_ of the agency until my departure on April 1, 1992, and also provide for

continuity in the transition period as the President nominates and the Senate confirms a

new Administrator and Deputy Administrator. Roy 8. Esmss, Director of the Stennis

Space Center, MS, will remain in his temporary role as Special Assistant to the

Administrator. Cohen has been Director of the Johnson Space Center since October

1986. He came to NASA in 1962 in the Apollo Spacecraft Program Office at the Manned

Spacecraft Center (now Johnson Space Center). He served in various capacities at the

center prior to being named Center Director. Upon completion of this assignment, Cohen

will return to his permanent position as the JSC Director;, during his absence, Paul J.

Weilz, Deputy Center Director, will be Acting Director. ['Cohen Named Acting Deputy

Administrator,' NASA News Release No. 92'25, Feb. 20, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY,

p. 1A, Feb. 21, 1992; Holton, THE ORLANDO SENT1NEL pp. A-1 & A-5, Feb. 21, 1992;

"Truly's Forced Resignation Draws Fire in Congress,' FI,ORII_A TODAY, Feb. 23, 1992.]

rl GLENN'S F_ WAS THIRTY Y_. ACp0

John Glarm is now a United States Senator (D-OH), but thirty years ago he became the

first American to orbit the Earth. 'It's a rare dayt_at goes by that someone doesn't ask

or comment about the space days,' he says. "rve recalled it so often, almost dally, that

it really seems to be that the whole thing was a month ago." He followed Russians Yud

C-_ and G41ennanS. T_ov who were the first two persons to orbit the globe. 'I'd like

36

V

V

m

V
to goupagain.Ialreadytoldthem,andIwasonlyhaftjoking,thatwhentheygetaround

to doinga geriatricstudy,they'vealreadygot a baselineon me. rm available." Glenn

is 70 years old. ['Glenn's Story Keeps Him Flying High On Earth,' THE ORLANDO

SENTINEL Feb. 20, 1992; Willette, FLORIDA TODAY, pp. 1A-2A, Feb. 20, 1992.]

il ROLLOUT OF ATLANT_

The Space Shuttle began the first leg of itsSTS 45 mission today when it was rolled out

to Launch Complex 39A; the trip began at 11:04 p.m. February 19 and was concluded

with a hard down status at the pad at 5:30 a.m. The rotating service structure was

extended around ti_ Orbiter. Bad weather prevented an even earlier rollouL A

countdown demonsUation test is set for February 26-27. At LC 39A, workers are making

connections between the pad and the vehicle elements, preparing to power up Atlantis

and to remove two auxiliary power units. KSC spokeswoman Lisa Malone said 'We have

a healthy amount of contingency time built into the schedule so we're looking good for

a launch at the end of March.' [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, Feb. 20, 1992; KSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Feb. 20, 1992; 'Space Shuttle Atlantis Moved to

Launch Pad,' THE ORLANDOSENT1NEL Feb. 21, 1992.]

g STS 45 UPDATE: ATLANTIS AT PAD

J

v

Atlantis' arrival at launch pad 39A early this morning marked a visible step toward the STS

45 launch planned next month. Shuttle processing team members "set an Orbiter

Processing Facility (OPF) record in getting Atlantis ready for the upcoming launch.

AtJantisspent 55 days in the OPF, breaking the previous record of a 60.day OPF flow set

dudng the STS 43 process_g operations last year, also with the Shuttle Atlantis. Flight

preparations for Atlantis' 1lth flight, STS 45, began December 9 following its last mission,

STS 44, which ended with a landing at Edwards Air Force Base, CA. While in the OPF,

the three Space Shuttle main engines were Installed. Engine locations for this flight are

as follows: engine 2024 in the No. 1 position, engine 2012 in the No. 2 position, end

angine 2028 in the No. 3 poeltioR These engines were Installed on January 10-11.

Technicians Installed the ATLAS payload, the pdrnary objective of Mission STS 45, into

Atlantis' payload bay on January 25, while the vehicle was in the OPF. The Shuttle Solar

Backscatter Ultraviolet F_xpedmentwas Installed in the payload bay on January 28. The

payload was closed out for flight in the OPF on February 9.

The Crew Equipment Interface Test with the STS 45 flight crew was conducted in the OPF

on February 1. The crew became familiar with the configuration of the Orbiter, the ATLAS

payload and unique equipment for Mission STS 45. Stacking operations for the solid

rocket boosters began December 10 on mobile launcher platform 1, and were completed

by January 15. The external tank was mated to the boosters on January 22 and the

Orbiter Atlantis was transferred to the Vehicle Assembly Building February 13, where it

was mated to the external tank and solid rocket boosters. A dress rehearsal launch

countdown involving the flight crew is scheduled for February 26-27. The STS 45 crew

will arrive at KSC on Februenj 25 for the test. Wh,e here, they will receive training in

emergency egress procedures at the launch pad and at the runway. On February 27, the

crew members will don their flight suits and practice getting ready for an actual launch

day. The test will end at 11 a.m. EST, February 27, with a simulated main engine cutoff.

Charles F. Bolden is the STS 45 Commander and Brian Dully, is the Pilot. Three Mission

Specialists include: M'mhad C. Foale, Kaitwn D. Sulrwan and David C. Leeslma. The two

Payload Specialists are Byron Lichtenberg and Did( Fdmout, a Belgian who represents

v 37
the EuropeanSpaceAgency. MissionSTS45, scheduledfor eight days, is part of

NASA's Mission to Planet Earth, a large-scale, unified study of planet Earth as a single,

dynamic system. Scientists will gather new information to gain a better understanding

of how the atmosphere reacts to natural and human-induced atmospheric changes. This

is the first of nine ATLAS missions that will be undertaken throughout the current 11-year

solar cycle. The end of mission landing is planned at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility.

KSC's landing convoy teams will be on station to prepare the vehicle for tow to the OPF.

Atlantis' next flight will be Mission STS 46 with the Tethered Satellite System and the

EURECA payload scheduled for launch this summer. ['Atlantis Arflvas at Launch Pad

After Setting Procassing Record," NASA/KSC News Release No. 20-92. Feb. 20, 1992.]

V

n ENDEAVOUR EVA

In OPF Bay 1, technicians have completed .the functional tests of the system for the

extravehicular mobility units assigned to Endeavour for its STS 49 mission. A Crew

Equipment Interface Test with the flight crew has been scheduled for this weekend. Work

in progress: tests of the Tacan system; preparations for the CELT; leak and functional

tests of the waste containment system; configuring the aft flight deck for the STS 49

mission. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Feb. 20, 1992.]

g

il

COLUMBIA: RADIATOR TESTS DONE

Functional tests of Columbia's radiators have been completed in OPF Bay 3: Work in

progress: removal of the mock left orbital manetNedng system pod; validation of the

alectdcal system; preparations to Install the extended duratk:m Orbiter pallet; removal of

main propulsion system temperature probes and check vaivu; installation of thermal

blankets, rKsc SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Feb. 20, 1992.]

I_:X:NERY POWERED UP

in OPF Bay 2, Discovery has been powered up by technicians; the tail cone has been

removed and the payload bay doors have been opened. Work in progress:

disconnecting the International Micro,gravity Laboratonj from the Orbiter and post-flight

inspections and daservicing operations. Removal of the IML-1 payload has been

scheduled for February 23. [KSC SHUT'rl.E STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Feb. 20, 1992.]

Febnmry 21: ATLANTIS: pOWERED UP

At Launch Complex 39A, Atlantis has been powered up in preparation for its STS 45

mission launch next month. Work in progress: making connections between the launch

pad and the vehicle elements; preparations to remove two auxiliary power units;

preparations for the helium signature leak test of the main propulsion system and three

main engines. Work scheduled: the helium signature leak test for February 23 and the

Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test for February 26-27. [KSC SHUTrLE STATUS

RF,PORT, lO a.m., Feb. 21, 1992.]

g ENDEAVOUR: _ SCHEDULED

Endeavour's Crew Equipment Interface Test has been scheduled with the flight crew to

occur this weekend. Work in progress: functional test of the galley; check of the waste

containment system; tests of the Tacan system; preparations for the Crew Equipment

Interface Test (CELT); leak and functional tests of the waste containment system;
configuringtheaftflight deck for the STS 49 mission. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT,

10 a.m., Feb. 21, 1992.]

N COLUMBIA: MOCK LEFT OMS POD REMOVED

Technicians in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 have removed the mock left orbital

maneuvering system pod which Columbia carded during its ferry flight from California.

Work In progress: validation of the electrical system; preparations to install the extended

du_n Orbiter pallet; Installation of thermal blankets. [KSC $HU'I'rLE STATUS REPORT,

10 a.m,, Feb. 21, 1992.]

n DI_:OVERY: REMOVAL OF IMI. ,SCHEDULED

On February 23 technicians willremove the Intemational Microgravity Laboratory payload

from Discovery's cargo bay. Work in progress: disconnecting the International

Microgravity Laboratory; removing the IML tunnel; preparations to offioad residual

hypergolic propellants. [KSC SHUTI1.E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Feb. 21, 1997-]

Februaw ENDEAVOUR'S CREW ARRIVES TODAy

Endeavour's STS 49 crew arrives today at Kennedy Space Center to view the new Orbiter

for their first time. KSC spokeswoman Lisa Malone said, 'This will give them a chance to

be around the Orbiter they'll be living and working in during their mission." The crew will

enter the crew cabin while the Orbiter is in OPF Bay 1 today to famillarizethemsalves with

the flight deck, mid-deck and its alrlock and payload bay. The STS 49 crew Includes:

Commander Daniel C. Bra_ Pilot Kav_ P. COs'lionand mission specialists

"thomas D. Akem, Flichard J. Hieb, Brace E. Meirak_, Kattayn C. "thornton and Pierre

Thuot. One of Endeavour's APUs is being replaced because its manufacturer, Sunstrand

Corp. (Rockford, IL), found corrosion in a similar unit's fuel pump. Another APU

scheduled for removal is _ed of having a bad weld on a valve. [Haivorson,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, Feb. 22, 1992.]

Fe ay m: ,_PACEHAB WORK UNDER WAY

Workers at Port Canaveral have begun to prepare Spacehab, a 10-foot long, 13-foot

diameter container, for a 1993 Space Shuttle mission. Spacehab is a private, commercial

venture unlike the Spacelab venture which is sponsored by the European Space Agency.

Riding In the Orbiter's payload bay, Spacehab is connected to the crew cabin by a short

tunnel. The first of two flight-worthy modules arrived here from their Italian manufacturer

on Feb. 17_ According to Spacehab's Senior Manager of Ground Operations BillSprad6n,

the experiment container will begivan a detailed cleaning, then prepared for transport to

Kennedy Space Center where it will be tested in preparation for a June 1993 flight.

[Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 10E, Feb. 23, 1992.]

n MCCARTNEY TO C-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-_T DEBUS AWARD

The Kurt H. Debus Award will be awarded this year to former Kennedy Space Center

Director Fon'est S. McCartney. The Chairman of the National Space Club Florida

Committee John IVlanmx said of McCartney, "He's just the perfect selection." He cited

McCartney's leadership in retuming the Space Shuttle Program to flight after the

•Challenger accident in Jan_iai__i 986. Prev|0uswlnners include George Page and Lyle

Holloway. The guest speaker will be former NASA Administrator James Beggs. ['Former

39
KSCDirectorto ReceiveDebusAward,"FLORIDA TODAY, p. 9E, Feb. 23, 1992; "Former

KSC Director Joins Honored Roll," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2t3, March 8, 1992.]

rl GALLO WINS SILVER SNOOPY

Pat Gailo, a planning specialist for Lockheed Space Operations Co., was presented the

coveted Silver Snoopy Award by astronaut James IlL Newman. Gailo, a senior member

of the Shuttle Processing Contract Team manifest planning office, works in the Integrated

Advanced Planning Directorate at the space center. ['Merritt Island Man WIns Silver

Snoopy,' FLORIDA TODAY. p. 9E, Feb. 23, 1992.]

FebnJny 25:

g

The seven-member astronaut crew for the STS 45 mission arrived at the Shuffle Landing

Facility in T-38s this morning at about 7:40 a.m. KSC spokesman Karl _ said,

q'hey're coming here pdmadly for a dress rehearsal of the actual countdown, It's an

opportunity for the flight crew and the launch team to get together and work out any

problems.' The standard contingency training for the crew is underway which this

afternoon involves driver training in the M-113 escape vehicle. Early this evening before

dinner the Commander and Pilot willfly the Shuttle Trm_n]ngAircraft. Tomorrow will be a

safety training waikdown of the launch pad. Meanwhile, at Launch Complex 39A, vehicle

power is up and in the aft main engine compartment the helium signature leak check of

the main propulsion system and the three main engines is in proces¢ Preparations are

underway for the upcoming loading of storable pcopellants which will begin later this

week. Work is currently in progress to remove the two auxiliary power units

recommended for changeout by the vendor, On the flight deck, the inertial measurement

units are undergoing calibration. [Diller, KSC STATUS REPORT. 11:45 a.m., Feb. 25,

1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, Feb. 25, 1992.]

mALE: KSCMOSTSPECU¢PLACE

To aetronaut Mk:t=_ C. Foale, Kennedy Space Center "is the most special place in

America, as far as the future goes, and maybe even the world. It's from here that we can

go initially to orbit, then the planets, and I hope one day to the stars,' he said. "1came

all the way from Great Britain, where I was educated, to Houston, and now here i am in

Florida getting ready to take what I consider to be a first step toward the stars," he added.

Maybe I won't go to the stars, but maybe my grandchildren will." Foale is at the space

center to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test which precedes his

STS 45 mission, currently scheduled to launch on March 23. [Halvorson, FLORIDA

p. 4A, Feb. 26, 1992. I

g Pm S Nrrt AWAre;)WINNERS,KSC

Former KSC Director Forrest S. McCaclnay, KSC Launch Director Robeet B. Sieck and

Alan J. Pacdsh, KSC Director of Safety, Reliability and Quality Assurance, will receive the

Presidential Rank Award for Meritorious Executive at a ceremony February 26, at NASA

Headquarters in Washington, D.C. NASA Administrator Flicherd H. Truly will present the

award which is given to senior executive service members of the federal government

whose performance is exceptional for a period of at least three years. ['KSC Managers

to Receive Presidential Award," NASA/KSC News Release No. 21-92. Feb. 25, 1992;

"Three Space Veterans Win Prestigious Award," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 9E, March 1, 1992.]

V

40
FebnLmty26: MARS OBSERVER ROCKET ARRIVES

The T_an III rock_wl_ich will launch the Mars Observer spacecraft on an interplanetary

trajectory later this year is scheduled to be offloaded from an Air Force C-5A transport

plane on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS) on February 28, at 9 a.m. The

booster, which was built by Martin Marietta (Denver, CO) is targeted for liftoff at the start

of the Mars planetary launch window which opens September 16. Mars Observer is the

first mission to that planet since the Viking Program in 1976. It is the initial spacecraft in

a series of lower cost 'observer class' planetary misaions developed by Jet Propulsion

Laboratory (JPL) pasadena, CA) that will explore objects in the Inner solar system such

as Venus, the Moon, Mars, and near-Earth asteroids and comets. NASA Space Science

Chief Lernard A. _ said, 'The Mars Observer mission is important because it will give

us very detailed information about Mars - data that is substantially different than we've

previously had in terms of possible life or water on Mars. The data will lay the foundation

for future generations to explore the planet.' The T_n III launch vehicle will be moved

to the Vertical Integration Building (VIB) on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station for

pmlaunch processing. Early in July, the vehicle will have two solid rocket boosters

attached and then be moved to a completely rebuilt Launch Complex 40. ['Note to

Editors and Broadcast News Directors: T_an III Rocket for Mars Observer Arrives at Cape

Canaveral,' N..ASA/KSC News Release No. 23-92, Feb. 26, 1992; Haivorson, FLORIDA

TODAY. p. 4A, Feb. 29, 1.992.]

g _T BOOSTER ARI:WES AT KSC

The solid fuel rocket stage that a pair of NASA astronauts will attach to a stranded Intelsat

satellite dudng the Space Shuttle Endeavour's first mission ardved this morning at KSC's

Vertical Processing Facility (VPF). The capture bar which will be used by the crew to

grapple the satellite was installed on the booster cradle this afternoon. The upper stage

will propel the satellite to its proper, orbit which was not successfully accomplished after

launch aboard a Titan expendable rocket two years ago. Tomorrow, the stage contained

within its cradle will be rotated and hoisted into the east test cell of the VPF. On February

29, a "stand alone' electrical test of the booster with its associated cradle will be

conducted. Members of the _ 49 crew are expected to be at KSC next month for a

•sharp edge" inspection of the booster. Installation into the payload canister will occur

during the first week of April so that the stage can be transported to Pad 39B to await the

arrival of the Space Shuttle Endeavour. The stage was integrated with the cradle at

Astrotech (T'_Jeville,FL) earlier this month by Hughes Aircraft engineers priorto its arrival

at KSC. ['Upper Stage Booster for Endeavour's Intelsat Rescue Mission Arrives at KSC,'

NASA/KSC News Release No. 24-92. Feb. 26, 1992.]

rl VAB: ENDEAVOUR TO BE TARDY

With its move to the VAB now scheduled for March 2, Endeavour's processing managers

are concemed that the necessary paperwork may not be completed on time. "Right now

it's tight, but we feel we can make it,' said John 'Tip" Taione, NASA manager in charge

of preparing the newest Orbiter for space flight. He said that technicians must still

complete tests of Endeavour's flight control and nosewheel steering systems and the aft

engine compartment must be closed out before the vehicle is ready for itsSTS 49 mission

to rescue the lntelsat Satellite, now in an incorrect orbit. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY,

p. 6A, Feb. 27, 1992.]
il EARTH ATMOSPHERIC STUDY

The Earth's atmosphere will get extensive every year or two when Space Shuttles carry

instruments to measure the degradation of the atmosphere over an 11-year solar cycle.

Atlantis' STS 45 will be the first of these missions 'about finding out important answers

about the Earth on which we live and how we can better survive for generations and

generations to come," according to STS Commander Charles F. Bolder=. 'If we get haft

the answers we are seeking, then Ithink we'll all be better by it and our kids will be better

by it and our grandkids will be better by it." Boiden and the six other members of his

crew are at Kennedy Space Cefit=erfor the terminal countdown demonstration test

currently underway. _alvorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 6A, Feb. 27, 1992.]

V

11 BATFERY PROBLEM DI_Y8 ATLAS I_MJNCH

11

•We're now proceeding with a plan to launch...on Friday (February 29) at 6:09 p.m. local

time, at the opening of a three-hour, 30-minute window," said Marty Wtrdder, General

Dynamics Space Systems Division vice president for launch operations. A battery

problem has delayed the launch which was scheduled for February 27; two spare

batteries are being activated and tested; one will be installed in the Atlas rocket early

today, according to Winkler. [Bankel FLORIDA TODAY, p. 6A, Feb. 27, 1992.]

TRULY: _ CRIPPtJ_ _ _ATION

NASA Adminiscator _ H. Tnh/told the National Space Club that the Challenger

accident claimed the lives of all seven of its astronauts but also crippled NASA's

reputation.'NASAnolongerwasthe paragonof excellance,andthesecond-guessers

moved in," he sak:L 'I thought my job was to discovery the cause, fix it, ensure future

safety and _=TIy and return the Space Shuttle to safe flight, i quickly discovered,

however, I was embroiled in politics, budgets _ a _ re-exarn_natlon of NASA, all

sunounded by a media zoo." He denied that NASA was without direction. "NASA knows

precisely where it is headed,' Truly asserted. He told the National Space Club that

without solid funding, the space agency is 'in jeopardy...and it is not helped by what

passes in this town for analysis. The cheap shots must end. Without teamwork, there

is nothing. Give the new administrator your best advice and support, but don't whisper

your thoughts into the ear of your favorite Washington armchair analyst,' he said. Truly's

resignation as Administrator takes effect Apdl 1. ['Truly: Stop 'Cheap Shots' Against

NASA,' FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, Feb. 27, 1992; Hoverstan, USA TODAY, p. 1A, Feb. 27,

1992.]

Febnuay27:. FIBEP.-OP CABLECONTRACT

Network Systems Solutions (Denver, CO) has been awarded a $1,249,990 contract to

install fiber-optic cable at Kennedy Space Center. Under the fixed price contract, the

small business firm will have 18 months to install cable between several Space Shuttle

vehicle processing, payload processing, launch and control facilities, as well as

communications switching centers at the space center, a network which is approximately

ten miles long. One linkup will be between the Launch Complex 39 area's switching

center, the Vehicle Assembly Building Repeater (VABR) and the new Processing Control

Center (PCC).

Another section willtie the PCC with the Launch Control Center (LCC). The LCC will be

linked with separate connections to the VABR and both Shuttle Launch Pads 39A and

42 V
39B. Other installations will be made between the solid rocket booster Assembly and

Refurbishment Facility (ARF) and the Communications Distribution and Switching Center

(CDSC) in the KS(3 industrial-Al:e-a. _t[l[ anottler Eber-op_c Connection will be made

between the VABR and the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF).

This contract makes up Phase IX of fiber-optic cable installation at KSC. The first

installations began in 1985. The new cable will increase the KSC communication

system's capacity and expand the several miles of cable that has already been installed

at the 140,O00-acre space center. Eventually, most KSC facilities will be linked with this

advanced communications hardware. The fiber-optio cable at KSC carries digitized

communications data at a much higher rate than in-place X-bend copper wire and

provides more capabilities than the old hardware. A system that allows high-speed

computers to relay Space Shuttle Orbiter test and status data from processing areas and

launch pads to the LCC is essential to the success of Shuttle missions. [NASA/KSC

News Release No. 22-92, Feb. 27, lgg2.]

g BAD BOOSTER DELAYS ATLAS LAUNCH

A problem with a commercial Atlas' booster avionics system has delayed launch until at

least March ?_ This marks the second delay in the effort to launch a Galaxy 5

communications satellite for Hughes Communications Inc. (Los Angeles, CA). There will

be three opportunities on March 2 to launch the rocket. ['Bed Booster Bumps Atlas

Liftoff,"FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, Feb. 28, 1992.]

n s'r pRACtlCE

The STS 45 crew of Atlantis, along with the Kennedy Space Center launch team,

successfully concluded the terminal countdown demonstration test, according to KSC

spokesman BRine Bud_ 'We had a good test; there were un unexpected hitches.'

The crew spent the final hours of the test in the c_rewcabin of Atlantis, but earlier in the

day they practiced emergency escape procedures at Launch Complex 39A. There are

seven steel baskets located at the top of LC 39A to help astronauts evacuate a Space

Shuttle if the need arose. [Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, Feb. 28, 1992.]

Fetxuay2S: PRICE HIKES: TOURS & IMAX THEATER

Starting tomorrow, March 1, the cost of KSC tours will dse to $7 for adults and $4 for

children, ages 3 to 11; that represents a dollar increase In each price. IMAX Theater

tickets will also increase to $4 (up $1.25) for adults and $2 for children (up 25 cents).

Meguler, Marketing Director for Spaceport USA, said the increases 'just normal

business practices.' He remarked that in recent months the attraction had added two

new exhibits: "Spinoffs from Space" and "Space Station" and that the full-size Shuttle

replica called Ambassador will not be heading for Europe as scheduled, but will stay at

Kennedy Space Center for at least another year. Meguiar said, 'It is our intention to

always have a Shuttle here, although I couldn't tell you now what will happen next year.'

The Spaceport has also undergone recent expansion in souvenir shop, the Gift Gantry.

[Cook, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Feb. 29, 1992.]

43
g ATLAS LAUNCH: MARCH 5

The launch of _ _tias rocket has been delayed again untiiMarch 5 because more time

is needed to replace a faulty part than was originally anticipated. The problem is in a

battery that powers the rocket's self-destruct system. Launch on Thursday (March 5) may

come during one of three possible windows: 6:07 and 7:14 p.m.; 7:39 and 7:57 p.m.; and

between 8:22 and 835 p.m. ['Atlas Launch Set for Thursday," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A,

Feb. 29, 1992.]

V

44
MARCH

March 2: STS 45: APU UNES CONNECTED

On Launch Complex 39A, the Space Shuttle Atlantis has had its APU fuel lines

connected. Work in progress: servicing the auxiliary power units (APUs) with lube oil;

preparations to load hypergolic propellants into the Orbiter's onboard storage tanks.

Scheduled work includes: a hot fldng of the two APUs March 5 to verify their operability

and a Flight Readiness Review on March 10. [KS(_ SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m.,

March 2, 1992.]

g ENDF_VOUR; PAYLOAD BAY DOOFB Ct.O_9

In Orbiter Processing Bay 1, technicians have closed the payload bay doors and

conducted a frequency response test of the aerosurfaces of the Space Shuttle

Endeavour. Work in progress for the STS 49 mission: final powedng down of the Orbiter;

closeouts of the aft compartment; final inspections and cleaning. Endeavour is scheduled

for a rollover to the Vehicle Assembly Building on March 4; there it will be mated with its

extemal tank and solid rocket boosters beginning at 8 a.m. rKSC SHU'I-rLE STATUS

REPORT. 10 a.m., March 2, 1992.]

g COLUaev OUSPOO -"r,e .LEO

In OPF Bay, workers readying Columbia for itsSTS 50 mission have installed the orbiter's

right orbital maneuvering system (OMS) pod; the left pod will be Installed tomorrow

(March 3). Work in progress: tests of the power reactant storage and distribution

system; pr_ to installthe extended duration Orbiter pallet;,and tests of the dght

OM8 pod. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., March 2, 1992.]

g DIS(X)VERY: DECONFIGURATIONS

Technicians are busy in OPF Bay 3 removing the focwerd reaction control system and the

heat shields around the main engines of the Space Shuttle Discovery. They are also

offioading residual fluids and dsconflguring the Orbiter's payload bay. Discovery is

scheduled to undergo extensive modifications of the sort recently made upon the oldest

Space Shuttle, Columbia. [KSC SHU'I'rLE 8"I'ATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., March 2, 1992.]

March 4: STs45: APUct,osEoul"ON

At Launch Complex 39A, technicians have closed out Atlantis' APUs and are loading

hypergolic propellants into the Orbiter's onboard storage tanks that feed the forward

reactions control system thrusters and both orbital maneuvering system engines.

Hydrazine will be loaded into the Orbiter's auxiliary power units and the booster's

hydraulic power units. Work scheduled: a hot firing of the two APUs March 5 between

11 a.m. and noon; a Launch Readiness Review is set for March 5 and a Flight Readiness

Review scheduled for March 10. The reviews are routinely scheduled, according to KSC

spokeswoman Usa Malone. She said, "We basically review everything to make sure KSC

is ready to support the launch, mission and landing.' The firm launch date - now targeted

for March 23 - will be set after the March 10 meeting, rKSC SHUTrl.E STATUS REPORT,

10 a.m., March 4, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 5A, March 4, 1992.]
11 ENDEAVOUR READIES FOR STS 49

The aft compartment of the Space Shuttle Endeavour has been closed out by technicians

in OPF Bay 1; closeouts of the crew cabin are in progress as are final inspections and

cleaning. Work scheduled: determining the Orbiter's weight and center of gravity; bolting

the Orbiter atop the transporter;, inspections of the main landing gear doors; transfer of

Endeavour to the Vehicle Assembly Building for mate with the external tank and solid

rocket boosters now targeted for the afternoon of March 5. [KSCSHUTTI_ STATUS

REPORT. 10 a.m., March 4, 1992.]

g OOU,,JMBA: TEST8 IN PI:KT_.qR_SS

Tests of the power reactant storage and distdbution system and of the right orbital

maneuvering system (OMS) pod are in progress on Columbia in OPF Bay 3. Technicians.

are also making connections of the left orbital maneuvering system pod and preparing

to install the Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet which is scheduled to be transferred

from the VAB to the OPF March 5. Instailation of the EDO in Endeavour is scheduled for

early Rext week. [KSC $HLrl=FLE STATUS REaP.0..RT,10 a.m., March 4, 1992.]

g DISCOVERY IN PROCESSING

The Space Shuttle Discovery is in OPF Bay 2 for processing; technicians are current_

offioading residual fluids, beginning extensive structural inspections in the midbody area

of the Orbiter and undertaking drying operations for the main engines. The three main

engines are scheduled for removal next week. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS RF,_PQRT,10

a.m., March 4, 1992.]

D ATL/_ DELAYED FOR

The launch of an Atlas rocket at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station for March 5 has-been

rascheduled for March 10 because engineers have ordered more tests of parts replaced

since problems surfaced last week with the guidance and flight control systems. "There

are no other problems that we are working on and we really feel confident that next

Tuesday [March 10] is going to be the day we launch,' said Jack isabel, spokesman for

General Dynamics which manufactured the Atlas rocket. ['Engineers Postpone Launch

of Atlas Rocket for Testing,' FLORIDA TODAY, p. 5A, March 4, lgg2.]

March 5: A_: HOT RRING

Technicians at Launch Complex 39A who are readying Atlantis for its STS 45 mission

have loaded hypergolic propellants into the Orbiter's onboard storage tanks that feed the

forward reaction control system thn._ters and both orbital maneuvering system engines.

Hydrazine was loaded into the Orbiter's auxiliary power units and the booster's hydraulic

units. Work in progress: preparations to perform tonight's hot fldng of two auxiliary

power units (APUs); disconnecting lines used in the hypergolic loading operation;

reopening the launch pad this afternoon. An improved APU now in slot NO. 2 will run for

12 minutes tonight; the other APU, in slot No. 1, will run for 7 minutes. [KSC SHUTI'LE

STATUS REPORT, 11:30 a.m., March 5, 1992.]

V

V
-. j

v

g ENDEAVOUR: TITANIUM SOCKET BULGE

Closeouts of Endeavour's crew cabin are underway in OPF Bay I where technicians are

taking measurements and sanding the liquid oxygen socket where the external tank

connects to the Orbiter. Engineers found a slight bulge inthe titanium socket that needs

to be sanded for a correct fit. The socket's aluminum liner is also being sanded. Work

scheduled: determining the Orbiter's weight and center of gravity; bolting the Orbiter

atop the transporter;, Inspections of the main landing gear doors; transfer of Endeavour

to the Vehicle Assembly Building for mate with the external tank and solid rocket boosters

now targeted for tomorrow (March 6) evening. [KSC SHLrl"rLE STATUS REPORT. 11:30

a.m., March 5, 1992.]

!1 cOUJMBIA; EDO p,,AU.IETTR/_ TO OPF

The Extended Duration Orbiter Pallet (EDO) has been transferred from the Vehicle

Assembly Building to OPF Bay 3 this morning; installation of the pallet is scheduled to

occur early next week. Work in progress: tests of the left orbital maneuvering system

pod; tests of the power reactant storage and distribution system and of the right orbital

maneuvering system pod; preparations to Install the EDO. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT, 11:30 a.m., March 5, 1992.]

March 6: STS 45: SLICCES_CUL HOT RILING

Atlantis' two auxilimy power units (APUs) were successfully hot fired today at 4:30 a.m.

today and Launch CompJex 39A _ reopened for normal work. Pad workers are

extending the rotat_g sense stnJcture around the Space Shuttle and draining the APU

catch bottles. Scheduled work next week includas: a flight readinass test of the three

main engines; ordnance operations; Installation of the two contingency space suits and

a Flight Readiness Review for STS 45 is set for March 10. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m., March 6, 1992.]

11 ENDEAVOUR: CREW CABIN CLOSED OUT

The Space Shuttle Endeavour, awaiting rollover horn OPF Bay I to the VAB, has had its

crew cabin closed out by technicians who have also sanded the liquid oxygen socket

where the external tank connects to the Orbiter. "There's no question In my mind that the

team went the extra mile In getting Endeavour ready to leave the OPF. The team

grabbed the challenge in getting a brand new Orbiter flight ready, overcame many

obstacles and demonstrated tremendous teamwork. We're proud of the team and happy

to see Endeavour on its way to the launch pad," said Jay Honeycu¢ Director of Shuttle

Management and Operations. Engineers had found a slight bulge in the titanium socket

that would have interfered in connecting the Orbiter to the tank. Processing workers are

determining the Orbiter's weight and center of gravity and bolting the Orbiter to the

transporter. Scheduled work: Inspections of the tiles on the main landing gear doors and

rolling the Orbiter over to the Vehicle Assembly Building for mating with the external tank

and solid rocket boosters;_that occurs tomorrow (March 7) at 8 a.m. Endeavour's maiden

voyage, S'IS 49, is scheduled for late April or early May. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY,

p. 2A, March 1, 1992; KSC SHLrI'R.E STATUS...REiPORT, 10 a.m., March 6, 1992;

NASA/KSC News Release No. 27-921 March 6, 1992.]

_'J 47
I1 COLUMBIA: BOTH OMS PODS TESTED

Both of Columbia's Orbital Maneuvering System (OMS) Pods have been tested while the

Orbiter undergoes processing for STS 50 in OPF Bay 3. The Extended Duration Orbiter

(EDO) Pallet will be installed in the vehicle next week. Work in progress: leak and

functional tests of the auxiliary power units; tests of the electrical system and of the power

reactant and distribution system; preparations to install the EDO. [KSC SHUTTLE

.STA_TUSREPORT. 10 a.m., March 6, 1992.]

V

D _: RIESIDUAL FLUID (:X=FLOADING

Residual hypergolic propellants from Discovery will take place this weekend. The three

main engines and both orbital maneuvering system pods will be removed next week.

Currently, technicians are deservicing freon coolant loop No. 2, offloading residual fluids

and making extensive structural inspections of Discovew's midbody. Before Discovery's

next mission, STS 53, the Orbiter will undergo extensive modifications similar to those

made to Columbia last year. [KSC SHLrI'R.E STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., March 6, 1992.]

g MOBILEsERvmESTRUCTURE

At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Launch Complex 40 got a new 23-story, 11.4 millionpound mobile service tower to enable the launching of commercial Titan rockets from the

pad. "This is the biggest rolling vehicle of its kind in the world," said James "Ox"Van

Hoftmt, former astronaut and Senior Vice President of Bechtel National, Inc., which

designed and built the tower. The tower will see its first service on the Mars Observer

mluic_ launch. At pad 368, a General Dynamics Corp. Atlas 1 rocket is awaiting launch

on March 10. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, March 9, 1992.]

Malch 7:. KATZ _SO) _ AWARD

Michael Kalz, an engineer for Lockheed Space Operations Co., has been awarded the

1992 Robert F_ Gross Award. The Gross Award is an annual honor presented by

Lockheed in recognition of technical excellence to engineers in the various companies

within the Lockheed Corporation. Katz willreceive the award later this year at a ceremony

in Califomia. ['Lockheed Engineer Captures Award," FLORIDA TODAY, March 8, 1992.]

March 9: A'I1.ANllS: FRR TOMORROW

The Flight Readiness Review for Atlantis' STS 45 mission will begin tomorrow [March 10].

Ordnance operations and installation of the two contingency space suits will also occur

this week. Work in progress: purging the 17-Inch umbilical cavity between the extemal

tank and the Orbiter;, draining the auxilian/power unit catch bottles and mating the Orbiter

midbody umbilical unit to the Orbiter. [KSC SHUI"FLE STATU_ RtF,PQRT, 11 a.m., March

9, 1992.]

g ct-n: ELECTS, tt . cc ,n'nAq!"

Chrome Electric, Inc. ('l-=tusviile,FL) has been awarded a $518,480 contract for the

installation of a fire alarm system for launch control and processing facilities at Kennedy

Space Center. The small business firm will link fire detection sensors and audible alarms

in the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB), two Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF) high bays

and the Launch Control Center (LCC) to a central monitor station in one room of the LCC.
Inthecaseof afire,themonitoringsystem'scomputerized digital display will provide a

precise guide for KSC firefighters as to the location of the blaze. The Launch Complex

39 Area facilities that will be protected by the new, state-of-the-art alarm system are

critical to the processing and launch of the Space Shuttle. [NASA/KSC Release No. 25-

March 9, 1992.]

g ENDEAVOUR: ROLLOVER COMPLETED

Another milestone on the way to Endeevour's maiden _ 49 flight was achieved March

7 when the Orbiter was rolled over to the Vehicle Assembly Building from the OPF;

transfer was complete at 8:29 _Ln_ Former astronaut Miclzasi McCuley said, 'This ts a

pretty magnificent moment. Not just for us here, but for all of the United States.' McCulley

is now Deputy Launch Site Director for Lockheed Space Operations Co. Some 1200

Shuttle workers and their families were on hand to see Endeavour emerge from its

processing hangar and be towed to the VAB. On March 8, the vehicle elements were

mated and connections between the Orbiter and the extemal tank continue to be made.

Endeavour will undergo its Shuttle Interface Test on March 10 and rollout to Launch

Complex 39B is scheduled for early March 13. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A,

March 7, 1992; Ksc SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., March 9, 1992; Halvorson,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A-2A, March 8, 1992.]

n COLUMBIA: TESTING UNI;IERW.AY

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v

g

In preparation for itsSTS 50 mission, Columbia is undergoing a vadety of tests this week:

leak and functional tests of the APUs; tests of the electrical system and of the power

reactant storage and distribution system. Preparations are also underway to install the

EDO in the Orbiter this week. IKSC SHUTi'LE STATUS REPORT. 11 a.m., March 9, 1992.]

BSCOVERY: I ,ORU-/Wl OFR,0/U 9

Residual hypergolic propellants have been offloaded from Discovery this weekend.

Daservicing of freon coolant loop No. 2 and extensive midbody structural inspections are

in progress this week. Later this week, the three main engines will be removed from the

Orbiter along with the removal of both orbital maneuvering system pods. [KSC SHUTTLE

STATU6 REipORT, 11 a.m., March 9, 1992.]

March 10:. STS 45 LAUNCH: MARCH 23

NASA managers today set March 23, 1992, as the official launch date for the next Shuttle

mission, STS 45, which will involve the Shuttle Atlantis carrying the Atmospheric

Laboratory for Applications and Science (ATLAS-I) payload. During the 8 day mission,

Atlantis' crew will study the chemistW of Earth's atmosphere, solar radiation, space

plasma physics and ultraviolet astronomy. The launch window on March 23 opens at

8:01 a.m. EST and extends for 2 1/2 hours. Landing would normally take place at 6:08

a.m. EST, March 31 at the Kennedy Space Center, FL, weather permitting. Commanding

Atlantis will be Charles F. Bolder making his third space flight. Brian Dully will serve as

pilot, making his first Shuttle flight. Mission Specialists include Kathryn D. Sullivan,

making her third flight; David C. Leestma, making his third flight; and Michael C. Foale,

making his first flight. Payload Specialists will be Byron Lichtenber_ making his second

flight and Dirk Frimout, a Belgian scientist, making his first flight, rNASA/KSC News

Release: "Launch Advisory: Shuttle Mission STS-45 Set for Launch March 23," March 10,

1992.]

49 ,
g 45: FUGHT READINESS TEST

While the STS 45 Flight Readiness Review is underway at Kennedy Space Center, the

main engines of the Space Shuttle Atlantis are undergoing a Flight Readiness Test; the

engines' valves are being cycled and sensors are being calibrated. Technicians at

Launch Complex 39A have completely purged the 17-inch umbilical cavity between the

external tank and the Orbiter;,they have drained the auxiliary power unit catch bottles and

mated the Orbiter midbody umbilical unit to the Orbiter. Scheduled work: ordnance

operations this week; start of aft cloeeouts; Installation of the two contingency space suits

on March 13. _ spokeswoman Lisa Malone said, 'We feel good about the schedule

and we're looking forward to launch.' KSC SHUI"rLE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., March

10, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, March 10, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p.

6A, March 1I, 1992.]

11 ENDF.AVOUR;S'i"S49VABPI:K)CES NG

Technicians in the Vehicle Assembly Building have completed the mechanical and

electrical connections between Endeavour and its solid rocket boosters and external tank.

Preparations have begun for Endeavour's Shuttle Interface Test and for attaching thermal

protection material to the main engine nozzles. Rollout to Launch Complex 39B is slated

for early March 13. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., March 10, 1992.]

g BEGUN ON COLUMBIA

11

Work in progress upon Columbia includes: leak and functional tests of the auxiliary

power units and the power reactant storage and distribution system; calibrations of the

inertial measurement units; preparations to install the Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO)

p=l¢ instaJk_on wmoccur _ter this week. Cbk_Ua's neo<tmlsdon _, be STS SO.

[KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 11 a.m., March 10, 1992.]

DISCOVERY: INSPECTIONS UNDERWAY

The Space Shuttle Discovew's next mission will be STS 53, but before that occurs the

Orbiter is undergoing extensive modifications of the sort made upon Columbia last year.

Currently, technicians in OPF Bay 2 are desarvictng freon coolant loop No. 2 and making

extensive structural inspections in the midbody of the vehicle. Work scheduled: removal

of the three main engines and orbital maneuvering system pods this week. [KSC

_HUTrLE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., March 10, 1992.]

March 11: DAN G0t,pINTO HEAD NASA

TRW Vlce President and General Manager Daniel S. Goidin was nominated to succeed

Richard I-L Truly as NASA Administrator today by President Bush during a press

conference. "Dan is a leader in America's aerospace industry and a man of extraordinary

energy and vitality," the president said. "Working with the vice president_as chairman of

the Space Council. Dan Goldin will ensure America's leadership in space as we enter the

21st century.' In the 1960s, Goldin began his space career as a research scientist at

Lewis Research Center (Cleveland, OH). Other candidates for the top NASA job were

Edward C. 'Pete" Aldddge, former Air Force Secretary, James Abraltamson, former

director of the Strategic Defense Initiative Organization and David Keams, former chief

executive officer of Xerox Corp. [Haivorson and Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, March 11,

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1992; Halvorson and Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, pp. 1A-2A, March 12, 1992; Holton & Date,

THE ORLANDO SENTINEL pp. A-1 & A-8, March 12, 1992.]

PREVIOUS NASA ADMINISTRATORS

g

I1

I1

ADMINISTRATOR

T. Keilh _

Jantm Wel=b

TENURE

1958-1961

Jal_ Flelc_

Robelt Froech

1961-1968

TIl(xnm Paine 1968-1m

1971-1977

Seggs

U_

 ard H.Truly

1977-1981

1981-1985

lg86-1989

1989-1gg2

['Previous NASA Admin_ors,' THE ORLANDO SENTINEL p. A-8, March 12, 1992.]

TRUILY_ I:IEMARI_ ON GOI.DIN APPOINTMB4T

NASA Administrator _ H. Truly Issued the following statement today conceming the

nomination of _ 8. _ to be NASA Adm_or. 'I am pleased to learn that

President Bush intends to nominate Daniel S. Goldln as the next Administrator of NASA.

Mr. Goldln has a long history of working in the space arena, in both NASA and DOD

programs, and the NASA team stands ready to support him. The continued

achievement's of NASA's space and aeronautics research programs are vitally important

to the nation, and Mr. Goldin will be arriving at a tirne of great challenges and

opportunities for the future. I wish him even/ success as he comes to this elite

organization." rTruly statement on Goldiq Appointment. March 11, 1992.]

CRIPPEN: GOLDEN APPOINTMENT

Statement from KSC Director Robert L Oippon on the appointment of Daniel S. Goid'm:

"1was delighted to learn the President has nominated a new NASA Administrator. While

I do not know Daniel Goidin personally, I am sum the President, who has made a strong

commitment to the nation's space program, has nominated someone he is confident can

lead NASA through the very challenging and exciting years ahead of us. The challenging

and exciting years we are facing are also critical years for NASA, and I look forward to

working closely with the new administrator." [Cdppen Statement on Goldin Appointment,

March 11, 1992.]

BEACH CLOSURE: ENDEAVOUR ROLLOUT

Playalinda Beach will be closed to visitors as of Friday (March 13, 1992) as NASA

prepares for the launch of the Space Shuttle Endeavour on mission STS 49. The beach

closing is required because of the move of the Orbiter from the Vehicle Assembly Building
to LaunchComplex39B.Rolloutisscheduledto beginat8:00a.m. Launchis currently

targeted for the first week of May. The southem part of the Canaveral National Seashore

will remain closed until the morning after launch, reopening at normal hours at launch

plus one day. [NASA/KSC Release No. 28-92, March 11, 1992.]

11 STS4S: FRRCOMPLETED

The Flight Readiness Review for STS 45 has been completed at Kennedy Space Center

and NASA managers have set March 23 as the launch date for Atlantis' next mission. A

Flight Readiness Test has also been completed. Work In progress: closing the launch

pad for ordnance operations today. Work scheduled: start of the aft closeouts and

Installation of the two contingency space suits on March 13. I1_C SHUTrl.E STATUS

REPORT. 11 a. m., March 11, 1992 Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL March 11, 1992.]

D

In VAB Bay 1, workers have completed Endeavour's Shuttle Interface Test in preparation

for the planned rollout of the newest Orbiter to Launch Complex 39B at 8 a.m., March 13.

A global profile test of the orbital maneuvering system engines has also been completed.

Work in progress: preparations for rollout; attaching thermal protection material to the

main engine nozzles; leak test of the liquid oxygen umbilical between the extemal tank

and the Orbiter. [KS(_ S.HUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 11 a. m., March 11, 1992.]

11 (_I,UMBIA: MAIN PROPUI.810N TEST8

In OPF Bay 3 work in progress Includes: tests of the main propulsion system; leak and

furctionai tests of the auxiliary power units; tests of the power reactant storage and

distribution system; preparations to Install the Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet ;

installation of the Ku-band antenna drive assembly; pmparatJorB to install the three main

englnas. IKSC SHUI"rI.E STATUS REPORT. 11 a. m., March 11, 1992.]

Marcll 12: _TS 45 UPDATE

Ordnance instaflatton operations upon Atlantis have been completed at Launch Complex

39A as have main engine valve cycles and leak checks. Work in progress: auxiliary

power unit catch bottle draining; preparations for Orbiter aft closeouts; power up

ordnance checks. Contingency space suit installation is scheduled for March 13. [KSC

SHLrI"rl.E STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., March 12, 1992.]

D ENDEAVOUR:LEAKCHECK0OMPL 'ED

In preparation for its imminent roilout for its STS 49 mission, Endeavour has had a 400

psi leak check on its gaseous oxygen lines performed. Work in progress: vehicle roilout

preparations; Orbiter and external tank closeouts; insulation of fuel lines; Orbiter and

external tank cavity purges. Work scheduled: closing of aft compartment tonight;

retraction of work platforms from around vehicle in VAB; rollout of Endeavour to Launch

Complex 39B set to begin at 8:00 a.m. March 13. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10

a.m., March 12, 1992.]

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March

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STS 50,PROCESSING: COLUMBIA

Work in progress includes: main propulsion system tests;auxiliary power unit leak and

functional tests; Ku-Band wire harness installation; preparations for installation of

Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet; star tracker door installation. The EDO pallet's

installation is scheduled for March 13. In OPF Bay 2, the main engines and orbital

maneuvering system pods will be removed from Discovery tomorrow. KSC[._

•_TATUS REPORT, 10 eLm., March 12, 1992.]

A'n.A8 READY. AGAIN

The much delayed Atlas launch with its Galaxy 5 communications satellite payload is

scheduled to lilt off tonight during one of three launch windows [SEE ABOVE]. 'This

satellite will be the satellite most people in America will get cable television from for the

next 12 years,' said Jam/ Fmrel, vice president of Hughes Communications, Inc.,

manufacturer and owner of the satellite. It willreplace the cable satellite known as Westar

5. Tonight will mark the sixth time the rocket has been readied for launch. [Banke,

FLORIDA TOI_AY, p. 8A, March 12, 1997_]

13: SPACESUITS INFrAU.ED IN A'fl.ANI"iS

'This is going to be a big week. We're going to be getting ready for our second mission

of the year,' said Kennedy Space Center spokesmen Bnme Buckingtmm. Contingency

spacesuits have been Installed in the midbody of Atiantis and the first part of ordnance

operatk:ms have been completed at Launch Complex 39A. Work in progress: tests of the

systems supporting the two spacesuits; purges of the external tank; closing out of the aft

compartment. Work scheduled: closing out the aft compartment next week; launch

countdown sl;artsMarch 20 at the T-¢3 hour mark and the STS 45 flight crew arrives the

same day. Buckingham said the astronauts will spend the days before launch attending

briefings, flying , checking their flight suits for fit and undergoing final physical

ecKamination¢ [KSC SHUTrl.E STATUS REPORT. 11 eLm., March 13, 1992; Halvorson,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 7A, March 15, 1992.]

ENDEAVOUR;s'rs pREPARAT NS

"Allthis whining about Americans don_ do good work is B. S.," said John 'l"=p,Talone, Jr.,

Manager of Endeavour Processing. '1 know better. Americans, when they're given a

challenge, do damn good work, really good work, extraordinary work that a lot of people

in the world don't even care to try to do." Endeavour began its first rollout ever this

morning at 7:18 elm.; it was expected to be hard down at the pad by 2:00 p.m. Once at

the pad, techniclens began to make connections between the launch pad and the Orbiter

elements. There is an engine flight readiness test on March 22. Two auxiliary power

units will be replaced next week. [KSC SHUI"rLE STATUS REPORT. 11 elm., March 13,

1992; Benke, FI,0RIDA TODAY, p. 1A, March 14, 1992; Benke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 9E,

March 15, 1992; Halvorson and Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 9A, March 13, 1992.]

KU-BAND ANTENNA INb'rALLED

The Ku-Band antenna drive assembly has been installed in Columbia as part of

processing work for the oldest Shuttle's STS 50 mission. Work in progress: tests of the

main propulsion system; leak and functional tests of the auxiliary power units; tests of the

power reactant storage and distribution system; preparations to install the Extended
D

Duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet. Columbia's three main engines will be installed next week.

[KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., March 13, 1992.]

DISCOVERY: MODIRCATION PERIOD TO START

In OPF Bay 2, technicians have completed the final power down of Discovery for its

modification period; the dght orbital maneuvering system pod was removed yesterday;

the No. 2 main engine has been removed; the freon coolant loop No. 2 was deserviced.

Work in progress: rarnovai of the main engines and extensive structural inspections. The

left orbital rnanet_edng system pod will be removed next week. I'KSC SHUTrLE STATUS

REPORT. 11 a.m., March 13, 1992.]

I1 ATI.AS RNALLY LAUNCHIES

'The launch of Galaxy 5 represents a very significant era in cable television distribution<'

said JetTy Famdl, Hughes Communications, Inc. "Galaxy 5 will be the premiere cable

satellite for the next decade." Fan'ell spoke just alter the launch of Atlas 1 (built by

General Dynamics Corp.) at 7 p.m. tonight. General Dynamics plans to launch 23 more

rockets over the next seven years; three Atlas launches are scheduled for this year.

[Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 6A, March 14, 1992.]

n NEWMAN GIVE8 SNOOPY AWARD6

Astronaut James H. Nmemml has recently awarded Silver Snoopy Awards to Christopher

_, (Lockheed Space Operations Co.); John PmireceL Joltn Gihanele and

Mudmw, d employees of USBI. 'Those of us who are astronauts thank you for the

continued and outstanding support you have given us through your work,' Newman said.

['Astronaut Doles Out Silver Snoopy Awards,' FLORIDA TODAY, p. 9E, March 15, 1992.]

March 16: _'S 46: A'rLANTB TANK PURGED

rl

At Launch Complex 39A, the extemal tank of Atlantis has been purged in preparation for

launch targeted for March 23. Work in progress: closing out the aft compartment; launch

countdown preparations; topping off the ATLAS payload with freon. On March 20, the

craw arrives and the launch countdown begins at noon at T-43 hour mark. [KSC

SHUTI'LE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., March 16, 1992.]

ENDEAVOUR: APU8 REPI.ACED

n

At Launch Complex 39B, Endeavour has had both its APUs replaced; the pad hook-ups

have also been completed. Work in progress: cleaning of the payload bay; preparations

for the flight readiness fldng; preparations for the helium signature leak test of the main

engines and main propulsion system. Work scheduled: an end-to-end test of the solid

rocket boosters March 25 and an engine flight readiness test on March 26. [KSC

SHUI"I'I._ SThTUS REPORT, 10 a.m., March 16, 1992.]

COLUMBIA: S_"TEMS INSTALLED

In the early stages of processing for STS 50, the next mission of Columbia, technicians

have installed main propulsion system regulators and helium tanks. Work in progress:

installation of the three main engines and the Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet.

Tests of the Ku-Band antenna are scheduled. The main engines have been removed

V

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V

54
v

from the Space Shuttle Discovery which is beginning a period of extensive modifications

in OPF Bay 2 before undertaking its STS 53 mission. Work in progress includes:

extensive structural inspections; preparations to remo_e the left orbital maneuvering

system pod; deservicing the freon coolant loop No. 1 and Inspection of the radiators.

[KSC SHUTrLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., March 16, 1997_]

g SR _1WIDENIN_ TO CONTINUE

Brevard County officials said today that the widening of State Road 3 will resume soon.

The widening was stalled when the county began the project before obtaining all of the

needed right of way. Kennedy Space Center completed its portion of the widening

project - two and a half miles - last August. Henry Minnetx_ Director of the county's

Road and Bridge Division, said the county's portion should be finished by February 1993,

more than a year after the odginal completion target. [Reitz, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A,

March 16, 1992.]

March 17: STS 45: ATLAS PAYLOAD TOPPED OFF

At Launch Complex 39A, technicians have topped off the ATLAS payload with freon as

Atlantis waits a final week before launching STS 45 on March 23. 'We're moving ahead,

right on schedule," said Kennedy Space Center spokesman Bruce Buckingham. Work

in progress Includes: closing the payload bay doors for flight; closing out the aft

compartment including final inspections, removing platforms and installing the doors for

flight; launch countdown preparations; final ordnance operations tonight; stowing crew

equipment In the crew cabin. The hypergolic propellant tanks will be pressurized

overnight and the countdown begins March 20 at noon. The flight crew is eXpected to

arrive at 6:30 p.m., also March 20. Ultoff is scheduled for 8:01 a.m.EST, Monday, March

23. The b"TS45 crew Includes Commander Chlkm F. Bolden, Pilot Brian DUlly, Mission

Specialists Ka_ D. Sullvan, David C. I.mmlnu and Michael C. Foale and Payload

Specialists Byron Uc_ and D(Ik Frfmout. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10

a.rn., March 17, 1992; 'Launch of Atlantis Still On ,Schedule At Launch Pad 39A," FLORIDA

p. 6A, March 18, 1992, (Banks, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, March 17, 1992.]

g

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ST8 49: CREWCABIN PREPARATIONS

The Space Shuttle Endeavour, currently at Launch Complex 39B, continues to undergo

preparations for its maiden flight, STS 49. The newest Shuttle's payload bay is being

cleaned and prepared for the upcoming flight readiness fidng on March 26. A helium

signature leak test of the main engines and main propulsion system has begun and the

crew cabin IS being readied for flight. An and-to-end test of Endeavour's solid rocket

boosters ISscheduled for this Week. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., March

17, 1992.]

CO UMeV OPFBAY

In OPF Bay 3, main engines No. 1 and 2 have been installed in Columbia and the EDO

pallet was installed yesterday. Work scheduled: installing the No. 3 main engine;

hooking up the Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet; tests of the Ku-band antenna.

[KSC SHU'I'Tt,E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., March 17, 1992.]

_-" 55
g uOi RCATK)N 

Discovery is undergoing extensive structural inspections and the left orbital maneuvering

system pod. Freon coolant loop No. 1 is being deserviced and the radiators are being

inspected. Discovery's next mission will be STS 53. [KSC SHU'I'rLE STATUS REPORT,

10 a.m., March 17, 1992.]

March 18: RRST lgg_ CELSS CROP

sclentl== today prepared to han'est nearly 350 pounds of potatoes grown without

soil inside a computer-comroUed biomass chamber on the Cape Canaveral Air Force

Station. Today's hatve= concluded a 90-day growth cycle for the second group of

potatoes to be grown inside the bubble-shaped biosphere of the Closed Ecological Life

Support System (CEI._g). _ yield was significantly better than our preliminary studies,'

remarked NASA research plant physiologist Dr. Raymond Wheeler. "We're very pleased

with the results of this potato crop and the continued performance of the CELSS

chamber." The potato harvest was the eleventh in the history of KSC's CELSS research

program. Lettuce, soybeans and wheat are other plants previously harvested from the

CELSS chamber, which was constructed from test hardware used in the Mercury and

Gemini programs. Using a specially developed environment controlled by computers,

NASA scientists are learning how to deliver nutrients, monitor growth and gaseous

outputs and produce healthy plants with a minimum amount of human intervention.

CE_ is a futuristic program being developed for a time when astronauts will need to

grow much of their own foods in space. The program will prove imperative and invaluable

for future _ space missions and ventures into planetary habitats. The goals

of CEI.,.q8 reeearchem are to learn how to use a controlled erMmnment to grow food,

generate oxygen and recycle waste products to fertilize the plants. [NASA/KSC News

Release No. 33-92. March 18, lgg2.]

B _1"8 4._ LC 3gA _

Technicians at launch Complex 39A have closed the payload bay doors of Atlantis for

flight;, they pressurized the hypergolic propellant tanks and completed final ordnance

operations. Work in progress: closing out the aft compartment including removing

platforms and installing the doors for flight; launch countdown preparations; stowing crew

equipment in the crew cabin; moving booster flame deflectors to the launch position;

installation of the crew escape pole; removing service platforms from the mobile launcher

platform, rKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., March 18, 1997_]

n STs4ePF 'AFU TK)NS

At Launch Complex 3gB technicians have completed a helium signature leak test of

Endeavour's main engines and main propulsion system. Work in progress: end-to-end

testing of the solid rocket boosters; cleaning of the payload bay; installing instrumentation

for the flight readiness firing which is scheduled for March 19; work to ready the crew

cabin for flight. [KSC SHUI"rLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., March 18, 1992.]

g COLUMBIA: MAIN ENGINES INSTALLED

Columbia's new main engines have been installed in preparation for its STS 50 flight.

Work in progress: check out of the Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet; tests of the

V
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Ku-band antenna and of the engines and main propulsion system.

STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., March 18, 1992.]

[KSC SHUTTLE

g DISCOVERY IN OPF BAY 2

In Orbiter Processing Bay 2, workers have removed Discovery's left orbital maneuvering

system pod and have deservJced freon coolant loop No. 1. Currently, the technicians are

making extensivestructuralinspections, inspecting the radiatorsand making modifications

to the Orbiter like those made previously to the Space Shuttle Columbia in Paimdale, CA.

[KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., March 18, 1992.]

ST8 45 FORECAST; 40% FAVORABLE

There is a 40 percent chance of having acceptable weather conditions at the opening of

the launch window and a 50 percent chance for the entire launch period. Technicians

at Launch Complex 39A have closed out the aft compartment (completed March 18);

moved booster flame deflectors to the launch position; installed the crew escape pole and

removed service platforms from the mobile launcher platform. Work in progress: launch

countdown preparations; stowing crew equipment inthe crew cabin; removing platforms

from the flight deck; washing down the mobile launcher platforms and the flame trench;

installing and filling the sound suppression water system bags. Six and one half hours

alter the launch countdown begins at noon on March 23, the STS 45 crew Is expected

to arrive at Kennedy Space Center. Launch is targeted for 8:01 a.m. EST on March 23.

[KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., March 19, 1992; "Shuttle Atlantis On

Schedule," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 8A, March 19, 1992.]

g STS 4,9:. END-TO.END TEST COMFI.E1ED

Technicians have completed an end-to-end test of Endeavour's solid rocket boosters.

STS 49 work in progress: flight readiness test of the main engines; preparations to load

hypergolic propellants Into the Orbiter;, frequency response test of the solid rocket

boosters hydraulically operated systems; cleaning of the payload bay; installing

instrumentatk_ for the flight readiness fldng; work to ready the crew cabin for flight.

rKSC SHUI"rLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., March 19, 1992.]

g STSso;,COLUMBIAPROCES NG

Work in progress on Columbia in OPF Bay 3 includes: check out of the Extended

Duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet; tests of the Ku-band antenna and the engines and main

propulsion system; electrical connections of the main engines and a single cell voltage

test of the fuel cells. Meanwhile, Discovery is in OPF Bay 2 where technicians are drying

the water loops; making leak checks of the main propulsion system; undertaking

extensive structural inspections of the Orbiter and its radiators and beginning Orbiter

modifications. [KSC SHUTTI_ STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., March 19, 1992_]

March 20: s'rs snss CLOSEDqUT

At Launch Complex 39A, Atlantis awaits launch on its STS 45 mission. Pad technicians

have closed out the Orbiter's solid rocket boosters, the extemai tank intertank, the

auxiliary power units and ordnance devices for flight. Work in progress: launch

countdown preparations and stowage of crew equipment in the crew cabin. Work

scheduled: crew arrival; loading liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen reactants into the

57
Orbiter's onboard storage tanks on March 21; moving the rotating service structure to the

launch position by noon March 22; begin ioading the extemal tank with its flight load of

cryogenic propellants starting at 11:41 p.m. March 22. The countdown to launch begins

at noon today. Launch remains targeted for 8:01 a.m., March 23. [KSC SHUTTLE

STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., March 20, 1992; Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, March

20, 199_]

g ENDEAVOUR: FRR COMPLETED FOR STS 4,9

The Space Shuttle Endesvour has undergone two milestone tests in preparation for its

malden flight in early May of this year. A flight readinass test of the Orbiter's main

engines has been completed as has a frequency response test of the solid rocket

boosters hydraulically operated systems. Technicians are now preparing to load

hypergolic propellants into the Orbiter;, they are also cleaning the payload bay, installing

Instrumentation for the flight readiness firing, readying the crew cabin for flight and

conducting leak checks ofthe APUs. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., March

20, 1992.]

n COLUMBIA: EDO P,,A_ CHECK-OUT

In OPF Bay 3, the Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO)pallet is being checked out. In

addition tests of the Ku-band antenna, the main engines and the main propulsion system

are underway. The Orbiter's fuel. cells are undergoing a single cell voltage test. The

Orbiter midbody is being closed out. In OPF Bay 2, Discovery is being modified before

its _ 53 mbaion. Technicians are drying the water loops, conduc=lng leak checks of

the main propulsion system, making extensive structural inspections, and removing the

vehicle's radlammlKSC SHUI"II.E STATUS REPORT. 10 =m., March 20, 1992.]

March 22: WF.AIHERTO UFTOFF

AI Solge, a KSC launch (dflolal, said today that "wea_er is the only cloud over the

countdowrff of STS 45. NASA Test Director Eric F. Redding said, "We're not looking at

any technical problems." Weather concerns have reduced the likelihood of favorable

weather to 20% at the opening of the launch window at 8:01 a.m. March 23. Capt. Mike

Adams (45th Weather Squadron) said, 'We have a whole score of weather concerns."

These include: showers or thunderstorms; gusty crosswinds; layers of clouds more than

4,500 feet thick which might generate lightning and cloud decks too close to the ground.

Tanking operations will Woceed as usual. Launch Director _ B. Sisck said, 'We just

want to be prepared, ifthe opportunity presents itself,to be ready to go. You never know

with the weather. It doesn't have to be perfect; it just has to be good enough.' The STS

45 crew Includes Commander Charles F. Bok:len, Pilot Bdan Duly, Mission Specialists

D. SuJvan, Dad¢l C. I.mmlnm and Michul C. Foale and Payload Specialists

Byron _ and _ Fdmout. Uchtenberg said, "This is the first Space Shuttle

mission dedicated to Earth observatlon¢ to looking at our environment, to understanding

the atmosphere. So for all the taxpeyers out there, this ATLAS is for you." [Banke,

FLORIDA TOI;)AY, p. 3A, March 23, 1992;.Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 5A, March 21,

1992.]

March 23: STS 45 LAUNCH SCRUBBED

When engineers detected leaks of oxygen and hydrogen from the rear engine

compartment of Atlantis they scrubbed today's launch of the STS 45 mission. The leaks

V
v

were traced to seals in two 17-inch-wide pipelines funneling fuel for the extemal tank to

the Qrbiter_s three main engines. Launch Director Robert B. Sieck said that the super

cold propellants had caused the seals to contract and leak. Tests showed after the scrub

that the leaks disappeared once temperatures stabilized during fueling operations, he

said. The launch was rescheduled for 8:00 a.m. March 24. Sieck said, '! think the

opportunity is good that we'll go fly.' [Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY, pp. 1A-2A, March 24,

199 _1

g 6TS ESCt-e CCB)

A decision has been made by NASA managers to make a second launch attempt of the

Space Shuttle on March 24; the seven crew members had not yet boarded Atlantic The

countdown clock has been recycled to the T-11 hour mark and will resume counting at

6:40 p.m. Tanking of the vehicle will begin at 11:10 p.m. leading to a liftoff at exactly 8:00

a.m. Tuesday (March 24). There is a 70% chance of acceptable weather at the opening

of the launc.hwindow, and an 80 % overall. Propulsion system engineers believe that the

temporary liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen leakage which was observed is the result

of a seal between the external tank and the Orbiter which was not completely thermally

conditioned. No leaks were observed outside the vehicle. Launch Director Robert B.

Sieck was confident that the trouble was not a recurrence of the hydrogen leaks which

grounded the fleet for almost haft the year in 1990. He said that, in the past, metal

components had been slow to adapt to the extremely cold temperature of the liquid fuel.

Looking farther at the weather at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow at the opening of the window....the

temperature is forecast to be 60 degrees, with a humidity of 83%, winds will be NNE at

10 knots with occasional gusts to 20 _ There will be scattered to broken

stratocumulus clouds from 4,000 to 6,000 feet. There is a slight chance of an Isolated

shower, an occasional cloud ceiling below 8,000 feet, or of a cross wind violation.

Overall, the weather is rated as 70% favorable for launch March 24. The launch window

on March 24 extends from 8 a.m. to 10:_a.rn. EST. IKSC Status Report, 10:15 a.m.,

March 23, 1992;, see stow below;,"Fuel Leaks Ground Shuttle, Launch Is Reset for Today, l

THE WASHINGTON POST, March 24, 1992; 'Shuttle Launch Pushed Beck to Today

Because of Fuel Leaks," THE WASHINGTON TIMES. March 24, 1992; Wilford, THE NEW

YORK TIMES. March 24, I._92; Dunn, THEPHILADELPHIA INQUIRER. March 24, 1992.]

March 24: STS 45 LAUNCH SUCCESS: UI"R.E PAD DAMAGE

Atlantis was launched from Launch Complex 39A at 8:13:40:0481 a.m. EST this morning

after a bdef delay called by flight controllers for the weather to clear at the Shuttle

Landing Facility. Launch Commentator George Diler said, "The weather is always the wild

card In any launch attempt. Obviously," he said, "ifthe crew has to turn around and come

back (to KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility), they have to have a straight line of sight to the

runway below 8,000 feet.' Outgoing NASA Administrator RTchmd I-LTruly said, "Itwas a

beautiful sight. This is the 21st Shuttle flight in 42 months and that's quite a record. I

think things are really on the move for the space program." A leak like the one which led

to Monday's scrub of the mission recurred early in the tanking operation for Tuesday's

liftoff, but it subsided to safe levels during the three-hour fueling operation. Mission

Operations Director Lee Bdscoe said, 'The whole flight is going very well, with no

problems to speak of.' Minimal damage was reported at the launch pad. The solid

rocket booster retrieval ships are towing the two STS 45 boosters. The Freedom Star is

expected to be at the port at 4 p.m. and the Uberty Star is estimated to be at the port by

10 p.m. The Freedom is estimated to arrive at Hangar AF at 6:30 p.m. tonight and the

-_-_ 59
LibertywillprobablyremainattheportovemightandgouptheBananaRiverto Hangar

AFtomorrow.Atlantis'landingis plannedonApril1 at 6:19a.rn,_EST_K_SC'sShuttle

LandingFacility.[KSCSH_ STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., March 25, 1992; Halvorson

and Banke, FLORIDA T00AY, PP. 1A-2.A, March 25, 1992; Wilford, THE NEW YORK

TIMES. p. A9, March 25, 1992.]

g ENDEAVOUR: STS 49 PROCESSING

At Launch Complex 39B, pad technicians continue to ready the Space Shuttle Endeavour

for Its May STS 49 mission. Work in progress: preparations to load hypergolic

propellants into the orbiter;,clearing the pad at 4 p.m. today; closure of the payload bay

doors; Installing Instrumentation for the flight readiness firing; work to ready the crew

cabin for flight;, leak checks of the auxiliary power units. [KSC SHUTFLE STATUS

REPORT. 10 a.m., March 25, 1992_]

n ¢oLUMSU STSSOPREP U 'nONS

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 technicians are checking out the Extended Duration

Orbiter (EDO) pallet in Columbia's cargo bay. Other work in progress includes: tests of

the power reactant storage and distribution system; leak checks of the environmental

control system fluid lines; close outs of the mldbody. Work scheduled: tests of the main

propulsion system helium regulators and installation of the forward reaction control

system on March 28. [KSC SHUTI'LE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., March 25, 1992_]

n DISCOVERY: OPF BAY 2

Leak checks am being performed on Dlecovefy's main propulsion system while it is in

Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 2 undergoing major modiflcmJon¢ There are also

extansive Inspections being conducted as well as modifications for the drag chute. Both

freon lines of the Orbiter have been desendced. [K,.°_ SHUTTLE STATUSREPORT, 10

a.m., March 25, 1992.]"

March 28: TEACHER MORGAN MAY FLY

NASA Administrator Richard I-LTruly said today that he supports using space to enhance

education and that he will recommend to his successor, Dan/el S. Gold'm, that NASA fly

Barbara Morgan as a teacher in space. Morgan was backup to the late Ctarista McAurdfe

who was killed in the Challenger accident in January 1986. The following text is an

excerpt from remarks Truly made while presenting NASA's Brewer Trophy: "Asyou know,

I'll be leaving NASA very soon but, there is one more thing we need, I believe, to inspire

our young people. The time has come to begin a formal program of teaching from space.

We use the medium of space to anhance education In many areal The next step for us

will be to make routine a program of teaching from space by astronauts in space to take

advantage of the weightless environment, the explanation of experiments that am on

board the Space Shuttle and the view of Earth, the solar system, and the universe that

the Space Shuttle provides. Later, we will continue the teaching from Space Station

Freedom and i predict from the surface of the Moon and Mars.

•Earlier I pointed out that our astronauts have already proven their abilities as teachers.

But to state the "Teaching From Space" Program in the most positive way, it is time that

NASA kick off this endeavour by flying Barbara Morgan....Christa McAuliffe was one of the

most inspiring people I have ever met. She was a hard working, devoted and created

6O V
teacherwho understoodhow youngpeopleareattractedto the wondersof space

exploration,just asshewas. Whengiventhe opportunityto participatein this great

adventureto helpencourageAmerica'syoungpeopleto dobetter,sheseizedit;butfate

intervened. Barbara Morgan is another great teacher. I talked with Barbara last night.

She's participating in the National Science Teacher's Association Convention. She still

is an elementary school teacher in McCall, Idaho. She's ready, the Space Shuttle is

ready, and the American people are ready [for] the educational inspiration that flying

Barbara will provide.

•We now have a substantial amount of experience with our new Space Shuttle program.

I can tell you today that we have the highest confidence in it and the system we have

designed to operate it. NASA senior management has reviewed this situation annually,

and I am more than satisfied; I am eager. But for this opportunity to succeed, it must

have the full support of the new NASA Administrator. Accordingly, I am making a

recommendation to Dan Goldin that, once aboard and quickly, he take his own look and

that he Invite Barbara to join the crew of some appropriate mission. I have every

confidence that this will happen soon.' The Administrator made these remarks while

presenting the National Aeronautics Association's Frank G. Brewer Trophy at the National

Congress on Aviation and Space Education (Oklahoma City, OK). The trophy is the

nation's highest award for contdbutions to aviation and space education. This year's

recipient is LL Gen. KBnneth L Tallman (USAF Ret.) [NASA/KSC News Release No. 9_-

March 26, 1992.]

g FETRIEVAL _-!11_ ARRIVE AT _ AF

Both solid rocket booster retrieval ships have arrived at Hangar AF at the Cape Canaveral

Air Force b'_d=tion.The Freadom Star ardved etthe dockw#h the left booster at 6:30 p.m.

last night. The Liberty b'_arspent the night at Port Canaveral and made its way up the

Banana River this morning and arrived at Hangar AF with the tight booster at 8 a.m.

today. The left booster is on its dolly for post-flight safety and inspections. Technicians

are hoisting the right booster onto its dolly today. Atlantis is scheduled to land at the

Shuttle Landing Facility at 6:19 a.m. EST. fKSC SHUI"FLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a. m.,

March 26, 1992.]

!1 E EAVOU .

Endeavour's payload bay doors and leak checks of the Orbiter's auxiliary power units

have been completed at Launch Complex 39B in preparation for the STS 49 mission.

Work in progress: loading hypergolic propellants into the Orbiter. Hypergolic fuel and

oxidizer propellants are being loaded into the Orbiter's storage tanks for the orbital

maneuvering system engines and the reaction control system thrusters. In addition,

hydrazlne will be loaded onboard for the Orbiter's auxiliary power units and the boosters'

hydraulic power units. The launch pad is closed to all non-essential personnel during this

operation. The installation of instrumentation for the Right Readiness Firing has been

scheduled. I1_C SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a. m., March 26, 1992.]

g COLUMBIA: EDO CHECKOUT

The Space Shuttle Columbia is in Orbiter Processing Facility 3 where it is undergoing

preparations for its STS 50 mission. Work in progress: check out of the Extended

Duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet; tests of the power reactant storage and distribution system;

leak checks of environmental control system fluid lines; close outs of the midbody; tests

_ 61
oftheinterfacesbetweenthemainenginesandthemainpropulsionsystem;testsof the

communications systems; Installing thermal control blankets into the forward reaction

control system cavity. Work scheduled: tests of the main propulsion system helium

regulators and installation of the forward reaction control system March 28. Discovery is

in OPF Bay 2 for extensive modifications; the work in progress: leak checks of the main

propulsion system; extensive structural inspections taking X-rays and modifications of the

Orbiter's drag chute, rKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a. m., March 26, 1992.]

March 27: ^T Cm; SRBpROCES Ne

At Kennedy Space Center, the thrust vector control systems on both of Atlantis' solid

rocket boosters have been depressudzed and hyclrolasing operations are underway on

the tunnel covers to remove the close out matedaL The STS 45 mission of Atlantis is

scheduled to conclude with a landing et KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility at 6:19 a.m. EST

on April 1. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., March 27, 1992.]

g _ENDF__VOUR; ST_ .49 PAD PREPARATION8

In preparation for Endeavour's STS 49 mission, nitrogen tetroxide has been loaded into

the Orbiter's storage tanks for the orbital maneuvering system engines and the reaction

control system thrusters. In addition, hydrazine will be loaded onboard for the Orbiters

auxiliary power "unitsand the boosters' hydraulic power units. The launch pad will be

closed to all nonessential personnel through tonight when this operation is complete.

Work scheduled: installation of immumentatton for the Flight Readiness Firing is targeted

for April 6 at 11 a.m. [K,_(__HUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., March 27, 1992.]

n COLUMB "TES ANDQC-Q(OUTS

In pmpm_aSonfor Columbia'S _'S 50 mission, technk:iar_ in OPF Bay 3 are testing the

main propulsion helium system regulators. Other work in progress includes:

pmpam_ns to ir_ail the forward mection control system; checkout of the Extended

Duration Orbiter (EDO) pellet; installing heat shk_is around the main engines; leak

checks of the (NwironrmJntalcontrol system fluid lines; _ of the midbocly; installing

thermal control blankets into the forward reaction control system cavity. On March 28,

the forward reaction control system will be installed. Discovery is undergoing leak checks

of the main propulsion system; extensive structural inspections using X-rays; Orbiter

modifications and drag chutes modifications. [KS(_ SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m.,

March 27, 1992.]

U GOUt, N _ CONSULTATION WITH CO_

•1will consult with you (the U. S. Congress) on a regular basis, and I will be in charge of

NASA," said Daniel _ President BtJBifs nominee to be Administrator of NASA. U.

S. Senator AI Gore (D-TN) said, '1welcome the forcefulness of that statement. You know

very well that NASA as an institution is now faced with the problem of the space council

expanding its role from what some of us regard as a quite legitimate role in looking at

policy. But interference in the management decisions of the NASA Administrator crosses

the line.* Goldin said he had discussed the issue with both President Bush and Vice

President J. Danforth Quayle; he said, '1 think both of them want me to be in charge."

[Lunner, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, March 28, 1992; Eisler, FLORIDA TODAY, April 1, 1992.]

V

82 V
g JAMES E. WEBB DIES

Jarnes E. Webb, NASA Administrator when Nell _ stepped out onto the moon's

surface, died at Georgetown Hospital in Washington, D.C. Webb's eight-year tenure as

head of NASA culminated wkh the Apollo 11 landing. Julian ,_ee', an aide to Webb

said the Apollo Prograrn 'has been likened to the Menh_en Project as one of two

greatest managerial efforts in modem govemmenL ° ['Men Who Guided U.S. to Moon

Dies at 85, ° FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, March 29, 1992; 'NASA Pioneer Dies,' USA TODAY.

p. 3A, March 29, 1992; Lambert, THE NEW YORK T1MES. p. 19, March 29, 1992; "Former

NASA Chief Webb led Moon-Landing Project,' THE ORLANDO SENTINEL March 30,

19 .]

Merch 30: HYDROU mNK STS4SBOOSmRS

Hydmlasing activities are continuing on both solid rocket boosters to remove the thermal

protective foam. Atlantis' mission has been extended one day end the end-of-mission

lending is now scheduled for April 2 at 6:24 a.m. EST at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle

Landing Facility. [KSC SHUTFLE_STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., March 30, 1992.]

g EiiNDEAVOUR:HYPERGOUCFUELLOADED

I1

At Launch Complex 39B, hypergolio fuel has been loaded into Endeavour's storage tanks

for the orbital maneuvering system engines end the reaction control system thrusters.

Additionally, hydrazine was loaded onboard for the Orbiter's auxiliary power units end the

boosters' hydraulic power units. [K$C SHUTTLE _rl"ATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., March 30,

1992.]

HEAT ISI"/CLED

Columbia's heat shields have been installed around its three main engines end the main

propulsion system helium regulators have been tested. Work in progress: check out of

the Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet;,leak checks of environmental control system

fluid lines end close outs of the midbody. On April 1, Columbia's forward reaction control

system will be installed. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., March 30, 1992.]

g mSCOVERYMOOIRCA'nONS

Leak checks of Discovery's main propulsion system are underway in OPF Bay 2;

extensive structural inspections have begun using X-rays end the Orbiter's drag chute is

being modified as one of many changes being made in the vehicle. [KS(_ SHUTTLE

STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., March 30, 1992.]

March 31: ENDEAVOUR ENGINE INTEFFA(_E I:ETESTED

At Launch Complex 39B, Endeavour's engine interface unit No. 1 has been retested.

Work in progress: firing room simulation of the Flight Readiness Firing; installation of

instrumentation for the FRF; close out of the avionics bay and the aft compartment;

installation of thermal blankets for the water spray boilers. The FRF countdown begins

April 3 leading to a 32-second bum at 11 a.m. on April 6. Meanwhile, hydrolasing

activities - the removal of foam residues - are continuing on both of Atlantis' solid rocket

boosters and KSC Is awaiting the Orbiter's landing at 6:24 a.m. on April 2 at the Shuttle

Landing Facility. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., March 31, 1992.]

\ i

v 63
D

n

COLUMBIA: FRC INSTALLATION SQ"UEDUEEO

Technicians in OPF Bay 3 will install Columbia's forward reaction control (FRC) system

tomorrow (April 1). Other processing work on the Orbiter:. check out of the Extended

Duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet; leak checks of the environmental control system fluid lines;

installation of thermal blankets in the Orbiter's midbody. In OPF Bay 2, Discovery is

undergoing extensive structural inspections using X-rays and this operation is 75%

complete. Orbiter modifications, including to the vehicle's drag chute, are also underway.

[K$(_ SHUTrI.E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., March 31, 1992.]

 pACEHAB DEDICATIONCEREMONYSET/ 3

Kennedy Space Center Director Robert L Cdppen, former Administrator James Beggs

and astronaut G. David Low will be among the keynote speakers at a press briefing and

dedication ceremony for the Spacehab Payload Processing Facility (SPPF) and first

Spacehab module. The event will occur at the Port Canaveral facility on Friday, April 3

at 10:00 a.m. Spacehab, Inc. is a commercial space company that will lease

environmentally controlled laboratory modules for flight aboard the Space Shuttle. Each

Spacehab module adds 1,100 cubic feet of pressurized working area to the Space

Shuttle. The reusable Spacehab is first scheduled to fly aboard STS 57, expected to

launch in June 1993. The SPPF is a 37,000-square-foot facility that will be used to check

out and integrate payloads for flight Inside the Spacehab module; it includes a clean

room, 11 integration and checkout areas and office space. Spacehab is the first

habitable space structure ever developed and funded entirely by private industry; it was

developed and produced by McDonnell Douglas Space Systems Company under

contract fl'om Spacehab, Inc. [NASA/KSC News Release No. 4!-92. March 31, 1992.]

C-,01,plN CONRRMED TO HEAD NASA

Daniel S. Goidln was confirmed as Administrator of NASA by the U. S. Senate on a voice

vote. Former Kennedy Space Center Director Fo_re_ S. Mc_ said, "1think that's

great. He is well suited for the job and the nation is fortunate to have a men of that

caliber leading the agency. I'm sure he will do an outstanding Job.' Goldin is expected

to make his first appearance as Adminis_'ator tomorrow when Atlantis lends at KSC.

Yesterday, _ I.enoir, Director of Space Flight for NASA announced his resignation.

[Eisler, FL,ORllDATODAY, April 1, 1992; Hoiton, THE ORLANDO SE_NTINEL,pp. A-1 & A-7,

March 31, 1992.]

V
April 1:

APRIL

ATLANTIS: ON ORBIT

Hydrolasing activities are continuing on both solid rocket boosters to remove the thermal

protective foam. Meanwhile, Atlantis' end-of-mission landing is scheduled for Thursday

(April 2) at Kennedy Space Center [see below]. Weather conditions are favorable, but

there is a chance of ground fog. Once on the ground, the Shuttle processing teem will

safe the Orbiter and the flight crew will emerge from the crew cabin. Atlantis will be

towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 1 about three hours after lending for postflight inspections. [KSC SHLrTrLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Apdl 1, 1992; Date, THE

ORLANDO SENTINEL, P. A-3, March 30, 1992.]

!1 I_NDF__VOUR: FRF SIMULATION COM_

Firing Room simulation of the Flight Readiness Fidng of Endeavour has been completed

inthe LCC at KSC. Thermal blankets for the water spray boilers have also been installed.

Work in progress: purges of the external tank; installing thermal curtains In the right hand

solid rocket booster aft skirt; installation of instrumentation for the FRF; closeouts of the

avionics bays and the aft compartment; preparations to install the blast doors on the aft

compartment; installation of thermal blankets in the aft compartment. The FRF is

scheduled for Apdl 6. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., April 1, 1992;

NASA/K_C News Release No. 45-9"_,Apdl 3, 1992.]

rl COLUMBIA: _ INSTALLED

v

In OPF Bay 3, Columbia's forward reaction control system has been installed. Work in

progress: replacement of a leaking oxidizer tank on the Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO)

pallet;, leak checks of the environmental control system fluid lines; closeouts of the

midbody;Installing thermal blankets in the midbody. Meanwhile, in OPF Bay 2, Discovery

continues to undergo extensive modifications like those Columbia had in 1991. [KSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., April 1, 1992.]

I1 TOPPING OFF CEFtlg,_NY SET: 8SpF

KSC engineadng and Space Station Freedom teem members will celebrate a milestone

in the construction of the Space Station Processing Facility (SSPF') on April 3 when the

final structural steel beam is hoisted atop the giant building. Movement of the beam and

subsequent remarks from KSC officials are scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. The SSPF will

be a KSC-operated facility occupied by about 1,000 NASA and contractor employees.

The threa-story SSPF will include communications and electrical control areas,

laboratories, logistics staging areas, operational control rooms, office areas and a

cafeteria. The SSPF is the biggest new construction effort undertaken at KSC since the

Apollo era. Construction began in March 1991 and the building is scheduled to be ready

for occupancy by August 1994. The building was designed by Jacobs Engineering

Group, Inc. (Lakeland, FL) and is being constructed by Metric Constructors, Inc. (Tampa,

FL). rNASA/KSC News Release No. 42-92. April 1, 1992.]

[! SENATE CONRRMS GOLDIN FOR NASA

The U.S. Senate, in a voice vote, confirmed Daniel S. Goldin to succeed Richard H. Truly

as NASA's next Administrator. Former KSC Director Forrest S. McCartney said of the

65
confirmation:"1thinkthat'sgreat.Heiswellsuitedforthejobandthenationisfortunate

to havea manofthatcaliberleadingtheagency,rm sure he will do an outstanding job.'

[Eisler, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, April 1, 1992.] V

Apnl 2: STS 45 LANDS AT KSC

Atlantis' end-of-mission landing occurred at 6:23 a.m. EST today on Runway 33 at the

Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility. The main gear touched down at 6:23

a.m., the nose gear touched down at 6:23:14 and the wheels stopped at 6:24:04 a.m. for

a total mission elapsed time of 8 days, 22 houm and 9 minutes. The Orbiter roiiout

distance on the runway was about 9217 feet. The flight crew members departed in the

afternoon from KSC to return to the Johnson Space Center (Houston, TX) for post-flight

follow-up exams and other activities. KSC's processing team towed the Orbiter to the

OPF by 1 p.m. Initial assessments of the vehicle indicates that the vehicle is in good

shape. Overall, the tiles look good with the exception of a cling on the No. 10 reinforced

carbon panel on the right hand wing. That panel will be replaced before the next flight.

Ordnance devices will be safed tomorrow (Apdl 3) and preparations am underway to

install the payload bay door strongbacks. The doors are scheduled to be opened April

6 and the ATLAS payload is scheduled for removal April 7. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT, 11 a.m., April 3, 1992; Brown, FL,ORIDATODAY, p. 1A, April 2, 1992; Halvorson,

FLORIDA TODAY. pp. 1A-2A, April 3, 1992; 'Shuttle Lands in Florida After 9-Day Mission,"

THE NEW YORK TIMES, p. AT, April 3, 1992.]

g _I_N VIEWS _ 45 LANDING

New NASA Administrator Daniel _ Goldln was on hand at Kennedy Space Center to

witrtmm the landlng of Atlantis at the conckadon of im STS 45 mission. A_ his press

conference, he spoke of NASA's mission for the future: "It's the objective of NASA to

really put the details to that program [return to the moon and to Mars] so the American

public understands it. I want to spend the time with NASA folks to see what we have to

do as the precursor steps: How cart we retire the risk by doing the right things before

spending significant amounts of money. We can_ have NASA trying to do too many

things at once and not to be in step with the total budget situation in this country,' he

said. 'We're going to have a national consensus on that program, and I'm committed to

making it happen." [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. tA, Apnl 3, 1992; Date, TH E ORLANDO

SENTINEL p. A-3, April 3, 1997_]

g ENDEAVOUR; _ CI,OSED FOR TI_

Endeavour's aft compartment has been closed in preparation for the Flight Readiness

Rdng scheduled for 11 a.rrk, April 6. The countdown for the firing begins today at 2 p.m.

EST at the T-40 hour mark. Technicians at Launch Complex 39B are setting up

measuring devices on the tail service mast and con_ final walkdowns and

inspections. Endeavour's fuel cell storage tanks will be loaded tomorrow (April 4) with

cryogenic reactants. The rotating service structure will be moved back at I p.m., April 5

and tanking will begin at 3:40 a.m. Apdl 6. Launch Director Robert B. Sieck said of the

test, "An FRF is the most dynamic ground test that the KSC team performs. The team

has been involved in intensive planning and work at the pad these past several weeks

to get ready. We're looking forward to pulling this test off crisply."

The FRF will provide an opportunity to test critical elements of the Shuttle Endeavour as

a fully integrated vehicle in the KSC launch environment. It will provide confidence in the
performanceofthevehicle'ssystems.Testobjectivesincludeassessingtheintegrity and

performance of the main propulsion system of the Orbiter, engines and the external tank.

The compatibility and functional performance between the launch facility and Endeavour's

umbilical interfaces will be verified. Engineers will establish leak values for Endeavour's

main propulsion system. All Orbiters have a minimal amount of acceptable leakage.

Actual performance will be assessed of all vehicle elements and supporting pad systems.

The test will also demonstrate the capability of the avionics equipment to effectively

monitor and control the active vehicle under dynamic pre-liftoff,vlbro-acoustic conditions.

|KSC SHUTI'LE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., Apdl 3, 1992; NASA/KSC News Release Nq,

April 3, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. pp. 1A-2A, April 6, 1992; Halvorson,

FLORIDA TODAY. p. 4A, April 4, 1992.]

n COLUMBIA: PALLET TANK REPLACED

A leaking oxidizer tank on the EDO pallet in Columbia has been replaced. In OPF Bay

3, technicians' work in progress Includes: electrical connections of the newly installed

oxidizer tank on the EDO; testing of the forward reaction control system; closing out of

the midbody and installation of thermal blankets in the midbody. In OPF Bay 2, Discovery

continues to undergo modifications to its drag chute and to the Orbiter itself. Inspection

ofthe Orbiter using X-rayscontinues, as well. rKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 11 a.m.,

April 3, 1992.]

v

April 4:

g

TANKRUED

Technicians will load cold propellants into Endeavour's external tank today in preparation

for its Flight Readiness Rdng. The Rotating ,_acviceStructure will be moved back at 1:00

p.m. [Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, April 5, 1992.]

I_C POTA'rOEs

A second crop of potatoes has been harvested from inside a bubble-shaped biomass

chamber at Kennedy Space Center called the Closed Ecological Life Support System

(CELSS). The potatoes were grown without soil in a simulated space environment to aid

astronauts who must raise their own food on long-duration space flights. ['Researchers

Grow Space Spuds at KSC,' FLORIDA TODAY, p. 10E, April 5, 1992.]

Apdl 6: STS 49: FRF_

The Flight Readiness Rdng occurred this morning at 11:12 a.m. EDT and lasted for 22

seconds. The initial evaluation indicated that the test went well; engineers are analyzing

the data. "It's just a little bit of an unnatural act Just keeping it tied down and making

those anginu run," said STS 4.q Commander Dan_ C. Brandmate_ 'But we believe

very strongly that (the readiness firing) is an essential part of getting the vehicle ready for

the first time it files.' Brandenstein will command Endeavour's maiden mission next

month. The test went so well, according to Shuttle Program Director Leonard S.

Nicholson, that Endeavour's first launch could come on May 5 rather than May 7. Launch

Director Robert B. Sleck said, "It's a good test to have behind us.' Post FRF operations

are continuing at Launch Complex 39B and a gaseous hydrogen injection test is

underway in the Orbiter's aft compartment. Work scheduled: deconfiguration of the

launch pad from the FRF mode; STS 49 payloads transfer to the launch pad during the

weekend; post-FRF inspections of the main propulsion system and main engines;

Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test with the flight crew Is planned for April 17. [KSC

67
n

g

Apnl 7:

g

g

SH_ S_TATUSREPORT, 2:30 p.m., Apdl 6, 1992; "Shuttle Test,' USA TODAY, p. 3A,

April 6, 1992; Halvorson, FLO.RIDA TODAY, p. 2A, April 7, 1992.]

DELTA SET TO LAUNCH

The launch window for tonight's launch of a Delta 2 rocket will be from 11:20 until 11:50

p.m. The flight was originally scheduled for April 2 and has been postponed twice due

tO high winds. The rocket will carry a Navstar satellite into orbit. ['Delta 2 Launch Set for

Thursday,' FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, April 6, 1992.]

,W;,PRE-MATETESnNe

In OPF Bay 3, Columbia is being prepared for payload pre-mate testing; the midbody is

being closed out and thermal blankets are being installed in the midbody. Atlantis, now

in OPF Bay 1, is undergoing post-flight inspections and tests and preparations to remove

the ATLAS payload from the payload bay. Atlantis' next mission (STS 46) will carry the

TSS and EURECA payloads. Discovery - in OPF Bay 2 - is undergoing modifications.

Structural Inspections of the vehicle have been completed. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT, 2:30 p.m., April 6, 1992.]

STS 49: HYDROGEN TEST COMPLETE

Engineers continue to analyze the data accumulated from yesterday's Flight Readiness

Fidng of Endeavour's main engines at Launch Complex 39B. Technicians at the pad

have also completed a gaseous hydrogen injection test in the Orbiter's ait compartment.

Work in progress: post flight readiness firing operations at the launch pad; gaining

access to the aft compartment;, connecting the Orbiter midbody umbilical unit to the

Orbiter;, preparations to oflload reactants from the fuel cell storage tanks; raising engine

service platforms on thelaunch platform. Work _uied: _ 49 payloads transfer to

the launch pad this weekend; post-FRF inspections of the main propulsion system and

main engines; Terminal Countdown Demonstratkm Test with the flight crew on April 17.

[KSC SHL/I'I'LE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Apdl 7, 1992; Date, THE_ OR.L_NDO

SENI"[N_ p. A-3, April 7, 1992.]

COLUMBIA; AMMONIA SYSTEM SERVICED

Columbia's ammonia system has been serviced in OPF Bay 3 and the forward reaction

control system has been checked out. Work in progress; payload pre-mate testing; Kuband antenna testing; midbody closeouts; Installation of midbody thermal blankets;

closeouts of the EDO. [KSC SHU1TL_ STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., April 7, 1992.]

A_; F-4uI_ PAYI,OAD

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 1 technicians have removed the FAUST payload from

the cargo bay of Atlantis. Work in progress: post-flight inspections and tests;

preparations to remove he ATLAS payload; cleaning of the vehicle's radiators; removing

the wheels; preparations to offload residual hypergolic propellants from the Orbiter. in

OPF Bay 2, Discovery continues to undergo extensive modifications; workers are

preparing to install the Orbiter's radiators. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m.,

April 7, 1992.]

V
% /

April 8: NEW ENGINES FOR ENDEAVOUR

i =

Following a final review of information from Endeavour's flight readiness firing, two

irregularities were identified in two engines and Shuttle managers have decided to remove

and replace Endeavour's three main engines priorto STS 49. Replacing the main engine

adds, at most, one or two days of work to the launch preparations already under way,

and launch of STS 49 in the first week of May Is still anticipated. An official launch date

will be announced by managers following the STS 49 Flight Readiness Review now

scheduled for April 21. Despite damage to its three main engines and their imminent

replacement, NASA ofl_JaJs say a repeat of the FRF will not be necessary. "Tl"mtest IS

mostly for checking out the Orbiter and its Internal plumbing, not the engines,' according

to Kelh l-kJdkJ_s,Chief of the Orbiter Division at NASA Headquarters (Washington, D.C.)

Engine replacement is less time consuming than replacing faulty components within the

three engines which were damaged during the test; three spare engines are ready for

Installation presently. None of the problems were described as major or potentially lifethreatening to the Endeavour crew. A review of test results showed a possibly damaged

main combustion chamber in engine No. 1; a vibration problem with a bearing assembly

inside the turbopump of engine No. 2; like engine No. 1, engine No. 3 also backfired and

may have been damaged in a similar fashion. At Launch Complex 39B, workers have

completed the offloading of reactants from Endeavour's fuel storage cells. Work in

progress for the Orbiter's upcoming STS 49 mission: post-flight readiness firing

operations at the launch pad; gaining access to the aft compartment; raising engine

service platforms on the launch platform; circulating hydraulic fluid; analysIs of FRF data

from the main englnas and main propulsion system; analysIs of the performance of high

pressure o0ddizerturbopumpson main enginee No. 1 and 2. [KSC SHU'rrLE STATUS

REPORT. 10 ELm., April 8, 1992;NA_A/KSC News Release, 'STS-49 Endeavour Launch

Processing Status,' April 8, 1992; Banke" FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, April 9, 1992;'Shuttle

Problem," _ p. 3A, April 9, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL, April 9,

1992.]

!1 (X)LUMB STSSO

In OPF Bay 3, Columbia continues to undergo pre.mate and Ku-band antenna testing;

midbody work includes the installation of thermal blankets and closeouts. The EDO is

also being closed out. The USML (United States Microgravity Laboratory) will be installed

over the weekend. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., April 8, 1992.]

11 ATt.ANT_/DISCOVERY UPDATE

The ATLAS payload has been removed from the cargo bay of Atlantis and the Orbiter's

auxiliary power units have been dasen4ced Work in progress on Atlantis: fit checks of

the rotational hand controller with members of the flight crew;,post-flight inspections and

tests; cleaning the radiators; removing the wheels. Discovery has had its radiators

Installed and continues to undergo extensive modifications. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m., April 8, 1992.]

Apnl 9: DELTA: THIRD LAUNCH A_PT TODAY

The third try to launch the Air Force's Delta 2 was successful late thIs evening. Despite

the threat of lightning from clouds near Launch Complex 17B, an Air Force Delta 2 made

third launch attempt tonight during a window which extended from 11:20 to 11:50 p.m.

Meteorologists said that there was an 80% chance weather favorable for liftoff. Previous

69
attemptsto launchonApril3 and4 werepostponeddueto highwindsinthe launch

area.Thepayloadwasa Nav_r _lnhnl Pr_itinninn Rnt__llit_:n 4_13(3n-r_nHndq.nnP.n_.rnft_

it will assist both civilians and the military with navigation. The next Delta 2 launch - no

earlier than May 7 - will boost the Palapa-B4 communications satellite into space for the

Indonesian government. ['Delta Gets 3rd Chance Today,' FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, April

9, 1992; 'Satellite Placed Safely In Orbit," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, April 11, 1992.]

V

n e OF..AVOU TO AFT,coep lMecr

[!

Workersat Launch Complex39B gainedaccesstoday to the aft compartmentof

Endeavour. They removed foam from the joints between the main propulsion system and

the three main engines and from other areas to allow Inspections. They also began

removing instrumentation used in the flight readiness firing, heat shields from the main

engines and prepared to install the STS 49 payloads. Work scheduled: moving the

rotating service structure away from the Orbiter overnight in preparation for payload

installation; transfer of the STS 49 payloads to the launch pad; removal of the radiation

blast shield tomorrow; post-FRF inspections of the main propulsion system. Managers

decided last night to replace the three main engines following review of irregularities in

two of the high pressure oxidizer turbopumps. The engine one pump saw a build up of

pressure in the prebumer just after it was shut down and engine two saw a slightly

elevated frequency in vibration in the ball bearing cage. This work, scheduled to begin

Sunday, is expected to have little impact on the processing schedule. Referring to the

need to changeout the engines, KSC spokesman Bruce Bucidngilmn said, "Itwill take a

full week to do it, but that's not any extra time in the long run, because it would have

taken longer to replace' damaged components in the engines. [KSC SHU'I'n.E STATUS

REPORT. 10 a.m., April 9, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA_TODAy, p. 9A, Apdl 10, 1992;

Halvomon, FLORIDA TODAY. April 12, 1992.]

COLUMBIA: _ 50 PROCESSING

V

The Space Shuttle Columbia, in OPF Bay 3, is undergoing payload pre-mate and Ku-band

antenna testing. Other activities include: close outs of the midbody; installation of

thermal blankets in the midbody; clceeouts of the EDO and testing of the water spray

boilers. The USML (UnIted States Microgravity Laboratory) payload is scheduled for

installation on April 11. [KSC SHU'I'rL_ STATUS RE,pORT, 10 a.m., Apdl 9, 1992_]

n Re'ORT: 0 :X3VERY

Work in progress on Atlantis Includes: polishing windows; inspections of the main

propulsion system; removal of the SSBUV payload; olfloading of residual hypergolic

propellants; removlng heat shields and carder panels from around the main engines;

deconflgudng the payload bay. Discovery's processing activities: Orbiter modifications;

installation of radiators; structural inspections; Installationof the drag chute, rKSC

SHUTTI_ STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Apdl 9, 1992_]

April 10: STS 49;, PAYLOADS TRANSFE_I_

The payloads for STS 49 were transferred to Launch Complex 39B ovemight and the

rotating service structure was moved away from Endeavour in preparation for installing

the payloads. Work in progress: removing foam from the joints between the main

propulsion system and the three main engines and from other areas to allow inspections;

removing instrumentation used in the FRF; removing heat shields from the main engines

70
_.w.J /

and the radiation blast shield. Scheduled work: Installation of the payloads April 14;

post-FRF inspections of the main propulsion system; KSC Launch Readiness Review on

April 16; Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) April 17; the STS 49 Flight

Readiness Review is planned for April 21. The launch of a Delta 2 rocket by the Air Force

on May 7 may impact the May launch of Endeavour. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT,

10 am., April 10, 1992; Banke, Fi,.ORIpA TODAY, p. 4A, Apdl 11, 1997_]

11 STS 50:. USMI.-1 PAYLOAD INSTALLATION

In OPF Bay 3, technicians are preparing to Install Columbia's United States Microgravity

Laboratory-1 (USML-1) payload Apdl 11. Other work in progress Includes: closeouts of

the midbody; installing thermal blankets in the midbody; cloeeouts of the Extended

Duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet;,testing of the water spray boilers. [KSC SHUTI'LE STATUS

REPORT. 10 am., April 10, 1992.]

0

Technicians working on the Space Shuttle Atlantis in OPF Bay 1 have removed the

vehicle's waste containment system, the SSBUV payload and the main landing gear

wheels. They are alsopolishing Orbiter windows, inspecting the main propulsion system,

removing heat shields and carder panels from around the main engines and

deconfigudng the payload bay. In OPF Bay 2, Discovery continues to undergo

modifications; the radiators and drag chute have now been installed. [KSC SHU_

STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Apdl 10, 1992.]

\ Y v

AlXi 11: v/usRENOVA'nONPROCEEBN 

Despite the possible oancellation of the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor Program (ASRM),

plans to renovate the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB). The new, heavier boosters would

require new cranes to move them in the VAB. 'Consequently, we are faced with a

situation that we need to make the modifications, some of them with or without the ASRM

Program," said Was Dean, Director of Procurement at KSC. Other planned modifications:

a roof maintenance platform seven feet below the VAB's 4-inch thick concrete roof and

reinforcement of the building's steel framework to accommodate two new 325-ton cranes

which are due to replace two 250-ton cranes. [Banks, FL,ORII_ATOI_AY, Apdl 12, 1997_]

Apdl 12: ENGINE REPLACEMENT FOR ENDEAVOUR

Technicians at Launch Complex 39B today will begin to replace Endeavour's three main

engines. 'It is harder to do it at the pad than in the Orbiter Processing Facility, but we've

replaced engines out there before," said Usa Malone, KSC spokeswoman. The major

difference is position; in the OPF, the Orbiter is horizontal, and, at the pad, the Orbiter is

vertical. Replacing all three engines should take most of this week. The seven-member

crew of Endeavour will arrive at Kennedy Space Center late on April 14 and KSC

managers will meet on Apdl 16 to discuss the center's readiness to launch Endeavour;

the Flight Readiness Review willtake place at KSC on April 21. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY,

p. 1A, April 12, 1992; Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, April 13, 1992.]

Apn] 13: STS 49:. PAYLOAD SECURED

The payload of Endeavour for its upcoming STS 49 mission has been secured in the

changeout room at Launch Complex 39B; that was accomplished by 2:30 p.m. today.

--_ 71
Mainpropulsionsysteminterfaceinspectionsendblastshieldend rail removal have also

been completed at the pad. Work in progress: main engine removal end replacement

end opening of the payload bay doors. Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) No. 1 has

been removed and its replacement will be installed today. KSC spokesman Bruce

Buckingham said, 'For the most part, they're going to meet their schedule.' Work

scheduled: continued replacement of SSMEs with completion of the task coming April

17; installation of payload into Orbiter payload bay on Apdl 14; Terminal Countdown

Demonstration Test this week; crew arrival tomorrow and LRR for April 16. Launch

remains targeted unofficially for May 5. [Halvorson, FLORII_A TODAY, p. IOE, Apdl 12,

1992; K_3 SHUI"rLESTATUS REPORT, 11:00 a.m., April 13, 1992; Brown, FLORIDA

p. 2A, Apdl 14, 1992.]

g COLUMBIA: lUlA_ COMPt.E'FED

n

Mating operations connecting Columbia's extemai tank to its solid rocket boosters have

been completed in OPF High Bay 3; the USML payload has been transferred from the

Operations and Checkout Building to the OPF end functional tests of the external

tenk/Orbiter umbilical doors are now finished. Work in progress: installation of the USML

payload into the Orbiter payload bay; payload bay cleaning end potable water servicing.

Both the drag chute and the payload tunnel are scheduled for installation in Columbia.

[KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 11:00 a.m., April 13, 1992.]

A'n.AN S/OeSCOV PROCESSa 

Poet-flight deeendclng and APU catch bottle drain and daservicing of Atlantis have been

completed, Work in progress:, main propulsion system leak checks and removal of main

engine dome heat shields. Modifications of Dlscovew continue while technicians prepare

to install the Orbiter's payload bay radiators. [KS_ SHUTI"L_ _TATUS REPORT, 11:00

a.m., April 13, 1992.]

Apdi 14: STB 49:. PAYLOAD BAY D(X3F_ OPEN

At Launch Complex 39B, the payload bay doors of Endeavour have been opened end the

cargo has been installed; main propulsion system interface inspections have been also

completed. Work In progress: removal of main engine number 2 and its replacement is

underway; only main engine number 3 remains to be removed end replaced. Workers

are also installing the mission payload in the cargo bay. 'The work is going well end we

are on our schedule for engine replacement. We expect to have all three engines

replaced by Fdday (Apdl 17). Scheduled work: continue replacement of SSMEs;

Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test this week with the crew arriving late tonight;

Launch Readiness Review set for Apd116; Flight Readiness Review set for April 17. [KSC

8HU1"I1_ STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., Apdi 14, 1992, Benke, FLORIDA TODAY, April 15,

1992.]

V

!1 STSSO:.USMLINSTALLA'nON

The STS 50 payload - USML - has been installed in Columbia's cargo bay; mating

operations connecting the external tank to the Orbiter's solid rocket boosters and external

tank/Orbiter umbilical doors functional testing have been completed. Work in progress:

USML mechanical mates to the Orbiter;, potable water servicing; water spray boiler

checks. Work scheduled: payload electrical mates; payload tunnel installation; drag
chuteinstallationandlandinggearfunctionaltests. [KSC SHUTn.E STATUS REPORT,

11 a.m., April 14, 1992.]

g ATLANTIS/DISCOVERY PROCESSING

In OPF Bay 1, technicians processing Atlantis have completed post-flight deservicing,

main engine test shield removal and APU catch bottle drain and deservIcing. Work in

progress: main propulsion system leak checks; engine drying operations and leading

edge RCC panel #10 replacemer¢ In OPF Bay 2, Discovery continues Orbiter

modifications; radiators have been installed and ammonia boiler leak checks have been

conducted. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.rrL, Apdl 14, 1992.]

Apdl 15: E_IDF_,AVOUI:I;PAY_.OAI_)INSTAUATION

At Launch Complex 39B, the Installation of the Intelsat booster and ASEM payloads into

the Space Shuttle Endeavour was completed at 5:50 p.m. April 14. All of the electdcal

conditions with the Orbiter had been completely established by 10:55 p.m. At 10 a.m.

this moming workers began the Interface Verification Test (IV'l') to verify the electrical

connections; it is scheduled to be completed at about 4 p.m. today. The STS 49

astronauts arrived last night from Houston, TX, by T-38 jets at 11:10 p.m.; they are

scheduled to conduct a payload inspection at 1 o'clock on the afternoon of April 16.

Over the next two days, the crew will have emergency egress training at the launch pad

and have fit checks of their helmets, gloves and launch and entry suits. The crew will be

aboard Endeavour for the last three hours of the countdown dress rehearsal and will

Interface with the launch team in Firtng Room 1. The clock will begin counting for the test

at 8:30 a.m. Apdl 16. The main engine replacement on the Space Shuttle Endeavour

began Sunday and is continuing on schedule. The number 2 engine was removed

yesterday and the replacement is being installed today. The last engine - number 3 - will

be removed tomorrow (April 16) and be replaced on April 17. rKSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT. 11 a.m., April 15; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Apd115, 1992; "Space Shuttle

Endeavour to Undergo Engine Test,' THE ORLANDO SENTINEL Apnl 16, 1997_]

Apdl 16: 46: PAYLOAD II_'_TALLED

The Intelsat booster has been Installed in Endeavour's payload bay at Launch Complex

39B and payload integration verification tests have been completed. Work in progress:

SSMEs 1,2 and 3 have been removed; replacement SSMEs I and 2 have been installed

and replacement SSME 3 will be delivered to the pad today and installed tonight; solid

rocket booster closeout work; TCDT began today at 8:30 a.m. EDT; Launch Readiness

Review is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. EDT today. Work scheduled: continued replacement

of SSMEs; Flight Readiness Review set for April 22 at KSC; inertial measurement unit

calibrations; APU leak checks. [K_C SHUI"n.E STATUS REPORT, 10:00 a.m., Apdl 16,

lSS2.]

n 5O:. CHECK8 AND

In OPF High Bay 3, technicians have completed USML mechanical mates to Columbia;

hydraulic line checks and landing gear functional tests. Work in progress: USML

electrical mates to the Orbiter and drag chute modifications and installation preparations.

Work scheduled: payload tunnel adapter installation and payload integration verification

tests, rKSC SHUTTLE.STATUS REPORT, 10:00 a.m., April 16, 1992.]
n A'n.AN'nS PROCES_!NG

In OPF Bay 1, technicians have completed main propulsion system leak checks on

Atlantis in addition to engine drying operations and leading edge RCC panel replacement.

Work in progress: power reactant storage and distribution systems test; payload bay vent

filter checks; APU lube oil flush preparations; aft flight deck and midbody

deconflgurations. Discovery, in OPF Bay 2, continues to undergo modifications including

freon coolant loop leak checks. |K$C SHU'I'rl.E STATUS REPORT, 10:00 a.m., April 16,

1992.]

n 81LT,_I"E _

The Flodda Inland Navigation District met with NASA representatives, the Merrltt Island

National Wildlife Refuge and the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers to discuss NASA's use

of land on the Indian River. FIND Assistant Executive Director David Roach said, "We still

have a lot of things to work through, but we're feeling very positive about this site...' which

•has been used for fill in road and building construction around the area. We're going

to try and put nature back." [Nichoison, Ft,OR!IpA TODAY, p. 2B, April 17, 1992.] .

Aplli 17, 19g_ RNAL SSME IINSTA_J.EI_

The Space Shuttle Endeavour, being readied for itsSTS 49 mission at Launch Complex

39B, now has a full complement of three new engines. The last, #3, was installed last

night. The Launch Readiness Review has been completed as have payload integration

and payload integration vetflcation tests. Work in progress: TCDT began at 11:00 a.m.

this morning; solid rocket booster closeout work; solid rocket booster accumulator

instailatJon;main engine service platfomt and hut shield installation. Work scheduled:

FRR scheduled for April 22 at Kennedy Space Center;, Inertial measurement unit

oalibrations; auxi_=l/power unit leak checks; flight readiness test for main engines and

main propulsion system. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 12:00 p.m., April 17, 1992;

Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, April 17, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. April 19, 1992.]

n cow ORA INS'r/ LEO

The drag chute and main landing gear wheel and tire assembly have been installed inthe

Space Shuttle Columbia in anticipation of its upcoming STS 50 mission. Work in

progress: United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML) electrical mates to the Orbiter;

nose landing gear installation; payload integration verification tests. The payload tunnel

adapter has been scheduled for instailation, rKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 12:00

p.m., April 17, 1992.]

n ATLANT18: PROPULSK_ LEAK CI-IECI_

Auxiliary power unit (APU) lube oil flush preparations and main propulsion system leak

checks on Atlantis have been completed as part of its post-flight processing following its

ST$ 45 mlesion. Work in progress: power reactant storage and distribution systems test;

payload bay vent filter checks; aft flight deck and mid-body deconfigurations; auxiliary

power unit water valve changeout operations; main engine foam insulation removal;

continue stacking solid rocket boosters in the Vehicle Assembly Building. The Orbiter's

main engines will be removed next week. Meanwhile, Discovery continues to undergo

extensive modifications and processing. The Orbiter has in the past week undergone

freon coolant loop decay checks and the removal of the main propulsion system. [KSC

V

V
SHLFr_ STATUS REPORT, 12:00 p.m., April 17, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 5A,

April 19, 1992.]

Apdl 20: TCDT SUCCESS: ENDEAVOUR

Last week, the three main engines of Endeavour were replaced and the Terminal

Countdown Demonstration Test ('I'CD'F)was successfully held Apd117. Work in progress:

Installing heat shields around the three main engines; preparations for the main engine

flight readiness test;,post-FRF inspections of the main propulsion system; leak checks of

the liquid oxygen and hydrogen systems. Work scheduled: Right Readiness Review

April 22; helium signature leak test at week's end. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT,

12:00 p.m., Apdl 17, 1992.]

n sm COLUMB PFU ARAT NS

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, Columbia has had its drag chute installed. Work in

progress: interface verification tests of the USML payload; separating wire bundles inthe

Orbiter's midbody; closeouts of the midbody. Leak and functional tests of Atlantis' APUs

and the Orbiter's forward reaction control system have begun, Technicians are also

inspecting the vehicle's hydraulic system. The three main engines of Atlantis are

scheduled to be removed this week. Discovery is undergoing structural inspections and

modifications along with leak checks of the fraon coolant loop. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT. 12:00 p.m., April 17, 1992.]

Apdl 21: _m_; _9;, I_OEAVOUR PAD PROCESSING

v

At Launch Complex 39B, Endeavour is being prepared for its main engine flight readiness

test. KSC spokeswoman l.ba _ said, 'It's a good test of the engines; it tells you

that the engines are going to perform as commanded.' Technicians are smoothing the

Interference fit between the heat shield 'eyelids" for the No. 3 main engine; workers are

also conducting post-FRF Inspections of the main propulsion system and leak checks of

the liquid oxygen and hydrogen systems. Endeavour's Flight Readiness Review takes

place tomorrow and technicians will conduct a helium signature leak test of the main

engines and main propuision system this weekend. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT,

10 a.m., April 21, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 3A, April 21, 1992.]

U STS 50;, USMI, _ COMPLETED

Interface verification tests of the United States Microgravity Laboratory payload have been

completed aboard Columbia in OPF Bay 3. Work in progress: closeouts of the midbody;

preparations to install the spacelab tunnel adapter and modifications to allow more crew

stowage for the upcoming extended mission. [SEE: EDO.] [KSC SHU'RI.E STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m., April 21, 1992.] .....

g Al1_ QPF BAY I

Tests of Atlantis' power reactant and storage distribution system (PRSD) are underway

in OPF Bay 1. Other work in progress includes: preparations to remove the three main

engines; servicing and sampling of the fuel cell coolant system; leak and functional tests

of the auxiliary power units and the forward reaction control system; inspections of the

hydraulic system. The three main engines are scheduled for removal this week.

Discovery is undergoing removal of the helium tanks for its main propulsion system;

75
removalofthePRSDtanks;leakchecksof the freon coolant loops and continuing with

inspections and modifications. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., April 21,

'19-9 ] .......

Alxil22: ENDEAVOUR: HEAT SHIELDS INSTALLED

Endeavour's main engine heat shields have been Installed at Launch Complex 39B and

STS 49 continues on schedule for launch in the first week of May. Work in progress:

Flight Readiness Review; main propulsion system flight readiness test and leak checks;

post-FRF processing operations. Work scheduled: auxiliary power unit leak checks and

ordnance operations, rKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 12:00 NOON, Apnl 22, 1992.]

n NASAMAYBUYSoYuz

'Congress asked us to look at the Soviet assets," said Richard Kohrs, Director of the

Space Station Program, at the 29th annual Space Congress (Cocoa Beach, FL). NASA

is thinking about purchasing a Russian Soyuz capsule for use as an emergency crew

rescue vehicle until another emergency escape vehicle is constructed. Two American

vehicles are being considered. Final Space Station design review is on schedule for next

year. [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, April 23, 1992.]

rl COLUMBIA: LANDING GEAR INSTALLED

rl

In preparation for its upcoming STS 50 mission, Columbia has had its nose landing gear

Installed and completed payload integration verification tests. Work in progress:

midbody closeouts; installation of payload bay liners; preparations to leak check and

Install tunnel adapts, hydraulic system fill and bleed. Work scheduled: tunnel adapter

installation. [K_C SHU'I'rLE b"TATU_$REPORT, 12:00 NOON, Apdl 22, 1992.]

A'R.ANT_: _I'S ,16 PFICX:_S_I,,_

V

Main engine foam insulation has been removed from Atlantis' engines in OPF Bay 1.

Work in progress: APU leak and functional tests; forward reaction and control system

leak and functional checks; water spray boiler leak and functional tests; payload bay vent

filter checks; aft flight deck and midbody deconflgurations; stacking of solid rocket

boosters in Vehicle Assembly Building. The Orbiter's main engines are scheduled for

removal. Discovery has had its main propulsion system helium tank removed along with

the vehicle's power reactant and storage distribution tank. Work In progress on

Discovery: continued modifications and fTeon coolant loop leak and decay checks. [KSC

SHUTI'LE STATUS REPORT, 12:00 NOON, Apdl 22, 1992_]

n ENDF_VOUR TO GO MAY 4

NASA today concluded the Right Readiness Revtew for _ 49, selecting May 4 as the

launch date for the maiden flight of the Space Shuttle Endeavour. KSC spokeswoman

Lisa Malone said, "It'sone of the biggest missions we've ever flown in the history of the

Space Shuttle Program. And on top of that, it's the maiden voyage of Endeavour."

Shuttle mission STS 49 will be launched from Launch Complex 39B during a window that

extends from 8:34 to 9:27 p.m. EDT. The 6-day, 23-hour mission will end with a landing

on May 11 at Edwards Air Force Base, CA. A 7-member crew will guide Endeavour on

her maiden flight; the Commander is Daniel C. Branderesteln and the Pilot is Kevin P.

Chiiton. Mission Specialists are Bruce E Melnick, Pierre Thuot, Richard J. Hieb, Ka_
C. Tl'mrmonand ThomasD.Akers. The primary mission objective for STS 49 is to

rendezvous, repair and reboost an INTELSAT communications satellite stranded in a low

Earth orbit after launch aboard an expendable vehicle. Another mission goal is to

conduct extravehicular activities (spacewalks) to evaluate equipment and techniques for

constructing Space Station Freedom. Three consecutive space walks will be performed,

a first for the Shuttle Program. ['STS-49 Space Shuttle Launch Advisory," NASNKSC

News Release, Apdl 22, 1992; Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, April 23, 1992.]

Apdl 23: ENDEAVOUR: ENGINES TESTED

Technidans at Launch Complex 39B have successfully conducted the main engine flight

readiness test of Endeevour's three main engines; the Flight Readiness Review was

completed yesterday and managers chose May 4 as the official launch date for the

Orbiter's STS 49 mission. Work in progress: tests of the four space suits tucked inside

the aidock; cycling of the Orbiter's aerosurfaces; preparations for the helium signature

leak test of the main engines and main propulsion system which is scheduled for

tomorrow; "post-FRF inspections of the main propulsion system and leak checks of the

gaseous oxygen system. [KSC SHUTTLE STATU_ Ri_P.ORT, 11 a.m., April 23, 1992;

'Endeavour Launch Set for May 4,' THE ORLANI;)O.SE..NTINEL, p. A-1 O, April 23, 1992.]

n CeOLUMBIA; MORE MODIFICATIONS FOR STS 50

Modifications of Columbia to prepare it for its upcoming SIS 50 mission continue in OPF

Bay 3. Other work in progress: tests of the Orbiter's flight control aerosurfaces;

preparations for the brake anti-skid test; cioseouts of the midbody; Installation of the

spacelab tunnel adapter. [K,_(__HU'_ b_I"ATUSREPORT. 11 a,m., Apdl 23, 1992.].

g Alru TIS: PRSOTEST

Atlantis continues in processing for its next mission: 81"8 46. Activities include: tests of

the power reactant storage and di_tdbmion system (PRSD); removal of the three main

engines; leak and functional tests of the auxiliary power units and the forward reaction

control system and inspections of the hydraulic system. Processing activities of Discovery

include: rernovai of the helium tanks for the main propulsion system; removal of the

PRSD tanks; leak checks of the freon coolant loops; structural inspections and more

Orbiter modifications. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., Apdl 23, 1992.]

April 24: END VOUR: EVAsurrs ONSTAU.ED

The four space suits stored inside Endeavour's aidock have now been tested and the

Orbiter's aerosurfaces have been cycled as Endeavour awaits its May 4 launch on itsSTS

49 mission. Work in progress: preparations for the helium signature leak test of the main

engines and main propulsion system; post-FRF inspections of the main propulsion

system; first portion of ordnance installation; preparations to pressurize the hypergolic

propellant tanks for flight. On April 28, the payload bay doors will be closed for flight; aft

closeouts are also scheduled. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., April 24,

 99z1

g COLUMBIA: TUNNELADAPTEFI INSTALLED

The spacelab tunnel adapter has been installed in Columbia during processing work in

Orbiter Processing Bay 3. A nose wheel steering test has also been completed. Work

77
In progress: tests of the Orbiter'sflight controlaerosurfaces;brakeanti-skidtest;

closeoutsofthemidbody;testsofthespacelabtunneladapterandmodificationsto allow

morecrewstowage for the upcoming STS 50 mission. [KSC SHU131.E STATUS REPORT.

10 a.m., April 24, 1992.]

L __

V

g ATLANTIS: MAIN ENGINES REMOVED

The three main engines of Atlantis have been removed from the Orbiter during processing

in OPF Bay 1. Work in progress: tests of the power reactant storage and distribution

system (PRSD); leak and functional tests of the auxiilaw power units and the forward

reaction control system; servicing of the water spray boilers; Installation of the remote

manipulator arm. fK,.qCSHUTTLE S'I'ATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Apdl 24, 1992.]

o DIS(XTVERY; HEUUM TANI_ REMOVED

Dudng processing in OPF Bay 2, Discovery's main propulsion system's helium tanks are

being removed. Technicians are also removing the PRSD tanks, conducting leak checks

of the freon coolant loops and structural inspections and making further Orbiter

modifications, rKSC SHUI-I'LE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Apdl 24, 1992.]

Ap_ 26: ENDEAVOUR PASSES KEY LEAK TEST

Endeavour passed its helium signature leak test today; that cleared the way for liftoff May

4 of the newest .Orbiter on its maiden _ 49 mission. Kennedy Space Center

spokeswoman Lisa Malone said the test revealed no problems with the Shuttle's

propulsion system. Also, today, technicians began installing ordnance which will be

connected in the week rernaining before launch. Workers are preparing to pressurize

the hypergol_ propellant tanks for flight. Work scheduled: closing the payload bay

doors for flight and aft closeouts. The crew of Endeavour is due to arrive at KSC on May

1. [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, Apdl 27, 1992; KSC SHLrl"R.E STATUS REPORT, 10

Aprn27, 19S _]

V

Apn127: ENOF=AV0URLAUNCHDE 'mD

Endeavour's maiden launch will be delayed three days to accommodate photography of

the liftoff. KSC Director Robert L Cdppon said, 'The thinking was we were within just a

few days of being able to do it, so why not do it?. All of our criteria has always said we

like daylight better than dark." Launch is now scheduled for May 7 between 7:06 and

7:55 p.m. The sun sets on that day at 8:00 p.m. Cdppen added, "Since we were on the

borderline, we decided to go ahead and to the cautious thing." A Delta 2 launch

odginaily set for May 7 has been delayed due to minor problems; these opened May 7

as a potential launch date for Endeavour. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, April 28,

1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL pp. A-1 & A-6, Apdl 28, 1992; "Uftoff of New

Space Shuttle Is Rescheduled,' THE NEW YORK TIMES, p. B8, April 28, 1992.]

g SPACEUFESCENCESTP,

NASA has selected 48 college students, including 20 international students, to participate

in its annual Space Life Sciences Training Program at the Kennedy Space Center, FL.

The intensive 6-week summer residence training program is for college students

interested in life sciences, pre-medicine, bioengineering or related fields. The program

is designed to attract college students towards a career in space life sciences research.

78 V
rl

n

g

Selected students work with NASA researchers in planning flight and ground support

experiments, in addition to offering research experience, the curriculum utilizes lectures,

tours and special projects to provide complete overview of the field of space life sciences.

The program will be held from June 20, 1992, through July 31, 1992. [NASA/KSC News

Release No. 92-53, April 27, 1992.]

STS 50:. TUNNEL ADAPTER TE_I'ED

Technicians in OPF Bay 3 have tested the spacelab tunnel adapter which is being

prepared for installation In Columbia for use In its upcoming STS 50 flight. Workers are

also closing out the midbodyand making modifications to allow more crew stowage for

the extended mission. [KSC SHU'I'R.E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Apdl 27, 1992.]

All.ANTB: PI:ISD TESTED

The power reactant storage and distribution system (PRSD) aboard Atlantis has been

tested and leak and functional tests of the forward reaction control system have also been

completed. Work in progress: testing of the main propulsion system; orbital

maneuvering system functional tests; leak and functional tests of the auxiliary power units;

servicing of the water spray boilers and installation of the remote manipulator arm. rKSC

SHUI"I"LI_STATUS RE,PORT, 10 elm., April 27, 1992.]

DC,COVERY: TK)NS qOmINUE

While modiflcmions continue to be made on Discovery, other work is in progress:

removal of the helium tanks for the main propulsion system; removal of the PRSD tanks;

leak checks ofthe freon coolant loops and structural inspections ofthe Orbiter. Discovery

is being modified in OPF Bay 2. IXSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., April 27,

1992.]

_J

79
AI_ 28: GOLDIN MAKES APPOINTMENTS

NASA Administrator Daniel S. Goldin, who succeeded former Administrator F_chard H.

Truly on April 1, announced today the following appointments at NASA Headquarters:

V

Major General Jeremiah W. Pearson Iii, USMC to be

Associate Administrator, Office of Space Flight

Blyan D. O'Connor, former NASA Astronaut to be

Deputy Associate Admlnistrator, Office of Space Flight

Charles I=. Bolden, former NASA Astronaut to be

Assistant Deputy Administrator

Frederick Gregonj, former NASA Astronaut to be

Associate Administrator, Office of Safety and Mission Quality

ABsonMcNa 

Executive Officer

Dee Lee

Executive Assistant to the Deputy Administrator.

Goldin said, "This will be the first in a number of personnel announcements during the

coming months." The changes are aimed at "reducing our cost of doing business and

eliminating the bureaucracy that is stifling the creative thought process,' he added.

Pearson re_ _Bam I.Brm_, a former astronat¢ [NASA/KSC News Release No. 92-

ApdJ28, ler, p,1A,Ap l29,1992;,NASAChiefAppoints

4 to Key Positions," THE ORI,_NI;)O SENTINEL April 29, 1992.]

Apdl 29: ENOI_VOUR:, CARGO BAY DOORS CLO_ED

In preparation for its STS 49 mission May 7, Endeavour's payload bay doors have been

closed - at 5:50 p.m. yesterday. Work in progress: purges of the external tank; closing

out of the aft compartment including final inspections of the auxiliary power units, foaming

of main propulsion system lines, and closeouts of the avionics bays; preparations to

begin the launch countdown next week. Work scheduled: closing out the aft

compartment;, final ordnance operations; launch at 7:06 p.m. with the window extending

until 7:55 p.m. [K$C $HUTrt.E STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., April 29, 1992; "Endeavour

Preened at KSC," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, April 29, 1992.]

n SPA_ TUNNEL B_ISTALLED

In Orbiter Processing Bay 3, technicians have installed the spaceiab tunnel in the Space

Shuttle Columbia in preparation for its upcoming STS 50 mission. Work in progress:

filling and bleeding of the hydraulic system; crew stowage modification for extended

flights; servicing the auxiliary power units with water;,electrical redundancy checks of the

orbital maneuvering system and the reaction control system; brake anti-skid test. [KSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 1.0 a.m., April 29, 1992_]

8O V

i
il ATLANT18: TE_'S IN OPF BAY 1

The Space Shuttle Atlantis is undergoing a number of tests in Orbiter Processing Facility

Bay 1: orbital maneuvering system functional tests; leak and functional tests of the

auxiliary power units and tests of the main propulsion system. Other work in progress

includes: thermal protection system operations; configuring the aft flight deck for the STS

46 mission and troubleshooting the Ku-bend antenna. In OPF Bay 2, work continues on

Discovery which is undergoing structural inspections and modifications. The PRSD tanks

are being removed and leak checks of the freon coolant loops are being made. [KSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, I0 a.m., April 29, 1992.]

Alxl130: oRan W XMINe p. nCFANTS

The two national winning student teams and many of the educators who participated in

NASA's Orbiter-Naming Program will meet May 5-7. A reception is planned for May 5 at

the Holiday Inn (Indialantic, FL). Participants in the program will be interviewed at the

Kennedy Space Center Banana Creek launch viewing site May 7, prior to the launch of

Endeavour's malden mission, STS 49. The name of the Space Shuttle Orbiter,

Endeavour, resulted from a nationwide Orbiter-naming competition supported by

educational projects created by student teams in elementary and secondary schools.

The two national winning teams were selected from over 6,100 entries Involving more than

71,000 students.

Congressman Tom Lewis (R-FL), who Introduced legislation in March 1986 calling for the

replacement Orbiter [for Challenger] to be named from suggestions submitted by

students, will be the featured speaker during the May 5 reception. In addition, the nine

students of the Senatobia Middle School (Senatobla, MS) team and eight members of the

Tallulah Falls School, Inc. (Tallulah Falls, GA) will present their projects. These teams

were the Division I (K-Grade 6) and Division II (Grades 7-12) winners respectively in the

Orbiter-naming competition, rNASA/KSC News Release No. 92-37, April 30, 1997_]

n .-STS48: EXTERNALTANK PURGED

'We're chugging on," said KSC spokesman Dick Young about LC 39B efforts to finish

preparing NASA's newest Orbiter for its maiden voyage. Endeavour's external tank has

been purged in STS 49 pre.launch preparations at Launch Complex 39B. Purges of the

power reactant storage and distribution system are underway as are closeouts of the aft

compartment and avionics bays, final inspections and preparations to begin the launch

countdown May 4. Young also said that workers will complete the application of foam

insulation to fuel lines within the Orbiter's main propulsion system. The aft compartment

is expected to be closed out tomorrow. Final ordnance operations begin May 1. [KSC

SHU'I'R.E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., April 30, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 6A,

Apdl 30, 1992.]

g STS 5O:. TIRES CHECKED

Pressure checks of the main landing gear tires on Columbia have been completed as

launch day for STS 50 nears. Work in progress: filling and bleeding the hydraulic

system; crew stowage modification for extended flights; electrical redundancy checks of

the orbital maneuvering system and the reaction control system; brake anti-skid test and

preparations to install the waste containment system. [KSC SHUI"I'LE STATUS REPORT,

10 a.m., April 30, 1992.]

\v81
g A_: WORK IN PROGRESS

Preparations for the STS 46 mission of Atlantis continue in OPF Bay 1: orbital

maneuvering system functional tests; leak and functional tests of the auxiliary power units;

thermal protection system operations; configuring the aft flight deck for the STS 46

mission; testing of the Ku-band antenna ddve assembly; testing of the main propulsion

system. Discovery remains in OPF Bay 2 where it is-undergoing structural inspections

and modifications. The removal of the vehicle's PRSD tanks is underway as are leak

checks of the freon coolant loops, [KSC SHUTtl.E _'AI"US REPORT, 10 a.m., April 30,

lge2.]

V

V
May1: STS 49:

MAY

PRSD SYSTEM PURGED

At Launch Complex 39B, workers have purged Endeavour's power reactant storageand

distribution system and completed final ordnance operations and checks of fldng circuits.

Work in progress: closing out the aft compartment including final inspections, closeouts

of the avionics bays and removal of work platforms; installation of flight doors on the aft

compartment; preparations to begin the launch countdown May 4. Work scheduled: STS

49 flight crew arrival; launch countdown start at 11 p.m. May 4 at the T-43 hour mark.

Launch of STS 49 Is set for 7:06 p.m. EDT with the window extending until 7:55 p.m. May

7. The STS 49 mission is the first for the Space Shuttle Endeavour;, other firsts include:

three spacewalks and a drag chute-assisted landing at Edwards Air Force Base (CA).

[KSC SHUTI'LE STATUS REPORT. I0 a.m., May I, 1992; 'Technicians Continue Work

Toward Endeavour's Launch," FL,ORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, May 2, 1992; Brown, FLORIDA

TODAY_ p. 1A, May 4, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL pp. A-I & A-14, May 3,

1992.]

n COLUMBIA; USML LEAK CHECKS DONE

Leak checks of Columbia's United States Microgravity Laboratory payload tunnel have

been completed. Work in progress: interface verification testing of the USML tunnel;

crew stowage modification for extended flights; electrical redundancy checks of the orbital

meneuvedng system and the reaction control system. [KSC SHUTTI, E _'ATUS REPORT,

10 a.m., May 1, 1992.]

n ATLANTIS ,Nk_ DBCOVERY

In OPF Bay 1, Atlantis is undergoing tests of its orbital maneuvering system and leak and

functional tests of the auxiliary power units. Thermal protection system operations are

underway and the alt flight deck ISbeing configured for the STS 46 mission. Discovery

continues to be modified and inspected in OPF Bay 2. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REpORT, 10 a.m., May 1, 1992.]

May2: TWO NIGHT I._UINCHI_ NEXT WEEK

"You could say it's going to be the culmination of all the hard work the team has put in

over the past year,' said KSC spokeswoman Lisa Malone, speaking of the May 7 launch

of Endeavour on its maiden voyage, STS 49. That launch is scheduled to occur at 7:06

p.m.EDT. A Delta 2 launch onMay g wm be the second night launch of the week; the

windows are from 7:43 to 8:00 p.m. and from 8:31 to 9:49 p.m. Between these two

launches the six surviving Mercury astronauts will revisit Brevard for the 30th anniversary

of the firstthree manned orbital flights. Mrs. Betty _ widow of the late _ "Gus"

will be joined in ceremonies at the U. S. Astronaut Hall of Fame by John Glenn,

Sco(t _, Walter ,_ Gordon Cooper, Deke Slayton and Alan Shepard.

[Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, May 3, 1992.]

May 4: LAUNCH MINUS THREE D_,_3..; _ 49

There is a 60 percent chance of acceptable weather cond'Rionson May 7 at launch time

for Endeavour's maiden voyage, STS 49. The concem is for thick low level clouds in the

area. The aft compartment of the Orbiter was closed May 1; afterward the solid rocket

83
boostersandtheexternaltankwereclosed.Workinprogress:preparationsto beginthe

launchcountdownat 11p.m.tonightat the T minus 43 hour mark; removing platforms

from the middeck; removing covers from the reaction control system thrusters; washing

down the mobile launcher platform and the flame trench. Work scheduled: arrival of the

STS 49 flight crew at 7:00 p.m. tonight; move the rotating service structure away from the

vehicle starting at 6:00 p.m. May 6; loading the external tank with its flight load of

propellants beginning at 10:16 a.m. May 7; launch is scheduled at 7:06 p.m. May 7 and

the window extends to 7:55 p.m. [KSC SHUTFLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., May 4,

1992; Diller, NASA/KSC, 'L-,3 Day Weather Forecast for STS-49...,' May 4, 1992.]

V

O CHUTELEAKCHECK:C(;X MO 

Workers in OPF Bay 3 have completed a stnJctural leak check of Columbia's drag chute.

Preparations for the Orbiter's STS 50 mission continue: leak checks of the elevon cove

seals; interface verification testing of the USML tunnel; crew stowage modification for

extended flights; testing of the communications and radar systems. [KSC SHUTTLE

STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., May 4, 1992.]

g ATLANTIS AND DISCOVERY: PROCESSING

Technicians in OPF Bay 1 have installed Atlantis' new beefed-up main landing gear

wheels and serviced the auxiliary power units with lube oil. Work in progress: orbital

maneuvering system functional tests; thermal protection system operations; configuring

the aft flight deck for the STS 46 mission; preparation of the hydraulic system for testing.

Inspections and rnodiflcatiorm of Discovery continue unabated in OPF Bay 2. fKSC

SHUTII.E STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., May 4, 1992.]

n ENDF--AV(; JR KSC

Endeavour's seven-member crew arrivedet KSC shortly alter 7:00 p.m. ready and eager

to begin the STS 49 mission. 'Wo_o been training real hard for the last year or so, and

we aren't going to get any smarter, so now's a good time to go fly,' said Mission

Specialist Kaltayn C. Thornton on her arrival Fellow Mission Specialist Thomas D. Akem

said, '1really feet lucky to be assigned to a flight like this. I can't wait to get back and tell

you all about it." Other crew members include Commander Daniel C. Brarclenstein, Pilot

Kavin P. Clulton and Mission Specialists Bruce E. Melnick, Richard J: Hieb and Pierre

Thuot. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, May 5, 1992; "Endeavour Crew Prepares for

Launch," USA TQI_AY, p. 4A, May 5, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO Si_NTINEL, May 5,

1992.]

V

May STS4S: COUNTDOWN

The launch countdown for the STS 49 mission of Endeavour began on time at 11 p.m.

yesterday. There is a 30 percent chance of acceptable weather conditions on May 7 at

launch time; the concern is for showers or thunderstorms and thick low level clouds in

the area. Conditions improve on May 8 to a 40 percent chance of having acceptable

weather. The flight crew is scheduled for a brief medical exam, a review of flight data

files, perform fit checks with crew equipment and will be bdefed by the vehicle integrated

test team. Work in progress: countdown; preparations to load the fuel cell storage tanks

with cryogenic reactants; final set ups of the hazardous gas detection system; activation

of the navigation aids; preparing the main engines for flight. Work scheduled: loading

the fuel cell storage tanks with reactants tonight; rotate the rotating service structure away

84 V
from the vehicle at 6 p.m. May 6; loading the extemal tank with its flight load of

propellants starting at 10:16 a.m. May 7. [KSC SHUTrLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., May

5, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, May 6, 1992.]

[1 STS 50: PROCESSING CONTINUES

The Space Shuttle Columbia, in OPF Bay 3, continues to undergo processing activities

for its upcoming STS 50 mission: servicing the ammonia boiler;, installation of the

Orbiter's waste containment system; testing of the communications system; functional

checkout of the orbital maneuvering system crossfeed lines; leak checks of the elevon

cove seals; crew stowage modification for extended flights. |KSC SHU'I'I'LE STATUS

REPORT. 10 a.m., May 5, 1992.]

D ATLANTIS: MOF_ TE_I'8

Atlantis is undergoing several tests this week in OPF Bay 1: orbital maneuvering system

functional tests; testing of the hydraulic system and of the nose wheel steering system;

and thermal protection system operations. The aft flight deck is being configured for the

STS 46 mission. The Orbiter's three main engines will be installed this week. Discovery

is being modified in OPF Bay 2 and is undergoing structural Inspections, thermal

protection system operations and freon coolant loop troubleshooting. [KSC SHUTI'LE

STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., May 5, 1992.]

g THOM 0, pAW-. FORMER/U BNBTRATOR

Upon learning of the death of Dr. "lltontas O. Paine, the third Administrator of NASA,

NASA Administrator=Daniel 8. Gok_ Issued the following statement: 'The Agency

mourns the death of Tom Paine, an outstanding American. Over the years, I had the

privilege of working with tom personally. I found him to be a man of vision and integrity.

Tom's leadership of NASA through the first several moon landings was nothing short of

exempla W and later as Chairman of the National Commission on Space inthe mid-1980s,

his direction of this Presidentially appointed group formulated a bold agenda to carry

America's civilian space enterprise into the 21st century. W'_hin the past six months, the

nation has been saddened by the passing of three former NASA Administrators - James

C. Fletcher in December, James E. Webb in February and now Tom Paine. Their

accomplishments and legacies will long endure.' Paine died of cancer [on May 4] at his

home (Brentwood, CA); he was 70. [NASA/KSC News Release No. 92-41, May 5, 1992;

'Ex-NASA Chief Dies of Cancer,' FLORIDA TODAY, p. 7A, May 6, 1992; Steinberg, TH.__EE

NEW YORK TIMES, May 7, 1992; 'Thomas O. Paine, 70, NASA Administrator,' TH__.EE

WASHINGTON TIMES, May 7, 1992; 'Thomas O. Paine, Led NASA During Era of Moon

Landings," CHICAGO TURBINE, May 6, 1992; 'Thomas Paine Dies; Led NASA Through

Early Apollo Missions,' THli WASHINGTON POST, May 8, 1992.] .....

May6: PELLERIN TO RLL SAFETY POST

NASA Administrator Daniel 8. Gold'm today announced the appointment of Dr. Charles

J. Palledn, Jr. to the position of Deputy Associate Administrator for Safety and Mission

Quality. In addition, he will serve as Special Assistant to the Administrator for long-range

planning. In this capacity, he will work with Assistant Deputy Administrator Charles F.

Bolder Pelledn has served since 1983 as Director of Astrophysics in NASA's Office of

Space Science and Applications. Many of the most complex satellites ever conceived

were completed under his leadership and launched in recent years. The scientific results

J

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from these missions, which include the Cosmic Background Explorer (COBE), Hubble

Space Telescope and Compton Gamma Ray Observer, are now changing how we view

the universe and humanity's place in it. Pellerin began his NASA career as an aerospace

engineer at the Goddard Space Flight Center (Greenbelt, MD), where he was involved in

the engineering of rocket instrumentation and later in the use of sounding rockets for

scientific research. In 1975, he moved to NASA Headquarters and for 5 years managed

the development and integration of scientific instrumentation for flight on the Space

Shuttle. In 1974, Pellerin was awarded a Ph.D. in physics from the Catholic University of

Amedca. He has received many honors, including the Presidential Rank Award, Catholic

University Science Alumni Award and NASA'$ Outstanding Leadership Medal.

[NASA/KSC News Release No. 92-59, May 6, 1992; "Goldln Appoints Safety Associate,"

FLORIDA TODAY. May 17, 1992.]

ENDEAVOU.EI: L-2 DAY REVIEW COMPLETED

Shuttle Program Director Leonard S. Nictmis()n, speaking at a KSC news conference,

said, "1consider the first launch of Endeavour to be the end of [the Challenger] era and

the starting of another' in which the role of astronauts working in space takes a new

emphasis. At Launch Complex 39B, technicians and managers of the STS 49 mission

have completed their L-2 day review of the pre-launch operations. Cryogenic fuel cell

loading operations are also finished. Work in progress: the launch countdown continues

on time and without incident; the clock will hold today at 3:00 p.m. for a scheduled 13-

hour, 16-minute built-in hold; rotating service structure move preparations. Work

scheduled: rotation of the service structure from the vehicle is scheduled for tonight;

loading of the external tank with cryogenic fuels is scheduled to begin at 10:16 a.m. May

7 with launch targeted for 7:06 p.m. EDT with a window extending until 7:55 p.m.

Weather continued to be a concern with the probability of criteria violation ranging from

60 to 70 percent until launch time. [Broad, THE NEW YORKTIMES, p. A13, May 7, 1992;

KSC SHLrl"rLE STATUS REPORT, 12 Noon, May 6, 1992; "Launch Day Weather Forecast

for STS 49,' NASA/KSC News Release, May 7, 1992; Halvorson, F.t,ORII;)ATODAY, p. 1A,

May 6, 1992.]

COLUMBIA: _ CROSSF'EED UNES

Tests of Columbia's orbital maneuvering system crossfeed lines have been completed.

Technicians in OPF Bay 3, where the vehicle is being processed, are servicing Columbia's

ammonia boiler, installing and checking the Waste Collection System and preparing the

crew equipment interface test. [KSC SHUI"I'LE STATUS REPORT, 12 Noon, May 6,

1992_]

ATLANnS:Bn/u<ESTES11 

In OPF Bay 1, Atlantis has had its brake and anti-skid tests completed along with nose

wheel steedng operations and hydraulic fill and bleed functional tests. Work in progress:

preparations for main engine removal beginning tonight and stacking of solid rocket

boosters for STS 46 in the Vehicle Assembly Building. Technicians in OPF Bay 2, have

completed installing the power reactant and storage distribution tank in Discovery. Work

in progress on Discovery: modifications; freon coolant loop leak and decay checks and

window installations, rKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 12 Noon, May 6, 1992.]

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May 7:

MayS:

STS 49 LAUNCH SUCCESSt

'It was fantastic. When I saw the flames shoot out of the bottom of the Endeavour, I said

a new fresh page is starting,' said new NASA Administrator Daniel S. Goldin who as in

attendance as Endeavour lifted off from Launch Complex 39B at 7:40:.07 p.m. EDT

tonight. It made a trouble-free climb to orbit to begin Shuttle mission STS 49. Shuttle

Program Director Leonard S. N_ said, '1consider the first launch of Endeavour to

be the end of that [the Challenger accident] era and the starting of another." A normal

engine fidng to circularize Endeavours orbit ensued, puffing the spacecraft into the

planned 182 by 140 nautical mile orbit, launch was delayed by 34 minutes because of

weather conditions at the Kennedy and the Transoceanic Abort sites and for the

resolution of one of the master events controllers (MEC). The MEC relays commands

from the Orbiter's computers to fire explosive charges to the SRB holddown bolts at

launch and to separate the boosters and tank in flight. Minimal damage was reported at

launch pad 39B. Mobile launcher platform 2 will be transferred to the Vehicle Assembly

Building tomorrow evening.

The solid rocket boosters are being recovered by the two retrieval ships, the Liberty Star

and the Freedom Star. Both frustrums and parachutes are onboard the ships. The

boosters will be towed back to Hangar AF at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. High sea

state conditions are slowing the retrlaval operation somewhat. Impact coordinates for the

left booster were 28 degrees, 41.9 minutes north and 78 degrees, 03.32 minutes west.

Coordinates for the dght booster were 28 degrees, 41.6 minutes north and 78 degrees,

03.7 minutes west. They landed about 140 miles due east of KSC and about 6 and a half

miles from the retrieval ships. Noting that three spacewalks are scheduled for this STS

49 mission, National Space Society Program Director David Brandt said, 'They need to

start practicing spacewalks in a big way, and NASA knows that. Certainly they are going

to have to do a lot of spacewalking when they get to the Hubble repair mission next year,

and they'll have to do even more of it when they begin building the Space Station."

Former U. S. Represantat_e Bill Nelson, who flew on STS 61C, said, 'This is a precursor

to us doing much bigger and much more exciting things in space. But we need this kind

of experience and history behind us in order to keep doing more and more in space."

[Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, May 7, 1992; Broad, THE NEW YORK TIMES. May 7,

1992; Broad, THEF.NEW YORK TIMES, P. A13, May 8, 1992; MISSION CONTROl,, CENTER

STATU.S REPORT #1, May 8, 1992; Sawyer, THE WASHINGTON POST, May 7, 1992;

Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL, pp. A-1 & A-11, May 7, 1992; KSC SH_ STATUS

REPORT, May 8, 1992; Halvorson, FL,ORIDATOI_AY, pp. 1A-2A, May 8, 1992; Date, THE

ORLANDO SENTINEL, May 8, 1992; "Endeavour Soars After Weather Delay,"USA TODAY,

May 8, 1992; Stewart, LOS ANGELES TIMES, May 8, 1992; Sawyer, THI_,WASHINGTON

POST. May 8.,1992; "ShuttleSets Off to Repair Satellite," THE WASHINGTON TIMES, May

8, 1992; "Shuttle Endeavour Blasts Off On Malden Flight,' PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER, May

8, 19 _]

AS'II:IONAUT HONORS TODAY

Two more names will be added at 10:30 a.m. today to the Astronauts Memorial in a

ceremony at Spaceport USA: Manley "Sonny"_, who died in a 1991 plane crash and

Air Force Captain Mike Adams who died in an X-15 rocket plane crash in 1967. Adams

had qualified for astronaut wings for flying above 50 miles, the beginning of space. At

the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and Space Camp Florida (Tk'usville,FL) the six surviving

Mercury astronauts will mark the 30th anniversary of the orbital flights of John Glenn,

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May9:

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Scott _ and Walter Schirra. [Banke, FI_ORIDA TODAY, p. 1B, May 8, 1992; Date,

THE ORLANDO SENTINEL, May 7, 1992.]

COLUMBIA: WCS INSTALLED

Columbia's waste containment system (WCS) has been installed inthe Orbiter in OPF Bay

3. Work in progress: testing of the communications system; leak checks of the elevon

cove seals; crew stowage modification for extended flights; preparations for the Crew

Equipment Interface Test of the USML-1 laboratory. [KSC SHU'I'I'I_ STATUS REPORT,

10 a.m., May 8, 1992.]

A_: TWO MAIN ENGINES INST/CU_

Main engines No. 1 and 3 have been installed in Atlantis during its processing stay in

OPF Bay 1. The waste containment system (WCS) was also Installed. Work in progress:

Installation of the no. 2 engine; Installation of getaway special canisters in the payload

bay; thermal protection system operations; configuring the aft flight deck for the STS 46

mission. Discovery's modification continues to proceed in OPF Bay 1. Work in progress:

structural inspections; thermal protection system operations; X-rays of the freon coolant

loop. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., May 8, 1992.]

CRANE FAILURI_ DI_I-AYS DELTA LAUNCH

The Delta 2 launch, already delayed from last Thursday (Apdl 30), will now occur no

earlier than May 13. A crane that lilts the rocket's nose cone has failed and must be

repaired. "Ifthoserepalrsgo as planned,we shouldbe able to makeit,' saidAnne

McCaulay, spokeswoman for McDonnell Douglas. ['Crane Failure Delays Delta Liftoff,"

FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, May 9, 1992.]

NewlarKI and Wiam "Tom" LaCluce, both employees of EG&G FLORIDA, Inc.,

were awarded Silver Snoopys by astronaut David A. Wolf today. Newland operates the

KSC automated Iocator system. LaChance is an engineering support specialist; he

received the award for the support he provided EG&G's generator shop for Space Shuttle

launches and the NASA Public Aft'aim office. ['2 KSC Workers Earn Silver Snoopy

Awards," F/,0RIDA TODAY, p. 9E, May 10, 1992.]

I¢SC MANA_ C-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-_T NEW JOBS

Robert B. Sieck and Ted Sasseen are getting new jobs today. Sieck has been named

Deputy Director of Space Shuttle Management and Operations and will assist Jay

I-IoneycuR in the management and technical direction of the Shuttle Program at Kennedy

Space Center. Sieck will continue as Space Shuttle Launch Director. Sasseen was

named a special assistant to new KSC Director Robert L Cdppen; he will work on special

engineering Issues for the Director. Sasseen has been Shuttle engineedng director at

KSC since 1987. ['Senior KSC Managers Take On New Roles," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 9E,

May 10, 1992.]

-- 4

V
g LOW TROPHY FINAUSTS

McDonnell Douglas Space Systems Co.'s KSC division has been named a finalist in this

year's George M. Low Trophy competition. New NASA Administrator Daniel S. Goldin

said, 'I'm a true believer in the George M. Low Trophy process and the TQM philosophy.

The award recognizes superior performance by contractors and facilitates the transfer of

successful strategies throughout the country. These strategies ensure that quality

products and services accommodate our various customers to the highest degree.' The

trophy will be awarded at the Ninth Annual NASA/Contractor Conference in Pasadena,

CA, on October 20.

George M. Low Trophy Finalists - 1992

[1] McDonnell Douglas Space Systems Co. at Kennedy Space Center

[2] Cray Research Inc.'s Customer Service, Engineering and Manufacturing Divisions

in Chippewa Falls, WI

[3] Honeywell Inc.'s Space and Strategic Systems Operation in Clearwater, FL

[4] IBM Federal Sector Division in Houston, TX

[5] Paramax System Corp.'s Space Systems Operation in Houston, TX

[(3] Rocket Research Co. of Redmond, WA

[7] Stanford Telecommunications Inc. of Reston, VA

[8] Technical Analysis Inc. of Houston, Tx

[Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 9E, May 10, 1992.]

n NEW FORECASTING TOOLS FOR NASA/AIR FORCE

A six-member team known as the Applied Meteorology Unit has undertaken a three-year

effort to odginate and improve forecasting tools for Kennedy Space Center and the Cape

Canaveral Air Force Station. The unit Is operated by NASA contract with ENSCO Inc.

(VA) at the 45th Weather Squadron's facilities at the Range Operations Control Center at

Cape Canaveral.

APPUED METEOROLOGY UNIT GOALS

III III

[[1] Improve the accuracy of the forecast for Shuttle landings at KSC.

[2] Develop limits for cloud cover and fog during KSC landings.

[3] Determine how a new Doppler Weather Radar Station (Melboume, FL) can assist

in forecasting prior to launch and vehicle processing operations.

[4] Evaluate KSC's new lightning detection system.

% j

v

[Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 9E, May 10, i992.]

89

i
n DELTA LAUNCH READY

The launch of an Indonesian communications satellite aboard a Delta 2 rocket is set for

no earlier than May 13 during a window extending from 7:40 to 7:48 p.m. and from 8:29

to 9:47 p.m. The second will be launched no earlier than June 4. Lyle Hofloway, Director

of Launch Sites for McDonnell Douglas Space Systems Co., said that meeting the target

dates was critical. "We're competing in an intemational marketplace every day," he said.

•And it comas down to more than just dollars and cents. It comes down to being able

to select a launch date and being credible that we'll make that launch date." [Halvorson,

FLORIDA TODAY. May 10, 1992.]

V

May 11: COLUMBk S'rs so PROCESSe 

The Crew Equipment Interface Tast of Columbia's Spacelab payload has been completed.

Work in progress: testing of the new regenerative carbon dioxide removal system;

functional tests of the waste containment system; testing of the communications .system;

leak checks of the elevon cove seals; crew stowage modification for extended flights.

[KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., May 11, 1992.]

n ATLANTIS: MAIN ENGINES INSTALLED

All three main engines have been installed in Atlantis during processing activIties in OPF

Bay 1. Other work in progress: electrically connecting the no. 2 main engine; installation

of getaway special canisters in the payload bay; thermal protection system operations;

configuring the aft flight deck for the _ 46 mission. Orbiter modlficalJons of Discovery

are continuing in OPF Bay 2 along with structural inspections; thermal protection system

_ and _ to _ freon coolant loop no. 2. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT. 10 a.m., May 11, 1992.] .... V

!1 ENDEAVOUR_ _ ARRIVE

The solid rocket booster retrlaval ships arrived at Hangar AF at 12:30 p.m. Saturday (May

9) and both boosters were in their stands by 4 p.m. The boosters are being prepared

for disassembly. Landing of Endeavour is targeted for Edwards Air Force Base (CA) at

7:38 p.m. EDT on Thursday (May 14). rKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., May

11, 19 _]

11 GOLDIN; NASA MUST B_ I_FF_.IENI"

New NASA Administrator Daniel 8. _ said today that NASA must become more

efficient and make choices about which programs to pursue. 'NASA," he said, "has a very

broad range of things on its plate, and many of the programs that we have don't have a

very clearly stated tie to the other programs. And when one has a situation like that,

sometimes you can find that maybe we don't have to do everything. If we can get more

focused, we'U be much more efficient in our expenditures." Goldin said that NASA

managers are currently studying several approaches to running smaller, less expensive

programs. "Everything can_ be a multibiUion-dollar, 1(3- to 20-year program," Goldin

continued. "We have got to start some programs that are an order of magnitude less in

cost and have results in three or four years. If I can accomplish one major objective in

my tenure as Administrator, it's to get this close coupling (of programs) because I think

it will allow us to be much more efficient with the taxpayers' dollars and get results much

sooner.' Goldin succeeded former Administrator Richard H. Truly on April 1 of this year

V

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[Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, May 12, 1992; Halvorson, USA TODAY, p. 3A, May

12, 1992.]

May 12: ENDEAVOUR'S BOOSTERS EXAMINED

A preliminary open assessment of the solid rocket booeters Indicates they are in good

shape following the Endeavour launch. The boosters are being prepared for disassembly

at Hangar AF. Today, technicians will conduct hydrolasing operations to remove the

exterior foam and cork. Flight planners are laying the groundwork to extend the STS 49

mission by one day for a landing at Edwards Air Force Base (CA) on Friday (May 15).

[KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., May 12, 1992.]

n cOLUMB PROCES N Sm SO

Columbia is being processed for its upcoming STS 50 mission in OPF Bay 3. Work in

progress Includes; testing of the new regenerative carbon dioxide removal system;

functional tests of the waste containment system;'testing of the communications system;

leak checks of the elevon cove seals; crew stowage modification for extended flights.

[KS(_ SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., May 12, 1992.]

GASC/ rERS tNST/ LED

In OPF Bay 1, Get Away Special (GAS) canisters have been installed in Atlantis. Work

in progress: electrically connecting the no. 2 main engine; installation of the sleep

stations; servicing of the potable water;, pre_ to test the remote manipulator

system. Discovery is being processed in OPF Bay 2. Current act_Nffies include:

Installation of an oxygen tank for the fuel cells; Orbiter modifications; structural

Inspections; thermal protection system operations; vacuum drying freon coolant loop no.

2. [KSC SHUITLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.rn., May 12, 1992.]

May 13: EI_EAVOUR _' DISASSEMBLY

Endeavour's boosters are being prepared for disassembly at Hangar AF. Hydrolasing

activities are continuing to remove the extedor foam and cork. Mission STS 49 is now

scheduled to end with a Friday (May 15) landing at Edwards Air Force Base (CA) at 6:37

p.m. EDT. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 elm., May 13, 1992; KSC SHUTTLE

STATUS REPORT, 10 elm., May 14, 1997_]

COLUMBIA/USML-1 PROCESSING

Processing work currently underway in OPF Bay 3 includes: Installation of the four-tier

sleep stations; testing of the new regenerative carbon dioxide removal system; crew

stowage modification for extended flights; functional tests of the waste containment

system; testing of the communications system; leak checks of the elevon cove seals.

[K...SCSHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 elm., May 13, 1992.]

ATLANTISIDISC_VEFIY PR(X_E_3!!_K3 ACTIVITIES

Work in progress on Atlantis (OPF Bay 1): preparations for main engine drying

operations; servicing of the potable water;, preparations to test the remote manipulator

system; testing of connections for the STS 46 payloads, Discovery processing work:

installation of an oxygen tank for the fuel cells; Orbiter modifications; structural

91
inspections;thermalprotectionsystemoperations;leakchecksofthefreon coolant loops.

rKSC SHUTTLe, STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., May 13, 1992.]

n DELTA 2 LAUNCHED

"1 knelt on my knees and thanked God," said Soejud Binwahju, of the Council of

Representatives of Indonesia, on witnessing the Delta 2 launch of an Indonesian

communications satellite tonight at 8:40 p.m. The payload was a 2,770-pound Palapa B4

spacecraft and is the fourth and last part of Indoneeia's satellite network. Thunderclouds

in the area ttu'eatened to lessen the possibility of launch, but the situation Improved in

time for the launch dudng the second available window. [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A,

May 13, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 8A, May 14, 1992; 'Delta Launch Scheduled

for Tonight," THE QRI=ANDO SENTINEL May 13, 1992.]

May 14: qoI,UMB TESTSFORSTS50

In OPF Bay 3, technicians are pmpadng Columbia for its upcoming STS 50 mission.

These activities Include: Installation of the four-tier sleep stations; testing of the new

regenerative carbon dioxide removal system; crew stowage modification for extended

flights; testing of the Ku-band antenna; testing of the communications system; leak

checks of the el(won cove seals. [KSC SHU3"I'L_ STATUS RI_PORT, 10 a.m., May 14,

1992.]

g ATI,ANI_: MAIN ENGINES DRIED

Workers in OPF Bay I have finished drying the main engines of Atlantis and tests of the

remote manipulator system. Work in progress: Installing heat shields around the main

engines; sampling the _ Water;,testing of conn_ for the _ 46 payloads.

r_SHUTTLE _r'ATU_ REPORT. i0 a.m., May 14, 1992.]

g MO_TIOhB IN OPF BAY 2

An oxygen tank for the Orbiter's fuel cells has been Installed in Discovery which continues

to undergo modifications in OPF Bay 2. Technicians are also making structural

inspections, conducting thermal protection system operations and leak checks of the

freon coolant loops. [KS(_ SHUTTI_ STATUS RI_PORT, 10 a.m., May 14, 1992.]

May 15:

In OPF Bay 3, Columbia is being prepared for its upcoming STS 50 mission. Activities

include: installation of the four-tier sleep stations; testing of the new regenerative carbon

dioxide removal system; crew stowage modification for extended flights; testing of the Kuband antenna; testing of the communications system, leak checks of the el(won cove

seals. [KSC SHUI"R.E STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., May 15, 1992.]

n A'11.ANT18AND DISCOVERY: PROCESSING ACTIVITIES

Atlantis is being processed in OPF Bay 1 and current activities include: installing heat

shields around the main engines; testing of connections for the STS 46 payloads;

servicing the ammonia boiler. Discovenj is undergoing modifications and STS 53

processing activities in OPF Bay 2: preparations to power up the Orbiter next week;

installation of electronic boxes; installation of the body flap; structural inspections; thermal

V

92 V
protection system operations purging the frson coolant loops. [KSC SHUTrl.E STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m., May 15, 1992.]

ENDEAVOUR TO LAND MAY 16

Endeavour's malden voyage (STS 49) is now scheduled to end with a landing at Edwards

Air Force Base (CA) at 4:57 p.m. EDT tomorrow. The Orbiter's two solid rocket boosters

are being prepared for disassembly at Hangar AF. Hydrolasing activities have been

completed on both boosters. Both aft skirts and the left nozzle have been removed; the

right nozzle is scheduled to be removed today. [K_ _HUTI'LE STATUS REPORT, 10

a.m., May 15, 1992.]

g I_C: CONTI_ CONTROL CENTER

NASA is considering Kennedy Space Center as a possible site for its planned Emergency

Mission Control Center to be activated in the event that Johnson Space Center's Mission

Control facilities were shut down due to a hurricane or terrorist activities. Three flight

controllers and NASA Flight Director Linda Ham will check out KSC's equipment and

practice sending commands to a simulated Orbiter May 19. Shuttle Test Director AI Sofge

said that Kennedy Space Center can "giveJSC all the visibility into the Orbiter's systems

that they need with our current computer programs. The only thing we don't routinely do

is to send commands to the Orbiter while it's in the air.' He said that part of the reason

for moving the center to KSC is that it is unlikely that two hurrlcenes of such force that

would require evacuation of both centers would occur simultaneously. [Banke, FLORIp_.

TODAY. p. 6A, May 16, 1992.]

May 17:. REIUI TO R.ORJDA

Endeavour is being readied in Califomia for its ferry flight to Florida which may begin as

soon as May 21. John "Tip"Talone, Endeevouds Processing Director, said of the Orbiter:.

•It looked pristine, as we think the jewel of the fleet should." Managers are planning to

make the return flight in one day if possible. [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, May 18, 1992.]

May 18: INTERNA'nONAI,STEEl,

International Steel Industries, Inc. (Orlando, FL) has been awarded a $333,800 contract

to construct a concrete-and-metal storage facility for st=lland motion picture film that is

used to document Space Shuttle payload processing, as well as other Shuttle prelaunch

and launch activities, at Kennedy Space Center. [NASA/KSC News Release No. 54-92,

May 18, 1992.]

n STS CAr¢- SAYSC OSED FORFUC+rT

The payload bay doors of the Space Shuttle Columbia have been closed in OPF Bay 3

for its upcoming STS 50 mission. Sleep stations have been installed and the Crew

Equipment Interface Test with the STS 50 crew has been completed. Work in progress:

testing of the new regenerative carbon dioxide removal system; crew stowage

modification for extended flights; preparations for tests of the flight control system;

structural leak tests of the aft compartment. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m.,

May 18, 1992; Brown, FI,ORIDA.TO.DAY, p. 6A, May 19, 1992.]

V 93
I1 STS 46: AMMONIA BOILER SERVICED

The ammonia boilers of Atlantis have been serviced in OPF Bay 1. Other STS 46

processing activities include: installing the IMAX camera; testing the Ku-band antenna;

functional testing of the external tank doors; installation of heat shields around the main

engines and testing of connections for the STS 46 payloads. [KSC SHU'I'rLE STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m., May 18, 1992_]

V

g DISCOVERY: BODY FLAP INSTALLED

Discovery's body flap has been installed during processing activities in OPF Bay 2. Other

work in progress Includes: preparationsto power up the Orbiter this week; installation

of electronic boxes; Orbiter modifications; structural inspections; thermal protection

system operations; vacuum drying of the freon coolant loops. [KSC SHU'I'I'LE STATUS

REPORT. 10 a.m., May 18, 1992.]

n 8"i"8 _ LANDING, MISSION SUCCESS

Mission STS 49 ended with a landing of Endeavour on May 16 at Edwards Air Force Base

(CA) at 4:57 p.m. EDT. The total mission elapsed time was 8 days, 21 hours, 17 minutes

and 38 seconds. Main gear touchdown came at 4:57.38 p.m.; nose gear touchdown was

at 4:57.50 p.m.; the drag chute was deployed at 4:57.51 p.m. and the wheels stopped at

4:58.36 p.m. EDT. The total distance Endeavour traveled on its maiden voyage was

3,696,019 statute miles (based on an average altitude of 186 nautical miles). Shuttle

Launch Director Robed B. Sleck said, 'The vehicle looks as great as the mission it just

flew. It's hard to bellave it just spent nine days In space.' Three finger-sized 'gashes =

were the only signs of damage to the Orbiter, according to Sleck. Endeavour was towed

to the Mate Dernate Device later inthe day where KSC recovery crews began tO pl'e-l:_-

the Shuttle for its ferry flight back to Florida. Today, residual cryogenics will be offioaded

from the Orbiter's fuel cell storage tanks. Overall preliminary Inspections indicate the

vehicle is in good condition. Endeavour could be ready for departure from Califomia by

May 21; if weather is favorable a one-day ferry flight is possible. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT. 10 a.m., May 18, 1992; Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A-2A, May 17, 1992;

Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL pp. A-1 & A-18, May 17, 1992.]

rl ENDEAVOUR FERRY

At Edwards Air Force Base (CA), Kennedy Space Center workers are preparing

Endeavour for its ferry flight home. John 'Tip" Taione, Orbiter Processing Director, said

the vehicle returned from its nine-day mission in excellent shape. "Itlook pristine, as we

think the jewel of the fleet should.' The ferrying operation is set to begin May 21 and

managers planto make the flightin one day if weather is favorable. A refueling stop is

planned for Kelly Air Force Base (San Antonio, TX). KSC's processing facilities are

presently occupied by the other three Orbiters: Columbia, Atlantis and Discovery.

Columbia is not scheduled to rolioverfrom the OPF to the Vehicle Assembly Building until

next week. [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, May 18, 1992; KSC SHUTI'LE STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m., May 20, 1992.]

May 19:. 1NTELSAT K LAUNCH SCHEDULED

Meteorologists predict favorable weather May 20 for the launch of INT_LSAT K, the

second in a series of telecommunications satellites. 'We need something to meet the
growingdemandin the Atlanticregionuntil our (next)sedesof satellitesbecomes

available- particularlywiththeSummerOlympicgames[scheduledfor Barcelona, Spain],'

said Sigdd Badene_, spokeswoman with the International Telecommunications Satellite

Organization. The launch is set to occur between 7:12 and 8:08 p.m. from Cape

Canaveral Air Force Station. [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 6A, May 20, 1992.]

May 20:. COLUMBIA; ST8,50 ROLLOVER MAY 27

The transfer of the Space Shuttle Columbia from OPF Bay 3 to the Vehicle Assembly

Building is scheduled for May 28 because preparations are taking more time than

anticipated. Processing of the Orbiter for its upcoming STS 50 mission Includes: testing

of the new regenerative carbon dioxide removal system; crew stowage modification for

extended flights; tests of the Orbiter's hydraulic systems; nose wheel steering test;

installation of auxiliary power unit no. 2. The earliest likely launch of STS 50 will be June

24. [KSq SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., May 20, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY.,

p. 8A, May 20, 1992.]

g STS46; tNn Ac VERtRCA'nONTEST

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 1, technicians have completed an interface verification

test of Atlantis' IMAX camera. Orbiter processing currently involves the following activities:

functional test of the landing gear;,testing of the Ku-band antenna; functional testing of

the external tank doors; testing of connections for the STS 46 payloads; preparations to

close the payload bay doors; closeouts of the midbody and aft compartment. Meanwhile,

in OPF Bay 2, workers continue processing and modifying Discovew: powering up

operations; installation of electronic boxes; vacuum drying of the freon coolant loops.

[K,_ _HUTn.E STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., May 20, 1992-]

n All.AS 2A LAUNCH TONICd-IT

Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was to have been rite site of an Atlas 2A launch tonight,

but a technical problem scrubbed the mission; it has not been rescheduled. General

Dynamics Launch Commentator Jim Codd said the problem appeared to be in plumbing

which cardes supercold liquid helium through the Centaur to chill the liquid oxygen

propellant. There was a related communications problem as well. The Atlas 2 was to

have launched an Intelsat K satellite, a companion to the satellite reboosted on

Endeavour's recently completed mission. [Banke, Ft,ORII_. TODAY, p. 1A, May 21,

1992-]

May 21: ENDEAVOUR'S RETURN

Endeavour was bolted the 747 Shuttle Carder Aircraft early this moming and is ready to

begin the cross-country ferry flight back to Florida. Weather conditions are unacceptable

between Caiifomta and Texas for the ferry flight today. Officials will reassess weather

conditions tomorrow morning, ffweather is acceptable, Endeavour could depart Edwards

at 9 a.m. EDT and make a refueling stop along the way. A one-day ferry flight is possible,

however the forecast indicates will be a 50 percent chance of having acceptable

conditions tomorrow. [KSC SHU'I'rl.E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., May 21, 1992;

•Endeavour May Head Home Today,' FLORIDA TODAY, p. 8A, May 21, 1992.]
g COLUMBIA: NOSE WHEEL TEST COM_

A nose wheel steering test on Columbia has just been completed in OPF Bay 3 in

preparation for its June STS 50 mission; the flight control system has also been tested.

Work in progress: testing of the new regenerative carbon dioxide removal system; crew

stowage modification for extended flights; tests of the Orbiter's hydraulic systems; nose

wheel steering test; hooking up the auxiliary power units. Work scheduled: closeouts of

the Orbiter's forward and aft compartments; weight and center of gravity determinations

May 20 and transfer to the VAB on May 28. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m.,

May 21, 1992.]

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In OPF Bay 1, Atlantis is currently undergoing processing operations: tests of the flight

control system; tests of the camera on the robot arm elbow; functional test of the landing

gear;,testing of the Ku-band antenna; functional test of the extemal tank doom; testing

of the connections for the STS 46 payloads; preparations to close the payload bay doors;

closeouts of the midbody and aft compartment. Discovery, in OPF Bay 2, reached a

milestone in its modification when it was powered up yesterday. Preparations were made

to stow the radiators aboard the Orbiter and leak checks of the freon coolant loops were

conducted. [KSC SHU'I'I'LE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., May 21, 1992.]

May 21: WEATHER DELAY8 ENDEAVOUR FETURN

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Stormy weather between Edwards Air Force Base (CA) and Kelly Air Force Base (San

Antonio, TX) - Endeavour's refueling stop - delayed the start of the Orbiter's ferry flight to

Florida. _ spokeswoman Usa Malone said that the trip would begin May 22 if weather

pemfitted. Endeavour, bolted to itsShuttle Carder Ai_ should departEdWards at 9:00

a.rn. At Kennedy Space Center, officials said they hoped to have Columbia ready to

move from its OPF bay to the Vehicle Assembly Building on May 27. ['Endeavour's

R_um Delayed," FLORIDA TODAY. p. 6A, May 22, 1992.]

ATLASLAUNCHBELAYEDAWEEK

A General Dynamics Atlas 2's launch will be delayed until at least early next week.

Company spokesman Jim Codd said, 'We're looking to get this thing off the ground as

soon as we can, but we want to do it safe." Engineers continue to work on a liquid

helium pumping system failure. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 6A, May 22, 1992; Banke,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 7A, May 28, 1992.]

n EUVE MOVED TO COMPLEX 17

NASA's Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer spacecraft will be moved this evening from the

cleanroom facility at Hangar AE to Launch Complex 17 on Cape Canaveral Air Force

Station, FL The move of EUVE, contained in an environmentally controlled canister, is

scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. EDT with arrival at Pad 17-A about an hour later. Hoisting

of EUVE into the gantry for soft mating atop the Air Force Delta 2 rocket is scheduled for

about 10 p.m. EDT. The mechanical hard mate between EUVE and the Delta second

stage is scheduled for Friday, May 22. EUVE will then begin approximately 10 days of

integrated spacecraft and vehicle testing. Final spacecraft processing was completed the

first week of this month. Earlier this week, the spacecraft was integrated with the Delta

rocket's payload adapter FRting. EUVE was then prepared for the trip to the launch pad.
_%_.._r_

Tonight's move culminates the prelaunch processing which began with the spacecraft's

arrival from Goddard Space Flight Center (Greenbelt, MD) at the end of January. The Air

Force Delta II rocket was erected on Pad A at Complex 17 during the week of April 20

and prelaunch testing and flight preparation of the vehicle has been going smoothly.

Encapsulation of the spacecraft in the nose fairing is scheduled to occur on May 29.

EUVE is a satellite designed to observe astronomical objects at extreme ultraviolet

wavelengths, one of the least-studied portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. The

Goddard Space Flight Center manages the project for NASA's Office of Space Science

and Applications, Astrophysics Division, Washington, D.C. The launch is targeted to

occur on June 4 dudng a launch window which extends from 12:23 to 1:43 p.m. EDT.

[NASA/KSC News Release No. 56-92. May 21, 1992.]

May 22: LMNGSTONE NASAPosmoN

NASA Administrator Daniel S. Goldin today announced the appointment of Bill Livingstone

as Special Assistant to the Administrator for Communications. 'Bill Livingstone, who has

worked with the media nationwide, brings to the agency a broad array of experience and

talent,' Goldin said. "He joins the new team at NASA which is dedicated to making the

agency faster, better, cheaper, without compromising safety.' For the past 7 years,

Livingstone was Press Secretary for then U.S. Senator and now Governor Pete Wilson (RCA). Previously Livingstone was Press Secretary for U.S. Senator James McClure (RIdaho). He also was the Press Secretary for Wiison's gubernatorial election in 1990, and

McClure's re-election in 1984. Livingstone was born in Helena, MT. He received a B.S.

from Montana State University (honors) and attended graduate school at the University

of Southern California in motion picture production and the Fletcher School of Law &

Diplomacy In international relations. [NA_A/KSC Release No. 92-71. May 22, 1992.]

May 24: PREPARESGEOrA¢ FORLAUNCH

In July, KSC will launch the Geomagnetic Tall Laboratory aboard a Delta rocket. The

GeotaU recently arrived at the space center for pre-launch processing. It will be one of

three satellites to take part in the Cogaborative Solar-Terrestrial Research Program, a

planned solar physics study by the United States, Japan and the European Space

Agency. Ken Sizemom, Project Manager at the Goddard Space Flight Center (Greenbelt,

MD), said, 'The program concept is to have several spacecraft that really try to look at

and understand the relationship between the sun and the Earth.' The other missions in

the program are the Cluster Mission and the Solar and Heliosphedc Observatory Mission.

[Brown, FI,ORIDA TODAY, p. IOE, May 24, 1992.]

g BASED6 ELOI E n" co, CONTRACT

Star Base Development Co. (Mims, FL) has been awarded a Kennedy Space Center

contract, worth $148,700, to improve water lines running to Launch Complexes 39A and

39B. The contract calls for the addition of 2,700 feet of 18-inch diameter pipeline, along

with 600 feet of a smaller-diameter pipeline, to the main KSC water line. ['Mims Firm Wins

Contract," FLORIDA TODAY, p. I OE, May 24, 1992.]

May 26: ENDEAVOUR._ WON'T YOU COME HOME?.

NASA managers are meeting today at 7 a.m. to decide whether to begin Endeavour's

return to Florida aboard the Shuttle Carder Aircraft. Weather has kept the youngest

Orbiter grounded in California. Meanwhile, at Kennedy Space Center, attention is

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focusing on the upcoming STS 50 mission of the Space Shuttle Columbia. This will be

the first flight of NASA's oldest Orbiter since it was modified at Rockwelrs Palmdale, CA,

plant. Roilover from the OPF to the VAB is scheduled for midnight May 28. [Banke,

FLORIDA TODAY. p. 3A, May 24, 1992; "Weather Keeps Shuttle in California,' FLORIDA

TODAY_ p. 2A, May 25, 1992; Brown, FL,QRIDA TODAY, p. 1A, May 26, 1992; KSC

SHUI"rLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., May 26, 1992. .]

COLUMB S'mmMS CHECKED

The aft compartment and midbody of the Space Shuttle Columbia have been closed in

OPF Bay 3 in preparation for its upcoming 8"1"850 mission. Technicians have also

completed checks of tire pressure and pressure checks of the Spacelab. Work in

progress: testing of the new regenerative carbon dioxide removal system; crew stowage

modification for extended flights and close outs of the Orbiter's crew compartment.

Scheduled work: weight and center of gravity determinations beginning tonight and

transfer of Columbia to the Vehicle Assembly Building at midnight tomorrow, rKSC

8HUT'rI.E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., May 26, 1992_]

STS 46: ATLANTIS PROCESSING

In OPF Bay 1, technicians processing Atlantis for its 8"1"846 mission have tested the

Orbiter's Ku-band antenna, completed functional tests of the waste containment system

and closed out the robot arm for fright. Work in progress includes: cleaning of the

payload bay; preparations to close the payload bay doors; closeouts of the midbody and

aft compartment. The modification of Discovery in OPF Bay 2 continued. Leak checks

of the freon coolant Ioope and installation of thermal blankets and thermal barriers are in

process. A functional test of the Orbiter's radiators has been completed as part of the

pm-o-'T8 53 processing. 11_C SHUl"R.E STATUS REPORT, i0 a.m., May 26, 1992.]

N&SARETUnNSTO r-ORMERLOGO

Administrator Daniel 8. _ issued the following statement today: 'Last week as our

spirits were lifted by the triumphs of the Endeavour mission, I said, "l'he magic is back at

NASA,' The can-do spirit of the past is alive and well. In honor of this spirit, it seems only

fitting that the odginal NASA insignia - affectionately known as the 'meatball' - be a part

of our future. I know you feel this way, too, because large numbers of you have told me

so during my visits to NASA Centers. This does not mean that as of today we will throw

away stationary and repaint NASA vehicles. The new NASA will be frugal - finding ways

to do everything faster, better and cheaper without compromising safety. That includes

this insignia transition. But over time, the NASA symbol of old will replace the current

NASA logo. Meanwhile, feel free to order your next set of bualnass cards proudly

displaying the blue ball Take pride in the symbol that stood for NASA excellence in the

past - and now - and looks to the world-class NASA of today and tomorrow.

When President Bush charged NASA with the mission of going back to the moon and on

to Mars, he said we're going 'back to the future.' The old NASA insignia is back because

the men and women of NASA wanted it back. A classic never goes out of style. On

Tuesday at 1:30 p.m. I plan to talk to all of you on NASA Select about the changes that

are occurring in our organization and the progress of our NASA program studies. Things

are happening quickly, and I regret that it isn't always possible to give adequate notice.

But I want you all to know that it is very important to me that you are all included in the

V
process.[,N.,,A,,SASpecial Announcement, May 22, 1992; Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A,

May 27, 1992.]

rl NEW NASA CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT OFFICE

NASA Administrator Daniel S. Goldin today announced the appointment of laurie A.

Broedrmg as Associate Administrator for Continuous Improvement. She willreport directly

to the Administrator and serve as NASA's pdmary facilitator of Total Quality Management.

Broedling's appointment Is effective May 26, 1992. 'This appointment is an important step

in bringing a wodd-class TQM program to NASA,' Administrator Goldin said. "Laude

Broedling has an outstanding background on facilitating TQM and is regarded as an

expert In the field." Broedling has had extensive experience leading the implementation

of TQM in federal agencies. Before joining NASA, she served in the Department of

Defense as Deputy Under Secretary for Total Quality, where she was responsible for

overall direction of DoD's implementation of total quality principles and practices. From

1970 to 1989, she was employed by the Department of the Navy, where she held

numerous managerial posts. These Included serving as the Secretary of the Navy's TQM

Technical Advisor, where she created the structure that institutionalized implementation

of TQM across the entire Navy and Marine Corps. Broedling also has been a professor

at San Diego State University and George Washington University, where she taught

graduate and undergraduate courses in strategic planning, organizational behavior and

organizational development. She holds a B.A. in psychology from Brown University and

an M.A. and Ph.D. in industrial-organizational psychology from George Washington

University. [NA_NKSC News Release No. 92-72. May 26, 1992.]

May 27: STS 50: COLUMBIA POWERED DOWN

Columbia has been powered down in preparation for its rollover from OPF Bay 3 to the

Vehicle Assembly Building for the final preparations for its June 81"S 50. Work in

progress: cioseouts of the Orbiter's crew compartment; preparations to determine the

weight and center of gravity; cycles of the crew module hatch; preparations to mount the

Orbiter on the 1Tansporter. Work scheduled: transfer of Columbia to the Vehicle

Assembly Building tomorrow evening; rollout to Launch Pad 39A June 3; Terminal

Countdown Demonstration Test June 8-9; launch in late June. [KSC SHUTTt_ STATUS

REPORT. 10 a.m., May 27, 1992.]

g STS 46: ATLANTIS PROCESSING ACTIVITIES

Technicians in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 1 are cleaning Atlantis' payload bay in

preparation for closing the bay doors. They are also preparing for cioseouts of the

vehicle's mldbody and aft compartment and are applying protective foaming to closeout

the main engines. Rollover to the VAB for mating with its boosters and external tank is

scheduled for next week; after five days in the Vehicle Assembly Building, Atlantis will be

rolled out to Launch Complex 39B. [KSC SHLrTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., May 27,

199z]

n DISCOVERY IN OPF BAY 2

Discovery continues to undergo modification inOPF Bay 2 in preparation for its upcoming

STS 53 mission for the Department of Defense. Work in progress: Orbiter systems

testing including: power reactant storage and distribution system, main propulsion

system and instrumentation system; servicing of the water coolant loop No, 2; installation
n

of thermal blankets and thermal barriers. [KSC SHU'I"I_ STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., May

27, 1992.] ....

ENDEAVOUR FERRY FUGHT

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Endeavour departed the Dryden Flight Research Facility this morning at 9 a.m. EDT

enroute for Sheppard Air Force Base (Wichita Falls, "IX) where the 747 Shuttle Carrier

Aircraft will be refueled. If weather permits, the ferry flight will continue to Columbus (MS)

where the vehicles will remain overnight. The estimated time of arrival at K$C is 1 p.m.

EDT tomorrow (May 28). Weather conditions have been unacceptable between CalIfomla

and Texas for the fern/flight since last Thursday (May 21). Officials will be assessing

weather conditions during the fern/ flight to determine the best flight path. [KSC

SHUTrLE _I"ATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., May 27, 1992; Banke, FI,ORII_A TODAY, p. 7A, May

28, 1992.]

May 28: STS 50:. OFBrrB:! CREW MOOULIE CLOSED

!1

Technicians in OPF Bay 3 have closed out the Orbiter crew module in preparation for

rolling Columbia over to the Vehicle Assembly Building on May 29. Work in progress:

determining the weight and center of gravity and mounting the Orbiter on the transporter.

Work scheduled: roUout to Launch Complex 39A on or about June 3; Terminal

Countdown Demonstration Test planned for June 8-9; launch in late June. [KSC

SHUTTI_ ,_'I'ATUS REiPORT, 10 a.m., May 28, 1992.]

_1_ 46: ATLANTIS PAYLOAD BAY Ct.EAI_

Workers in OPF Bay 1 have finished cleaning the payload bay of Atlantis and are

preparing to close _ payload bay doors. They are also working to closeout the

mtdbody and aft compartment and applying protective foaming to closeout the main

engines. Work scheduled: roilover to the VAB for mating with boosters and external tank

next week and roUout to Launch Complex 39B after spending five days in the Vehicle

Assembly Building. In OPF Bay 1, workers are verifying the security of the Orbiter's

aidock, sendcing the water coolant loop No. 2 and processing a number of the vehicle's

systems. Modifications to the Orbiter continue. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10

a.m., May 28, 1992.]

V

g ENDF__,VOUR RNALLY LF_,,AVE_SDRYDEN

The Space Shuttle Endeavour finallydeparted Dryden Flight Research Facility in California

yesterday and landed at Biggs Army Air Field (El Paso, TX) where it remained ovemight.

Officials are assessing the weather conditions to determine the possibility of continuing

the ferry flight today. [K$C SHUTrLE STATUS R_PORT, 10 a.m., May 28, 1992.]

May 29: ATLAS LAUNCH SET ,F(_, TONIC.-_T

General Dynamics Corp. is planning to launch its Atlas rocket tonight between 7:10 and

9:06 EDT. The rocket will carry an Intelsat spacecraft like the one recently reboosted by

Endeavour on its maiden voyage. 'Every time we have a launch it's a sweaty-palms

experience. We get anxious, but we have a lot of confidence in General Dynamics,' said

Intelsat spokesman Tony TrulY. A first attempt to launch the Atlas was scrubbed on

May 20 due to a problem with the rocket's liquid helium system which is used to chill the

upper-stage engines. Tests have proved since that this system is now working properly.

100 V
[Banke,Ft,0RIDA TODAY, p. 1A, May 29, 1992; Atlas 2A Rocket Launch Delayed Again,"

FLORIDATODAY, p. 5A, May 30, 1992.]

!1 STS 50: COLUMBIA ROLLS TO VAB

Columbia, having reached a 'significant milestone,' was rolled over from the OPF to the

Vehicle Assembly Building this morning at 8:30 a.m. The STS 50 mission will be the first

for Columbia since it underwent extensive modifications at the Rockwell plant in Palmdale,

CA. Among the changes were additional fuel storage tanks to allow longer stays in

space, a landing drag chute, an Improved nosewheei steering system and more powerful

brakes. The STS 50 crew will include Commander I:_¢hmd N. Richmds, Pilot Kmme_ D.

BowmscK Mission Specialists Bonnie J. Dunbar, Cmt J. Meade and Ben S. Baker, and

Payload Specialists Lawrmme DeLucas and Eugene Tdnk In the VAB preparations were

begun to mate the vehicle to its extemai tank and solid rocket boosters. Work scheduled:

a Shuttle Interface Test to begin at midnight May 30; rollout to Launch Complex 39A is

target for 12:01 a.m. June 3; a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test is set for June

8-9 and launch is aimed at late June. [K$C SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 11 a.m., May

29, 1992; Halvorson, FL,ORIDA TODAY, p. 5A, May 30, 1992.]

g STS 46 PROCESSING

g

In OPF Bay 1, technicians have closed the payload bay of Atlantis and foamed its main

engines in preparation for its upcoming STS 46 mission. Still in progress: closeouts of

the midbody; cleaning of the aft compartment; attachment of small doublers on the

rudder speed brake over minor corrosion. Atlantis' rollover to the VAB for mating with its

booster and external tank is set for next week; roUout will occur alter Atlantis has spent

five days in the VAB. IXSC SHUTI'LE STATUS REPORT. 11 a.m., May 29, 1992.]

STSso;, PROCES NG

Discovery continues to undergo modifications and inspections while in OPF Bay 2. Water

coolant loop No. 2 is being serviced and systems being tested include the main

propulsion system and the instrumentation system, rKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT.

11 a.m., May 29, 1992.]

n ENOF.,AVOUR MAY RETURN TO CAUFORNIA

ffbad weather forces Endeavour to abort its ferry flight to Florida for a retum to California

it will be another Shuttle era first. The vehicle is left Biggs Army Air Base (El Paso, TX)

this morning and flew to Kelly Air Force Base (San Antonio, "iX) where it landed at 10:48

a.m. to refuel and assess weather conditions before continuing on to Flodd_L [Banke,

FLORIDA TOOAY, p. 4A, May 29, 1992; KSC SHI,_I'I'I_ STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., May

29, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 5A, May 30, 1992.]

May 30: ,SPACEPORT USA STAMP CEREMONY

Stamp collectors and the general public today will have the unusual privilege of a secondday-of-issue ceremony in the Galaxy Theatre of Kennedy Space Center's Spaceport USA

to purchase and cancel a new set of space stamps honoring U S and Soviet space

exploration. This morning's 10 o_clock ceremony will include representatives from both

the United States Post Office and KSC will be on hand to welcome everyone and explain

the origins behind the stamp. Presentations and speeches will be made by Joe Guthde,

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Director of Marketing and Community Affairs for the Orlando Post Office, Akn Vaughan,

Supervisor of Mails from the T'RusvillePost Office, and Marvin Jones_ KSC Director of

Center Support Operations. The first-day-of-issue ceremony will be held at an

international stamp exposition in Chicago, IL, in the presence of several Russian

dignitaries. According to Vaughan, second-day-of-issue ceremonies rarely occur but

T_usville's proximity to the nation's doorway to space also makes it the ideal place to

release the new commemorative set of stamps. The cancellation features the Shuttle

flying over North Amedca as seen from outer space. These stamps mark the 15th

cotk tloncommemoratingtheexplorationofouterspace,rNASA/KSCNews Release No.

May 28, 1992.]

A'n .UNCH DB.AYED"riLLJUNE2

A problem with its Centaur upper stage has delayed the launch of the General Dynamics

Atlas 2A until June 2. The problem is in the system that controls the amount of pressure

with the Centaur stage's liquid oxygen tank, according to officials. [Banke, FI_ORIDA

TODAY_ p. 7A, May 31, 1992.]

LSO'S CAUVA WINS EXPERT SYSTEMS AWARD

Lockheed Space Operations Co. employee _ Caliva, along with two other Brevard

County computer experts, has won an international computer competition. Caliva and his

colleagues am graduate students at the University of Central Florida. "We were very

surprised to win. This was an international competition with entries from around the

world. It was extremely competitive,' Caliva said. The winning entry was a computer

systems prototype called KUDOS (Kennedy Switching Data Network User Diagnostic

Optimization Systam; it uses artificial intelligence in aiding computer operators

troubleshoot a computer network problem. The KUDOS system is being evaluated for

further development and use at Kennedy Space Center. ['Trio WIns Competition,"

FLORIDA TODAY. p. 9E, May 31, 1992.]

WINS 811.VERSNOOPY AWARD

USBI Senior Mechanical Engineer Reid Smith has been awarded a Silver Snoopy by

astronaut James I-L Newman. He was selected for his work in implementing the

Integrated Production Control System at the hangar where Shuttle solid rocket boosters

are refurbished following launch. ['USBI Worker Pinned with Silver Snoopy,' FLORIDA

TODAY. p. 9E, May 31, 1992.]

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June 1:

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JUNE

DELTA LAUNCH DELAYED, AGAIN

Problems encountered during preparations for liftoff have led to a one-day delay in

launching a Delta rocket and its Intelsat payload. The launch window is now set for June

5 between 12:23 p.m. and 1:43 p.m. The problems occurred dudng the installation of the

Delta's nose done and in testing the small explosive devices which separate the rocket

from its nine solid rocket boosters. ['Delta Launch Delayed,' FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A,

June 2, 1992.]

SHUTn.E SHUFFLE TO COMMENCE

The Space Shuttle Columbia will be rolled out for STS 50 to Launch Complex 39A on

June 3 and Atlantis will take its place in the VAB to complete preparations for its STS 46

mission. The moves will not occur unless Columbia passes its Shuttle Interface test

successfully; that test occurs today. Endeavour, finally returned from California, is in OPF

Bay 3 and Discovery is in OPF Bay 2. [Haivorson, F_.0RIDA TODAY, p. 2A, June 2, 1992.]

s'm sO:.ROLLOVERCOMPLETED

The Space Shuttle Columbia was transferred May 29 from the Orbiter Processing Facility

where it has now been mated with its external tank and solid rocket boosters. A Shuttle

Interface Test is underway to verify critical connections between the vehicle elements and

the launch platform. In addition, leak checks of the umbmcais between the extemal tank

and Orbiter are being conducted. Roilout to Launch Complex 39A is set for 1201 a.m.

June 3, a TCDT for June 8-9 and launch in late June. [KSC SHLrI'I'LE STATUS REPORT,

10 a.m., June 1, 1992.]

STS 46: ATLANTIS SET FOURROLLOVER

The Space Shuttle Atlantis will rollover from OPF Bay 1 to the Vehicle Assembly Building

on June 4; at the VAB, the vehicle will be mated with its external tank and solid rocket

boosters. Roilout to Launch Complex 39B WIll come about June 9. In OPF Bay 1,

tachniclans are closing out the midbody and cleaning and closing the aft compartment.

They are also attaching small doublers on the rudder speed brake over minor corrosion.

Discovery is still undergoing inspections and modifications dudng its stay in OPF Bay 2;

it is also undergoing systems testing and servicing of water coolant loop No. 2. [KSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPOF_I', 10 a.m., June 1, 1992.]

ENDEAVOURS ARRNAL

Endeavour arrived at Kennedy Space Center atop its 747 Shuttle Carder Aircraft on May

30 at 10:50 a.m. after spending the night at Kelly Air Force Base (Sen Antonio, TX); the

vehicle arrived at OPF Bay 3 at 1:12 a.m. May 31. Work in progress: gaining access to

the vehicle and preparations to: open the payload bay doors; position the aerosurfaces

and remove the ta=lcone. Endeavour's next mission is set for September; it will be a

seven-day Japanese Spacelab flight. [KSC SHUT_ STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., June

1, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, May 31, 1992.]

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June2: 50:. C_LUMBIA I_II_IATIOI_g

Columbia is undergoing a Shuttle Interface Test to verify critical connections between the

vehicle elements and the launch platform. Leak checks are also being performed on the

umbilicals between the external tank and the Orbiter. Work scheduled: retraction of

platforms later this evening; rollout to Launch Complex 39A targeted for 12:01 a.m.

tomorrow; Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test planned for June 8-9.

-SHUTTLE STATUS RE,PORT, 10 a.m., June 2, 1992.]

n A'RANllS: sTs 46 PROCIES NG

Technicians are topping off the main landing gear tires of Atlantis in OPF Bay 1; they are

also cleaning the aft compartment and closing out the mJdbody and aft compartment.

On June 3, the weight and center of gravity of Atlantis will be determined. The vehicle

will be rolled over to the VAB on June 4 for mating with its boosters and external tank.

Rollout to Launch Complex 39B is set for June 11. A Terminal Countdown Demonstration

Test is targeted for June 15-16. [KSC SHU'_ $'I'AT_.S REPORT, 10 a.m., June ;_,

1992.]

g ENDEAVOUR: TAIL CONE REMOVED

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The tall cone, which had been attached to Endeavour for its ferry flight, was removed in

OPF Bay 3. Processing activities for its upcoming STS 47 mission included: preparations

for he frequency response test;,thermal protec_ system operations; removing ferry flight

kit items; preparations to position the aerosurfaces. In OPF Bay 2, Discovery's payload

bay door hinges are being inspected and the vehicle's systems are undergoing tests.

[I_C SHUTI'LE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., June 2, 1992.]

(_ELTA DELAYED AGAIN

Weather is the villain in today's Ix_tponemem of the launch of a Delta 2 rocket from Cape

Canaveral Air Force Station, according to launch officials. The liftoff has been

rescheduled for June 6 between 12:24 to 1:43 p.m. Air Force Meteorologist Captain Ken

Warren said, 'Weather advisodes kept workers off the launch pad most of the day, so

they couldn't take care of all their business." ['Weather Forces Another Delay in Delta

L.iftoff,"FLORIDA TODAY, p. 6A, June 3, 1992.]

11 COLUMBIA ROILS TO LC 39A

Columbia began its 3.5 mile trip to Launch Complex 39A with an 11:50 p.m. rollout from

the VAB; the trip took six hours. The liftoff of STS 50 is targeted now for June 24.

Meanwhile, Atlantis is being readied for a rollover into the Vehicle Assembly Building and

subsequent rollout for its S'I'S 46 mission scheduled for mid-July. ['Columbia Moves to

Launch Pad 39A," FLORIOA TQDAY, p. 6A, June 3, 1992; 'NASA Readying Columbia for

Longest Shuttle Flight,"TH E ORLANDO SEN_N. EL, June 4, 1992.]

June 3:. S'P3 50:. COLUMBIAHARDDOWN AT PAD

•Columbia is retumlng to the launch pad for the first time in over a year,' announced KSC

spokeswoman Usa Malone. The Space Shuttle Columbia was harddown at Launch

Complex 39A at 6 a.m. this morning. The Shuttle Interface Test to verify critical

connections between the vehicle elements and the launch platform was completed today

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as were leak checks of the umbilicals between the external tank and the Orbiter. Work

in progress: moving the rotating service structure around the vehicle; making

connections between the launch pad umbilicals and the vehicle; gaining access to

various parts of the Orbiter and vehicle; preparations to power up the vehicle. The

Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test for the STS 50 mission is scheduled for June

8-9 and launch is targeted for June 24. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., June

3, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, June 4, 1992.]

g 4_11.AN11S:OPF BAY 1 PROCESSING

In OPF Bay 1, technicians topped off the main landing gear tires of Atlantis. Work in

progress: structural leak checks; closeeuts of the crew module and aft compartment;

cleaning of the aft compartment. Work scheduled: weight and center of gravity

determination is set for June 4; rollover of Atlantis to the Vehicle Assembly Building for

mating with its external tank and solid rocket boosters; rollout to Launch Complex 39B

is planned for June 11; the mission TCDT is set for June 15-16. [KSC SHUI-rLE STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m., June 3, 1992.]

ENDEAVOUR AND DISCOVERY PROCESSING

In OPF Bay 3, processing of Endeavour for its second mission o STS 47 - continues:

preparations for the frequency response test; thermal protection system operations;

removing ferry flight kit items; preparations to open the payload bay doors. In OPF Bay

2, technicians are Inspecting Discovery's payload bay door hinges; testing Orbiter

systems; Inspecting the Orbiter and making modifications and servicing the freon coolant

loop No. 1. [K$C SHLrl"rLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., June 3, 1992.]

g s2 EXTERNALTANK-VAB

The external tank for Mission STS 52, Columbia's flight scheduled this fall with the

LAQEOS-2 and USMP-1 payloads, arrived by barge yesterday in the Complex 39 Turn

Basin. The tank was transferred into the VAB transfer aisle yesterday afternoon. The tank

will be positioned in a checkout cell where it will be prepared for launch. [KSC SHU'I-rl_E

STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., June 3, 1992.]

June 4: ATLAS THIRI_ TRY JUNE 8

General Dynamics Corp. will make its third attempt to launch its Atlas 2 rocket on June

8; the payload is an Intelsat satellite like the one recently reboosted by Endeavour's STS

49 mission. The launch window extends from 7:12 p.m. until 9:06 p.m. The two previous

delays were due to communications problems with the rocket's Centaur upper stage.

['Atlas Delayed Until Monday,' FI,ORIIpA TODAy, p. 6A, June 4, 1992.]

11 SPC WORKER DIREClIVE

This week Lockheed Space OperatJons's head of security Issued a directive requiring

security guards to conduct "walk-throughs" of KSC buildings during overnight shifts and

on the weekends. The memo directed the security personal: 'You will be overt, not

clandestine." Lockheed spokesman John _ said, "We have long-standing

procedures, we have internal audits, we have inspections, we have supervision to deal

with problems of this type and when rare violations occur, we move as quickly and

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effectively as possible to address the problem,' he said. '1 think that's also a fair

statement of our position and I don't really want to elaborate.'

Company officials also announced today that LSO might cut up to 250 jobs this summer

because of NASA's tight budget. "The job cuts are related to the NASA budget, but in

the bigger picture it is part of a streamlining process we're going through to become

more efficient,' according to Lockheed spokesman J. B. Klump. Already sixty people have

accepted early retirement and another forty may depart by the end of the month.

[Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 4A, June 5, 1992.]

DELTA HAS TWO CHANCES TO

If weather prevents the launch of an Air Force Delta 2 tomorrow between 12:34 and 1:43

p.m., then a second attempt on Sunday is possible, according to Lt. Col. Randy Moyer,

Commander of the 1st Space Launch Squadron, at Patrick Air Force Base. ffthe Delta

launch is delayed until Sunday (June 7), then the upcoming commercial Atlas 2 launch

may be delayed until June 9. Moyer said that under informal Eastern Test Range rules,

a rocket will be given two consecutive days to launch before having to wait for the next

booster scheduled. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, June 5, 1992.]

S'T'S5O: COLUMBIA AT LC 39A

• The rotating service structure around Columbia has been completely moved by 9:30 a.m.

today. Work In progress: making connections between the launch pad umbilicals and

the vehicle; electrical checks of the auxiliary power units. Work scheduled: TCDT

targeted for June 8-9; Fiigh¢ Readiness Review set for June 9; late June launch date.

[K_C SHUTTLE STA'I"US REPORT. 10 a.m., June 4, 1992; NAS/VK,_K_News RQlease NO.

51-92. June 4, 1992.]

b"l_ 46: CENTER OF GRAVITY DEllBRlUBNB_

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 1, the weight and center of gravity of Atlantis has been

determined in preparation for the Shuttle's upcoming STS 46 flight. Work in progress:

preparations to tow the Orbiter to the Vehicle Assembly Building by midday; inspections

of the landing gears. Work scheduled: mating with its boosters and external tank the

night of June 5; roUout to LC 39B set for June 11; TCDT set for June 15-16. [KS(;

SHUTTL_ STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., June 4, 1992; 'Atlantis to be Fitted Today With

Boosters, External Tank," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, June 5, 1992.]

END_VOUR/DI_x:NERY PROCESSING

Technicians in OPF Bay 3 have completed a test of Endeavour's flight controls and are

working on the following items: thermal protection system operations; removing ferry

flight kititems; preparations to open the Orbiter's payload bay doors. Discovery=isinOPF

Bay 2 where it is continuing to undergo extensive modifications and structural inspections.

Systems testing continues as do inspections of the payload bay door hinges and

servicing of the freon coolant loop no. 1. rKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m.,

June 4, 1992.]

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June 5: STS 50:. UMBIUCALS CONNECTED

Workers at Launch Complex 39A have connected launch pad umbilicals to the vehicle

elements of Columbia. Pad processing for STS 50 includes: preparations for the main

engine flight readiness test in which the valves will be cycled and sensors will be

calibrated; preparations to load hypergolic propellants into the Orbiter; circulating and

sampling the hydraulic fluid; connections of the auxiliary power units. Work scheduled:

helium signature leak test (June 8); TCDT for June 8-9; Flight Readiness Review (June

9); launch targeted for late June. [KSQ SHUTrLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., June 5,

1992.]

g A'n=/M_TtSINVAB FOR s'ms48 PREPS

Atlantis was towed from the Orbiter Processing Facility yesterday and was inside the VAB

by 6:30 p.m. Today Atlantis was mated with its external tank and solid rocket boosters

for its STS 46 mission. Scheduled work includes a roUout to Launch Complex 39B on

June 11 and a TCDT for June 15-16. [KSC SHUI"rl.E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., June

5, 1992.]

June 6: DELTA II/EUVE SCRUB

Today'slaunch of the Delta II/EUVE mission was postponed at NASA's request because

they could not maintain effective communication between the EUVE spacecraft and

Goddard Space Flight Center. The postponement announcement came at 12:30 p.m.

EDT. According to Goddard: The spececraR team could not confirm today that they had

proper flight data on the spacecraft. The depth of testing needed to troubleshoot this

problem could not be done in the launch configuration. Therefore, it was decided to

stand down today because them was Insufficient time left in the launch window to do the

proper troubleshooting. The team also wanted to provide the maximum time to be reedy

for a launch tomorrow. When the launch was postponed, the Eastern Range was "red"

because an Air Force tracking radar at Antigua was down and was being evaluated. The

exact nature of the problem with the radar had not been determined when the launch was

scrubbed. Also, weather conditions were unacceptable starting at 3 minutes into the

launch window due to the presence of active thunderstorm anvil (electrically charged)

clouds within 10 nautical miles of the launch site, which is a triggered lightning concern.

The launch has been rescheduled for Sunday (June 7) between 12:24 and 1:43 p.m.

EDT. ['Joint USAF/NASA Statement on Delta II/EUVE Launch Scrub,' June 6, 1992;

•Problems Cause Delay Of A Satellite Mission," THE NI_ YORK TIMES, p. 1SA, June 6,

1992; "Storms,Technical Glitches Delay Delta Rocket Launch,' THE ORLANDO SENTINEL,

June 7, 1992.]

n ENDEAVOURAND

Endeavour processing STS 47 activities include: preparations to remove the forward

reaction control system and to offload_idual hypergolic propellants; troubleshooting the

Ku-band antenna; post-flight Inspections of the thermal protection system; opening of the

payload doors. Discovery continues to undergo moddtcations for S'IS 53 in OPF Bay 2.

In addition technicians are doing Orbiter systems testing Including the main propulsion

system, fuel cells and vacuum drying freon coolant loop No. 1. [KSC SH_ STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m., June 5, 1992.]

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June7: DELTA DOES IT

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The frequently delayed Delta 2 mission to launch the Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer

Spacecraft finally lifted off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 12:40 p.m. Scientists

will not know for two to three weeks whether the Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer is working

properly; the EUVE was deployed successfully 71 minutes after the Delta lifted off. Even

this launch was again delayed, for three minutes, to avoid a collision with the Mir, the

Russian space station. The launch was the 32rid consecutive successful Delta flight since

1986; it was purchased from the Air Force by NASA for $46 million. The Delta was

originally built to launch a Global Positioning Satellite (NAVS3'AR) for the military. [Date,

.THE ORLANDO SENTINEL p. A-3, June 8, 1992;, "Satailite Launched to Observe

Ultraviolet Radiation of Stars,' THE NEW YORK TIMES. p. Ag, June 8, 1992; Brown,

FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, June 8, 1992; MI,_ION STATUS RE,PORT: NASA,S EXTREME

ULTRAVIOLET EXPLORER (EUVE). June 9, i992.]

_1"8 50 CREW AZU:WE8 FOR TCOT

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The STS 50 crew arrived at Kennedy Space Center today to participate in the mission's

Terminai Countdown Demonstration Test. At the traditional arrival press conference,

Commander Richard NLRichards said, 'Well, thanks for coming out, I understand there's

some competition today and quite frankly that's where we're going to,' referring to the

upcoming Delta launch. 'It's great to always see a spaceflight - even if it's an unmanned

spaceflight. It's a thrill to see it alL" The crew will attend bdeflngs about the status of

launch preparations; learn how to escape complex 39A dudng an emergency; participate

in a two.day practice countdown, which begins at 8 a.m. today. The STS 50 crew also

Include= Pilot _ D. B0wem_ Payload Commander Bormie J. _, Payload

Specialists Lawmece DeIJ=:== and Eugeem Trinh and MisadonSpecialists CadJ. Meade

and Elan S. Baker. Astronauts Joe Prahl and N Sacco are aitema_es for STS 50.

Launch of the 48th Shuttle miasion is set for no earlier than June 25. [Hail, FLOR@A

TOOAY. p. 2A, June 8, 1992; Haivorson, FLORIDA TOOAY, p. 1A, June 9, 1992.]

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n sMrrHwere see)opt

USBI Senior Mechanical Engineer Reid Smilh has been awarded a Silver Snoopy by

astronaut James I-L Newman. Smith was chosen for his work in implementing the

Integrated Production Control System at the hangar where solid rocket boosters are

returned for refurbishing after launch. The system tracks more than 2000 rocket booster

parts. ['USBI Worker Pinned With Silver Snoopy," FLORIDA TODAY. p. 9E, June 7, 1992.]

!1 GOLDIN APPOINTS BROEDLING & LIVINGSTONE

I.,aude Broedlng has been appointed by NASA Administrator Daniel S. _ to be

Continuous Improvement Office Administrator. Goidin also tapped BBI_ to be

Special Assistant to the Administrator for Communications. ['C-,oidinTaps Two to New

Posts," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 9E, June 7, 1992.]

June 8: s'rs 50: FRCSYSTlaVlCHEClCS

At Launch Complex 39A, technicians have completed Forward Reaction Control System

quick disconnect leak checks; a Flight Readiness Test of the main engines and auxiliary

power unit exhaust checks and lube oil servicing. Work in progress: helium signature

leak checks; TCDT (call to stations at 8:00 a.m.); pre-launch propellant load preparations.

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Work scheduled: TCDT set for 11 o'clock June 9; Flight Readiness Review today and

tomorrow; pre-launch propellant loads; auxiliary power unit hot fire. [KSC SHU'I-I'LE

STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m, June 8, 1992.]

ATLANTIS: MATING TO ET & SRBS

In the VAB, Atlantis has been mated to its extemal tank and its solid rocket boosters.

Work in progress: Shuttle Interface Verification test; external tank and solid rocket

booster closeout_ Roliout to Launch Complex 39B is set for 12:01 a.m. June 11. [KSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m, June 8, 1992.]

DISCOVERY: FUEL CELl. TEST COMPLETED

Technicians have completed a fuel cell single volt test on Discovery in OPF Bay 2. Work

in progress: Orbiter electrical system validations checks; water spray boiler leak and

functional tests and h'eon coolant loop servicing. [KBC SHL/I"rl,_ STATUS REPORT, 10

a.m, June 8, 1992.]

I_NDEAVOUR: WASTE CONTAINMENT SYS'I'I_I REMOVED

Technicians have removed Endeavour's waste containment system and cycled and

checked the payload bay doors. They also drained the APU catch bottle. Work in

progress: ball valve leak checks; Ku-antanna function tests; cargo downloading; chin

panel removal; helium tank venting; Reaction Control System pod thruster inspections.

[KSC SHUI"rLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m, June 8, 1992.]

KIsC _ATION PLAN lOLLED

NASA has killed a plan under which all top Shuttle managers would have been

transferred to Kennedy Space Center. A new proposal would have only 10 engineers

from Johnson Space Center move to KSC. "Based on the things (Shuttle Program

Director Leonard S. N'choison) saw as important for him to be Involved in, he felt those

responsibil_as would be better served with his being at JSC," said Nicholson's deputy

Bmwstor HI. Shaw, Jr., a former astronaut. Bob Aion, Executive Director of the Space

Coast Economic Development Commission ('l'itusviile,FL) sai'd, 'We were getting all the

signals - right up until the ax fell - that this (consolidation) plan went right along with a

leaner, meaner, tighter NASA. We're disappolnted, but we're not giving up. We're going

to keep working with NASA to point out that there are advantages in locating these

positions at KSC.' [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, June 9, 1992.]

 t10NS coml l"

International Steel, Inc. (Orlando, FI..) has been awarded a $6,644,820 contract to modify

High Bays I and 3 in the Vehicle Assembly Building, provide additional clearance height

to the facility's north transfer aisle door, add girder reinforcement to support new

overhead cranes, and build an intedor platform to provide access to and catch debris

from the roof of the building. As part of another contract, two new 325-ton overhead

cranes will be added to the VAB superstructure to lift the heavier ASRM segments into

the VAB high bays. International Steel will, provide the reinforcement to the overhead

VAB superstructure to support the new cranes. [NASA/KSC News Releas..e...No.63-92,

June 8, 1992.]
I1 WATSON PAVING CONTRACT

Watson Paving, Inc. (Cocoa, FL) has been awarded a $2,206, 742 fixed price contract to

restore and pave the shoulders of the Shuttle Landing Facility (SLF) runway at Kennedy

Space Center and to reposition and upgrade part of its lighting system. Other work

includes the replacement of the odginal runway edge lights that were installed in 1975

and the electrical transformer that provides their power. The new lights will mark the

odginai 300-foot-wide concrete runway, while the asphalt-paved shoulders will extend 50

feet beyond the lights on each side. The lights are amber for the first 2,000 feet at each

end and white inthe middia section, jlqAS__ease lqo. 62:92. June 8, 1992.]

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June• qOLUMe_ TO t_UNCH JUNE2S

NASA will launch the Space Shuttle Columbia on a 13-day mission on June 25, 1992.

NASA officials selected the launch date at the conclusion of the Flight Readiness Review

held today at the Kennedy Space Center, FL Mission STS 50, planned to be the longest

flight to date inthe Shuttle Program, will carry the United States Microgravity Laboratory-1

payload into orbit. A Spaceiab long module will serve as an in-orbit laboratory for seven

crew members and 31 experiments devoted to materials science, fluid physics,

combustion science and technology. Columbia will be launched into a 184 statute mile

circular orbit inclined 28.5 degrees to the Equator from Launch Complex 39A. The launch

window on June 25 opens at 12:07 p.m. EDT and closes at 2:37 p.m. EDT. Columbia will

end its mission with a landing at Dryden Flight Research Facility, CA. The mission

duration is planned for 12 days, 20 hours and 29 minutes. Commanding the mission will

be Ridlmd N. RICtmR_ Columbia's pilot will be Kenrm_ D. BomaPJo¢ Mission

SpecianstsareBonnieJ.Dunbar,Elan 8. Baker,andCadJ. Mead_ PayloadSpecial_m

areLain/Dei.ucmandEugeneTdnh. rSTS-50LaunchAdvisory,June9, 1997_]

Juno g: TCDT_ STS50

At Launch Complex 39A, tachnicians and the _ 50 crew have completed the Terminal

Countdown Denmnstrmion Test ('rCDT). Other tasks completed at the pad: helium

signature leak checks; Flight Readiness Test of the main engines; Auxiliary Power Unit

exhaust checks and lube oil .servicing. Work in progress: Mission Manager's Flight

Readiness Review; pre-launch propellant load preparations; closeouts for Auxiliary Power

Unit hot fire; Inertial Measurement Unit calibrations. Work scheduled: pre_launch

propellant loads and Auxiliary Power Unit hot fire. [KS(_ SHU'I'rLE STATUS REPORT,

11:30 a.m., June 9, 1992.]

!1 A'n,ANnS; MA'nNGCOMPLEnm

In the Vehicle Assembly Building, workers cornpieted the mating of Atlantis to its external

tank and its solid rocket boosters. Work in progress: shuttle interface verification test;

main propulsion system tests; Orbiter and external tank mate closeouts. RoUout for the

STS 46 mission is scheduled for 12:01 a.m. June 11. [KSC SHU'I'rLE STATUS RE_P.Q..RT,

11:30 a.m., June 9, 1992.]

g ENDEAVOUR: PAYLOAD DOWNLOADING

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, technicians have completed downloading

Endeavour's payload. The auxiliary power unit catch bottle has been drained and the

payload bay doors cycled and checked. Work in progress: ball valve leak checks; Ku110 V
antenna function tests; waste containment system drain and flush; main engine test shield

removal; reaction control system pod thruster inspections. The forward reaction control

system has been removed from the Orbiter. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11:30

a.m., June 9, 1992.]

g DISCOVERY; COOLANT LOOP SERVICED

In OPF Bay 2, Discovery's freon coolant loop sendcJng is complete to date and the fuel

cell single volt test has been finished. Technicians are making Orbiter electrical system

validations checks and water spray boiler leak and functional tests. [KSC SHUTTLE

STATUS REPORT. 11:30 a.m., June 9, 1992.]

!1 I;)ISC_VERY FU::)W DIRECTOR NAMED

Kennedy Space Center has named David A. King as Flow Director for the Space Shuttle

Discovery. King joins three other flow directors at KSC who oversee the work performed

on the Shuttles Endeavour, Atlantis and Columbia. 'David's keen sense of responsibility

coupled with his bright and energetic attitude are essential ingredients for a good flow

director and he is an asset to the team,' said Jim Harrington, Director of Shuttle

Operations.

As flow director, King is responsible for the overall management of all government and

contractor activities associated with processing the Orbiter for each of its assigned

mlasions. Responsibilities extend to all areas of flight hardware processing to assure

timely echlevement of schedule milestones. King began his career with NASA in 1983 as

a Shuttle main propulsion system engineer, a position he held for six years before

becoming vehicle manager for the Orbiters' Oiscovew and, subsequently, Endeavour. As

vehicle manager, he was responsible for the daily activities of Orbiter testing and

processing. He held this position for the past two years until being named as flow

director.

'! am excited about the challenges of being a flow director and taking a more active role

in managing the overall operation of getting an Orbiter ready for flight. My previous

experience as a vehicle manager and as a systems engineer will be invaluable for me on

this job,' said King. Discovery is currently undergoing a modification and improvement

period. Its next flight, Mission STS 53 which is a Department of Defense mission, is

tentatively planned for this fail. [NASAJKSC News Release No. 65-92, June 9, 1992;

'NASA Appoints King As Discovery's New Boss," FLORIDA TODAY. p. 9E, June 14, 1992.]

June 10:. ATt,AN_ ROLLOUT TONIGHT

Technicians have completed: a Shuttle interface verification test; Shuttle interface stray

voltage tests and the main propulsion system tests. Work in progress: Orbiter and

externaltank mate final closeouts and preparations to retract work platforms. Work

scheduled: rollout to Launch Complex 39B set for 12:01 a.m. June 11 and the STS 46

Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) has been scheduled for June 16. [KSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a_m.,June 10, 1992.]

g UTSMAN: SHUTn.E PROGRAM DIRECTOR

NASA Associate administrator for Space Flight Jeremiah W. Pearson, III,today announced

that Thomas Ulsman, currently Deputy Associate Administrator, Office of Space Flight, will

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becometheProgramDirectorfor the Space Shuttle. He will be given responsibility for

directing long-range Shuttle planning, Space Shuttle continuous improvement activities

end overseeing efforts to reduce Shuttle operations costs while maintaining safety.

Program Manager, Space Shuttle, Leonard S. Nichoison willremain at the Johnson Space

Center (Houston, TX) where he will oversee the day to day management of the Space

Shuttle Program end the integration of the Shuttle end Space Station Freedom.

Management of vehicle integration end launch processing will continue to be the

responsibility of Nicholson's deputy, Brewster H. Shaw, Jr., at the Kennedy Space Center,

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•One of the main challenges for the Shuttle Director's office In the coming years will be

to oversee the integration of the Shuttle and Space Station Freedom,' said Pearson. "In

light of that, it will be more efficient for the Director to be at JSC where personnel reside

who are responsible for the mission operations for both Shuttle and Station, as well as

engineering and design support for both programs.' Freedom will be carried up in 18

separate stages aboard the Space Shuttle end assembled in space. Assembly of the

orbiting international research center will begin in late 1995. Previously, the relocation of

the Shuttle Program Director from NASA Headquarters to KSC required the transfer of

some program management functions end would have involved the relocation of

approximately 20 people. Under this revised orgenization, a limited set of functions will

be transferred to support the Program Manager in the areas of configuration and data

requirements, ground operations end project integration support will involve approximately

10 people being relocated to KSC. [NASA/KSC News Release No. 92-83, June 10, 1992;

•Utsman Takes Control in Shuttle Reorgenization," FLORIDA TODAY. p. 9E, June 14,

lSe2.]

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FRFICOMPLEllm

50's Right Readiness Review has been completed at Kennedy Space Center;,

mission managers have set the launch for June 2.5 and the window extending from 12:07

p.m. till 2:37 p.m. EDT. The Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test has been

completed as have the Inertial Measu.rement Unit cali_ Work in progress: prelaunch hypergofic propellant load end cloeeouts for auxillan/power unit hot fire. Work

scheduled: auxiliary power hot fire; special cryogenic confidence tanking test of the

Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet. [KSC SHLrrFLE STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m.,

June 10, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL, June 10, 1992.]

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11 47: ENDEAVOUR _NG

In OPF Bay 3, techniclens have completed Orbiter power system validations; payload

downloading and chin panel removal. Work in progress: removal of forward reaction

control system; Ku-entenna function tests; waste containment system drain end flush;

main engine heat shield removal; reaction control system pod thruster Inspections; ball

valveleak checks. Work scheduled: transport FRCS to hypergolic maintenance facility

end ammonia boiler purge and drain. [KSC SHUI"rLE STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m.,

June 10, 1992.]

g STS 53: DISCOVERY PROCESSING

Freon coolant loop servicing on Discovery is complete to date end the fuel cell single volt

test is finished. Work in progress: Orbiter electrical system validations checks; water

spray boiler leak end functional tests; main propulsion system leak end functional test and

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power reactant and storage distribution system tests. Work scheduled: auxiliary power

Unit lube oil and hot oil flush and internal and external lightning subsystem verification.

[KSC SHU'I'R,E STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m., June 10, 1992.]

1: COLUMBIA AT LC 39A

At LC 39A Columbia's TCDT has been finished as have the inertial measurement unit

calibrations. Work in progress: pre_launch hypergolic propellant load with the pad closed

to non-essential personnel; closeouts for auxiliary power unit hot fire scheduled for June

12. A special cryogenic confidence tanking test of the Extended Duration Orbiter pallet

is set for June 15. [KSC SHU'FrI.E STATUS REPORT. 10:30 a.m., June 10, 1992.]

ATLANT ROL OUTTO LC

First rollout motion of Atlantis occurred at 11:54 p.m. last night and the Orbiter was hard

down on the pad at 7:16 a.m. this moming. A Shuttle Interface verification test and

Orbiter tank and external tank mate final closeouts have been completed. Work in

progress: pad validations; rotation of service structure around the vehicle; procddures

to power-up the vehicle. The Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test for the STS 46

mission is scheduled for June 16; the crew will arrive at KSC late June 20. [KSC

SHUTFLE STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m., June 10, 1992.]

STS 47: ENDEAVOUR _NG

Endeavour's Foncard Reaction Control System has been completed in OPF Bay 3; Orbiter

power system validations are finished and the Orbiter's waste containment system has

been drained and flushed. Work in progress: ammonia boiler purge and drain; Kuantenna functional tests; main engine heat shield removal; reaction control system pod

thruster Inspections; SRB stacking operations in the Vehicle Assembly Building. The

transport of the forward reaction control system to the hypergolic maintenance facility has

been scheduled. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m., June 10, 1992.]

DlSC0VBW: Sm S3m0CESS" 

Processing activities on Discovery for its upcoming STS 53 mission continue in OPF Bay

2: Orbiter electrical system validation checks; water spray boilerleak and functional tests;

main propulsion system leak and functional test; power reactant and storage distribution

system tests. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10:30 a.m., June 10, 1992.]

GOLDiN ORDER8 SAFETY

NASA Administrator Daniel S. _ has ordered Shuttle managers to review safety

aspects of Atlantis' STS 46 mission; the review is not expected to delay the launch

scheduled for July. A number of panels and boards have expressed concern about the

tethered satellite Atlantis will deploy on STS 46; they fear that the satellite could smash

into the Orbiter as it is reeled back into the cargo bay. Astronaut Jeffrey A. Hofhnan said,

"The initial reaction that most people have when they learn that we are about to attach

the Shuttle to a satellite by a ropa is something like 'Oh my god, why would anybody

want to do that?" He said that the satellite has been developed to discover new ideas

for propulsion, generating electricity, creating artificial gravity and study Earth's upper

atmosphere from orbit. Hoffman added, "We feel extremely confident that we have

addressed adequately all the safety concerns.' The target date for the launch is July 16

-_ 113
andthe crewIncludes:CommanderLoren J. Shriver, Pilot Andrew M. ABen, Mission

Specialists Frankrm FL Chang-Diaz, Marsha S. lvins, Claude Nicol_=r of the European

Space Agency and Italy's Franco Malerba. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, June 12,

1992.]

rl KSC REDUCES NIGHT SHIFT

Kennedy Space Center announced today that it would reduce the number of employees

on its third shift, described as highly paid and less productive than the first and second

shifts. 'It's a productivtbj Issue," said Robe_ B. _ Deputy Director of Shuttle

Management and Operations. "The way we're set up to do business, we're more

productive on a two-shift, five-days-a-week basis.' That kind of work schedule had been

a goal of former KSC Director Forrest 8. _ who said, "That's the way it ought to

be. I never liked the odd work weak. People work better on first and second shift - I

don't care what kind of job you have." Sleck said the cutbacks are unrelated to the

recent reports that "overnight workers at KSC were wasting time talking on the phone,

reading books and sleeping on the Job.' Sieck also said that 700 workers are employed

on the graveyard shift and that number would probably never be reduced to zero. He

said that some tasks, such as hazardous operations or waterproofing Shuttle tiles, are

better to schedule with fewer people around. [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, June 12,

1992.]

June 12: EDO TANKING TEST PLANNED

Engineers at Kennedy Space Center will conduct a special cryogenic tanking test of the

Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO) tanks located on the EDO pallet Inside the payload bay

of the Shuttle Columbia; the test is scheduled for June 15 at Launch Complex 39A. The

cryogenic: ¢o_ test of the EDO tanks is designed to provide the sequence of

operatkx_ required to prepare the Shuttle for launch on its record-breaking 13-day

mission later this month. The test will also allow engineers the opportunity to evaluate

EDO loading and detanking techniques and procedures and provide data necessary to

develop accurate time lines for Power Reactant Storage and Distribution (PRSD) system

servicing during the launch countdown.

Columbia's mission, featuring the United States Microgravity Laboratory-I, will require the

additional cryogenic consumables to allow the crew and vehicle to remain in orbit for the

planned 13 days. The EDO tanks are located in the aft end of Columbia's payload bay

on a special EDC) pallet. There are eight tanks on the pallet, four for liquid hydrogen and

four for liquid oxygen. Each tank has been individually tested, but not as an integrated

system. These extra tanks will complement the four sets of Orbiter PRSD tanks already

mounted under the lining of the Orbiter's payload bay. During June 15's confidence test,

" engineers will use essentially the same procedure used during a launch countdown. The

E'DO tanks will be filled first, followed by the loading of the odginal Orbiter PRSD tanks.

Uquid oxygen tanking operations will occur first. Alter stabilization, engineers will proceed

with liquid hydrogen tanking operations. Each of the eight EDO tanks have independent

isolation vaive¢ As each tank fills, these valves will be cycled to give test team members

an opportunity to pressurize and leak check the various tanks and associated fill and

drain lines.

When all of the tanks are at flight pressure and stabilized, further evaluations will be

made. Detanking will follow on the same day. These onboard circular cryogenic tanks

supply the Orbiter's fuel ceils which, in turn, produce electrical power for the Shuttle

V

114 V
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during flight. The by-product of combining the liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen

reactants is drinking water for the crew. The addition of the EDO tanks and pallet was

part of the extensive modifications made to the Shuttle Columbia over the past year. The

extra tanks will permit the vehicle to remain safely in orbit for up to 16 days. [NASA/KSC

News Release No. 72-92. June 12, 1997_]

STS 50;, COLUMBIA FuELING O_TION8

Fueling operations for preJaunch hypergoUc propellant loads have been completed at

Launch Complex39A. Other work in prograss priorto the launch of Columbla on itsSTS

50 mission: preJaunch hypergolio propellant load with the pad closed to non-essential

personnel; closeouts for auxiliary power unit hot firing scheduled for early on June 13.

Scheduled work: retracting the rotating service structure from around the vehicle;

auxiliary power unit hot fidng; special cryogenic confidence tanking test. of the Extended

Duration Orbiter pallet set for June 15; checkout of the regenerable CO `=removal system

(RCRS) controllers and actuators; launch set for 12:07 p.m. EDT, June 25. [KSC

SHUI"FLE STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m., June 12, 1992.]

n ATLANTIS: STS 46 AT LC 39B

n

At Launch Complex 39B" , Atlantis has had the rotating service structure moved around the

vehicle; procedures were undertaken to powar-up the vehicle and the Shuttle Interface

Verification test was completed. Work in progress: launch pad validations; Orbiter

hydraulic operations; preparations for the mission's Terminal Countdown Demonstration

Test (TCD'I'). The TCDT is scheduled for June 16 and the crew is expected to arrive on

June 14. _'KSCSHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10:30 a.m., June 12, 1992.]

OPF BAY _ I_N_VOUR _

In OPF Bay 3, technicians have completed mass memory unit loads into Endeavour's

computers. Other completed work includes: ammonia boiler purge and drain; reaction

control system pod thruster inspections; removal of forward reaction control system;

waste containment system drain and flush; Orbiter power system validations. Work in

progress: Ku-band antenna functional tests; 174nch disconnect inspections; main engine

heat shield removal; preparations for removal of main engines; SRB stacking operations

in Vehicle Assembly Building; transport forward reaction control system to hypergolic

maintenance facility. Scheduled work includes main engine removal and payload bay

radiator inspections. [KSC ,_HUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10:30 a.m., June 12, 1997-]

11 DISCOVERY: OPF BAY 2 PROCESSING

In OPF Bay 2, Discovery's freon coolant loop has been serviced and an auxiliary power

unit lube oil end hot oilflush has been conducted. Work in progress: Orbiter electrical

system validations checks; water spray boiler leak and functional tests; main propulsion

system leak and functional test; power reactant and storage distribution system tests.

[KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10:30 a.m., June 12, 1997-]

June 14: STS46 CREW :trNES ATKSC

The seven-member crew of STS 46 arrived at Kennedy Space Center today to attend

briefings, participate in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test and to learn how to

_'_ 115

i
escape Launch Complex 39B in the event of an emergency. KSC spokesman Bruce

Bucldi_jham said that "everything is still on schedule" for a June 25 launch of Atlantis.

The crew of STS 46 includes Commander Lomn J. Shdver, PilotAndrew M. Allen and

Mission and Payload Specialists Jeffrey A. Hoffman, Fmnkrm R. Char_ Claude

Nicolr=er,Mamha S. Ivins and Franco Maledoa. Meanwhile, workers at Launch Complex

39A are preparing Columbia for its STS 50 mission by loading toxic rocket propellant

aboard the Orbiter and testing its three auxiliary power units. Tomorrow, workers willtest

tanks in the cargo bay by filling them with liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen. [Banke,

FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, June 14, 1992.]

June 15: 50:. JUNE 25 LAUNCH DAY

The Space Shuttle Columbia will launch its STS 50 mission on June 25; that was the

decision of the just completed Flight Readiness Review held .at Kennedy Space Center.

A paperwork review documenting Columbia's assembly process relieved concerns of

launch officials that a turbopump was cracked. Concerns remain about a turbopump

attached to one of Atlantis' three main engines. The launch of Atlantis' STS 46 mission

may be delayed from July 16 if the suspect pump must be replaced. [Banke, FLORIDA

TODAY, p. 1A, June 16, 1992; SEE "EDO Test Completed: STS 50' below.]

!1 LOGO OPPOSEDBYNEADIREGTOR

National Endowment for the Arts Director l_ana Wdght Benyman thinks that NASA

Administrator Daniel S. _e desire to return to using the old "meatball" logo for the

agency is a bad idea. Ms. Berryman said, 'The worm [current NASA logo] is not simply

a logo but an integral part of NASA's comprehenslve visual standards program." She

cited the agency's winnlng of a presidential award for design excellence in 1984. Goldin

has not diracted that current uses of the worm be excised, but rather that the return to

the "worm= be phased in. NASA officials said that repalnting the Shuttles would cost

$400,00o per Orbiter. ['NASA Logo Change Sends Some Workers Into Orbit,' THE

ORLANDO SENTINEI.0. June 16, 1992.]

June 15: TEsT COM=LEm . STSS0

At Launch Complex 39A, technicians have completed their Extended Duration Orbiter

cryogenic confidence test; the auxiliary power unit hot firing and the pre-launch

hypergolic propellant IoacL Work in progress: checkout of the regenerable CO 2 removal

system (RCRS) controllers and actuators; auxillan/power unit closeouts; cavity purge and

leak checks and launch countdown preparations. Ordnance installations and hypergolic

fuel pressurization have been scheduled. Engineers concluded yesterday that there is

no concern for a "tip"seal on the high pressure oxidizer turbopump on Columbia's main

engine number three. Documentation revealed the seal had been removed and fully

Inspected pdor to being Installed on the pump. [KSC SHUI"n.E STATUS REPORT, 10:30

a.m., June 16, 1992.]

g 46: LAUNCH PAD VALIOA'TIOII_

At Launch Complex 39B, technicians have completed launch pad validations; they have

opened the payload bay doors and completed Orbiter hydraulic operations. Work in

progress: terminal countdown demonstration test (TCD'I') set for 11:00 a.m.; rudder

speed brake bondings; preparations for auxiliary power unit pre-launch propellant

servicing. Work scheduled: pre-launch propellant loading operations; inertial

V

116

i
measurement unit calibrations; helium signature test.

10:30 a.m., June 16, 1992.]

[KSC SHUTrl.E STATUS REPORT,

rl ENDEAVOUR: SPACELAB INTERFACE TESTS

In OPF Bay 3, technicians and the crew of STS 47 -

Endeavour's next mission - have completed Spacelab equipment interface tests, window

inspections, reaction control system pod thruster inspections and Orbiter power system

validations. Work in progress: preparations for removal of main engines; main engine

drying operations; SRB stacking operations in Vehicle Assembly Building; payload bay

door radiator inspections and Ku.band inspections. Main engine removal has been

scheduled. [KSQ SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10:30 a.m., June 16, 1992.]

n PRSD TESTS COM_: DISCOVERY

Discovery continues to undergo extensive Inspections and modifications in Orbiter

Processing Facility Bay 2. Work completed: power reactant and storage distribution

system tests; freon coolant loop servicing (complete to date) and payload doors opened.

Work in progress: Orbiter electrical system validations checks and water spray boiler leak

and functional tests. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10:30 a.m., June 16, 1992.]

fl ENDEAVOURS DOORS DAMAGED ON STS 49

The payload bay doors of Endeavour were damaged on itsSTS 49 mission, the maiden

voyage for the newest Space Shuttle. "Bothof the 60-foot-long doors are slightly warped,

and a comer of the right door has come loose from its frame,' according to NASA Vehicle

Manager _ Pta_ps, A search for other damage is underway, he said. NASA

managers have not yet decided to discuss whe1_ to replace the doors, Phillips said,

and he was unable to estimate the cost of such a replacement or whether Endeavour's

next mission - STS 47 - will have to be delayed. The damage was caused when a latch

secudng the left-hand door failed to fasten pmpedy. Phillips said, 'Our problem now is

to go find out why the left-hand door failed to latch as it was designed." [Banke,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, June 17, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL. July 8, 1992.]

June 17: STS 50:. CAVITY PU_ CHECI_

At Launch Complex 39A, technicians are making the final preparations for Columbia's

STS 50 mission, now scheduled for June 25. Work completed: part one of the ordnance

operations; checkout of the regenerable CO2 removal system (RCRS); special extended

duration Orbiter (EDO) cryogenic confidence test; cavity purge and leak checks. Work

in progress: pre4aunch hypergolic fuel pressurization (with the pad closed to all but

essential workers); auxiliary power unit closeouts; launch countdown preparations. The

second part of the ordnance operations and aft compartment cioseouts have been

scheduled. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m., June 17, 1992.]

!1 ATLANnS:TCOTCOMPLEllm

At the same time that Columbia is undergoing pre-launch preparations at Launch

Complex 39A, Atlantis is at Launch Complex 39B undergoing initial preparations for its

STS 46 mission. Work completed: terminal countdown demonstration test (TCD'I') and

inertial measurement unit calibrations. Work in progress: rudder speed brake bondings;

preparations for auxiliary power unit pre-launch propellant servicing; helium signature test.
Pre-launchpropellantloadingoperationshavebeenscheduled.[KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT, 10:30 a.m., June 17, 1992.]

rl STS 47: ENDEAVOUR IN OPF BAY 3

Technicians have completed: Spacelab equipment interface tests with the STS 47 crew

in attendance; window inspections; reaction control system pod thruster inspections;

Orbiter power system validations. Work in progress: preparations for main engine

removal; Ku-band antenna tests; fuel cell voltage tests; main engine drying operations;

payload bay door radiator inspections; SRB stacking operations in the Vehicle Assembly

Building. Main engine removal has been scheduled. [K_C SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT,

10:30 a.m., June 17, 1992.]

D DISCOVERY: INSPECTIONS CO_E

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 2, technicians are continuing tests and inspections of

the Space Shuttle Discovery. Work completed: freon coolant loop servicing (complete

to date) and the payload bay doors were opened. Work in progress: power reactant and

storage distribution system tests; Orbiter electdcai system validations checks; water spray

boiler leak and functional tests; auxiliary power unit hot oilflush; main propulsion system

leak and functional tests. [KSC SHUTTI_ STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m., June 17, 1992.]

g SHUI"r TO wm-I MIRIN 1996

In October 1993, a Russian cosmonaut will fly aboard a Space Shuttle and in 1994 a

Shuttle will dock with a Russian Mir Space 8ta_iorL These missions will fulfill an

agreement signed today by Russian Federation President Bods NLYelsin and American

P_ George Bush. The international docidng wig be file second such event in

space history; in 1975 an Apollo Command Module docked with a Soyuz capsule in

fulfillment of a 1972 agreement with President RIchmd M. Nixon and Soviet Secretary

General Leordd Bmzhnmt. Several cosmonauts willtrain with American astronauts for the

8"I"8 60 mission on which the crew will space walks and practice techniques for

assembling a space station. ['Presidents Approve U.S.-Russlan Space Crew Mission,"

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 5A, June 18, 1992; Leary, THE NEW YORK TIMES. p. A9, June 18,

1992.]

D ATLAS 2 LAUNCH SET: JUNE 20

U.S. Air Force Major Gadan Pecug_ announced today that June 20 will be the launch

date for an Atlas 2 rocket which will carry a $160 million military communications satellite.

•So far everything looks good. We haven't heard of any problems with the vehicle or

payload,' he said. The satellite is the second of ten Department of Defense spacecraft

to be launched. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 8A, June 18, 1992.]

June 18: _. _ CHECKOUT

The Space Shuttle Columbia is awaiting its June 25 launch on Launch Complex 39A.

Work completed: pre-launch hypergolic fuel pressurization; ordnance operations (part

1); checkout of the regenerable CO`=Removal System (RCRS); special extended duration

Orbiter cryogenic confidence test; cavity purge and leak checks. Work in progress: aft

compartment closeouts; launch countdown preparations; auxiliary power unit closeouts;

contingency spacesuit installation into the Orbiter's airlock. Work scheduled: ordnance

118
operations(part2);purgeoftheexternaltank;countdownbeginsat 8:00a.m.June22;

astronautarrivalexpectedat 10:00 a.m. on June 22; launch remains scheduled for 12:07

p.m. EDT, June 25. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m., June 18, 1992.]

g ATLANTIS: HELIUM SIGNATURE TEST

At Launch Complex 39B, Atlantis has just undergone a helium signature test; preparations

for auxiliary power unit pre-launch propellant servicing; payload bay doors closed for

hypergolic operations. Work In progress: preJaunch propellant loading operations with

the pad closed to all but essential personnel. Rudder speed brake bondings are

scheduled. |KSq 8HU3"Ft_ STAllJS REPORT. 10:30 a.m., June 18, 1992.]

g ENDEAVOUR IN OPF BAY 3

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, Endeavour has just concluded fuel cell voltage tests

and main engine drying operations. Work in progress: payload bay flood light

inspections; preparations for main engine removal; payload bay door radiator deservicing

and post flight inspections; SRB (right aft center segment) stacking operations in the

Vehicle Assembly Building. Main engine removal is scheduled for next week. [KSC

SHI,rl'T1,E STATUS REPORT. 10:30 a.m., June 18, 1992.]

I1 _l_ 5_1; I;)ISC0VERY IN OPF BAY 2

To date, the freon coolant loop servicing of Discovery has been completed and the

payload bay doors opened. Work in progress: power reactant and storage distribution

system tests; Orbiter electrical system validations checks; wmer spray boiler leak and

fu_al tests; auxiliary power unit hot oil flush; main propulsion system leak and

functional tests. [K_C_HUI"n.E STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m., June 18, 1992.]

D A JWnS" ENGagES Fort UUJNCH

•The pump seal has been exonerated and there is no need to research it further, or do

any work on the seal at the pad,' said Kennedy Space Center spokesman Bruce

BuckJlnghant No problems were discovered alter a review of paperwork documenting

Inspections performed on the Orbiter's engines. NASA Administrator Daniel S. Goldin had

ordered the safety review. The target for Atlantis' STS 46 launch had been July 16, but

the unofficial date has now been moved by managers to July 21. The change was made

because flight controllers in Houston need a few more days of training between the end

of Columbia's STS 50 mission and the beginning of STS 46. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY,

p. 6A, June 19, 1992.]

June 19:. STS 50:. SPACESUr_ INSTN.LED

Pad workers at LC 39A have installed contingency spacesuits in Columbia's aidock in

preparation for its $T$ 50 mission, now scheduled for June 25. The technicians also

completed auxiliary power unit closeouts. Work in progress: forward aft compartment

closeouts; launch countdown preparations; purge of external tank; mass memory unit

loads. Work Scheduled: part two of ordnance operations; countdown beginning at 8:00

a.m. EDT June 22; astronaut arrival scheduled for 10:00 a.m. EDT June 22; launch set for

12:07 p.m. EDT June 25. rKSC SHU1TLE STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m., June 19, 1992]
g

n

g

n

!1

ATLANTIS: pAYLOAD BAy DOORS CLOSED

A helium signature test has been completed on Atlantis and the Orbiter's payload bay

doors have been closed for hypergolic operations. Launch Complex 39B has been

closed to all but essential personnel for the pre-launch propellant loading operations.

Work scheduled: rudder speed brake bondings; c_¢_invent door checks; auxiliary power

unit checks. [KSC SHI_STATUS REPORT. 10:30 a.m., June 19, 1992]

STS 47. ENDEAVOUR PREPARATIONS

Work completed: payload bay flood light inspections; main engine drying operations and

fuel cell voltage tests. Work In progress: preparations for main englne removal; payload

bay door radiator deservicing and post flight inspections; water spray boiler leak and

functional tests; solid rocket boosters stacking operations in Vehicle Assembly Building

High Bay 3. Work scheduled: main engine removal next week; removal of payload bay

door radiator. [K_C SHU'I'I'LE STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m., June 19, 1992]

STS 53:. DISCOVERY PROCESSING IN .OPF BAY 2

Freon coolant loop servicing on Discovery has been completed and the Orbiter's payload '

bay doors have been opened. Work in progress: power reactant and storage distribution

system checks; Orbiter electrical system validations tests; water spray boiler leak and

functional tests; auxiliary power unithot oil flush; main propulsion system leak and

functional checks. _'KSCSHUI"rLE STATUS REPORT. 10:30 a.m., June 19, 1992]

0 & C FIRE: 'NOlt-BNG'

•It tumed out to be nothing," said KSC spokesman Kad IOblolfarson about the fire which

took place today in the Operations and Checkout Building at Kennedy Space Center.

Krlstoffarson said, 'It wesn_ much flame. It was mostly smoke and odor." The fire

occurred when a lamp was accidentally knocked into a wall of clear plastic, which was

put up to protect employees from an asbestos-removal area. Kristofferson said that two

gallons of water were used to stop the melting plastic. The Incident began at

approximately 12:07 p.m.; workers were able to return to work within thirty minutes.

Officials said that no one was hurt by the fire and that there was no estimate of damage.

[Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 5A, June 20, 1992.]

61"6 50:. AFT COMpF,RTMENT WORK

The launch of STS 50 remains on schedule for 1207 June 25, according to KSC

spokesman Bruce Budekl_tmm. Tomorrow pad workers will continue last minute work

inside Columbia's aft compartment looking toward a closeout by late tomorrow night.

Ordnance installation should be completed by tomorrow night at about 8 p.m. At Cape

Canaveral Air Force Station, the Mars Observer spacecraft arrived and was taken to

Hangar AO. Dozens of support personnel arrived for temporary residence in Brevard

County to continue processing the spacecraft for its Septem_ 16 launch aboard a

commercial Titan 3 rocket. [NASA/KSC News RelQas_ Nq, 79-92, June 19, 1992; Benke,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 5A, June 20, 1992; Date, TH E ORI,ANDO SENTINEL, p. A-l, June

21, 1992.]

12o

i
June 20. ATLAS 2 SET FOR LAUNCH TONIGHT

An Air Force Atlas 2 set for launch tonight between 5:49 and 7:16 p.m. EDT; it had a 60

percent probability of acceptable weather for launch with thunderstorms and clouds the

only potential constraints to launch. However, an unexplained power outage forced the

Air Force to scrub the launch and reschedule it for June 22. The launch was rescheduled

for June 21, but a thunderstorm in the launch area prevented a planned 5:49 p.m. liftoff.

"We had lightning within 10 miles of the launch pad and no relief in sight," according to

Maj. Gadan _ spokesman for the 45th Space Wing which is headquartered at

Patrick Air Force Base. Engineers were still attempting late Saturday to determine the

reason for the power outage which interrupted the flow of electricity to the rocket, payload

and ground support equipment. Power was restored, alter 45 minutes, with a backup

diesel generator. The Atlas Is to deploy a communlcatlons satellite into orbit. The launch

was rescheduled for June 22 between 5:50 and 7:17 p.m.

Meanwhile, at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, a Titan 4 rocket which has been rusting

at its launch pad will be partially disassembled and eventually removed from the pad.

The Titan has been at the pad for a year. Col. Frank _ said, 'It's a frustrating

setback.' He said that engineers had spotted water and rust between segments of one

of the T'Can's boosters. 'They told me it looked like a bathtub ring with rust and some

water in there," Stirring said. He added that engineers were concerned that the corrosion

might lead to O-ring failure like that which led to the Challenger accident in 1986. [Date,

THE ORLANDO SENT1NI_L June 20, 1992; 'Launch Tonight,' FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A,

June 20, 1992; Haivorson, FLORII_A TODAY, p. 1A, June 20, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA

TODAY. p. 1A, June 21, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, June 22, 1992.]

June 22: SIS 50 COI__ BEGINS TODAY

The countdown for Columbia's STS 50 mission starts today at 8:00 a.m. EDT. The sevenmember crew Is expected to ardve at Kennedy Space Center at about 10:00 a.m. The

crew Includes Commander Richard N. Richmds, Pilot _ D. BowemoK, Mission

Specialists Bonnie J. Dunbar, Elan 8. Baker, and Cad J. Meade and Payload Specialists

Eugene Tdnh and I.aemmce DeLuces. The launch window for STS 50 begins at 12:07

p.m. EDT. Preparations are underway for loading of onboard fuel cell cryogenic tanks.

A purge of the external tank has been completed as have been mass memory unit loads

and the second part of ordnance operations. Aft closeouts remain to be done. Loading

of onboard fuel cell cryogenic tanks is set for June 23. There is a 70 percent chance of

favorable weather for launch day. [Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL pp. A-1 & A-8, June

21, 1992; Halvorson, FI,O.RIDA TODAY, p. 1A, June 22, 1992; KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT, 10:30 a.m., June 22, 1992; 'Shuttle Count Begins,"TH_ NEW YORK TIMES, p.

B8, June 23, 1992; "Weather Forecast for STS 50,' June 23, 1992; KSC SHUTTLE

STATUS RE,PORT, 10:00 a.m., June 23, 1992.]

n SIS 46: HELIUM SIGNATURE TEST DONE_ "

At Launch Complex 39B, techni.cians have completed a helium signature test upon

Atlantis' fuel lines and have completed the STS 46 pre-launch hypergolic propellant

loading operations. Work in progress: opening payload bey door and gaining access

to payload bay; rudder speed brake bondings; removal of the cabin vent door motor.

Work scheduled: payload purge operations and vent door checks; auxiliary power unit

checks; arrival of payload to pad. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUSREPORT. 10:30 a.m., June

22, 1992.]

121
I1 67"8 47: ENDEAVOUR PROCESSING

Mass memory unit loads have been completed in OPF Bay 3 where Endeavour is being

processed for its STS 47. Main engine drying operations and fuel cell voltage tests have

also been completed. Work in progress: main engine removal; payload bay door

radiator deservicing and post flight inspections; auxiliary power unit lube oil servicing;

removal of payload bay door radiator;, water spray boiler leak and functional tests; solid

rocket booster (right forward segment) stacking operations in Vehicle Assembly Building

high bay 3. [K_C SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10:30 a.m., June 22, 1992.]

V

n _X: 'NEAT

81"8 50 P_lotKenne_ D. Bowemox, in his Shuttle Landing Facility landing remarks, said

today that "were got a lot of neat science, and it's got a lot of potential to do good things

for us." Payload Commander Bonnie J. Dtmbar said, "We've been training for a year and

nine months and we think we're ready." The crew, which also Includes Commander

Richard N. I:ichards, Mission Specialists Ellen S. Baker and Cad ,f. Meade and Payload

Specialists Lawrence Del.ucas and Eugene Tdnk arrived at the Shuttle Landing Facility

this morning just after 10 o'clock. NASA Test Director Eric RRedding said, "Columbia

may be the oldest Orbiter, but I feet with all the modifications...it's the best Orbiter we

have." Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, June 23, 1992.]

n GOLDIN: NASA SHOULD PRIVATIZE

•1 think portions of the space program can and should be pdVatized," said NASA

Administrator Dar_l 8. Gokln at a Gannett News Service interview. "It's not going to

happen overnight. _/e're going to go to Mars and we want to privatize that' - well, no

company can quite do that. On the other hand, there are certain routine functions that -

get performed that I think should be (pdvatized).' deny Grey, Director of Science and

Technology Policy at the Amedcan Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, said, 'The

previous administrator [_ I-LTrtdy]was not strong on either commercialization or

privatizatlon -he thought NASA should run the show. The fact that Goldin is coming in

and saying he is going to push it is definitely news." [Eisler, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A,

June 23, 1992.]

V

June 23." ATLAS DELAYED BY WEATHER, AGAIN

An attempt to launch the Air Force's Atlas 2 was scrubbed by bed weather on June 21;

bad weather prevented even scheduling an attempt for June 22. The launch has been

tentatively rescheduled for today, though weather may. also prevent a liftoff this evening.

The Air Force decided not to schedule the launch until its morning weather briefing, if

the mission must be delayed again, the earliest possible launch date would be June

27,after the STS 50 launch now scheduled for June 25. The Atlas will carry a $160 million

military communications satellite into orbit. [Halvorson, FLORII_A TODAY, p. 2A, June 23,

1992; 'Summer Showers Stall Atlas Launch," FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, June 24, 1992;

Date, 'Atlas Delayed," THE ORLANDO SENTINEL. June 23, 1992.]

g •CREWEp"M SK)N

Space policy experts working on a refinement of an intemationai convention on manned

space flight suggest that the gender-neutral term "crewed" for missions which include a

woman. Currently, NASA uses the term "manned," by NASA Administrator Daniel S.
rl

!1

g

U

Gokin said that he had 'promised his daughter he'd change it,' said Goldin's

spokeswoman Barbara _ ['Crewed Mission,' USA TODAy, p. 3A, June 23, 1992.]

STS 50: LAUNCH STATUS

V_h the launch countdown underway, technicians at Launch Complex 39A closed

Columbia's aft compartment for flight at about 3 p.m. yesterday. Work in progress:

loading the liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen reactants into the Orbiter's fuel cell storage

tanks and into the tanks on the extended duration Orbiter pallet;, pad closed to all by

essential personnel unUlabout 5 p.m. tonight. Work scheduled: replacement of two of

three TACAN antennas which failed during serftests last night; troubleshooting of a liquid

oxygen temperature transducer on main engine No. 2 main combustion chamber;,

stowage of flight crew equipment;, activation of the Orbiter's communications systems

tonight; move rotating service structure away from the vehicle at 11 a.m. tomorrow;

loading of propellant into the external tank beginning at 3:47 a.m. June 25; launch

scheduled for 12:07 p.m. June 25.

'We think the highest probability is that (the temperature sensor) is the problem, and we'll

get it fixed and press on for Thursday,' said Leonard S. Nichoison, Shuttle Program

Director. Options include replacing the sensor and flying the Orbiter as is and working

around the sensor problem. Flight Crew: The flight crew will perform F_checks of their

equipment and have a medical exam. Commander Richard NL _ and Pilot

Kmmeth D. Bowemox flew in the Shuttle Training Aircraft this morning. The crew will have

a bdefing with astronaut support personnel to discuss procedures in boarding the Orbiter

on launch day. [KS(_ _HUTrI._ STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., June 23, 1992; Brown,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, June 24, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL June 23, 1992.]

S'I_ 48: ATLANTIS _

At Launch Complex 39B, workers are purging the cavity between the extemal tank and

Atlantis. They are also attaching small doublers on the rudder speed brake and replacing

a motor for vent door no. 3. Launch of _ 48 is targeted for mid-July. L_

STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., June 23, 1992.]

ENDEAVOUR PROCESSING IN OPF BAY 3

Work in progress includes: removing the three main engines; preparations for Ku-band

antenna tests; testing of the forward reaction control system at the Hypergolic

Maintenance Facility; leak and functional tests of the water spray boilers; deservicing of

freon coolant loop no. 1; systems tests of the power reactant storage and distribution

system. [KSC SHU'I'r1.E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., June 23, 1992.]

DISCOVERY: OPF BAY 2

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 2, Discovery continues to undergo processing activities:

leak and functional tests of the water spray boilers; inspections of the main propulsion

system; connecting auxiliary power unit No. 3; flushing the ammonia system, rKSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., June 23, 1992.]
June24: STS 50 READY: GUTCHES FIXED

Dudng th=enig_pad technicians _Jccessfu_ly replaced __d r_-estea th-e_-u_ oxygen

temperature transducer. They replaced two TACAN navigation systems. One of those

units, located in the middeck failed the retest and is being replaced in parallel with the

launch countdown. They also activated the Orbiter's communications system and loaded

liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen reactants into the Orbiter's fuel cell storage tanks and

into the tanks on the extended duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet. Work in progress:

countdown entered a 13 hour, 47 minute built-in hold at the T-11 mark (at 8 a.m. today);

stowing items in the crew compartment; replacing and retesting one of the TACAN

navigational aids; preparations to move the rotating service structure at about 2 p.m.

weather permitting; actlvatkm of the Inertial measurements; preparing the pad area for

launch.

Work scheduled: begin loading propellant into the external tank at 3:47 a.m. June 25;

crew wake up at 6:30 a.m. June 25 for breakfast at 7:30 a.m.; crew suiting and departure

for the launch pad; launch scheduled for 12:07 a.m. EDT, the opening of a 2 and 1/2 hour

window. Today the flight crew will receive a briefing on the status of the vehicle, payload

and weather. STS 50 Pilot Kenneth D. Bowemox is scheduled to fly in a T-38 aircraft and

the crew is maintaining the same sleep/wake cycle they will be on during the STS 50

mission. There is a 40 percent chance of having acceptable weather conditions at the

time of launch. "It'salmost too close to call,"said Captain IVl_e Adams, Air Force weather

officer. "I'd have to put $2 on Mother Nature.' Because of the launch of STS 50,

Spaceport USA will be closed today unt]l one hour after launch. Launch Director Robert

B. 81eck said that a delay past Friday in launching Columbia could push the Itftoff into

next week so the AJrFome could launch b Atlas 2 rocket which has been scrubbed three

times =ready. [KSC SHUI"I'LE STATU_ RI_PORT, 11:00 a.m., June 24, 1992 ;Halvorson,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, June 25, 1992; 'Spacepmt USA Closed Today," FLORIDA

TODAY. p. 3A, June 25, 1992; 'Shuttle Countdown," USA TOI:;)AY,p. 3A, June 25, 1992;

Lean/, THE NEW YORK TIMES. p. A19, June 25, 1992.]

rl All.ANTIS: MOTOR I:tEPIACED

At Launch Complex 39B, technicians replaced one of Atlantis' motors for vent door No.

3 and purged the cavity between the external tank and the Orbiter. Work in progress:

preparations to close the payload bay doom; preparations to power down the Orbiter until

after the STS 50 launch. The STS 46 mission remains scheduled for mid-July. [KS(3

SHU'I-I'LE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., June 25, 1992.]

n ENDEAVOUR: _ 47 PROCESSING

Endeavour's three main engines have been removed dudng the Orbiter's stay in OPF Bay

3. Work in progress: preparations for Ku-band antenna tests; testing of the forward

reaction control system at the Hypergolic Maintenance Facility; leak and functional tests

of the water spray boilers; deservicing of freon coolant loop No. 1; systems tests of the

power reactant storage and distribution system. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11

a.m., June 25, 1992.]

n DISCOVERY: PROCESSING IN OPF BAY 2

Discovery's Ku-band antenna is being tested in OPF Bay 2; the main propulsion system

is being Inspected. The ammonia system is being flushed and leak and functional tests

v

w
of the water spray boilers are also underway. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m.,

June 25, 1992.]

June 25: STS 50 LAUNCH ROARIN' SUCCESS

•We'll see you all in a couple of weeks,' radioed Commander Richard N. Richards before

Columbia began its 12th flight, the 48th mission of the Space Shuttle Program. Despite

unfavorable weather - a 40 percent chance of acceptable conditions - the Space Shuttle

Columbia roared into space from Launch Complex 39A only five minutes late - at

1212:23.0534 p.m. EDT. The delay was due to cloudy weather In the launch area. .What

you don1 want to do,' said Launch Director I:lobect13.Slec_ 'is to fly through a cloud that

still might have enough energy to trigger lightning.' After climbing for 8 and a half

minutes Columbia began orbiting Earth at 17,500 mph. Astronaut Steven R. Nagel flew

above the KSC launch are in NASA's modified Gulf=ream jet to help determine that

insufficient moisture existed in the LC 39A launch area clouds to enable lightning to be

generated. Prior to launch, technicians had trouble sacudng the side hatch of the Orbiter.

In the effort to solve the hatch problem, technicians went into the crew cabin and

determined that the hatch lock was working property. Shuttle Program Director Brewster

H. Shaw, Jr. said, 'So we reclosed the hatch and took those folks out, because they

didn't want to go.' Engineers determined that three navigation units were working

property despite a problem with the units' computer program.

Minimal launch pad damage was sustained; mobile launcher platform No. 3 will be

transferred back to the Vehicle Assembly Building July 1. The booster retriaval ships are

currently towing the STS 50 boosters back to Hangar AF on Cape Canaveral Air Force

Station. The Freedom Star is towing the left booster and the Uberty Star is towing the

right solid rocket booster. The chips are expected to pass through Port Canaveral at 1

p.m. end 3 p.m. June 26. The sstlmated tirne of arrival at Hangar AF is 3 and 4:30 p.m.

June 26. Weather conditions could hamper or slow down the towing operation. Landing

of Columbia is set for Edwards Air Force Base, CA, on July 8 at 5:40 p.m. PDT at

Edwards. [Halvorson, FLrORIDA TODAY. pp. 1A & 4A, June 26, 1992; Date, THE

ORLANDO SENTINEL pp. A-1 & A-4, June 26, 1992; KS(} SHt,rl-rl._ STATUS REPORT,

10 a.m., June 26, 1992; "7 Astronauts 'Do Science,' Not Spacewalk," USA TODAY. p. 2.A,

June 26, 1992; Leafy, THE NEW YORK TIMES. p. All, June 26, 1992; Brazil, THE

ORLANDO SENTINEL pp. A-1 & A-6, June 25, 1992.]

June 26: ATLANTIS: STS 46 HAS JULY I._UNCH

At Launch Complex 39B, Atlantis is undergoing closaouts of the rudder speed brake and

power up testing. Scheduled work: transfer of the payload to the launch pad the first

week of July; launch is targeted for later in July. [KSC SHI.R']'i_ STATUS REPORT, 10

a.m., June 26, 1992.]

I1 ENDEAVOUR:s'rs 47 pF .ESS NG

The Space Shuttle Endeavour, now in OPF Bay 3, is undergoing processing for its

upcoming STS 47 mission to take the Spacetab J into space. Work in progress: draining

freon from the coolant loops; preparations for Ku-band antenna tests; functional tests of

the orbital maneuvering system (OMS) pods; testing of the forward reaction control

system at the Hypergolic Maintenance Facility; leak and functional tests of the auxiliary

power units; systems tests of the power reactant storage and distribution system.

Discovery is in OPF Bay 2 for its STS 53 processing operations: preparations to install
the rightOMSpod nextweek;testsof the Ku-bandantenna;inspectionsof the main

propulsionsystem;flushingtheammoniasystem. [KSC SHUTI"I_. STATUS REPORT, 10

a.m., June 26, 1992.]

June 27: SPACELAB J READY

The Space Shuttle Endeavour will receive the payload for its September flight next week.

The STS 47 mission will carry the Japanese-sponsored Spacelab into orbit. In January,

the Spacelab was used dudng the microgravity sciences mission aboard Discovery. 'It's

been a real challenge," said Payload Manager Glenn ,_der. "Spacelab J may be the

forerunner on how to do Spacelab missions.' [Brown, FLORIDA TqpAY, p. IOE, June 28,

1992.]

rl C,ONGRESC IENTOURICSC

U.S. Representative George Brown (D-CA), Chairman of the House of Representatives

Science, Space and Technology Committee, and Florida Congressman Jim Bacchus, a

member of Brown's committee, will tour Kennedy Space Center today. KSC Director

Robert L Cdppen will escort the Congressional group on a tour which will include the

Space Station Processing Facility (SSPF) now under construction to serve as the focal

point for Space Station Freedom processing activities. [NASAJKSC News Release No. 84-

12. June 26, 1992.]

June 29:. ATLAS: RFTH TRY TODAY

n

Bad weather has plagued the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station with such regularity this

month that the Air Force will make a filth attempt today to launch its Atlas 2 rocket;

meteorologists predict only a 30% chance of favorable weather when the wind_ opens

at 5:53 p.m. and only a 50% chance by the window's close at 7:18 p.m. Thunderstorms

which might trigger a lightning strike are of particular concern to launch officials. ['Atlas

Rocket Will Try Again," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, June 29, 1992.]

6TS4e RUDDERBRAKEBONO K 

At Launch Complex 39B, technicians have completed rudder speed brake bondings.

Work in progress: hydraulic circulation and sample operations; preparations for main

engine flight readiness test and for the arrival of the payload at LC 39B. rKSC SHU'I-FLE

STATUS REPORT. 10:30 a.m., June 29, 1992.]

n 47; _NDEAVOUR pROCESSING

Fraon coolant loop deeendcing and inspections have been completed on Endeavour

which is undergoing STS 47 flight processing in OPF Bay 3. Work in progress: main

engine removal; removal of payload bay door radiator;, orbital manauvedng system leak

and functional tests and solid rocket booster stacking operations in Vehicle Assembly

Building high bay S. Hydraulic operations are scheduled. Meanwhile, Discovery is in OPF

Bay 2 where'it is undergoing main propulsion system leak and functional checks and

structural corrosion inspections. Orbital maneuvering system pod installation has been

scheduled, rKSC SHU3TLE STATUS REPORT, 10:30 a.m., June 29, 1992.]

V

V
Tn'ANIll ROLLOUTSET

The rollout of the Titan III rocket which will launch the Mars Observer spacecraft on an

interplanetary trajectory is scheduled to occur July 1. The vehicle will make a slightly

more than one-mile trip from the Solid Motor Assembly Building to Launch Complex 40

to begin final checkout and preparations for launch in September. The rocket is built by

Martin Marietta which is responsible for launching the vehicle for NASA. [NASA/KSC

News Release No. 85-9?., June 29, 1992;]

n eurcH De.AYSATLAS A UN

The launch of an Air Fome Atlas 2 rocket was called off today when a problem with a

navigation unit was discovered. Engineers are working on the problem presently and the

launch has tentatively been rescheduled for July 1 between 5:53 p.m. and 7:19 p.m.

['Glitch Delays Atlas Rocket," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, June 30, 1992.]

June 30:. STS 46: ENGINES READY FOR TEST

g

Preparations have been completed at Launch Complex 39B for the main engines of

Atlantis to undergo a flight readiness test; hydraulic circulation, sample operations and

rudder speed brake bondings have been completed. Work in progress: main engine

flight readiness test; aerosurface cycle and checks; rudder speed brake closeouts;

preparations for payload arnval at LC 39B which has been scheduled. [KSC SHUTTLE

STATUS REPORT. 9:30 a.m., June 30, 1992.]

8"r8 47:. ENDEAVOUR PROCESSING

In OPF Bay 3, freon coolant loop desefvtcing and inspections of Endeavour have been

completed as has been the removal of the payload bay door radiator. Work in progress:

orbital maneuvering system leak and functional checks; payload bay keel installations; Kuband troubleshooting; flight control checks; orbital maneuvering system functional

operations; solid rocket booster stacking operations in Vehicle Assembly Building high

bay 3. Work scheduled: hydraulic operations and payload bay door cycling and checks.

IKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 9:30 a.m., June 30, 1992.]

n ,SIS 53:. DISCOVERY IN OPF BAY 2

n

Discovery's orbital maneuvering system pod has been delivered to the OPF. Work in

progress: power reactant and storage distribution system tests; main propulsion system

leak and functional checks; Installation of onboard helium tanks; structural corrosion

Inspections. The orbital maneuvering system pod will be installed tonight. [KSC

SHUTrLE STATUS RI_,PORT, 9:30 a.m., June 30, 1992.]

NAVIGATION UNIT REPLACE_: A_

The launch of the Air Force's Atlas rocket has been rescheduled for July 2; a faulty

navigation unit has been replaced and will be tested tomorrow. ['New Part Clears Atlas

for Liftoff,"FLORIDA TODAY. p. 4A, July 1, 1992.]

127
July1:

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g

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JULY

STS 46; MAiN ENGINE FRT

The main engines of Atlantis have completed their flight readiness test in preparation for

the STS 46 mission. Other work completed: aerosurface cycle and checks; hydraulic

circulation and sample operations; rudder speed brake closeouts. Work in progress:

engineering evaluations of recently completed flight readiness test and hydraulic

operations; preparations for payload arrtval at Launch Complex 39B. The STS 46 payload

is set to arrive aZ the pad and to be installed next week. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT. 9:30 a.m., July 1, 1992_]

In OPF Bay 3, payload by keel installations on Endeavour have been completed as have

freon coolant loop deservicing and inspections and the removal of the payload bay door

radiator. Work in progress: Inspections of the payload bay door blankets; payload bay

door cycling and checks; orbital maneuvering system leak and functional checks; Kuband functional tests; spacelab/Orbiter pre-mate checks; solid rocket booster stacking

operations in the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3. The Spacelab payload will be

installed next week. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 9:30 a.m., July 1,199_]

DIP;_3VI_Ry; OMS POD D_ TO OPF

Discove_'s orbital manetNedng system pod has been delivered to the Orbiter in OPF Bay

2 and alevon cove and flipper door closeouts have been completed. Work in progress:

mechanical and electrical rnatu of the orbital maneuvering system pod to the Orbiter;,

main propulsion system leak and functional checks; installation of onboard helium tanks;

inatallatJorl of hydraulic lines and equipment; structural corrosion inspections. [KSC

SHI,WTI.E STATUS REPORT. 9:30 a.m., July 1, 1992.]

A'II_IS TO BE MODIRED IN

Atlantis is due for extensive modifications similar to the ones undergone by Columbia and

Discovery, but, unlike Discovery, Atlantis is expected to be sent to the Palmdale, CA, plant

where Columbia was modified by Rockwell Intemational. That announcement was made

by Thomas IJtsman, Shuttle Program Director for NASA. NASA officials said the decision

to modify Atlantis in Califomia was made to relieve processing pressure at Kennedy

Space Center. He said, 'This means the KSC team can devote 100 percent of their

efforts to safely and efficiently carrying out the manifest. We estimate it will require about

a year to modify Atlantis, and we won_ have to tie up an Orbiter processing facility for

that time. This results in a lot of flexibility in terms of processing the other Orbiters.

Performing the work at Palrndale also gives us the added advantage of being able to

maintain a skilled, highly effective work force in California which is essential for us to carry

out our structural spares work. By maintaining this manufacturing capability at Paimdaia,

NASA also will be able to integrate a Russian automated rendezvous and docking

mechanism should ongoing negotiations with the Russians prove fruitful. NASA has a

team leaving for Russia next week to pursue this capability, which would allow the Space

Shuttle to dock with the Russian Mir and which could be used on Space Station

Freedom.'

V
July 2:

NASA also said that Atlantis will have a mechanism installed which will allow the Orbiter

to dock with the Russian space station Mir. U. S. Rep. Jim Bacchus said, "Ifthey did the

work here, it would create several hundred jobs. I think we can do these modifications

faster, cheaper and better in Brevard County." He said that cost comparisons showed

that KSC could do the modifications for $25 to $30 million less than in California. 'I'm

very unhappy about this decision and rm going to hold NASA's feet to the fire,' Bacchus

said. Utsman responded, saying, 'One of the things we got criticized for after the

Challenger accident was pushing too hard and trying to do too many things with the guys

at the Cape. This is an honest attempt to try to help them. V_ we want to do is make

their job bearable.' Utsman, a former Kennedy Space Center Deputy Director, said that

the decision would not result In any jobs being lost at KSC. [Halvorson, FLORIDA

TODAY. p. IA, July 2, 1992; NASA/KSC News Release No. 92-101, July I, 1992; Date,

THE ORI._N_)O SENTINEL July 3, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. tOE, July 26,

lOOZ]

ATLAS LAUNCH A'i_PT NO. 7

The Air Force will attempt, again, to launch its Atlas 2 rocket tonight between 5:54 and

7:20 p.m. EDT; the launch has been scrubbed six times over the past two weeks. Air

Force meteorologists predicted a 70 percent chance of favorable weather for launch

tonight. ['Atlas Launch Attempt Today,' FLORIDA TODAY. p. 5A, July 2, 1992.]

D RECORD SPACELAB TURNAROUND

When the Specelab-J module Is transported to the Orbiter Processing Facility and

Installed in Endeavour's payload bay next week, It will mark the quickest such turnaround

aver of a Specelab module. The Spacelab-J module last flew in january on the

International Microgravity Laboratory-1 mission. Following that highly successful flight, the

module was transported back to its proc_ bay in KSC's Operations and Checkout

Building and readied for the ST8 47 flight. The 19-week reconflguration and checkout of

the payload easily eclipses the average Specelab pmceselng time of 24 weeks. _Ne

surprised ourselves," commented Glenn Snyder, STS 47 Payload Processing Manager.

'We went into this flow wondedng whether or not it was possible to process a payload

for flight on such a tight schedule. But the team pitched in, rose to the challenge and did

it. Everyone pulled together as a team. There were never any turf battles or squabbles

over anything. When little problems popped up, everyone justcame together and fixed

them,' he continued. 'It's been a real pleasure working on this payload.'

TITANlll ROLLOLrr TODAY

The "ruin III launch vehicle which will deliver the Mars Observer Spacecraft to an

Interplanetary trajectory was rolled out to Launch Complex 40 today. The Martin Marietta

rocket will propel the MOS on an 11-month journey to Mars. The mission must launch

between September 16 and October 13 while Earth and Mars are properly aligned or

wait for two years for another such alignment. A delay of that duration would cost NASA

$200 million. Currently, the launch is scheduled for September 16 during a window

lasting from 1:02 to 2:34 p.m. NASA spokesman George Diet said, 'So far the best laid

plans of mice and men are working. The mission is coming together as envisioned.'

[Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 10E, July 5, 1992; NASA/KSC News Release No. 85-92,

July 1, 1992.]

"---" 129
g ATLAS 2 LAUNCHED TODAY

At 5:54 p.m. today, the Air Force launched its Atlas 2 rocket from Cape Canaveral Air

Force Station. 'We're really happy to have seen it go," said Major Garian Perugini, head

of Public Affairs at Patrick Air Force Base. "It's been a long, drawn-out process with the

weather systems that have been moving through and some of the mechanical problems

we've had along the way." The Atlas payload was a $160 million Defense Satellite

Communications System spacecraft; it is an updated version of the satellites which

provided intelligence information during the 1991 Persian Gulf War. [Halvorson, FLORIDA

TODAY. p. 5A, July 3, 1992.]

July6: COLUMBIA TO LAND AT EDWARDS

The landing of the Space Shuttle Columbia is scheduled to occur at Edwards Air Force

Base, CA, at 6:08 a.m. PDT on July 8. Kennedy Space Center's landing and recovery

teem will be on hand at the Dryden Flight Research Facility to prepare to prepare the

Orbiter for its ferry flight beck to KSC. STS 50 has set a new duration record for flights

of Space Shuttles of 12 days, 20 hours and 56 minutes. [KSC SFLU331_ESTATUS

REPORT. 10 a.m., July 6, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL. July 6, 1992; KS._._CC

SHU'I-rLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., July 7, 1992; Halvorson, FL,ORIDA TODAY, p. 1A,

July 7, 1992; 'Shuttle Record," USA TODAY, p. 3A, July 7, 1992; Date,'Columbia Sets

Endurance Record,' THEi ORt.p,NDO SENTINEL. July 7, 1992.]

g A'I1.ANTIS: "r_ & EUFECA

Early this rnomlng the TS8 and EURECA payloads were transferred to Launch Complex

39B for Installation in the Space Shuttle Atiantl¢ The STS 46 mission is targeted for

launch in late July. Work in progress: preparations to install the Tethered Satellite

System and the EURECA payload in the Payload Changeout Roomat the pad; retest of

the newly replaced main engine liquid oxygen temperature transducers. Work scheduled:

Launch Readiness Review on July 7; installation of payloads on July 8; the interface

verification testing between the Orbiter and payloads July 9. [KSC SHU'WLE STATUS

REPORT. 10 a.m., July 6, 1992.]

g ,E_IDEAVOUR: S_ 47 pREPARATIONS

In OPF Bay 3, technicians are preparing to install the Spacelab-J payload in Endeavour

for its upcoming S'IS 47 mission. Other work in progress: functional tests of the orbital

meneuvedng system pod; leak and functional tests of the auxiliary power units;

Inspections of the payload bay doors. The Spacel_ will be installed in Endeavour on

July 8. Discovery is in OPF Bay 2 where preparations are underway to install its right

OMS pod next week. Other work in progress on OV 103: tests of the Ku-band antenna;

inspections of the main propulsion system; flushing the ammonia system, rKSC

$HUTrI.E STATUS RE,PORT, I0 _m., July 6, 1992.]

July 7: ATI_ PR_-LAUNCH ACT1VITI_

Technicians at Launch Complex 39B continue preparations to install the TSS and

EURECA payloads into Atlantis for its STS 46 mission. Work in progress: moving the

rotating service structure around the Orbiter;, connecting the Orbiter midbody umbilical

unit (OMBU) to the Orbiter; opening the payload bay doors for payload installation; KSC

Launch Readiness Review. Work scheduled: installation of payloads on July 8; interface

13o V
g

g

g

g

verification testing between the Orbiter and its payloads July 9. [KSC SHU3TLE STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m., July 7, 1992.]

STS 47: ENDEAVOUR IN OPF BAY 3

The Space Shuttle Endeavour is undergoing processing for its upcoming STS 47 flight

in OPF Bay 3. Work in progress: preparations to install the Spacelab-J payload;

functional tests of the orbital maneuvering system pod; leak and functional tests of the

auxiliary power units; Inspections of the payload bay doors. The installation of Spacelab

J and Endeavours forward reaction control system are scheduled to take place shortly.

In OPF Bay 2, Discovery is having Its ammonia system flushed and is undergoing testing

of the right orbital manauvedng system pod; preparetlons to servlce the hydraulic system

and inspections of the main propulsion system. [K_C SHUI"rLE STATUS REPORT. 10

a.m., July 7, 1992.]

JUlY 30 LAUNCH FOR SI"S 46

Kennedy Space Center spokeswoman Usa Malone announced today that Atlantis will

commence its S'IS 46 mission on July 30; the launch has been delayed a week to make

way for a "time-critical" unmanned rocket mission and to allow more time for astronaut

training. The previous target date had been July 23. [Halvorson, FI,ORIDA TODAY, p.

1A, July 8, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL July 7, 1992.]

DICTA _ LAUNCH A SUCCESS

At 5:20 a.m. this morning, an Air Force Delta 2 was launched from Cape Canaveral Air

Force Station. The Delta carded a Navstar Global Positioning System satellite. The

rocket's nine boosters were jettisoned several minutes into the flight. McDonnell Douglas .

Space Systems Co. spokesman Tom _Mlants sak:l, 'The night launches are beautiful -

beautiful and exciting.' This Navstar deploymant was the 14th In a planned series of 24

satellites; the entire system Is expected to be completed in 1993. [Halvorson, FLORIDA

p. 2A, July 8, 1992; Date, THIF,ORLANDO SENTINEL, July 8, 1997_]

LAUNCH FA(_tlJ/Y DEDICATED AT CCAFS

Shortly after the successful launch of a Delta 2 rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force

Station this morning, the Air Force and NASA joined with other aerospace officials to

dedicate a $335 million launch facility that will be used to launch unmanned missions to

Mars. Standing in front of Launch Complex 40, and speaking to an audience of 200,

officials praised the effort of constructing a completely new facility in two years. Martin

Marietta Space Launch Systems was the prime contractor for the new complex; Bechtel

National, Inc. constructed the facility. Alphonso DIE, NASA Deputy Associate

Administrator for Space Flight, said return to the 'red' planet with the launch of the Mars

Observer aboard a Martin Marietta Commercial T'can begins at the facility. Diaz spoke

proudly of the time 17 years ago when he was an Instrumentation engineer on the

Voyager mission to Mars in 1975.

•"l'he Mars Observer mission will provide data crucial to eventual human expedition to

Mars," Diaz said. 'It begins here within the next 90 days,' referring to Launch Complex

40. Diaz complimented workers responsible for the construction and said, "you delivered

on your commitment - now it is time for NASA to perform." Colonel Frank Sliding, Titan

IV Manager for the USAF, described LC 40 as a magnificent achievement that will return
!1

July 8:

g

the nation to Mars. 'Today is a triumph," he said, "a triumph of team work, a display of

dedication of commitment to excellence and presentation to perseverance to a goal of

meeting this nation's requirements to send a _sat_tlite on an Interplanetary mission to

Mars.' Two years ago the USAF promised NASA a new launch complex would be ready

for the September launch, Stifling told the audience and said that we are on the threshold

of that promise. ['Aerospace Community Dedicates $355 Million Launch Facility,"MARTIN

MARIETTA PRESS RELEASE. July 7, 1992; Note to Editors/News Directors: "Mars

Observer Showing Scheduled at KSC on Wednesday, July 8," July 9, 1992.]-

A,,qSOC_TE ADMINi_i_ATOR FOR RUSSIAN

NASA Administrator Daniel S. Goldn today announced the appointment of Samuel W.

Kelm as Associate Administrator for Russian Programs. The new function is being

established within the Office of the Administrator and will give focus to the many

programs involving NASA and the former Sovi_ Union. 'NASA Is actively pursuing

opportunities for expanded cooperation in space activities with Russia. This area of

international cooperation is critical and warrants creation of this new position. Sam Keller

has the kind of experience necessary to ensure that our relationship with the Russian

space program is beneficial to both sides. He will be responsible for overall coordination

of the NASA program relating to cooperative endeavors with the Russian space program,"

Goldin said. [NASA/KSC News Release No. 92-103. July 7, 1992; "NASA Appoints Chief

of Russian Programs,' FLORIDA TODAY, p. 9E, July 12, 1992.]

STS 50 EXTENDED ONE DAY

Columbia's .record-breaking-duration flight was extended one extra day because of

unacceptal_e weather conditions in Californ_. There were rain showers and clouds in

the area of Edwards Air Force Base. Weather conditions are forecast to improve slightly

tomorrow in California and to be favorable for a landing in Florida. Mission controllers will

conUnue evaluating the weather conditions at both landing sites through the evening and

make their landing decision early tomorrow morning. The opportunity to land at KSC

tomorrow is at 7:43 a.m. EDT. The landing opportunity at Edwards is on orbit 222 at 9:09

EDT. The KSC convoy team will be on station at 5:15 a.m. tomorrow at the Shuttle

Landing Facility to support a possible landing at Kennedy Space Center. KSC's primary

landing and recovery team for Columbia is on station at the Dryden Flight Research

Facility ready to prepare the Orbiter for its ferry flight back to Florida. [Date, THE

ORLANDO SENTINEL, p. A-7, July 8, 1992; KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m.,

July 8, 1992 Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL p. A-7, July 9, 1992.]

46: RSS SURROUNDS ATLAN'r_

• At Launch Complex 39B, workers have completely surrounded Atlantis with the rotating

service structure and connected the Orbiter midbody umbilical unit (OMBUU) to the

Orbiter. The payload bay doors have been opened for payload installation; the KSC

Launch Readiness Review has been completed. No significant problem issues were

addressed at the LRR and all KSC elements are pressing forward to the next Shuttle

launch. The installation of the Tethered Satellite System and the EURECA payload is

underway at the pad. Interface verification testing will begin tomorrow at LC39B; the

Flight Readiness Review is scheduled at KSC for July 10. The target date for the flight

is July 30. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., July 8, 1997_]

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I1 STS 47/SPACBAB@: ENDEAVOUR

While in Orbiter Processing Facility 3, Endeavour continues to undergo preparations to

install the Spacelab-J payload. Other work in progress: transfer of Endeavour's forward

reaction control system from the Hypergolic Maintenance Facility to the OPF; functional

tests of the orbital maneuvering system pod; leak and functional tests of the auxiliary

power units and inspections of the payload bay doors. This weekend Spacelab-J will be

Installed; the FRCS is scheduled for Installation July 9. Discovery remains in OPF Bay 2

where it is being processed for its 81"3 53 mission; work in progress: testing of the dght

orbital rnaneuvedng system pod; preparations to service the hydraulic system; Inspections

of the main propulsion system and flushing of the ammonia system. [KSC SHUTT1.E

STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., July 8, 1992.]

July 9: 50 STATUS/4;10 A:M..EDT

Weather conditions for a landing at Edwards AFB this moming are marginal with a

forecast of 'no go." Concerns include the possibility of rain within 30 nautical miles and

mid-level cloud decks. At KSC the only weather concem was the possibility of ground

fog and reports from a weather aircraft indicate that visibilitywill not be a problem. Winds

should be at a low level out of the southwest. Based on current conditions, a landing

would be made on Runway 33. This call would be made on lightning considerations as

wind conditions are not now a factor. A landing convoy with Orbiter servicing equipment

and about 150 personnel is in place at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility to support a

landing here. The deorbit bum for a 7:43 a.m. EDT landing at KSC would be made at

6:47 a.m. A decision on the landing site is not expected until between 5:45 and 6 a.m.

This morning's landing opportunity at Edwards AFB is one orbit later than that at KSC.

The deorbit bum would be made at 8:11 a.m. EDT fora landing at 9:09 a.m. This would

be at 6:09 a.m., local time, approximately 23 minutes after sunrise. Astronaut Kenneth

8. Reiglsler Jr. radioed the crew:. 'It looks like Mother Nature is gMng you a chance to

get a tighter gdp on your record;" Columbia's STS 50 mission is the longest Shuttle flight

to date. If both landing sites should be unavailable, Columbia has enough supplies to

stay in orbit safely for two more days. The astronauts serenaded Mission Control with a

chorus from tl_ 1960 hit "Stay.' They sang: "Oh pleeeease, stay a little bit longer.'

Mission Control had played the song for them the day before when the crew was

Informed that an extra day had been added to their flight. ['Status of STS-50/Columbia,'

July 9, 1992; Brown, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, July 9, 1997_]

g COLUMBIA LANDS AT

•Congratulations on the longest Shuttle flight on record. Thanks for helping to pave the

way to Space Station operations,' said astronaut Kenne_ S. Reightler Jr. to the STS 50

crew from Mission Control (Houston, TX). Columbia's record-breaking-duration flight

ended today with a landing at 7:43 a.m. EDT on KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility Runway

33. Today's landing marked the first time Columbia returned from space to Kennedy

Space Center and was the lOth Shuttle landing at the launch site. Weather conditions

in Caiifomia wee unacceptable for landing today. The Orbiter touched down at about

2,800 ft. mark on the runway and stopped at the 13,000 ft. mark. Total mission elapsed

time was 13 days, 19 hours, 30 minutes, and 4 seconds. Columbia's deorbit bum

occurred on orbit 220 at 6:41 a.m. EDT and lasted about 3 minutes, 24 seconds.

Columbia completed 221 revolutions around the Earth and logged 5,758,000 miles during

this flight.
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At the conclusion of the flight, Commander Richard N. Richards spoke for the crew:

'We're looking forward to seeing our families - who unfortunately were not able to change

landing sites as quickly as we were and will be waiting for us when we get back to

Houston tonight. It's been a long day, particularly for our crewmates who had put in a

full shift closing out Spacelab before we left orbit, so we need to get everyone home for

some rest as soon as possible.' KSC Director Robert L Cr_:_=n said that the crew was

in good spirits and showed no ill effects from their extended flight. 'It was a completion

of a great mission. The vehicle has come back looking outstanding; the crew is all

looking good and very excited," he said. Cdppen also noted that after the rear wheels

of Columbia touched down at KSC, the nose wheel stayed up a few seconds longer than

usual - 18 seconds - to make sure the nose came down gently; the concern was due to

the 23,000-pound laboratory in the payload bay.

The STS 50 flight crew was scheduled to depart at 2:30 p.m. today from the skid strip at

Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. They will be flying to Ellington Field, TX, near the

Johnson Space Center (Houston,TX). K$C's landing and recovery teem is preparing

Columbia for tow to Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 1 later today. One of the tires on the

main landing gear will be removed while the vehicle is on the runway for immediate

shipment to the vendor for analysis. This is the first flight of the new beefed-up tires

which use a synthetic rubber tread instead of the natural rubber previously used.

Kennedy Space Center Director Crippen said that a safety rule limiting planned Florida

landings to Orbiters weighing 205,000 pounds or less Would be discarded if the new tires

work as designed. "The heavy weight didn't bother me at all. We do not have to get

through the full evaluation on the tires," he said, adding that a quick inspection showed

little damage to Columbia's landing gear. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPO.,RT, 11 a.m.,

July 9, 1992; "PostFlight Statement by STS 50 Commander Dick Richards," July 9, 1992;

Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, July 10, 1992; "New Attitude,' FL,ORIOA TODAY, p.

1A, July 10, 1992; 'In Florida," USA TODAY. p. 4A, July 10, 1992; 'Longest Shuttle Flight

Ends With Flodda Landing," THE NEW YORK TIMES. p. A7, July 10, 1992; Date, THE

ORLANDO SENTINEL pp. A-1 & A-IO, July 10, 1992.]

46:. ,'I_S/I_LIIC-CA IN_'I'AI !_r)

At Launch Complex 39B, the Tethered Satellite System and EURECA payloads have been

installed in the cargo bay of Atlantis; the Orbiter's STS 46 mission is now targeted for no

earlier th_n August 1. Interface verification tests between the EURECA payload and the

Orbiter are underway. The Right Readiness Review for STS 46 begins July 11.

SHUTrLE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., July 9, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A,

July 10, 1992.]

ENOF.AVOUR/BscovEzWpROCESS=Be

In OPF Bay 3, Endeavour is being mated with its forward reaction control system and

preparations are underway to install the Spacelab-J payload this weekend. Leak and

functional tests of the auxiliary power units have begun as have inspections of the

payload bay doors with the doors in a closed position. Discovery, located in OPF Bay 2,

is having its right orbital maneuvering system pod tested. Preparations are underway to

service the Orbiter's hydraulic system and to inspect the main propulsion system. [KSC

SH_ STATU_ REPORT, 11 a.m., July g, 1992.]

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g - MARS OBSERVER MILESTONE

The Mars Observer spacecraft passed another major milestone toward launch in

September when it was transported from Hangar AO on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station

to the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility (PHSF) on the Kennedy Space Center. Mars

Observer has been at Hangar AO undergoing testing of its instruments, communications

and spacecraft systems since it arrived at the Cape on June 19. At the PHSF, the next

major activity will be to fuel the spacecraft with its orbit insertion and attitude control

propellants. This will be followed by mating to the Transfer Orbit Stage (TOS) which is

currently scheduled to occur on August 2. This is the upper stage that will provide the

final thrust to propel the spacecraft on its 1l-month joumey to Mars.

Alter the TOS has also been fueled with its control propellant, there will be integrated

testing of the two flight elements, followed by encapsulation in the nose faldng. The Mars

ObserverfTOS combination is scheduled to be moved to Launch Complex 40 for mating

with the T_an Ul Launch Vehicle on August 17. Mars Observer will be the first U. S.

mission launched to Mars since the Viking program in 1975. From a circular Martian polar

orbit of 250 miles it will conduct a comprehensive study for one Martian year, or 687 Earth

days, mapping the surface and profiling the atmosphere. The liftoffof Mars Observer is

scheduled for September 16 at the opening of a launch window which extends from 1;02

p.m. EDT until 2:34 p.m. EDT. [NASA/KSC News Release No. 89-92, July 9, 1992.]

July 10: INTERFACE TESTS FINISHED

At Launch Complex 39B, techniclanshave completed interface verification tests between

Atlantis and its EURECA payload and its remote manipulator system. The Flight

Readlness Review for the STS 46 mission is underway. Interface verification tests

between Atlantis and its Tethered Satellite System payload will be completed this

weekend. Ordnance operations begin July 13 with the launch set for no earlier than

August 1. fKSC SHUI"rLE STATUS REPORT. 11 a. m., July 10, 1992.]

g COUJMBIA TOWED TO OPF

Columbia, just retumed from its 14-day STS 50 mission, has been towed from the Shuttle

Landing Facility to the OPF; that occurred at 1 p.m. yesterday. OPF workers are now

offloading experiments from the middeck; gaining access to vadous parts of the Orbiter

and connecting purge equipment to the vehicle. Shortly technicians will begin offloading

residual cryogenic propellants from Columbia. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 11 a.

m., July I0, 1992.]

g EN_ PREPARA'nONS

In OPF Bay 3, technicians are preparing to install Encleavour's Spacelab-J payload on

July 13; cycling the payload bay doors and conducting leak and functional tests of the

main propulsion system. Endeavour has been mated with its forward reaction control

system in preparation for its upcoming STS 47 mission. In OPF Bay 2, Discovery is being

readied for itsSTS 53 mission. Technicians are conducting leak checks of the auxiliary

power units; testing the right orbital maneuvering system pod and preparing to service

the Orbiter's hydraulic system. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11 a. m., July 10,

1992.]
D STS 46: JULY 31 LAUNCH; IT'S OFFICIAL

NASA managers today announced July 31, 19921 _ the official launch date for Shuttle

Mission STS 46. Atlantis will carry two international payloads - the Tethered Satellite

System ('rss-1), a project jointly developed by NASA and the italian Space Agency and

the European Carder (EURECA) payload which was developed by the European Space

Agency. The launch window on the 31st opens at 9:56 a.m. EDT and extends for 2 1/2

hours. Atlantis will be commanded by USAF Col. Loren J. $hdver, making his third

Shuttle flight. Marine Corps Major Andrew M. Almt will serve as pilot, making his first

flight. Mission Specialists will include Claude Nicollar, a European Space Agency

astronaut making his first Shuttle flight; Marsha S. _ making her second Shuttle flight;

Jeffrey A. _ making his third space flight; and Franidl_ FL_ making his

third space flight. Franco Maledba from the Italian Space Agency will be a payload

specialist aboard Atlantis. STS 46 will bethe 12th flight of Space Shuttle Atlantis and the

49th flight of the Shuttle system overall. [Not_clitors: NASA Sets Launch Date for

Next ShuttleMission. 6:00 p.m., July 10, 1992.]

July 12: ATLAN'rlS: ROUTINE PROCESSING

At Launch Complex 39B this weekend, workers have been testing connections between

Atlantis and its Tethered Satellite System payload. Ordnance operations, in two phases,

have begun at the pad with the hazardous part being scheduled for late tonight. There

will be few other pre-launch activities scheduled due to the delay in launching Atlantis

because of conflicts with other unmanned missions. Right control teams and the STS 46

crew are undergoing additional training during this pedod. [Banke, FI,.ORIDA TODAY, p.

2A,July12, 1992.]

O _ATIC I_.AFIIN_NEW

Rocketdyne has come up With a new type of bearing th6t would solve a serious

shortcoming with the bearings now in use in the turbopumps now on the Space Shuttles.

The invention comes too late for inclusion on Atlantis. Rocketclyne President Robert

Paster said, 'We've been looking at a totally new concept in bearings." The new concept

eliminatas the need for 'ball bearings' and replaces them with a thin film of liquid oxygen

in a uniquely-shaped chamber;, they would operate similarly to the way "air bearings" do

in a dentist's drill. Hundreds of tests will be required before a Shuttle will fly with the new

bearings, but NASA has been Impressed and NASA will consider the hydrostatic bearings

for the new Space Transportation Main Engine which has been proposed to lift the

National Launch System rockets alter the year 2000. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 10E,

July12, 1992.]

July 13: SR3: WORK BEGINS JAN. lg_

Brevard County will resume work on widening State Road 3 north of the Barge Canal in

January 1993. The widening project was Initially delayed because the county failed to

purchase all the needed right of way. Much of the land Was acquired in March 1992 in

a court hearing, but some of the pdces to be paid have yet to be negotiated and the

county must also now acquire more land for drainage retention. Working with KSC, Sea

Ray Boats Inc., the Coast Guard, the Brevard County School Board, the Florida

Department of Transportation, Commissioner Karen Andmas and the County Commission,

a number of changes and Improvements have been decided upon. The SR 3 Barge

Canal will now open earlier starting today at 5:00 a.m., rather than at 6:00 a.m. Other

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136 V
changes Include: synchronizing traffic lights near SR 3, SR 528 (the Bee Line) and Sea

Ray Boats Inc.; reducing the number of school bus routes north of the bridge and altering

schedules of some Sea Ray workers. [Reitz, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, July 13, 1992.]

[1 SPACELAB INSTALLED IN ENDEAVOUR TODAY

At Kennedy Space Center today, technicians in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 will

begin to Install a Spacelab .module in Endeavour. This module is called Spacelab J and

will contain more than 50 matedal and life science expedments. Endeavour's STS 47

mission is targeted for mid-September and will be jointly sponsored by Japan and the

United States. [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 3A, July 13, 1992.]

I] 46: ORDNANCE OPERA'IIONS

Ordnance operations for STS 46 were completed earlier today at Launch Complex 39B

where Atlantis awaits a July 31 launch. The Flight Readiness Review which was

completed July 10 set the target date for launch. Interface verification tests between the

Orbiter and its payloads - TSS-1 and EURECA - have been completed. Work.in progress:

close outs of the Orbiter's aft compartment and checks of the mobile launcher platform

liquid oxygen system. IKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., July 13, 1992; "KSC

Wraps Up 1st Part of Task to Install Ordnance on Atlantis,' FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, July

14, 1992.]

n STS 50: POST-I.ANDING WORK

Technicians In OPF Bay 1 have offloaded resiclual cryogenic propellants from Columbia

which landed at Kennedy Space Center on July 9. Expedments have been removed from

Columbia's middeck and the Orbiter's main engine bearings have been dried. Work in

progress: installing platforms in the aft compartment;, attaching strongbacks to the

payload bay doors and removal of the waste containment system. [KSC SHUTFLE

STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., July 13, 1992.]

U ENOEAVOUR/BSO0V =W;OPFWORK

Functional tests of Endeavour's right orbital maneuvering system pod have been

completed in OPF Bay 3. Work in progress: functional tests of the forward reaction

control system; connections of the radiators; preparations to install the Spacelab J

payload; leak and functional tests of the main propulsion system. The Spacelab J

payload will be installed July 14. Discovery is undergoing tests of its Ku-band antenna

during processing in OPF Bay 2; other work includes leak checks of the galley water lines

and preparations to service the hydraulic system. [K_(_ SHUI"rI_ STATUS R_PORT, 10

a.m., July 13, 1992; KSC Wraps Up 1st Part of Task to Install Ordnance On Atlantis,'

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, July 14, 1992.]

July 14.- SPC EXTENSION FOR LOCKHEED

NASA's John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC), FL, has extended for 3 years its Space

Shuttle Processing Contract (SPC) with Lockheed Space Operations Co. (T'_usville,FL).

The 3-year extension, through Sept. 30, 1995, is valued at $1,830,915,860. The original

contract was awarded Sept. 23, 1983, and provided for a 3-year pedod of performance

and four 3-year options. 'All of us at Lockheed are very, very pleased with the extension,"

said company spokesman J. B. Klump. Kennedy Space Center spokesman Karl
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Kdstolferson said, 'The three-year extension is an indication that NASA is pleased with

Lockheed's performance as Shuttle Processing Contractor.' The current extension

exercises the third of these options. The present contract value for the 9-year period

since the contract was competitively awarded in 1983 is $6,298,810,414. The contract

extension will be performed under a cost-plus-award-fee agreement. Lockheed's

responsibilities include complete processing services including preparation of the Space

Shuttle vehicle for each unique mission and checkout, launch, landing and recovery

operations. Lockheed also is responsible for operation and maintenance of related

processing facilities and ground services at KSC. [NASA/KSC News Release Nq, C92-8,

July 14, 1992; Halvoreon, FLORIDA TQI_AY, pp. 1A-2A, July 16, 1992.]

A_: PREJ.AUNCH PROGRESS

At Launch Complex 39B, technicians are closing out the aft compartment of Atlantis in

preparation for its July 31 STS 46 mission and are closing out the solid rocket booster

hold down posts. Work scheduled: installation of two contingency space suits in the

aldock next week; purges of the external tank; Installation of doors on the aft

compartment for flight; start of the countdown at 4:00 p.m. EDT on July 28; launch on the

31st is set for 9:56 a.m. EDT. [KSC SHU1TLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., July 15, 1992.]

SPACELAB J LOADED INTO ENDEAVOUR

"This is certainly one of the major milestones in the processing facility,' said KSC

spokeswoman Lisa Malone about the installation of Spacelab J in Endeavour's cargo bay

for its mid-September STS 47 mission; the Job was finished at 5:36 p.m. EDT. The

mission will include Mission Specialist Mamom Moltd, the first Japanese astronaut to fly

on the Shuttle. Work in progress: electrical connections of Spacelab J; servicing

Spaceiab J cooling lines; installation of Tacan No._ antenna; functional t_ of the

rea_-tion_| system; leak and _nai tests of the main propuision system.

Endeavour will be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building in mid-August for mating with

its external tank and solid rocket boosters. At Launch Complex 39B, technicians

continued to ready Atlantis for its STS 46 mission, now scheduled to launch on July 31.

Aft compartment tests are expected to be completed next week. [Haivorson, FLORIDA

TODAY, p. 2A, July 15, 1992; KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPQRT, 10 a.m., July 15, 1992.]

POST STS 50 PROCESSING FOR cOI,UMB_

The Space Shuttle Columbia has had its payload doors opened and functional tests have

been performed. Now in OPF Bay 1, technicians are underway with preparations of

Columbia to deservtce residual hypergolic propellants and inspections of the radiators.

Later this week, workers will remove the United States Microgravity Laboratory-1 from

Columbia's cargo bay. Discovery, in OPF Bay 2, is being prepared for the installation of

its left orbital maneuvering system (OMS) pod; leak and functional tests of the main

propulsion system; filling and bleeding of the hydraulic system and testing of the right

OMS pod. [KSC SHU'I'r'LE STATUS...R.EPORT, 10 a.m., July 15, 1992.]

CAL--STAR, INC. WINS ICSC CONTRACT

CaI-Star Co., Inc. (T'stusville,FL) has been awarded a $161,890 contract to construct an

addition to a heavy equipment maintenance building at Kennedy Space Center. Work for

the construction of a heavy equipment high bay addition to Building K6-1995 is expected

to begin during the week of July 27, 1992. Under the terms of the fixed price contract,

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the small business firm will have 150 days from the start date to complete the project.

The facility is located on the east side of Contractors Road inthe Heavy Equipment Shop

Maintenance section of the Launch Complex 39 area The 2,750-square-foot high bay will

be used to service heavy equipment in support of Space Shuttle Launch Complexes 39A

and 39B. The van used to transport Shuttle mission crews from the Operations and

Checkout Building to the launch pad prior to liftoff is also serviced in the area.

[NASA/KS(_ News Release NO. 91-92, July 14, 1992.]

FIRM _ _ CONTRACT

Oneida Construction Co. (Mime, FL) has been awarded a $138,417 contract to construct

storage at Kennedy Space Center for a Solid Rocket Motor (SRM) Transporter. Work on

this fixed pdce contract is scheduled to begin June 15, 1992. The small business firm will

have 110 days after startup to complete the requirements of the contract. The work

Includes the erection of a 3,044-square-foot prefabricated shelter for the truck-like

transporter on the north side of the Crawler-Transporter Building near the Vehicle

Assembly Building (VAB). The SRM Transporter is used to move fueled Space Shuttle

solid rocket motor segments that arrive at the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility

(RPSF) by rail to High Bays 1 and 3 in the VAB. The four segments of each of two

boosters, along with their aft skirts, frustums and nose cones, are assembled atop a

Mobile Launcher Platform. Then the Shuttle's external tank is mated to the completed

_ers` _ the ,_huttte Orbiter is mated to the extemal tank, the fully assembled

space vehicle is ready to be transported to Launch Complex 39A or 39B atop the

Crawler-Transporter. [NA,$A/KSC N_ Release No. 92-92, July 14, 1992; "Mirns

Company Wins Contract," FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1OF.,July 19, 1992.]

HOU-Y HILL FIRM _ 8PACE STATION

Dan Rice Construction Co., Inc. (Holly Hill, FL) has been awarded a $6,958,220 contract

to build the Hazardous Processing Facility (HPF) at Kennedy Space Center which will be

used to process the propulsion assemblies that provide the thrust to allow Space Station

Freedom to maintain its orbit and attitude. The new facility will replace the existing

Payload Spin Test Facility. Work covered by the firm fixed price contract is to begin

October 1, 1992, and be completed within 14 months. It includes the labor, equipment

and materials to construct the HPF next to the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility

(PHSF) in the KSC Industrial Area. Under this agreement, the contractor will also expand

the Hazardous Operations Support Facility (HOSF), a prefabricated building near the HPF,

PHSF and other KSC facilities where Space Shuttle payloads that require hazardous

operations can be processed.

The HPF will feature a 1,800-square-foot high bay with an environmentally-controlled

atmosphere to prevent contamination of the Space Station flight hardware during

inspection, checkout and other processing activities prior to integrating the propulsion

assemblies into the Space Shuttle Orbiter's payload bay. An adjoining 9,000-square-foot

low bay area will provide storage space for one propulsion assembly, servicing

equipment and offices. Hazardous operations that willtake place in the HPF include the

loading of hydrazine propellant and other types of toxic or otherwise harmful gases and

fluids into propulsion assembly tanks. Ventilation systems and safety devices in the HPF

will protect KSC processing personnel from harm. Should the need arise, the HPF could

also be used to process other types of space hardware that require this type of service.

Kennedy Space Center will be responsible for the prelaunch processing of all Space

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StationFreedomflighthardwareanditslaunchintoorbit.[NASA/KSCNews Release No.

July 14, 1992; Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 9E, July 19, 1992.]

g LSO WINS GOLDIN'S WORLD CLASS AWARD

Administrator Daniel S. _ recently presented NASA's first awards for 'Wodd Class"

performance. Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Processing Contractor Lockheed Space

Operations Co. (Titusville, FL) was one of two award winners; the other was Rockwell

International's Space Systems Division (Downey, CA). _ _, Lockheed

president, accepted the award which was given for outstanding work in processing

Orbiters for flight. ['Two Contractors Win 'Wodd Class' Awards,' FLORIDA TODAY, p. gE,

July 19, 1992; 'Shuttle Team Gets Highest Award," FLORIDA TODAY, July 12, 1992.]

July 16: $1'8 46: PAD _ OF ATLAN'nS

I]

A number of we-launch activities are underway at Launch Complex 3gB in preparation

for the STS 46 mission of Atlantis: close outs of the aft compartment; final inspections

of the base heat shield thermal protection system; testing of the environmental monitoring

package on the EOIM experiment. Officials said yesterday that a minor problem with an

experiment package in the cargo bay will not stall launch plans. KSC spokeswoman Lisa

Malor_ referring to an erratic sensor inthe experiment, said, 'We can't get an indication

that it's on or off. We are goingto try to see what's causing the problem and then fix it."

The prob .lem is described as minor. Work scheduled: Installation of two contingency

space suits in the aldock next week; purges of the external tank; installation of doors on

the =atcompartment for flight, next week; beginning of launch countdown at 4 p.m. EDT

July 28; launch of STS 46 at 9:56 a.m. EDT on July 31, 1992. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m., July 16, 19921; Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, July 16, 1992.]

STS 47:. ENDEAVOUR IN OPF BAY3

Functional tests of Endeavour's forward reeotion control system have been completed;

the Orbiter is undergoing processing acthntl"es in OPF Bay 3. Work in progress: servicing

Spacelab J cooling lines; weparatlons to service freon coolant loop No. 1; testing of the

Ku-band antenna; leak and functional tests of the main propulsion system. Work

scheduled: Interface verification test between Spacelab J and Endeavour;, installation of

the three main enginas next week. [KSC SHUTFLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., July 16,

1992t.]

g COLUMB_ OPF PROCESSING ACTIVmES

The Space Shuttle Columbia (OV 102) is being readied for itsSTS 52 mission in OPF Bay

1. Work in progress: preparations to remove the USML tunnel; preparations to deservice

residual hypergolic propellants; inspectk)ns of the radiators; post-flight inspections of the

windows and main engines. Removal of the United States Microgravity Laboratory-1 is

scheduled for this weekend. Discovery (OV 103) is in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 2

undergoing leak checks of the auxiliary power unit system; preparations to install the left

orbital maneuvering system (OMS) pod; leak and functional tests of the main propulsion

system; filling and bleeding of the hydraulic system; testing of the right OMS pod. [KSC

SHU1TI.E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., July 16, 1992.]

V

14o V
I1 STS 46: PROBLEMS SOLVED

_._j/

An electronics assembly in an experiments package was found to be the cause of a

payload problem in Atlantis; the problem unit was removed for repairs, officials said, and

Atlantis remains on schedule for launch July 31. The repairs to the electronics assembly

will be carried out in the Operations & Checkout (O&C) Building in the KSC Industrial

Area. When repairs are complete, the unit will be reinstalled in the experiment package

next week and tested. Technicians also removed a faulty computer monitor aboard

Atlantis; the unit will be replaced by launch pad technicians, according to KSC

spokeswoman Usa Malone. Crew members recently discovered that the monitor's

brightnees may not be up to standards. Both pmblerns were considered minor and no

impediment to an on-schedule launch, of STS 46. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 6A,

July 17, 1992; KSC SHU'I'rl.E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., July 17, 1992.]

July 17:. 46: _-LAUNCH WORK CONTINUES

n

At Launch Complex 39B, pre-launch work continues on Atlantis: closeouts of the aft

compartment; cleaning of the aft compartment; inspections of the thermal protection

system base heat shield; installation of the hold down post blast shield. Work scheduled:

Installation of two contingency space suits in the alrlock; purges of the external tank;

installation of doors on the aft compartment for flight next week. No work is scheduled

this weekend at the pad, according to KSC spokeswoman Lisa Mak_ne. 'Just about

everyone has the weekend off,' she said. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m.,

July 17, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, July 18, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY,

p. 1A, July 19, 1992.]

ENO VOUR: CHUTE IST, UEO

In preparation for its second mission - STS 47 - technicians in OPF Bay 3 have installed

the Orbiter's drag chute: Work in progress: servicing Spacelab-J cooling lines;

preparations to service freon coolant loop No. 1; testing of the Ku-band antenna; leak and

functional tests of the main propulsion system. Work scheduled: interface verification

test between Spacelab-J and the Orbiter will occur this weekend; installation of the three

main engines next week. [KSC SHU/'rI.E STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., July 17, 1992.]

I1 COLUMBIA: PAYLOAD OPER_...TIONSRECORDER DUMPED

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 1, technicians are processing Columbia which has just

returned from its STS 50 mission. The Payload Operations Recorder has been dumped

and the United States Microgravity Laboratory-1 was removed yesterday. The USML-1

arrived at the Operations & Checkout Building at 11:45 a.m. today. Work in progress:

preparations to deservice residual hypergolic propellants; inspections of the radiators;

post-flight inspections of the windows and main engines. In OPF Bay 2, technicians are

processing Discovery and are engaged in these activities: tests of the waste containment

system; leak checks of the auxiliary power unit system; preparations to install the left

orbital maneuvering system (OMS) pod; leak and functional tests of the main propulsion

system; filling and bleeding of the hydraulic system. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT,

10 a.m., July 17, 1992;Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, July 18, 1992.]

141
July20: ENDEAVOUR GETS. ENGINES TODAY

In OPF Bay 3, workers will begin installing Endeavour's engines; meanwhile workers at

Launch Complex 39B continue to prepare Atlantis for its July 31 launch of the STS 46

mission. Closeouts of Atlantis's rear engine compartment begin today as well as stowing

two spacesuits in the Orbiter's airlock. ['KSC to Install Engines on Endeavour Today,"

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, July 20, 1992.]

v

g STS 46: PRE-LAUNCH ACTNmES

Close outs of the aft compartment and avionics bays of Atlantis are underway at Launch

Complex 39B in preparation for the July 31 liltoff of STS 46. Other work in progress:

cleaning of the aft compartment; power up testing; retest of the pilot's CRT monitor;

installation of two contingency space suits in the airiock. Work scheduled: purges of the

external tank; Installation ofthe doors on the aft compartment for flight next week. The

launch countdown for STS 46 begins at 4 p.m. on July 28 with liftoff coming at 9:56 a.m.

EDT July 31. [KSC SHU'I'rt_ ST._TU$ REPORT, 10 a.m., July 20, 1992.]

11 SPACELAB-J TESTS COMPLETED/ENDEAVOUR

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, technicians have completed interface verification tests

between Spacelab-J and Endeavour;, the Spacelab tunnel was installed yesterday and

freon coolant loop No. 1 was serviced. Work in progress: installation of the three main

engines for STS 47; preparations for crew equipment interface test; hookups of the waste

containment system; sacudng the right hand wheel to the landing gear. [KSC SHUTTLE

STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., July 20, 1992.]

n COLUMBIA/DBCOVERY PROCESSING

Residual hypergoUc propellants have been drained from Columbia this weekend in OPF

Bay 1 where the Orbiter is being processed for its STS 52 mission. Work in progress:

disconnecting equipment used to deservice hypergolic propellants and removing thermal

blankets around the extended duration Orbiter (EDO) pellet. The pallet is scheduled to

be removed July 22. Discovery continues processing activities looking toward itsSTS 53

mission for the Department of Defense. In he Hypergolic Maintenance Facility tests are

underway on Discovery's forward reaction control system and the left orbital maneuvering

system pod. Leak checks are being conducted on the Orbiter's auxiliary power unit

system; preparations have begun to install the left orbital maneuvering system (OMS)

pod; leak and functional tests of the main propulsion system and filling and bleeding of

the hydraulic system have also started. [KSC SHUTn.E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., July

2o, 19 ]

V

g GOLD ; RUSSU INrnATM S

Following a 7-day trip to Russia and the Ukraine, NASA Administrator Daniel S. Gold'm

today announced plans for the United States and Russia to implement the agreements

Presidents Bush and Yeltsin announced on June 17, 1992. The Administrator said

significant progress was made in developing a plan to carry out a wide range of projects

in concert with the Russian space program, including expansion of cooperation in life

sciences and global change research, the exchange of an American astronaut and

Russian cosmonaut, and a Space Shuttle rendezvous and docking with the Russian Mir

space station. 'In our relationship with Russia, we need to start slowly and deliberately

142
to build a strong foundation of cooperation," Goldin said. 'In this way, we will ensure that

what we do together will be successful, both technically and scientifically.'

Goldin said much had been leamed on the interagency trip, which was jointly led by

National Space Council Executive Secretary Brian Dailey, and which was agreed upon by

Vice President Quayle and President Yeitsin in a meeting last month. The delegation

included Assistant Secretary of the Air Force Ma_n Fega and representatives from the

National Security Council, State Department and the Central Intelligence Agency. 'The

delegation had the opportunity to take a closer look at Soyuz-TM, the Russian Docking

_jstem and at their human spaceflight operation,' Gloldin said. "We also learned a lot

about the capabilitias of the Mir space station and discussed ways to expand critical life

sciences and global change research.'

Goldin said both the United States and Russia agreed to encourage private companies

to expand their research for new commercial space business and agreed to facilitate

appropriate contacts. Both countries also agreed that the docking mission planned in

1994 with Russia would highlight biomedical science. NASA and the Russian Space

Agency agreed - pending an appropriate review and approval of the governments of the

two countries - to continue the activities now underway by the five working groups

established under the 1987 joint agreement with the Russian Academy of Sciences.

Additional initiatives will be undertaken by the Working Group of Space Biology and

Medicine which will now concern itself with life support systems.

The agreement also that the I:_lJes:

** study the possible use of Mir for long lead-time life scterces research;

** : establish a new working group to develop a plan to enhance cooperation on

global change research (Mission to Planet Earth);

** recommend cooperative biomedical research projects for future missions,

including the missions invoMng ¢Kchenge of a Russian cosmonaut and an Amedcan

astronaut and the SPaCe. Shuttle/Mir rendezvous and docking mission;

** study the feasibility of further enhancing the biomedical capabilities of Mir using

instruments from the U.S.; and

** study the possibility of closed-loop life support expedments with humans over

different pedods of time and to define the requirements for long duration missions.

Goldin said he also discussed the acquisition by the United States of a small Russian

lander to cam/U.S, experiments that would be one of three landers flown on the Russian

Mars '94 mission. The Russian and Ukraine trip followed a series of meetings between

President Bush and Yeitsin during the June summit in Washington when they discussed

a series of space initimive¢ At the summit, Bush and Yeltsin signed the Joint Statement

on Cooperation in Space. Goldin and Yud Kopmv, Director of the Russian Space Agency,

also ratified the 1992 United States-Russien Space Cooperation Agreement. [NASA/KSC

News Release NO. 92-t16, July 20, 1992; '1993 Shuttle May Carry Russian,' THE

ORLANDO SENTINEL, July 17, 1992; "Officials: Russian May Fly On Shuttle By October

'93,' FLORIDA TODAY, July 17, 1992.]
July21: PLOTS (;FIT RP-IESI IdJ

At Launch Complex 39B, technicians have tested the STS 46 Pilot's repiacement monitor.

Work in progress on Atlantis: installation of the repaired electronics assembly for the

EOIM payload environmental monitoring package; closeouts of the aft compartment and

avionics bays; power up testing; retest of the Pilot's CRT; installation of two contingency

space suits in the Orbiter's airlock. Work scheduled: purges of the external tank;

installation of doors on the aft compartmentfor flight this week; the start of the launch

countdown is still planned for 4:00 p.m. EDT July 28 with launch on July 31 at 9:56 a.m.

EDT. fKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., July 21, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY,

p. 2A, July 22, 1992.]

V

D STS47: ENDFAVOURpl x ssa, le

In Orbiter Processing Bay 3, technicians have Installed engine No. 2026 in the number

1 position on Endeavour and aligned the Spacelab tunnel adapter. Work in progress:

installing engine No. 2022 in the number 2 position; preparations for crew equipment

interface test; hookups of the waste containment system; leak and functional testing of

the auxiliary power system; installation of seep stations. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT. 10 a.m., July 21, 1992_]

g COLUMBIA: RADIATOR "rESTS COMPt.ETED

In OPF Bay 1, technicians have finished functional tests of Columbia's radiators and will

be reamving the extended duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet on July 22_ Presently, workers

are removing thermal blankets around the EDO; removing heat shields and removing

window number 4. Meanwhile, in the Hypergolic Maintenance Facility, technicians are

conducting tests of Discovew's forward reaction control system _-_e left orbital

meneuvedng system pod. In OPF Bay 2, workers am conducting leak checks of the

auxiliary power unit system; preparing to Install the left orbital maneuvering system (OMS)

pod on July 23; leak and functional tests of the main propulsion system; hydraulic system

testing; leak checks of the galley; painting areas of the midbody. [KSC SHUTTLE

STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., July 21, 1992.]

v

JuJy22: STS 46: SPACE SUITS INSTAl 11:11

Two contingency space suits have been installed in the aidock of Atlantis as it awaits

launch at Launch Complex 39B; workers have also installed baggies on the engine low

pressure fuel ducts. Work in progress: stowing equipment in the crew module; retest of

the repaired electronics assembly for the EOIM payload environmental monitoring

package; closeouts of the aft compartment and the avionics bay of Atlantis. Work

scheduled: purges of the external tank; final ordnance operetJons on July 24; installation

of aft compamnent doors on July 23; countdown scheduled to begin at 4:00 p.m. July 28

and the STS 46 crew arrives at 7:30 p.m. Launch remains slated for July 31 at 9:56 a.m.

[KSC SHUTI'L.E STATUS RE,PORT, 10 a.m., July 22, 1992.]

g ENDEAVOUR: MAIN ENGINL_ INb_l'Aiu

In preparation for its upcoming STS 47 mission, Endeavour has had its three main

engines installed during processing activities in OPF Bay 3. Work in progress:

connections of the three main engines; preparations to install the Spacelab tunnel;

preparations for crew equipment interface test; leak and functional testing of the auxiliary
powerunits;installationof sleepstations.

July 22, 1992.]

[KSC SHLrl-rLE STATUS REPORT, 10 am.,

g STS 52/53 PROCESSING ACTIVITIES

The Space Shuttle Columbia is being processed in OPF Bay 1. Work in progress:

removing the extended duration Orbiter (EDO) pallet; removal of heat shields; removal of

window no. 4. Discovery, located in OPF Bey 2, also has a number of processing

activities underway: tests of the forward reaction control system and the left orbital

rnanauvedng system pod; leak and funotional tests of the rnaln propulsion system;

hydraulic system testing; leak checks of the galley; painting areas of the midbody.

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 am., July 22, 1992.]

n I_.E_ICS ASSEMBLY PASSES RETEST

At Launch Complex 39B, a repaired electronics assembly in an experiment package

passed its retest;the experiment is stored aboard Atlantis for itsSTS 46 flight. Last week,

engineers were not able to determine whether the device was turning on or off properly.

KSC spokeswoman Lisa Malone said today that the part had been cleared for the July

31 flight if Atlantis. Halvorson, _IDA TODAY, p. 8A, July 23, 1992.]

8 GEOTNL LAUNCH

'We're right on schedule,' said Jim Womack, NASA's Director of Unmanned Launch

Vehicle Operations at Kennedy Space Center. The launch of the Geotail spacecraft

aboard a Delta II rocket is scheduled for Fddey, July 24. The launch window - only five

minutes in duration - extends from 10:26 to 10:31 am. EDT. rNASA/KSC News Release

No. 96-92,, July 22, 1992; Banke FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, July 24, 1992; "Delta 2 Blasts

Off,' FLORIDA TODAY. pp. 1A & 6A, July 25, 1992.]

g eOkmN MEMOTO NASAE eLOYL=ES

You may have read or heard about an article that recently appeared in the media, falsely

claiming there is a plan to make 500 high level reductions in the workforce (RIFs) at NASA

headquarters on August 1, 1992. For the record, the news article is completely false. I

believe it may have odginated from proposed legislation in Congress to reduce NASA's

Research and Program Management (FI & PM) funding for FY 1993. I was asked at a

press conference to comment on the news story and responded forcefully: "That (the

news stow) is absolutely, positively not true. I don't know who came up with that, but

they are off on a tangent. There are not plans to have a RIF at NASA headquarters and

this Administrator is going to fight to retain a reasonable amount of R & PM funds so we

don't have to have a RIF." [Gok:l_ "Memorandum to All NASA Employees," July 22,

1 J2.1

July 23: PcC TO SE DEDCATB;)

NASA's Kennedy Space Center will next week host a dedication ceremony for the recently

constructed Space Shuttle Processing Control Center (PCC). The event will take place

at 9 a.m. July 29. The PCC is a three-story, 99,000-square-foot facility dedicated to Space

Shuttle Orbiter testing, launch team training and Launch Processing System (LPS)

maintenance. The building houses control rooms for Orbiter processing and will provide

_.._.t 145
SpaceShuttleengineersand technicianswithstate-of-the-artareasto improveand

maintain their skills during pre- and post-flight Orbiter processing flows,

Each of the PCC's three floors is designed to serve a specific purpose. The facility's first

floor consists of offices, workshops and laboratories for the maintenance and testing of

LPS and related equipment. The second floor contains additional office space and areas

for launch team training and computer software production. Orbiter control rooms

dominate the PCC's third floor. The ceremony's featured speakers will include KSC

Director Robert L Cdppen, KSC Director of Shuttle Management and Operations Jay

I-ioneycult and James Towies, iCSC's Director of Facilities Engineering and Project

Management. The PCC is located in the Launch Complex 39 area, between the Orbiter

Processing Facility and the Operations Support Building. The $8.9 million building was

designed and built by The Haskell Company (Jacksonville, FL); construction of the facility

began on May 29, 1991. rNASA/KSC News Release No. 99-92, July 23, 1997-]

V

2¢ STS RNALORDNANC OPERAT NS

In preparation for the STS 46 launch, technicians at Launch Complex 39B have

completed final ordnance operations, purged the extemai tank of Atlantis and installed

the doors on the aft compartment for flight. Work in progress: closeouts of the payload;

closeouts of ordnance areas on the vehicle; stowing equipment in the crew module;

launch countdown preparations. Pressurization of the hypergollc propellant tanks for

launch has been scheduled. The launch countdown is set to begin at 4 p.m. EDT July

28; the STS 46 crew is expected to ardve at KSC at 7:30 p.nt EDT. Launch remains set

for 9.56 a.m. EDT. IKSC SHUTrLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., July 24, 1992; 'KSC to

Rnish Work on Exploaive_' FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, July 24, 1992.]

n w K)OWee REMOVED _am

V

In OPF Bay 1, technicians have removed the heat shields from Columbia and have

removed window number 6. Technicians are Inspecting the Orbiter's main engines and

making post-ST8 50 inspections of the vehicle's radiators. In OPF Bay 1, work in

progress for the upcoming STS 47 flight of Endeavour includes: connections of the three

main engines; installation of the Spacelab tunnel; preparations for crew equipment

Interface test; tests of the Ku-band and Tacan antennas; installation of sleep stations. In

OPF Bay 2, technicians _ preparing to install the left orbital maneuvering system pod

in Discovery. Other work in progress: leak and functional test of the main propulsion

system; filling and bleeding of the hydraulic system testing; painting areas of the

midbody; leak and functional testing of the auxiliary power units. Scheduled: instailation

of the left orbital maneuvering system pod this weekend and installation of the three main

engines starting on August 3. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., July 24, 199?_]

g ADMNS'rRATORREFORMSPROCUREMENTR=KCESS

NASA Administrator Daniel S. _ today announced a series of procurement reforms

to make NASA the model of excellence for the Federal Government and ensure

Americans receive the very best value for their tax dollar. 'Through a focus on the

customer, empowerment, teamwork with our partners in industry, accountability and

diversity, we can achieve our goal and serve as a beacon to others,' Goldin said in a

speech to the National Contract Management Association in Los Angeles. Goldin said

reforms in NASA's procurement process are necessary because 90 percent of the budget

is spent through contracts.

146 V

i
'We must continue to give the American people technical advances, but we must also

give them 'best' value for their tax dollar," the Administrator said. 'In the future, NASA will

not tolerate 300 percent cost overruns, defective spacecraft hardware or the failure to

follow work instructions that protect government furnished hardware. Nor will we tolerate

schedule slippages. We can't keep letting months turn into years and years into

decades.' According to Goldin, the current procurement system teaches people to fear

making any mistakes. 'Everyone involved in the acquisition process is swimming in

certifications. Instead, we should be encouraging innovation, creativity and efficiency."

He said NASA and contractor personnel wiUnever achieve excellence ifthey are not given

clear Unes of responsibility and held accountable for their de(dsions.

Major changes in the procurement process include:

*New contracts will be swarded to companies that have demonstrated they are

accountable by delivering quality systems that meet cost, schedule and technical

requirements; and

*The amount of the award fee earned will be determined by the end result, namely the

quality, timeliness and cost of what is delivered;

*Contractors will be given greater responsibility for success of a program, and should be

givan the opportunity for increased award fee if they hold to schedule, keep the program

within cost estimates and deliver a satisfactory report.

To determine a contractor performance, Goldin said NASA will soon establish a joint

NASA-Industry team to develop a source of 'meMcs' or measurements. "Once the

metrics are emblished, NASA will publish the results on a generic basis, without

identifying specific contractors. On a semi-annual basis, we will notify each CEO where

their company stands," Goldin said. Finally, Goldln said NASA will aggressively promote

cultural diversity In the work place and reaching its goal for Small and Disadvantaged

Business (SDB) conv'ac_ "As Administrator of NASA, I have made a personal

commitment to increasing cultural diversity in the workplace and to increasing the

contracting opportunities for small and disadvantaged contracts," Goldin said.

The Administrator said NASA had implemented a range of initiatives to increase the

number of SDB contracts, including:

*SDB considerations are part of NASA's earliest procurement planning, and are

emphasized in acquisition strategy meetings or in procurement plans; and

*In many of NASA's large pdme contracts, NASA is establishing firm percentages of the

effort to be subcontracted to SDBs and will reward those contractors with special

incentive fees when they exceed the SDB requirement.

•Small and disadvantaged businesses need assistance above and beyond sst-asides,"

Goldin said. "In the coming months we will be setting up a new 'minority business

resource advisory committee' in NASA to help us bdng more SDB contractors into the

NASA family,' he said. "Each of us as professionals and as citizens has an obligation to

help overcome the barriers that divide us as a nation. The Los Angeles dots were visual

proof that we must redouble our effortsto help our minority citizens tum their dreams into

realities," Goldin concluded. I'NASA/KSC News Release No. 92-123, July 24, 1992;

NASA/KSC News Release No. 92-123A, July 27, 1992.]

_-J 147
All.ANTIS THERMOSTAT FIXED

Workers at Launch Complex 39B today repaired a thermostat located in the aft

compartment of the Space Shuttle Atlantis which is awaiting the start of its STS 46

mission on July 31. The thermostat is part of a heater for one of the Orbiter's three APUs.

The faulty thermostat was detected after workers had sealed the aft compartment and

were conducted a last test of the section, according to Kennedy Space Center

spokesman Bruce Buckinglwm. Officials anticipated no delay in the schedule for launch

at 9:56 a.m. EDT July 31. The 8"1"846 crew Includes Commander Loren J. ,?_Ylver,Pilot

Andrew M..Alert, Mission Specialists ClmKle Nicoie', Marsha 8. Ivins, Jelfrey A. I-Ioffmmt

and Fialdd_ FL C_ and Payload Specialist Franco Malerlbe of Italy. [Banke,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, July 26, 1992.]

July 26: TSS-1HASORDN/U ICEB -'T/U.UED

At Launch Complex 39B, technicians have installed explosive devices on the Tethered

Satellite System now located in the cargo bay of Atlantis. The ordnance will enable

astronauts aboard the STS 46 mission to deploy the TS8-1, an italian-made spacecraft

which is designed to demonstrate the use of a tether to generate electricity. [Brown,

FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, July 27, 199Z]

Ju_y 27: 81"8 46:. THE_iMO_'AT I_==::_=P_u

Workers re-entered the aft compartment of Atlantis July 25 to replace and retest a heater

thermostat for atadllanj power unit number 3. The flight doors were re-installed on the aft

compartment for flight July 26; batteries were installed for the Tethered Satellite and they

hypergolic propellant tanks were pressurized for launch. Work in progress: verifying the

hazardous gas detection system at Launch Complex 39B; closeouts of the payload;

stowing equipment in the crew module; launch countdown preparations; washdown of

the pad surface _ flame trench. The countdown for STS 46 is set to begin at 4 p.m.

EDT tomorrow and the crew will arrive later, at about 7:30 p.m. NASA spokeswoman Usa

Malone said, "The team spent several months getting Atlantis ready to fly. We're going

to be real excited getting into the countdown, and we're really looking forward to launch

on Friday. Launch remains targeted for July 31 at 9:56 a.m. EDT. NASA Lead Flight

Director Charles "Chud_ Shaw said, 'This will probably be the most unique mission we've

ever flown on the Space Shuttle, and arguably the most complex mission that we've ever

flown. This mission has provided us with an awful lot of challenges, but I think we've

dsan to the occasion. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., July 27, 1992;

Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, July 28, 1992.]

V

ENDEAVOUR:. CEn" COMPLETED

Endeavour's Crew Equipment Interface Test for STS 47 has been completed and the

Spacelab Tunnel has been Installed in the Orbiter, Work in progress: leak checks of the

main engines and main propulsion system; leak tests of the Spacelab Tunnel; inspections

of the radiators; installation of the sleep stations, rKSC SHUTrl.E STATUS REPORT, 10

a.m., July 27, 1992.]

I1 COLUMBIA & DISCOVERY: _SSING STATUS

In OPF Bay 1, technicians have daserviced lube oil from Columbia's auxiliary power units

and are preparing the Orbiter for removal of the forward reaction control system and for
post-STS50 inspectionsof the radiators. In OPFBay 2, workershave installed

Discovery'sleftorbitalmaneuveringsystempodanddeservicedthefreon coolant loops.

Work in progress on OV 103: installation of main engine number 1; final connections of

the left orbital maneuvering system pod; filling and bleeding of the hydraulic system; leak

and functional tests of the auxiliary power units. [KSC SHU'I-rLE STATUS REPORT, 10

elm., July 27, 1992.]

July 28: SIrS 46; I_UNCH MINUS THREE DAYS

As the countdown for _ 46 starts today, NASA Lead Flight Director Cltadas "Chuck'

Shaw said, el'his will probably be the most unique mission we_/e ever flown on the Space

Shuttle, and arguably the most complex mission that we've ever flown. This mission has

provided us with an awful lot of challenges, but I think we've risen to the occasion. It's

probably going to usher in a new way of doing business in Earth Orbit." The STS 46

crew is expected to arrive about 7:30 p.m. tonight. KSC spokeswoman Lisa Malone said,

'The team's spent several months getting Atlantis ready to fly. We're going to be real

excited getting into the countdown, and we're really looking forward to launch on Friday

(July31).'

_...J

The pad surface and flame trench at Launch Complex 39B have been washed down in

preparation for the STS 46 launch of Atlantis, July 31. Work in progress: closeouts of

the payload and charging the batteries of the EURECA payload; stowing equipment in

the crew module; removing covers from the reaction control system thrusters; launch

countdown preparations. Work scheduled: closing the payload bay doors for flight at

about 5 elm. July 29; loading of cwogenlc reactants into the Orbiter's onboard fuel cell

storage tanks In the afternoon of July 29; beginning tanking operation at 1:36 elm. on

July 31; launch at 9:56 elm. EDT. There is a 90 percent chance of having acceptable

weather conditions at the time of launch; the temperature is expected to be 91 degrees

and no rain is forecast. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, July 28, 1992; KSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., July 28, 1992; Date, THE ORLp,NI;E) SENTINEL

July 29, 1992; Wilford, THE NEpN YORK TIMES. pp. B5 & B7, July 28, 1992.]

n E_,IDEAVOUR: GALLEY 1--P_STCOMPLETED

A functional test of Endeavour's galley has been completed as have leak tests of the

Spacelab Tunnel. Work in progress: preparation to flush the ammonia system;

replacement of the mission elapsed timer;, leak checks of the main engines and main

propulsion system; functional test of the radiators and installation of the sleep stations.

[KSC SHUI"FLE STATUS REPORT. 10 elm., July 28, 1992.]

[1 STS 52: I:q:EPARATIONS CONTINUE ON COLUMBIA

The Space Shuttle Columbia continues to be processed for its next mission - STS 57_

Work in progress: preparations to remove the forward reaction control system; post-STS

50 inspections of the radiators; removing fuel cell No. 2; leak and functional tests of the

main propulsion system. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 elm., July 28, 1992.]

I1 DISCOVERY: MAIN ENGINE NO. 1 INSTALLED

Main engine number 1 has been installed in Discovery and the left orbital maneuvering

system pod has been electrically mated to the Orbiter. Work in progress: installing main

engine number 3; tests of the Tacan system; preparations to install the forward reaction

v 149
controlsystem;fillingandbleedingofthehydraulicsystem; leak and functional tests of

the auxiliary power units. The installation of the No. 3 main engine and the forward

reaction control system have been scheduled. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10

a.m., July 28, 1992.]

g RRST PERSONAl, COMPUTER CONTRACTS AWARDED

Kennedy Space Center has awarded first-of-a-kind contracts to three firms under NASA's

Personal Computer Acquisition Contract Program. Throughout the 5-year life of the

contracts, the three companies must compete against each other for NASA orders to

supply personal computer (PC) hardware and software to Kennedy Space Center and

other NASA locations. The companies are General Technology, Inc. (Costa Mesa, CA);

Atlanta Technologies, Inc. (Atlanta, GA); and International Data Products Corp.

(Gaithersburg, MD). The contract period of performance is from July 2, 1992, to July 1,

1994, with three additional 1-year optional pedods.

Under the terms of the fixed price contract, all three companies will receive portions of a

$37,674,000 award, with a minimum amount oP$180,000 going to each firm. The actual

purchases of PC hardware and software depend on which small business company is

able to provide the lowest pdcas and best performance during a quarterly time period.

Although vendors may renegotlate current prices every 3 months, they cannot increase

pdcas above the contract negotiated prices and they must fumish current technology

items. NASA has established this competitive arrangement so that the agency can be.

assured of a steady supply of high-quality products for the best pdce. Kennedy Space

Center wig purchase computers and software under this contract to be used in a variety

of technical and administrative support functions. Other NASA centers and organizations

also may order PC equipment and software through the KSC-managed contract.

--rNASA_¢ N_vs-Relea_-N6. _-_ruly-28, "I092:T : '- - -

July 29: Sq'8 4_: LAUNCH MINUS TWO DAY_J

The flight crew for STS 46 ardved at Kennedy Space Center yesterday at 9:15 p.m., not

quite two hours later than expected. The launch countdown began at 4:00 p.m. as

planned. The main engine controllers were powered up for preJaunch tests; the Orbiter's

navigation system was activated; preparations were begun to load liquid oxygen and

liquid hydrogen reactants into the Orbiter's fuel cell storage tanks. Today the crew

performed checks of their flight equipment and were briefed on the status of launch

readiness. Commander Loren J. Shdver and Pilot Andrew M. Allen flew in the Shuttle

Training Aircraft. Forecasters predicted a 95 percent chance of having acceptable

weather conditions at the time of launch on July 31; the temperature is expected to be

at 85 degrees with no rain. Work in progress: verification of six electrical connectors

between Atlantis and the Tethered Satellite System pallet; removing platforms from the

crew module; countdown entered its first hold on time. Work scheduled: closing the

payload bay doors for flight this afternoon; loading reactants; activating the Orbiter's

communications system; tanking operations beginning at 1:36 a.m. July 31. [KSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., July 29, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, July 29,

1992i Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, July 30, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, July 29,

1992.]

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ENDEAVOUR: RADIATOR TEST FINISHED

Endeavour's radiator functional test was completed today; interface testing between the

main propulsion system and the main engines was also finished. Work in progress:

flushing of the ammonia system; retesting the mission elapsed timer; leak checks of the

main engines and main propulsion system; functional tests of the radiators; installation

of the sleep stations. [KSC SHU'I'I'LE STATUS REPORT. 10 elm., July 29, 1992.]

G01_MBIA: FUELCELL2 REPLACED

The number 2 fuel cell of Columbia has been replaced during processing activities in OPF

Bay 1. Work in progress: preparations to remove the forward reaction control system;

post-flight (STS 50) inspections of the radiators; leak and functional tests of the main

propulsion system and replacement of the number 3 fuel cell. [KSC SHUTI'LE STATUS

REPORT, 10 elm., July 29, 1992.]

DISCOVERY: MAIN E_GINI_ INSTA[_

workers processing Discovery In OPF Bay 2 have installed the Orbiter's three main

engines. Work in progress: connections of the main engines; preparations to install the

heat shields around the engines; tests of a thruster on the left orbital maneuvering system.

pod; preparations to installthe forward reaction control system; filling and bleeding of the

hydraulic system; leak and functional tests of the auxiliary power units. The forward

reec'don control system has been scheduled for Installation in Discovery. [KSC SHU'I'I'LE

STA'i'U8 REPORT. 10 elm., July 29, 1992.]

STS 46: LAUNCH DAY MINUS ONE

Technicians at Launch Complex 39B successfully verified six electrical connections

between the Orbiter and the Tethered Satellite System pallet. They closed the) payload

bay doors of Atlantis at 4:50 p.m. July 29; loaded liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen

reactants into Atlantis' fuel cell storage tanks by midnight last night and activated the

Orbiter's communications system. Work in progress: the countdown for launch entered

a planned built-in hold at 8 a.m. at the "1"-11hour mark and the count picked up again at

7:36 p.m.; relieved a small pressure build-up from auxiliary power unit number 3 in the

aft compartment; prepared to move the rotating service structure away from Atlantis

between 6 and 7 p.m.; stowed critical items inthe crew cabin; configured switches on the

flight deck for launch; filled the sound suppression system water tank. Work scheduled:

begin tanking operation at 1:36 elm. July 31 looking toward a 9:56 elm. launch tomorrow.

Associate NASA Administrator _ W. Pearson, IlL said, 'ff we get the satellite out

and get the data, that's success, ff we get the satellite back, we're heroes. The crew

members continued their preparations for launch day. Commander of the crew is Loren

J. Shdver and the pilot is lnJrew M. Alan. Mission Specialists are Claude Nicoff'mrfrom

the European Space Agency, Mamtm S. Ivins,Jeffrey A. Hoffman and Frankrm R. CharcjDiaz. The Payload Specialist is Franco Malerba from the Italian Space Agency. Earlier

today, the crew was bdefed on the status of launch readiness and weather conditions;

they also flew in T-38 trainers this morning. Forecasters put the chance of launch at 95%.

[KSC SHU3"R.E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., July 30, 1992; WUford, THE NEW YORK

TIMES, p. A12, July 31, 1992.]

151
g ASBESTO_ IN 90% OF KSC BUILDtNC_

NASA's Inspector General's office has issued a report which says that asbestos, in one

form or another, is found in 90% of the buildings at Kennedy Space Center. 'It will not

stop us from launching Shuttles,' said Butt S_ NASA Pollution Control and

Sanitation Officer. "We have the people trained and appropriately equipped to deal with

whatever repair or removals would be necessary to deal with asbestos problems as they

arise.' He said that, as far as he was aware, there were no worker complaints concerning

asbestos-related health problems. ['Asbestos Problems Could Cdpple KSC, Report Says,"

THE ORLANDO SENTINEL p. 1A, July 31, 1992.]

g SpAC FrAT 0N VOTE CONGRESS

Today, NASA Administrator Daniel 8. _ Issued a statement on Congress's action

concerning the Space Station Program: "The American people won a great victory this

week as the House of Representatives voted to continue building Space Station Freedom.

As I listened to the debate in the Hous_ Chamber and watched the vote tally grow, I was

proud that in these difficult economic times, Congress saw the wisdom in investing in our

future. This successful vote would not have been possible without the dedication and

hard work of many: NASA employees at the headquarters and centers, our contractor

teammates, and many other concerned Americans who recognize the importance of

extending human presence in space.

President Bush wrote a strong letter in support of Space Station Freedom, and Vice

President Quayb made numerous phone calls to undecided congressmen. It was not

just a victory for NASA, but for a nation that desperately needs the research and

technology ttm¢will come from a permanent facility in space. Even the Space Station's

opponents sent us a useful message. Many of them support the space program, but

have become concerned over the years with overruns, slipped schedules, and mission

failures. In building Space Station Freedom, we must make it the hallmark of the new

NASA - a NASA that does things better, faster, and cheaper 2. without compromising

safety. Freedom represents our toughest engineering and operatlonai challenge to date.

So we must make extra efforts to bdng this project in on time and on budget. Only

through a commitment to total quality and continuous Improvement can we prove that the

magic is back at NASA.

V

The American people have made a big investment in Space Station Freedom, and they

expect a big return. They look to NASA for inspiration, hope, and opportunity. Now it's

time to deliver like never before. With the expedence and knowledge gained from the

Space Station, we'll be ready to go back to the Moon and start exploring Mars. Lincoln

said, "The struggle of today is not altogether for today - it [is] for a vast future also." I

believe we will continue to be bold and keep reaching out. We will never give up the

quest of exploration. That is our dream. That is our desire. And that is our destiny.

Again, thanks to everyone who helped keep the dream alive. [Goldin, "Memoralndum for

All N_S.A and KSC and JP.L Emp!oyees," July 30, 1992; 'House Spares Space Station,"

FLORIDA TODAY, pp. 1A-2A, July 30, 1992; Holton, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL, pp. A-1

& A-6, July 30, 1992.]

July 31: TEACHERS COMPLETE NASA WORKSHOP

Twelve junior high and high school teachers from Brevard County schools recently

completed the two-week NASA-Brevard Links Academic Skills with Technology (NASA152 V

i
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BLAST) workshop held at John F. Kennedy Space Center July 20-31. The teachers were

selected for the workshop by the Brevard County School System. The NASA-BLAST

program provides an in-depth opportunity for these instructors, who teach mathematics,

science and technology to grades 7-12, to learn more about space science and

technology. While at KSC, they work directly with agency engineers and scientists.

NASA-BLAST is also designed to inform teachers about NASA's educational programs

and materials.

The NASA-BLAST program participants were: Dr. Aiexancka Per=l, program coordinator,

Cocoa High School; Rachel Capem and James Pug_ both of Titusville High School;

Michael Dune, Southwest Junk)r High School, Palm Bay; i I-lausman, Roosevelt

School Cocoa Beach; Sara Jones, Janice _ and Ch_yl Warren, Merritt Island

High School; Cora _ John F. Kennedy Middle School, Rockledge; James LaCoy,

Astronaut High School, "l'mJSville;Celeste Ros_ Edgewood Junior High School, Merrltt

Island; and Deborah Ann Wilson, Andrew Jackson Middle School. Another integral part

of the workshop is a session in which the teachers from the three disciplines work

together to develop classroom programs that combine elements of their respective

teaching.fields. By using this approach, a technology instructor, for example, will be able

to teach some math and science. This combination of curricula will help to provide a

broader education for the students. On the first day of the workshop, the NASA-BLAST

group was welcomed by KSC Deputy Director Gene Thomas, Jay F. Honeycutt, Director

of Shuttle Management and Operations, exp_ned how the Shuttle and _s payloads are

processed and launched at the Center. [NA_A/KSC News Release No. 100-92. July 31,

1992`]

_40:40 ,_11_ LAUNGH DELAY

Atlantis was launched this morning at 9:56:48.0684 eLm. EDT. Ultoff was delayed about

40 seconds as the countdown clock held briefly at the T minus 5 minute mark while the

Orbiter's computers verified that the cockpit switches for the auxiliary power units were

in the proper configuration to start the APUs. NASA Launch Director Brewster H. Shaw,

Jr. said, "It was really a pkme of cake countdown, so to speak.* The small delay in

launching kept Atlantis from being the firstSpace Shuttle since Challenger to have an ontime liftoff. Very little pad damage was reported from the launch. Both solid rocket

boosters were to be towed to Hangar AF on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on August

1. Landing of Atlantis is planned for Kennedy Space Center's Shuffle Landing Facility on

August 7 at 8:09 a.m.EDT. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, July 31, 1992; KSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 elm., Aug. 3, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, pp. 1A-2A,

Aug. 1, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SENTI.N..E.L,pp. A-1 & A-8, Aug. 1, 1992.]

_ is3
AUGUST

EG&G MANAGEMENT CHANGES

When NASA's Center Support Operations Directorate changed its management structure,

EG&G Florida, Inc. (Base Operations Contractor) reacted. 'We changed our management

structure to conform with theirs," said company spokesperson Beth Hall. EG&G promoted

an Associate General Manager, John Pmde_ to be Deputy General Manager. Pruden

was replaced by James Padmr, formerly of Johnson Controls World Services Inc.

(Titusville, FL). Jeny Jorgensen has moved from manager of technical operations to

Associete General Manager of Propellants and Environmental Services. EG&G Florida

Inc. is competing this year for the $1.5 billion Base Operations Contract which Kennedy

Space Center wtll award at the end of the year. Also competing are Johnson Controls;

Lockheed Space Operations Co.; BAMSI and Jacobeon Engineering (Lakeland, FL).

[Uden, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 12(3, Aug. 1, 1992.]

n PROCESSINGCONTROLCENTERDEDm,ATE 

Kennedy Space Center Director Robert L Cdppen today dedicated the new three-stow

Processing Control Center. The new $11.3 million building houses offices, workshops

and laboratories to maintain and test equipment needed to prepare and launch Shuttles.

The 99,000-square-foot building is at Launch Complex 39, adjacent to the Vehicle

Assembly Building. ['KSC Dedicates Shuttle Building," FLORIDA TODAY. p. 10E, Aug. 2,

199 _]

AuguBt 3: ENOF_VOUR: HEAT SHIELDS II_TALLED

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, technicians have i_led heat shields around the

main engines of Endeavour as processing actfvitJesfor the upcoming STS 47 mission

continue. Work In progress: pressure decay check between the Spacelab and Orbiter;,

minor repairs of the radiators; installation of sleep stations; preparations to service the

arnmonla system. RoUoverto the Vehicle Assembly Building ts targeted for August 17;

Endeavour will be mated to its external tank and solid rocket boosters. [KSC SHU'I-rLE

STATUS REPORT, i0 a.m., August 3, 199_]

g COLUMBIA: FUEL CELLS 2 & 3 REPLACED

Fuel cells number 2 and 3 have been replaced on the Space Shuttle Columbia during its

stay for processing In OPF Bay 1. Work in progress: preparations to replace a thruster

on the left orbital maneuvering system (OMS) pod; preparations to remove the three main

engines; inspections of the radiators. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., August

3, 1992.]

g DISCOVERY: PR(3CESSING Ac'nvmEs/OtPF BAY 2

Technicians have Installed and electrically mated the forward reaction control system in

Discovery during processing in OPF Bay 2. The left orbital maneuvering system (OMS)

pod has also been removed. The pod will be transferred to the Hypergolic Maintenance

Facility so work may be performed on a faulty connector. Work in progress: preparations

to close the payload bay doors; closeouts of the Orbiter;, preparations to move to the

VAB. Transfer of Discovery to the Vehicle Assembly Building High Bay 2 will occur

August 6 for about 10 days to allow room for Atlantis' post-mission checkout. Discovery

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willthen move into OPF Bay 3 after Endeavour is transferred to the VAB later this month.

[KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 am., August 3, 1992.]

MARS OBSERVER MATED TO TOS

The Mars Observer spacecraft was successfully mated today to its upper stage, the

Transfer Orbit Stage (TOS), passing a major schedule milestone in processing. An

Interface Verification Test 0VT) to verify the connections between the two flight elements

is set for tomorrow (August 4). "Aschallenges in processing have come along, our teams

have been willing to do what was necessary to have this milestone happen as close to

schedule as possible,' said Glenn Cur_ Mars Observer Deputy Project Manager

from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Later this week, the TOS will be fueled with its

hydrazine attitude control propellant. Next week, closeout activities of the integrated

payload stack will begin. The encapsulation into the T'_an III nose fairing is scheduled for

August 13, and the transfer from KSC's Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility to Launch

Complex 40 for mating to the Titan III is targeted for August 17. All activities are currently

on schedule for a liftoff of Mars Observer at the beginning of the planetary launch

opportunity on September 16, 1992. The launch window extends from 1:02 p.m. to 2:34

p.m. EDT. The planetary launch opportunity ends on October 13. [NASA/KSC News

Release No. 105-92. Aug. 3, 1992.]

AuglJ_ 5:

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A_ To LAND AT I¢SC

Atlantis has had its STS 46 landing at Kennedy Space Center rescheduled to occur on

August 8 at 7:39 a.m. EDT at the Shuttle Landing Facility. Meanwhile, hydrolasing

activities are continuing at Hangar AR to stdp cork and foam away from the boosters.

The mobile launcher platform was moved away from the launch pad to the parksite

i Yesterday. [K$C SHUTI'LE STATUS REPORT. 3:30 p.m., Aug. 5, 1992.]

EN[ . YOUR EX m ONO WATERLEAK

Technicians in OPF Bay 3 continue to troubleshoot a minute water leak of Endeavour to

the Spacelab water loops. Other work in progress for the Upcoming STS 47 mission

includes: pressure decay checks between the Orbiter and Spacelab; minor repairs of the

vehicle's radiators; installation of sleep stations; preparations to service the ammonia

system. Work scheduled: rollover to the Vehicle Assembly Building now targeted for

August 17 for mating with the extemal tank and solid rocket boosters. [KSC SHU'I'I'LE

,STATUS REPORT, 3:30 p.m., Aug. 5, 1992.]

COLUMBIA: LEFT OMS THRUSTER REPLACED

Workers in OPF Bay 1 are processing Columbia for its STS 52 mission; they have

replaced a thruster on the left orbital maneuvering system pod. Work in progress: retest

of the newly installed thruster on the left orbital maneuvehng system pod; leak and

functional tests of the auxiliary power units and inspections of the radiators. Discovery -

in OPF Bay 2 - has undergone preparations to close its payload bay doors and to move

the vehicle to the VAB. Technicians continue to work closing out the vehicle. Work

scheduled: transfer to the VAB high bay 2 when the deorbit bum occurs for Atlantis to

land In Florida at the SLF. This frees bay 2 for necessary post-flight deservicing

operations on Atlantis. Discovery will remain In the VAB until Endeavour is transferred

from bay 3 to the VAB later this month. [KSC SHUI-rLE STATUS REPORT, 3:30 p.m.,

Aug. 5, 1992.]
August7: _ 46: CONCLUS_N SET FOR KSC

Landing of the Space Shuttle Atlantis's STS 46 mission is scheduled for tomorrow at 7:39

a.m. EDT at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility (SLF). Weather conditions

for tomorrow's landing call for possible scattered clouds and a chance of having rain

within 30 nautical miles of the SLF. KSC's landing convoy teem will be on station at 5:30

a.m. tomorrow at the midpoint of the runway; Atlantis will be towed to OPF Bay 2 several

hours alter landing. There is a second landing opportunity at KSC August 8 at 9:12 a.m.,

on orbit 127. Two landing opportunities are also available at KSC on August 9, at 7:21

&m, and at 8:55 &m.

The STS 46 solid rocket boosters are inside Hangar AF; both aft skirts have been

removed and disassembly operations are set to begin next week. The pieces will be

shipped to the manufacturers for refurbishment. Once Atlantis is on the ground, sating

operations will commence and the flight crew will prepare the vehicle for post-lending

operations. For this mission and all following missions, a new transport vehicle will be

used to assist the crew, allowing them to egress the vehicle and doff their launch and reentry suits easier and quicker. This vehicle, called the Crew Transport Vehicle, or C'I'V,

was purchesed from Continental Airlines at Denver for use at KSC. A similar CTV is used

to assist crew egress at the conclusion of missions landing at Edwards Air Force Base,

CA.

The CTV and other KSC landing convoy operations have been in an 'on call" status since

the launch of Atlantis on July 31. The primaryfunctions of the Space Shuttle Recovery

Convoy are to provide knmedlate service to the Orbiter alter landing, prepare the Orbiter

for towing to the Orbiter Proceasing Facility and assist crew egress. Convoy vehicles are

stationed at the SLF's _ About two hours pdor to landing, convoy personnel don

SCAPE suits and communications checks are made. A warming of coolant end purge

equipment is conducted and nearly two dozen convoy vehicles are positioned to move

onto the runway as quickly and safely as possible once the Orbiter coasts to a stop.

When the vehicle is deemed safe of all potential explosive hazards and toxic gases, the

purge and coolantUmbilicalAccess Vehiclesmove intopositionattherearoftheOrbiter.

Following the purge and coolant operations, flight crew egress preparations will begin and

the CTV will be moved into position at the crew access hatch located on the Orbiter's port

side. Once access to the vehicle is gained, a physician will board the Shuttle and

conduct a brief preliminary examination of the astronauts. The crew will then make

preparations to leave the vehicle. About 3 hours after landing,the Orbiter will be towed

to Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 2 for post-flight deservicing. Preparations will also

begin to ready Atlantis for its ferry flight later this year to Palmdale, CA, where it will be

taken out of service for about one year while it undergoes scheduled modifications and

. refurbishment¢

Following departure from the SLF, the seven astronauts will be taken to their quarters in

the O & C Building, meet with their families, undergo additional physical examinations and

depart for the skid stdp at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station for their flight back to JSC.

The crew plans to depart for JSC roughly 5 to 6 hours after lending. The exact time of

departure will be determined following touchdown. In the event a landing at KSC is not

feasible and Atlantis landed at Edwards, an augmented KSC convoy teem will be at the

California site to safe the vehicle, disembark the crew and move the Orbiter to the

Mate/Demate Device. The turnaround teem will be deployed to Edwards by charter

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aircraft on landing day. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Aug. 7, 1992;

NASA/KSC News Release Number 107-92, Aug. 7, 1992.]

ENDEAVOUR: PROCESSING ACTIVITIES CONTINUE

Endeavour is being readied for its September STS 47 mission in OPF Bay 3. Work in

progress: servicing of the ammonia system; stowing of items in the Spacelab; continued

troubleshooting of an air bubble in the Orbiter water lines connecting to the Spacelab

module; cleaning of the payload bay; minor repairs of the radiators; installation of the

sleep stations; cloeeouts of the vehicle. Work scheduled: interface verification system

tests of the Spacelab; closure of the payload bay doors this weekend; structural leak

checks of the Orbiter next week; rollover to the VAB targeted for August 17 for mating

with the external tank and solid rocket boosters, rKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10

a.m., Aug. 7, 1992.]

DlSCOVBqYIGOLUMBIA PROCESSING ACTMTIES

Discovery is scheduled for transfer from OPF Bay 2 to the VAB high bay 2 when Atlantis's

deorbit burn begins; the Orbiter will remain in the VAB until Endeavour is transferred from

OPF Bay 3 later this month. Work in progress: preparations to move to the Vehicle

Assembly Building; closure of the crow cabin hatch; closeouts of the vehicle. Columbia

remains in OPF Bay 1 for processing activities: tests of the Orbiter's fuel cells; tests of

the hydraulic flight control systems; functional tests of the external tank doors; leak and

functional tests of the at_iliary power units; Inspections of the radiators.

STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Aug. 7, 1992.]

8: All.ANTIS LANDS AT I¢SC

The _ 46 mission ended today where it began - at Kennedy Space Center. The seven

member crew was greeted by astronaut Jim _ who said, 'Welcome to Flodda and

congratulations.' Howell spoke to the crew from Mission Control in Houston, "IX.

Odginaily scheduled to land at KSC at 7:39 a.m.; the landing was delayed for one orbit

due to threatening weather in Rodda. The Orbiter's main gear touched down at 9:11:50

a.m. EDT at the space center's Shuttle Landing Facility, ending the 8-day journey. The

total mission elapsed time to wheels stop was 7 days, 23 hours, 16 minutes and 10

seconds. The total distance Atlantis traveled was 3,321,007 miles. During this flight,

which was extended one day, Atlantis made 127 orbits of the Earth. Atlantis was towed

to OPF Bay 2 by 3 p.m. this afternoon for post-flight deservtcing and Inspections. Initial

inspections indicate the vehicle fared well during the flight. An average number of tile

dings were reported and the now tires were in very good condition. Continued

inspections of the vehicle are planned this week Including the tiles and main engines.

Technicians are preparing to open the payload bay doors tomorrow and remove the

Tethered Satellite System and EURECA hardware on August 12. [KSC SHUTTLE

STATU_ RI_PORT, 10 a.m., Aug. 10, 1992; Banke and Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY, pp.

1A-2A, Aug. 9, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SEHTINEL p. A-3, Aug. 9, 1992; Banke,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Aug. 8, 1992.]

LOCKHEED: CUTS MINIMIZED DUI_ TO A'I'rRmON

Lockheed Space Operation Co. ('r'_usville, FL), through its spokesman J. 13. Klump,

minimized the impact of the expected cut of 266 employees by saying that all but 12

would leave through normal attrition, retirement or acceptance of early retirement. Klump
August

Augu=

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Augu=

said, 'We were not totally successful in our efforts (to minimize layoffs) because we did

have to give letters to 12 people. But that's a whole lot better than it might have been."

The layoffs were due to Congress's slashing of the proposed NASA budget. [Haivorson,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 10E, Aug. 9, 1992.]

9:. STS 47: LOADED WITH RRSTS

Endeavour's STS 47 mission will result in several milestones for the Space Shuttle

Program. It wig be the 50th mission. Mark C. Lee and N. Jan Davis will be the first

marded astronat_ to fly on the sarne mission togather. Mae C. Jemison, an MD, will be

the first black woman astronaut to fly on an Orb_er. The _rst Japanese astronaut to fly

aboard a Shuttle will be Mamoru Mot_ he will be Involved in experiments aboard the

Spacelab. Rnally, Endeavour's second mission of its young flight career will mark the

ratum to active status of Robmt L "Hoot"_ The other two members of the crew

will be Cmlfe L Brown, Jr. and Jay Apt. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Aug. 9, 1992.]

10:. ENDEAVOUR: ST8 47 PROC_S_PING A(_IVITIES

Interface verification system tests of the Japan-Spacelab and Endeavour have been

completed. Closeouts of the Orbiter water cooling lines for the Spacelab have also been

completed. Work in progress looking to a September launch of STS 47: final inspections

of the payload bay; closing the payload bay doors; Installation of sleep stations; closeouts

of the vehicle. Work scheduled: structural leak checks of the Orbiter this week; weight

and center of gravity daterminatiorB; rolloverto the Vehicle Assembly Building is targeted

for August 17 for mating with the external tank and the solid rocket boosters. [KSC

SHUTTLE b'_l'AT1J8REPORT. 10 a.rn., Aug. 10, 1992.]

COLUMBIA:FUB. CB.LSTES11 

Tests of the Space Shuttle Columbia's fuel cells have been completed in OPF Bay 1.

Work in progress: removing the main engines and transferring them to the VAB engine

shop; preparations to install the remote manipulator system; tests of the hydraulic flight

contr_ system; funotional tests of the external tank doom; leak and functional tests of the

auxiliary power units; inspections of the radiators; replacementof a water spray boiler;,

reconflguration of the payload bay. Discovery, undergoing processing activities in OPF

Bay 2, will be transferred to VAB high bay 2 to make room for Atlantis which returned

from space yesterday. Discovery will remain In the VAB until Endeavour is transferred

from OPF Bay 3 to the VAB later this month. Technicians, meanwhile, are gaining access

to the wings to perform structural modifications, rKSCSHUI"F_ STATUS REPORT, 10

a.m., Aug. 10, 1992.]

11: STS47 PROCESSINeAqTMnEs

Technicians in OPF Bay 3 are stowing Endeavour's Ku-band antenna. Other work in

progress includes: final inspections of the payload bay; closing the payload bay doom;

installation of sleep stations; closeouts of the vehicle; preparations to install the doors on

the aft compartment. Work scheduled: structural leak checks of the Orbiter this week;

weight and center of gravity determinations; rollover to the Vehicle Assembly Building

targeted for August 17 for mating with the external tank and solid rocket boosters. [KSC

SHUI"rl.E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Aug. 11, 1992.]

r _

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STS 46: POST..FUGHT WORK ON ATLANTIS

With the return of Atlantis to the Kennedy Space Center on August 8, technicians in

Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 2 have begun opening the payload bay doors; installing

protective covers over payload items and preparing to remove the chin panel for

inspections. Work scheduled: removal of the IMAX camera August 12 and the Tethered

Satellite and EURECA hardware tomorrow also. [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY. Aug. 10, 1992;

KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Aug. 11, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY,

Aug. 11, 1992.]

COL PROCESSING

Technicians in OPF Bay I have removed Columbia's main engines and transferred them

to the VAB engine shop and pressurized the main landing gear struts. Work in progress:

installation of the wheels and tires; preparations to install the remote manipulator system;

functional tests of the extemal tank doors; leak and functional tests of the auxiliary power

units; Inspections of the radiators; replacement of a water spray boiler and raconfiguring

the payload bay. Discovery continues to undergo processing activities while in OPF Bay:

gaining access to the wings to perform structural modifications and jacking and leveling

the Orbiter. [KSC SHUTI_E STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Aug. 11, 1992.]

MAHONEYNAMEDTO,,TSSI 'nON

Wiam e. Mahomy, KSC Payload Operations, has been named along with six others to

a committee formed to Investigate the problems that occurred during the first mission of

the Tethered Satellite System ('I"SS)dudng S'I'S 46. DatreJ Branmx)me, Chief Engineer

at Langley Research Center, will chair the committee. The board was appointed by

Jeremiah W. Peamon, El, Associate Administrator, Office of Space Flight, NASA

Heedquartem.. 'The board is _ed to take all necessary action to review the

anomalies associated with the _ problems to determine the possible cause and

recommend corrective measures to prevent reoccurrence,' according to Pearson. An

Initial report of the review findings, supporting data and analysis are to be submitted to

Pearson by August 28, 1992.

All relevant flight hardware and data that team. members will need to examine are being

maintained in the 'as flown"condition. Tethered Satellite System hardware removed from

Atlantis following its landing is being kept in a secure location at Kennedy Space Center.

Data obtained dudng the mission, as well as pertinent data gathered during development

and testing phases of the Tethered Satellite Program, is being preserved with no

alteration. The Board of Investigation is supported by the TSS Systems Working Group

based at the Marshall Space Flight Center (Huntsville, AL), and by other MSFC elements

the board may require. (NASA/KSC News Release No. 92-129. Aug. 11, 1992; Banke,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 6A, Aug. 14, 1992.]

DELTA FUGHT 0E1AYi_ AT _AFS

A faulty command receiver aboard a Delta 2 rocket at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station

resulted inthe delay of the rocket's Satcom C-4 mission. The unit was removed and sent

to its manufacturer, GE Astro Space (Princeton, NJ) for repairs, according to GE

spokeswoman Laura

159
Eberle. "A new launchdatehas not been decidedon as yet, but we're looking

somewhere during the week of August 24," she said. ['Satellite Ready for Delta Launch,"

FL,ORIDATODAy, p. 10E, Aug. 9, 1992; Banke, FI,ORIDA TODAY, p. 5A, Aug. 12, 1992.] V

August 12: ENDEAVOUR: PAYLOAD BAY DOORS CLOSED

The Space Shuttle Endeavour, currently in OPF Bay 3, now has closed payload bay

doors. Work in progress: structural leak checks of the vehicle; fitting the extemal tank

door thermal barriers; installation of sleep stations; closeouts of the vehicle; preparations

to Install the doors on the aft compartment. Weight and gravity determinations must be

done before rollover to the Vehicle Assembly Building on August 17. IKSC SHUT'TI_E

STATUS REPORT. 10 a.rrk, Aug. 12, 1992.]

g COLUMBIA: TESTS UNDERWAY

Columbia is undergoing processing activities in preparation for its STS 52 LAGEOS

mission. Work in progress on Columbia in OPF Bay 1 includes: installing a getaway

special beam in the payload bay; functional tests of the orbital maneuvering system pod;

installing main landing gear wheels and tires; functional tests of the external tank doors;

leak and functional tests of the auxiliary power units; inspections of the radiators and

replacement of a water spray boiler. I'KSC @HU'I"I'_ STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Aug.

12, 1992.]

i] DISCOVERY AND A'I1.ANTIS OPERATIONS

Technicians are gaining access to Discovery's wings to perform stnJctural modifications

and plan to tmns_ the Space Shuttle to OPF Bay 3 alter Endeavour is rolled to the VAB

next week. Atlantis is undergoing post-flight operations in OPF_a_ '_. WorKers are

removing the Tethered Satellite and EURECA payload hardware beginning at 1 p.m.

today; preparing to remove the chin panel for Inspections and conducting post-fiight

in_ The IMAX camera is scheduled for removal from Atlantis. [KSC SHUTTLE

 I"ATU$ REPORT,10a.m.,Aug.12, 1992.]

V

g _4SENT_PAD_REPLACECOFIRODEDROCKET

A classified national security satellite will be launched before the end of the year aboard

a Tdan 4 rocket which has just been rolled to the launch pad. Another T'rmnhad been

on the pad for over a year, but rust damage caused officials to worry that the rocket

would explode in flight. [Halvorson, FLORID._ TODAY, p. 6A, Aug. 13, 1992.]

August 14: •Sm ERFC-CBV PANESE

A quartet of Japanese students visited the Kennedy Space Center today and presented

KSC with a set of streemar-like flags shaped like carp fish. The gilts were received by

Glenn Snyder, STS 47 Payload Processing Manager;, Endeavour will carry a joint

American/Japanese payload. Two of J_s-highly prized ornamental fish willfly aboard

the STS 47 mission as expedments inside the Spaceiab-Japan (SL-J) module, which will

remain in Endeavour's payload bay during the week-long Shuttle flight. Japanese

scientists developed the life science experiment to study the effects of weightlessness

may have on the behavioral and neurophysiological functions of the fish. The student

group consists of two boys and two girls and ranges from 10 to 15 years of age. The

four were chosen from a field of 613 students who submitted entries to an essay contest

160 V

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Augu=

sponsored by the Nagoya Broadcasting Network of Japan. The contest was also

endorsed by the Japanese Board of Education, the National Space Development Agency

of Japan (NASDA) and the Japan Intemational Space Year Association. In

commemoration of the upcoming Shuttle mission, 'The Dream Toward Space" was

chosen as the theme of the contest. Presentation of the flags occurred at Spaceport

USA's Rocket Garden August 14 at 10 a.m. [NASA/KSC News Release No. 108-92, Aug.

10, 1992; KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Aug. 10, 1992.]

ENDEAVOUR: _ CLGe_XJ_ _AY

Workers In OPF Bay 3 are closing out Endeavour In preparation for its STS 47 mission.

Other work in progress: a final cycle of the payload bay doors; Installation of a seal for

the aidock hatch; structural leak checks of the wings and preparations for installing the

doors on the aft compartment. Weight and gravity determinations were set to be

conducted on August 16; rollover to the Vehicle Assembly Building remained set for

August 17. In the VAB, Endeavour will be mated with its extemai tank and solid rocket

boosters, pending resolution of the crane Incident in the VAB. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY,

Aug. 13, 1992; KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 11:30 a.m., Aug. 14, 1992; Banke,

FLORIDA TODAY, Aug. 16, 1992; 'Crane Problem May Delay Start of Endeavour's Trip,"

THE ORLANDO SENTINEL, Aug. 18, 1992.]

COLU FORM ,K)NS

In OPF Bay 1, technicians are testing Columbia's brake system. They are also

conducting leak and functional tests of the main propulsion system liquid oxygen system;

functior_ tests of the orbital maneuvering system pod; reconfiguratlon of the aft flight

deck and tile operations. Discovery, which remains in VAB Bay 2, continues to undergo

structural modiflcatk:ms Inside its wings. The vehicle will be transferred to OPF Bay 2

once Endeavour has been rolled to the VAB next week. [KS(_ SHLn'rLE STATUS

REPORT. 11:30 a.m., Aug. 14, 1992; *Orbiter Update,' FLORIDA TODAY. p. 10E, Aug. 16,

1992.]

A_: MOOIFICATION PERIOD

Atlantis is currently in OPF Bay 2 following its recent landing at Kennedy Space Center

at the conclusion of its STS 46 mission. In the OPF, technicians have offioaded residual

hypargolic propellant. Work in progress: post-flight inspections; removing the vehicle's

tires; tests of the hydraulic system; preparations to remove the forward reaction control

system; post-fright inspections of the main engines. Scheduled: removal of the Tethered

Satellite, EURECA and EOIM payload hardware. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS R_poRT, 11:30

a.m., Aug. 14, 1992; "Orbiter Update," FLORIDA TODAy, p. 10E, Aug. 16, 1992.]

16: ENDF.AVOUR/I-UtmI RESCUE

Hubble Telescope scientists have gotten their wish; NASA has agreed to schedule an

Endeavour flight for the rescue of the HST which has a flawed mirror. "We ware hoping

for Endeavour, and we're very pleased,' said Ed Weaer, Hubble's Chief Scientist.

Repairing the HST will take three spacewalks, but Hubble managers wanted an Orbiter

with the capability of four EVAs. Weiler said, "It gives us a whole 'nother day of

contingency on top of our three days. If we learned anything from Intelsat, it is try to

have as much contingency time to think as you can.' [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, pp. 9E

8, 10E, Aug. 16, 1992.]

. .; 161
August17: CRANE ACCIDENT TO BE INVI_STIGATED

-2-77--i _-LZ_ " 7 __-!-_Z- Z: -. : . _ ...... ]__- _k_

Center Director Robert L Cdppen has appointed an investigation board to examine an

incident involving a 250-ton crane that apparently experienced erratic movement while

lifting a solid rocket booster segment in High Bay 1 of the Vehicle Assembly Building

(VAB). ON August 11, crane operators were preparing to stack the left forward segment

for the STS 52 mission using the crane's slow speed operating mode. There was a

sudden Increase tn the lateral speed of the crahe during the operation. The operator

stopped the crane immediately and there was no damage to personnel, flight hardware

or ground equilxner¢ Russell Lloyd (Chief, Facilities Division, Space Shuttle Office) said,

'We were never in a close enough position of creating a catastrophe." Columbia is

scheduled to fly the STS 52 mission, targeted for launch in October, with the Laser

Geodynamic Satelllte-2 (1.AGEOS il) payload.

A team is troubleshooting the crane and will make necessary repairs prior to using it

again. Booster stacking operations and all crane operations have been suspended

pending the resolution of the Issue. The 30-foot-long, 12-foot-dlarneter, left forward

booster segment has been transferred to a storage facility while the investigation is

continuing. Jadde E. Smith (Director, Safety and Reliability) has been named to chair the

board. Assisting Smith on the investigation are board members: David Kelley (Chief,

Structural Systems Branch, Ground Engineering); Howard Meeks (Systems Engineering

Section, Payload Operations Directorate; Ronaid Eatman (Project Engineering Staff,

Facilities Engineering Directorate); James Myms (Systems Assurance Office, Mission

Assurance Directorate); _ Clark (Cables and Special Power Section, Facilities

Enginesdng Directorate; Todd _ (Mechanical Section, Faci-ilties Directorate).

Mok:_okn_dmn wig servo as the s_ a_m, Jol'_ _ will provide legal

assistance and Usa Malone is the public affairs repre_. Broad functions include

assessing the possibility of a recurrence or similar mishap, and recommending corrective

action. A final report is due during the second week of October. [Banke, FLORIDA

TODAY. p. 6A, Aug. 12, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 6A, Aug. 13, 1992; NASA/KSC

N_itw_Release No. 109-92, Aug. 17, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 6A, Aug. 14, 1992;

Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Aug. 16, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. pp. 1A-2A, Aug.

17, 1992.]

rl SPACE PROJECT MAY MOVE_TO BREVARD

A Goddard Space Flight Center project may be moved from Maryland to Brevard County

soon. "l'here would be a big advantage in not having to move people up and down the

East Coast all the time,' said Donald WiBams, manager of the ozone-monitoring

experimentwhich is carded on the Shuttle once a year. The project's managers hope to

lease a building on U. S. 1 owned by Technological Research and Development Authority.

TRDA Executive Director Frank IGnney said, "I'm hoping for a partnership, not just a

landlord-tenant relationship." Other possible ventures include: a technology transfer

agreement with Godclard for commercial applications of space technology and

cooperative work agreements and research opportunities for Florida university students.

The decision on the possible move is to be made public in September. [Brown, FL_ORII_A

TODAY, p. 1A, Aug. 18, 1992.]
D WF THER MAy,,DELAYATLASLAUNCH

An Atlas rocket is nearly ready for launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station this

week, but stormy Florida weather may keep the rocket on the ground. 'Thunderstorms

in the area are the main concern,' said Terd Bracber, spokeswoman of the 45th Space

Wing, headquartered at Patrick Air Force Base, FL General Dynamics spokeswoman

Julle Andrews said, 'Everything is gotng just fine and the vehicle looks good. We're just

watching the weather.' The Atlas will cam/the Galaxy 1-R payload, a Hughes Aircraft Co.

communications satellite. Launch is set for August 2O and wtnclows extend from 6:39 to

7:54 p.m., 8:26 to 8:39 p.m. and 9.'10 to 10:20 p.m. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 6A,

Aug. 18, lgg_-]

g ENO VOUR R SO. nON OF CRANEmOmSM

Endeavour was moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building early August 17, but KSC

managers continue to debate the safety of the VAB's giant lilting cranes. "We still don't

know exactly why the crane behaved the way it did,' said Usa Malone, KSC

spokeswoman. All suspect parts are being tested in a KSC laboratory and have been

replaced with spares. Test results will effect Endeavour's launch date which is currently

targeted for September 11; the liftoff will be delayed if Endeavour cannot be lifted for

mating with its extemal tank and solid rocket boosters in the next several days, Discovery

was moved on the 17th from the VAB to OPF Bay 3 just vacated by Endeavour and

continues to undergo modiflcatione and maintenance like that of Columbia last year.

[Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 6A, Aug. 18, 1992; "Orbiter Update," FLORIDA TOI_AY, p.

IOE, Aug. 16, 1992.]

AuguM 18: CRANE U_E _

Endeavour will be lifted into place for mating with its external tank tomorrow because

Kennedy Space Center _ has approved the use of a suspect crane. KSC

spokeswoman Um Malone said that tests show the crane to be functional but that

additional caution will be used. Another crane, the one which proved faulty last week, will

continue to undergo tests and analysis. Endeavour should be connected to its ET by 8

p.m. tomorrow and rolled to LC 398 early Tuesday morning, about three days later than

planned. [Banke, FLORIDA TOI_AY, p. 6A, Aug. 19, 1992.]

D UPPB:ts'r 

The Mars Observer probe is having a problem with its upper stage. Last weekend, when

a worker tried to apply a material to the upper stage a spark passed between his tool and

the upper stage motor, according to Laura Ayem, spokeswoman for Orbital Sciences

Corp. Officials say they are working around the clock to determine the source of the stray

voltage and fix it. Pending the problem's resolution, the Mars Observer (MO) will be

Installed in its Titan nose cone and moved out to LC 40 from which the rocket will be

launched. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAy, p. 6A, Aug. 19, 1992.]

_19:. REPAIR SPARES DB,AY IN MO LAUNCH

"We are on schedule for launch,"said Dave Evans, Project Manager for the Mars Observer

Mission. An electrical problem with the spacecraft's transfer orbit stage has been fixed.

Tests determined that stray voltage came from a radio system which allows the motor to

communicate with ground; suspect parts were replaced. Launch is again on track for

_.j 163 i
September 16. Wesley Hunlrm_ Director of Solar System Exploration for NASA, said,

•After 17 long yeem, Amedca is going back to Mars." [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A,

Aug. 20, 1992.]

g C06MONAUTS TOUR SPACE

Two cosmonauts and thor families toured the Kennedy Space Center today. The

cosmonauts, AJrmtolyArteebmsky and Sergei Knlml_, expressed an interest in flying

aboard the Space Shuttle. The pair toured Launch Complex 39B this afternoon. Krikalev

was aboard the space statlon Mlr when the 8ovlat Union collapsed. ['Soviet Astronauts,"

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 6A, Aug. 19, 1992.]

_21: ENC VOUR HAROMAT TO

n

In the Vehicle Assembly Building High Bay 3, Endeavour was hardmated to its external

tank this rooming at 5:30 EDT. Work In progress for 8"1"8 47: making electrical

connections between the vehicle elements; connecting the T zero umbilicals to the

vehicle. Work scheduled: Shuttle Interface Test to verify connections between the

elements and the launch platform set to begin tomorrow night; roliout to Launch Complex

39B is targeted for midnight August 24; the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test

(TCDT) is set for August 27 & 28. Launch is planned for the second week of September.

IKSC SHUTrLE STATUS REPORT, 8 a.m., Aug. 21, 1997_]

PARTSREP CED

During processing activities in OPF Bay 1, Columbia has had its No. 1 APU and No. fuel

cell replaced. Technicians have Installed the vehicle's drag chute and conducted leak

funotiorml tests of the water spray boiler. Work in progress: installation of the main

engines; functJor_ tests of the orbital manetNed,ng system pod; tile operations; testing

of connectio_ for the STS 52 payload. Discovery, now in OPF Bay 3, is undergoing

power up tests; hydraulic system _; structural modifications of its wings and

preparations for powedng up the vehicle. An OMS pod is scheduled for installation this

weekend. [KSC SHUI"rLE STATUS REPOFn', 8 a.rn., Aug. 21, 1992.]

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ATLANTIS: MODIFICATION PERIOD BEGIN_

Atlantis, just retumed from its STS 46 mission, has now entered a modification period at

Kennedy Space Center prior to being ferried to Palmdale, CA, for lengthy modifications

at Rockwell Intemational's plant. Work in progress: removing components in preparation

for the ferry flight and preparations to oflload the atadllaw power unit catch bottles and

to drain residuals from the Orbiter. Work scheduled: draining the auxiliary power unit

catch bottles. During this activity both OPF Bays I and 2 will be locked out this weekend.

[KSC SHLrl"TI._ STATUS REPORT, 8 a.m., Aug. 21, 1992; 'Bye-Bye Birdie: KSC Team

Prepares for Atlantis Sand-Off," FLORIDA TODAY, pp. IOE & 9E, Aug. 23, 1992.]

PJUNGROUNDSATLAS

General Dynamics Corp. scrubbed its second attempt to launch its Atlas rocket due to

rainy weather in the launch area. The Atlas will carry a Hughes Aircraft communications

satellite to a geosynchronous orbit. A previous attempt to launch was also scrubbed

because of weather. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, Aug. 22, 1992.]

164 w
g MARSOBSERV MOVEDTO LC40

The Mars Observer spacecraft passed another milestone toward launch when it was

moved from the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility on Kennedy Space Center to

Launch Complex 40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and mated to the Martin

Marietta Titan III rocket. With the payload atop the launch vehicle, checks of the Mars

Observer spacecraft and the attached Transfer Orbit Stage (TOS) will begin this weekend.

Two major exercises to prepare for launch are planned next week: an Operational

ReadineasTestanda Countdown _ Test. TheORT- scheduledforAugust

26 - willtest all facilities that send and receive data during flight activities. These facilities

Include NASA, JPI., and Air Force tracking and data systems around the wodd. The

countdown dress rehearsal - on August 28 - will simulate launch day activities and all

countdown events as closely as possible. The mobile sen/Ice tower will be retracted from

around the launch vehicle, and the full NASA, Martin Marietta and Orbital Sciences launch

team will participate in this exercise. All activities are currently on schedule to support a

launch at the opening of the Mars planetary opportunity on September 16, with the

window extending from 1:02 to 3:05 p.m. EDT. [NASA/KSC News Release No, 111-92,

Aug. 21, 1992.]

rl ENDEAVOURSROU.OUT

Endeavour is scheduled to roilout to Launch Complex 39B beginning at 12:01 a.m. EDT,

August 25. Moving at top speed of 1 mph, the crawler transporter will transfer the STS

47 vehicle elements 4.1 miles in about seven hours. On August 17, NASA's newest

Space Shuttle was towed to the Vehicle Assembly Building alter its 11-week processing

pedod in the Orbiter Processing Facility. In the VAB, Endeavour was mated to its extemai

tank and solid rocket boosters today and tests of critical connections between the vehicle

elements and the launch platform were scheduled for this weekend. Flight crew members

for Mission _ 47 are scheduled to arrive next Wednesday for the TCDT. The practice

countdown will begin at 8 a.m., August 27, at the T-24 hour mark leading up to the

simulated T minus zero mark at 11 a.m. on August 28.

Commanding the STS 47 mission is Robert L "Hoot" Gibson and Curtis L Brmm, Jr. is

the Pilot. The four mission specialists are Mark C. Lee, N. Jan Davis, Jay Apt and Mae

C. JemisorL Mamoru Mohd from the Japanese Space Agency, NASDA, is the payload

specialist. While at Kennedy Space Center, the crew will receive training in emergency

escape procedures at the launch pad, practice driving the Ml13 tracked vehicles and

practice flying in the Shuttle Training AlrcrafL In addition, the four mission specialists and

Payload Specialist Mohd will visit Hangar L on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station to meet

with several Spacelab J principal investigators. Spacetab J is the pdmary mission of STS

47; it was installed in Endeavour on July 14. Flight crew members conducted a thorough

walkdown of the habitable module shortly after its installation. Endeevour's end-ofmission landing is planned at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. KSC's

landing and recovery teams will be on hand to prepare the vehicle for the tow back to the

OPF. STS 47 will be Endeevour's second space mission. It will be a planned seven-day

around-the-clock science gathering mleslon .and it set for the second week of September.

[NASA/KSC NewsRelease No, !,1.2-92, Aug. 21, 1992.]

August 22: SPACEPORTFIORIDA I_UNCH SET FOR TODAY

Spaceport Florida hopes that today's launch of a suborbital weather probe today will give

the state agency a boost as well. 'We certainly would have been better off launching this
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a year ago," said Edward Begood, Spaceport spokesman. ['Spaceport Hopes Launch

Today Will Lilt Sagging Program," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 8B & 7B, Aug. 22, 1992; Brown,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 7A, Aug. 22, 1992.]

KSC/CCAFSPREPAREFORANDI:IE 

Workers at Kennedy Space Center end Cape Canaveral Air Force Station worked today

to prepare for a possible onslaught by Hurricane Andrew. The rockets and satellites at

risk are valued at nearly $1 billloR Endeavour's launch date may be pushed back to

12. K_ spokeswoman I._ Malone said, 'We're working with a tight

schedulenow,andifwe hadtostayinmeVABwewouldproba y haveto re-evaluate

the launch dale." Air Force Sgt. J. P. Buller salcl,"We are prepadng for sustained winds

of up to 50 mph within the next 72 hours." KSC spokesmen George DBer said, 'Right

now our Inclination Is to ride out the storm." He said the Mars Observer could be pulled

off the Titan 3 rocket if necessary and taken to a nearby shelter;,such a move would likely

delay the launch. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, Aug. 23, 1992.]

_ TO _ ATI_C

"We're looking at more structured and controlled methods of doing processing - including

cleaning the facilities,' said Gabor Tamasi of KSC's Robotics Automation Development

Laboratory. The robots are not designed to replace human janitors, but are built to work

on overnight cleaning stints. 'The robot can do the job around the clock," said Tamasi,

who saw such a robot at a trade show last year. 'It looked like a large square object,

about 30 inches long, 20 inct_ high and 24 inches wide. It had scrubbers in the front

and a squeegee behind the scrubbers. It dispensed cleaning soiVdon, then had a

to suction It up. It cteaned really welL" The robot will be tested in buildings

at Kennedy Space Center until August 27. [Brown, FLORIDA TOI_AY, p. 10E, Aug. 23,

1992.]

ENDEAVOUFI TESTS _ FOR TODAY

In the Vehicle Assembly Building workers are pmpadng a key test to verify electrical

connections between the vehicle elements and the crawler end whether the elements are

property attached to each other, ffthe work is completed on schedule, rollout will occur

August 25. [Brown, FLORIDA TQDAY, p. 7A, Aug. 22, 1992_]

ATLASDEsmoYED ARBq LAUNCH

An Atlas rocket launched today was destroyed about eight minutes into its flight because

it had careened out of control when its upper stage failed to ignite. An investigative

board was Immedlataly formed by Genaral Dynamics, manufacturer of the Atlas. Stormy

weather had delayed the launch Dynamics which came on its third attempt. The rocket

carded a Hughes Aircraft Co. communications satellite. Lightning forced the first scrub

of the launch on AUg. 20. Today's launch windows were from 6:40 to 7:55 p.m.; 8:27 to

8:39 p.m. and 9:11 to 10:20 p.m. Today's attempt was the filth commercial launch by

General Dynamics which has commitments for 25 commercial launches throughout the

decade. [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, Aug. 20, 1992; "Atlas Rocket, Satellite Explode

Over Atlantic," FLORIDA TODAY, Aug. 23, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Aug.

23, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 7A, AUg. 22, 1992; Halvorson, F.L,ORIDATODAY,

p. 2A, Aug. 23, 1992.]

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I1 SPACEPOFrr FLORIDA LAUNCHES RRST ROCKET

Spaceport Flodda launched a ten-foot Microstar rocket from a pad at Cape San Bias at

10 a.m. this morning. The first rocket ever launched by a state agency had been delayed

30 minutes by clouds in the area. "I'm not the type that jumps up and down, but inside

I certainly was," said Ed O'Connor, Executive Director of the Spaceport Flodda Authority.

The Microatar's mission was to gather "basic weather data over the launch site about 20

miles west of Apalachicola, FL Ozone-measuring launches are expected to take place

starting In the fall, according to I(mdn IOoeesl, assistant professor of meteorology at

Rodda State University. ['1st State Rocket Soars, ° FLORIDA TODAY. pp. 14B & 13B, Aug.

23, 1992, Yeomans, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL Aug. 23, 1992.]

g SLVE SNOOP AWAn O

SliverSnoopy Awards were recently awarded to three Lockheed employees and two

NASA employees. Astronaut James H. Newnmn presented the Snoopy to Lockheed's

Christina Pechon, James Esldeman and David Baumann. NASA employee Andrew

H_ received his Snoopy from astronaut Thomas D. Akers and Ellen Dozier, also a

NASA employee, received her Snoopy from astronaut Mark C. Lee. Recipients are given

a Silver Snoopy pin which has been flown on a previous Shuttle mission plus a framed

certificate and a congratulatory letter signed by the presenting astronaut. ['Five Get

Ast_nauts' Silver Snoopy Awards," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 9E, Aug. 23, 1992.]

August 23: ENDI_VOUR: ROU.OI._ MAY BI_ I_LAYED

Hurricane Andrew may cl_ the rollout of Endeavour to Launch Complex 39B tomorrow

morning; the trek was originally scheduled to begin at 4:00 a.m. August 24. ff winds are

greater than 46 miles per hour, rolloutwill not occur. Bus tours from Spaceport USA were

suspended while hurricane preparations were underway. KSC spokesman Milch Varnes

said, 'We didn_ want the extra traffic when we're moving stuff around.' Extra sandbags

have been placed around doorways to prevent water from seeping in; loose equipment

has been moved into the VAB and OPFs. The Mars Observer spacecralt will wait out the

storm at its launch pad, LC 40. [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 6A, Au_ 24, 1992.]

n ATLAS MOVESTO ORN A

Hurricane Andrew's imminent arrival has forced General Dynamics to move its

investigation of Saturday's Atlas rocket failure to Caiifomia. "We had planned to leave

Flodda on Monday, but the hotel really is encou_ing us to leave now," said company

spokeswoman Jurm Andrews. When one of the AtJas's second stage engines failed to

start alter I_off August 22, the rocket was destroyed by range safety officers. The

payload had been a Hughes Aircraft Co. communications satellite. ['Atlas Prove Moves

to Caiifomla, ° FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Aug. 24, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SE_NTINEL,

sept.23, lss2.]

August 24: WET W!..NSKSCCONTnAc'r

NASA's John F. Kennedy Space Center has selected I-Nat, Inc. (Bathesda, MD) for

negotiation of a contract to provide engineering support services to the center's

Engineedng Development Directorate. It is the largest contract KSC has given to a

minority-owned firm and is the largest contract-ever won by the company. David Wells,

Vice President and Corporate Counsel, said, 'We're delighted minority companies are

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getting this Interest from the government." I-Net, Inc. replaces Boeing, Inc. The contract

will run for five years starting October 1, 1992, and is valued at more than $100 million.

I-Net will provide a broad base of engineering serv_es wh_h may range in scope from

technical manpower in support of a variety of government laboratories to engineering and

management of complex applied research and technology projects. This includes

engineering studies and investigations; conceptual, preliminary, detail and development

engineering; and documentation support and maintenance, The contract was competed

nationally as a small, disadvantaged business set-aside, rNASA/KSC News RelQ.a_e.No.

Aug. 24, 1992; Liden, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 18C, Aug. 25, 1992.]

ENDEAVOUR B.ECTRICAL _ MADE

In the Vehicle Assembly Building, the Shuttle Interface Test has verified the connections

between the vehicle elements and the _unch p orm; a, e_ct, c= connections have

been completed. Work in progress: preparations to roll the vehicle out to Launch

Complex 39B and pre-roUout Inspections. Work scheduled: retraction of the VAB

platforms later tonight; roilout to LC 39B set for 4:00 a.m. tomorrow;, TCDT targeted for

August 27-28; launch set for the.second week in September. rKSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m., Aug. 24, 1992.]

COLUMBIA: 1 & 3 ENGINES INSTN.LED

In OPF Bay 1, Columbia has had its No. 1 and 3 engines installed in addition to the

installation of a power reactant storage and distribution system tank. Work in progress:

installation of the No. 2 main engine; preparatlorm to install the remote manipulating

system (also called the 'robot arm'); tile operations and testing of connections for the STS

52 payload. [1(_3 SHUI"rLE STATUS REPOP/T, 10 a.m., Aug. 24, 1992.]

DISCOVERY/A'rtANllS PROCESSING

Discovery's lelt orbital n'_ system pod was Installed this weekend. Work in

progress In OPF Bay 3: connections of the left OMS pod; integrated testing of the main

propulsion system; tests of the Microwave Scanning Beam Landing System. The auxiliary

power unit catch bottles of Atlantis have been drained while the Orbiter remains in OPF

Bay 2. Work In progress prior to the ferry flight to Palmdale, CA: removing components

and the auxiliary power unit number 2. [KSC SHUI"I'L_ STATUS RI_.PORT, 10 a.m., Aug.

24, 1992.]

ENDEAVOUR ROLLS OUT TO LC 38B

First motion of the Space Shuttle Endeavour came at 3:25 a.m. as workers rolled the

Orbiter out to Launch Complex 39B and was hard down at the pad at 10:15 a.m. Rollout

was delayed a lit by the space center's efforts to batten down in advance of the arrival

of Hurricane Andrew. The KSC Launch Readiness Review is underway today. Work

scheduled:, making connections between the launch pad facilities and the vehicle

elements; Sl"S 47 flight crew arrival is expected at 11:30 a.m. tomorrow; the Terminal

Countdown Demonstration Test begins at 8 a.m. August 27 and ends with the simulated

T zero at 11 a.m. Fdday, August 28. Launch remains targeted for the second week of

September. [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Aug. 25, 1992; KSC SH_ STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m., Aug. 25, 1992; Grinter, Press Site Ubradan.]
11 COLUMBIA: NO. 2 ENGINE INSTALLED

D

Augu=

Workers in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 2 have completed the installation of Columbia's

number 2 main engine in preparation for the STS 52 mission. Work in progress: tests

of the fuel cells; functional tests of the orbital maneuvering system pods; hookups of the

three main engines; preparations to installthe remote manipulator system; tile operations;

testing of the connections for the STS 52 payload. [KS(_ SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT,

10 a.m., Aug. 25, 1992.]

MOOe=W, AIX)NS; O OVERY &ATUUCnS

While Discovery remains inOPF Bay 3, a number of processing activities are taking place:

preparations to service freon coolant loop no. 2; tests of the left orbital maneuvering

system pod; integrated testing of the main propulsion system. Atlantis, meanwhile, is in

OPF Bay 2 and is undergoing final processing activities before being ferried to Palmdale,

CA: modifications to the communications system; drying of the main engines; removing

components; removal of another auxiliary power unit; preparations to remove the robot

arm (RMS); flushing of the waste management system. Auxiliary power unit no. 2 has

been removed. [KSC SHuI"rLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Aug. 25, 1992.]

25." LAUNCH READINE_ _ STATEMENT

Following the conclusion of today's STS 47 Launch Readiness Review, Space Shuttle

Launch Director Robet B. Slack determined that the Shuttle Endeavour and Spacelab-J

payload are on target for a launch on September 12. 'We've mapped out an ambitious

but makeable schedule for the STS 47 launch, while stig allowing the team time off for the

Labor Day holiday," Sleck said. "We're going to continue readying Endeavour and look

forward to meeting with other managers next week at the Flight Readiness Review to set

a firm launch date.' [_7 I,,AI,JNCH READINESS REVIEW STATEMENT, Aug. 25,

1992.]

FOLEY MATERIAL WINS STATION GONTI_GT

Foley Material Handling Co., Inc. (Ashland, VA) has been awarded a $678,710 contract

to fabricate, assemble and install overhead cranes in the Space Station Processing

Facility (SSPF) and the Payload Spin Test Facility Replacement (PSTF-R) at Kennedy

Space Center. The contract was awarded August 11, andthe company will have until

August 1993 to complete the final assembly and test of four cranes in the SSPF. This

equipment includes one crane with a lifting capacity of 15 tons in the facility's aldock, two

5-ton cranes in the intermediate bay and one 5-ton crane in the hardware assembly and

Inspection area. The installation must be completed by this date so that the SSPF can

be ready for operation in August 1994. Installation of a 20-ton crane in the high bay of

PSTF-R (also known as the Hazardous Processing Facility) must be completed by

November 1993. Kennedy Space Center will be responsible for the pmlaunch processing

of all Space Station Freedom fight hardware, as well as its launch into orbit aboard

Space Shuttle Orbiters. The SSPF will serve as the pdmary KSC facility for the inspection,

assembly and final checkout of space station components. [NASA/KSC News Release

No. 113-92, Aug. 25, 1992.]

-.. 169
August26: ENDEAVOUR POWERED UP AT PAD

The Space Shuttle Endeavour was hard down on the pad at Launch Complex 39B at

10:15 a.m. yesterday and was powered up last night. At 1300 hours Tuesday, the

rotating service structure was moved into position around the vehicle. The seven

members of the STS 47 flight crew arrived early at KSC last night - at 9:20 p.m. - to avoid

adverse weather conditions from Hu_ Andrew. Technicians at the pad are making

connections between the launch pad facilities and the vehicle elements. Work scheduled:

terminal countdown demonstration test begins at 8 a.m. Thursday (August 27) and ends

with the slmulated T-zero at 11 ELm. Friday (August 28); main engine flight readiness test

and helium signature leak tests this weekend. Launch remains targeted for the second

week in September. |KSC SHUTTLE S'I'ATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Aug. 28, 1992; Banke,

FLORIDA TODAY. Aug. 27, 1992.]

V

n COLUMBIA&DISCOVERY: _ AcnvnlBS

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 1,technicians are preparing to install a robot arm (RMS)

in Columbia's cargo bay as part of its STS 52 preparations. Other activities include:

installation of the CANE)( payload; preparations for the Crew Equipment Interface Test

(CERT');configuring the crew cabin for flight; installing window number 8. The nose

landing gear tiras have been installed on Discovery which is being processed in OPF Bay

3; the brakes have also been installed. Work in progress: installing the main landing

gear tires; preparmions to sarvlce freon coolant loop number 2; tests of the left orbital

rmmeuved¢_ system pod; integrated testing of the main propulsion system; preparations

for the CElT test this weekend. [KSC SHUTrLE S'I'ATU8 REPORT. 10 a.m., Aug. 26,

1992.]

n ATLANTIS: MOOIFICATION PERIOD IN OPF BAY 2 ......

The three auxi,ary power units of Atlantis have been removed while the Orbiter is still in

OPF Bay 2 prior to its ferry flight to California. Preparations have also been made to

connect the left forward assembly/noee cone. Work in progress: post-flight

measurements of the 17-inch disconnect umbilicals; deeendcing of the auxiliary power unit

water;, modifications to the communications system and preparations to remove the

remote manipulator system (also known as the robot arm). [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m., Aug. 26, 1992.]

V

I]: ANDREW SHUTS DOWN MS/LA

As the Space Shuttle Endeavour was rolUng to the pad yesterday, NASA centers in

Mississippi and Louisiana were shutting down in anticipation of the arrival of Hurricane

• Andrew. Stennis Space Center (Bay SL Louis, MS) and Michoud Assembly Facility (New

OdearB, LA) sent home almost 8,000 workers as the centers were closed to all but

essential personnel, according to NASA's spokesman Don Amatom. Both sites were said

to be well able to withstand the winds of Andrew. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. I B, Aug.

26, 1992.]

August 27:. ENDEAVOUR: VEHICLE/PAD _CONNECTIONS MADE

Endeavour is now on the pad at LC 39B and technicians have completed connections

between the vehicle and the pad in preparation for the Orbiter's STS 47 mission the

second week in September. Work in progress: terminal countdown demonstration test

17o
r

g

n

i1

began at 0800 today; circulating the hydraulic fluid; preparations to load the hypergolic

propellants into the Orbiter's onboard storage tanks. STS 47 flight crew activities:

Commander Robert L "Hoot"Gibson and Pilot Cur_ L Brown, Jr. practiced flying in the

Shuttle Training Aircraft this morning while the rest of the crew visited principal

investigators for Spacelab J at Hangar L This morning, KSC Shuttle and payload team

members will update the crew on the status of the vehicle and payloads. Later today, the

crew will receive routine emergency escape training procedures at the launch pad. Work

scheduled: terminal countdown demonstration test concludes with the simulated T zero

at 11 a.m. tomorrow (August 28); main engine flight readiness test and helium signature

leak tests this weekend; flight readiness review set for September 1; launch targeted for

September 12. [KSC SHUTII.E STATUS REPORT. 10 a.rn., Aug. 27, 1992; Banke,

FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, Aug. 28, 1992.]

C(_I,,UM_ CANED( pA_I,,OAD BIIST'AILLED

In Orbiter Processing Bay 1 technicians have installed the CANEX payload in the cargo

bay of Columbia as part of the STS 52 processing activities. Other work in progress:

preparations to installthe robot arm (RMS); preparations for the crew equipment interface

test (CELT); configuring the crew cabin for flight; installing window number 8. [KSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Aug. 27, 1992.]

D .,OVERY/A PROCESS GtMO RcA'nONS

Discovery is in OPF Bay 3 where it is undergoing the following _: installation of

heat shields around the main engines; outfitting the crew module for flight; preparations

to service freon coolant loop number 2; tests of the left orbital maneuvehng system pod;

Integrated testing of the main propulsion system; preparation .for the CElT test this

weekend. Post-flight measurements of the 17-inch disconnect umbilicais of Atlantis have

been completed in OPF Bay 2 where the Orbiter is awaiting its fern/flight to Paimdale,

CA, for further modificatio¢_ Other processing activities: preparations to remove the

forward reaction control system (FRCS) and the three main engines; deservicing of the

auxiliary power unit water;, modifications to the communications system; preparations to

removethe robot arm (RMS). [K$(_ SHUTTI.E STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Aug. 27, 1992.]

MARS OBSERVER TO BE RESCHEDULED

The launch of Mars Obse_er aboard a l"_an III rocket from Launch Complex 40 at Cape

Canaveral is being postponed. Dudng an inspection of the payload contained within the

Titan nose faidng atop the rocket, particulate contamination was observed on the surface

of the Mars Observer spacecraft. A precautionanj decision has been made to remove the

payload from the Titan and return it to a spacecraft facility on KSC for cleaning. The

contamination may have been introduced into the faidng when a dry nitrogen purge was

placed on the spacecralt as part of sscudng for Hurricane Andrew. KSC spokesman

George Diler said that photographs would be taken to document the satellite's condition.

•We would expect by early Monday [August 31] morning we should be able to start doing

Inspections,' he said. Diller said that it was too early to be talking about a new launch

date. The countdown dress rehearsal scheduled for August 28 will not be held at this

time. A new launch date cannot be determined until it is known how long it will take to

clean the spacecraft. However, a launch before the end of September is expected. The

planetary launch window extends through October 13. [NASA/KSC News Release No.

116-92, Aug. 27, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, pp. 1A-2A, Aug. 28, 1992; Banke,

171
g

FLORIDA TODAY, p..2A, Aug. 30, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL, pp. A-1 & A-4,

Aug. 28, 1992.]

NINTH LAUNCH MOVED TO JANUARY

Endeavour's communications satellite mission originally scheduled for December of this

year has been moved to the target date of January 13 of next year. A mid-December

launch would have been extra expensive due to overtime and holidays. Changing the

launch date, said Jay Itoneyct_ "probably takes a little stress out of our lives."

Honeycutt is Director of Shuttle Operations at I¢_. Endeavour's next flight was to have

been late April 19¢J3. Making the change, "doesn't really impact anything after [January],"

said Honeycu¢ [Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL Aug. 28, 1992.]

Augu_ 28: I(T_ JOIl_ I-KIi:II:UC, AIE RB.E_ EFFORT

A convoy of 12 trucks and cars packed with durable goods left Kennedy Space Center

this momlng an route to South Florida to assist residents hit hardest by Hurricane

Andrew. The hurricane swept through areas of Miami earlier this week with relentless

devastation, leaving more than 250,000 people homeless. Because of the great outcry

for assistance, NASA and its KSC contractors began mobilizing to do whatever possible

to assist those left hungry, hurting and homeless. Three 5,000-gallon water tankers led

the convoy on the five-hour drive followed by two 40-foot tractor trailers loaded with an

assortment of relief items for the people of South Florida. Included on the trucks are:

meal packets, sleeping cots, blankets, mattresses, tents, tables, shelves, chairs,

generators, I_jwood, rope, wire fencing, tool boxes, a three-ton hoist and a variety of

clothes and shoes.

•It's all excess matedal over and above what we are required to keep here at the center

for our own hurricane plan," said NASA's Mike _ of the Rm and Rescue Office.

The convoy wUl establish the initial drop canter for fut=_ relief effort¢ Cal StaUbus,

NASA's Fire and Rescue Office Chief, said, 'at this time we are piggybacking our

operation with that of the Titusville Chapter of the Salvation Army. They already have a

network established to dispatch the supplies.' The group, made up of about 16 NASA

and contractor employees, will dispatch the wares from a designated staging area to

locations the Salvation Army says is in most need. Everything will be given away.

Staubus said two of the water tankers have already been allocated to area hospitals.

"l'he tanker drivers accept the possibility that their stay may be longer than expected,"

Staubus sak:L 'They may be asked to continue to refillthem for quite a while. We're not

sure when the tankers themselves will be returned."

Forklift operator, Ralph Brown, EG&G Florida, Inc., said he was given an armful of toys

from friends when they learned he was driving one of the convoy trucks. "It's a chance

to help somebody," he said. "1even went down to Wlnn Dixie last night myself and

bought a bunch of baby food so I could hand it out. It feels good to be able to help."

Scores of other KSC employees also assisted in the effort to ready the water tankers and

trucks. Included am those who loaded the supplies on the trucks and those,who tested

the water in the tankers to ensure its purity. Already, KSC has been organizing drop

points at all major KSC facilities for the collection of additional supplies to be taken to

Hurricane Andrew victims. 'We will help as long as the need is present," Staubus said.

[NASA/K.SC.News Release No. 117-92, Aug. 28, 1992.]

V

-- I

172 V
rl ,ENDEAVOUR FACES M_,N ENGINE TEST

Endeavour will undergo a main engine test today to confirm the operability of engine

valves. Tests continue to be conducted as the launch date approaches. 'We've got a

full schedule between now and launch," said KSC spokeswoman Lisa Malone. Labor Day

will provide a single day of rest for pad technicians readying Endeavour for its STS 47

misalon. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, Aug. 29, 1992.]

GOt.DIN: HELP SMALL BUSINESS

NASA Administrator Daniel 8. _ has announced that he will upgrade the position of

Small and Disadvantaged Business Director to Assistant Administrator, equal to directors

of program and administrative offices. Goldin called the decision 'a strong signal" in a

series of moves to Insure that the nation's small firms, including those owned by members

of minorities and women, win a larger share of NASA contract¢ He made the

announcement at a small business conference in Nashua, N. H. "In the past," Goldin

said, 'we have focused much of our attention on working with the giant aerospace

companies with the big hardware contracts and comparatively little on working with small

business. We must change our orientation," he declared, stating that NASA has begun

the process through a sedas of procurement initiatives. One of the most important

changes, Goldin said, is an action to reduce drastically the amount of paperwork and

other administrative tasks now required to win smaller contracts. 'We are looking at 10-

page requests for proposals and contracts versus 90-to-100 page documents," Goldin

said.

The biggest change to help small businesses could come in mid-range procurements

between $25,000 and $600,000, Goldin said. Although they represent only 15 percent

of NASA's contract dollar, they account for more than 80 percent of the procurement

actions. Other steps Goldin has directed the agency to take to bolster awards to small

firms Include:

*Requiring pdme contractors to Increase the percentage of subcontracts with small and

disadvantaged businassas (SDBs).

*Establishing a firm percentage for SDB awards in competitive procurements instead of

a mere goal.

*Making subcontracting to small firms an important evaluation factor in source selection.

*Rewarding primes that exceed their subcontracting goals.

*Establishing a 'Minority Business Resource Advisory Committee" within NASA to help

SDBs deal with the agency.

*Pursuing statutory authority to allow the agency to make SDB set-asides.

•NASA must take down the obstacles that discourage so many small businesses from

engaging in government contracting," Goldin said. "We must make our requirements and

our contracting process more accessible. We cannot bury you in forms, certifications,

contract clauses and reporting requirements." Goldin stated that NASA made direct

awards to small firms of $870 million in fiscal year 1991, while another $1.4 millionflowed

to small firms through subcontracting. 'We are convinced we can do more,' he declared.

_ ,, 173
NASA'sKennedySpaceCenter(KSC),FL,currentlyis evaluating proposals for a $2.7

billion base operations contract and has declared that 30 percent of this must be

subcontracted to small, disadvantaged or women-owned businesses. Recently, KSC

selected a minority-owned firm for a $75 million contract with options up to $150 million.

'The contract is not for routine support services,' Goidin noted. 'It is for applied research

and technology, including tasks involving telerobotics and development of a highly

sensitive spectrometer to detect hazardous gas." [NA_A/KSC N_'s Release No. 92-137,

Au_ 28, 1992.]

V

g 11EIHB:IED _A,11ELM11E_TION

The Tethered Satellite System ('1"88)Invastigative Board today presented an interim status

report to Space Right Associate Administrator Jeremiah W. _ IK Board Chairman

Darrei BrarBcome reported the team is focusing on 5 pmblerns that occurred during

deployment of the Tethered Satellite System on Space Shuttle mission STS 46. Those

problems are:

*Failure of the No. 2 umbilical to retract from the tethered satellite. Failure of the satellite

to deploy on the first 'flyaway" attempt.

*'The unplanned stop of the satellite at 179 meters.

*The unplanned stop of the satellite at 256 meters.

*Inability to either deploy or retrieve the satellite at 224 meters.

The tethered satellite has been removed from the Orbiter _ and placed in a

checkout stand inthe Operations and Control Facility at KSC. The Board had its first look

at T_ hardware this week. Detalted inspection of the tether reel aasembly provided

evidence that the unplanned stops at 179 and 256 meters were due to a rnechenlcal

obstruction. Visual evidence and preliminary analysis point to a l/4-inch-dli_eter bolt

which prevented part of the reel mechanism from freely traveling back and forth. The

level wind mechanism, which operates similarly to the way a fishing reel feeds out line,

contacted the end of the bolt preventing it from moving all the way out to its stopping

point. The bolt is part of a stxuctural modification that was installed on the reel assembly

eadler this year. The modification was required following the final computer analysis

which is done for every Shuttle mission to verify that all structural connections between

the payload and Orbiter will withstand the rigors of launch and landing. KSC spokesman

DBer said, 'There was some surprise to open the reel and find what caused part

of the problem in such an obvious way. But this does not fully resolve the issue. There

are still some things we do not understand. In fact, officials believe the bolt may have

caused only two of the five observed problems.

V

Engineers require that attach points such as these be at least twice as strong as

necessary to pass stringent safety criteria. Analysis indicated the margin of safety was

less than that for some fasteners at the point where the reel assembly was mounted to

itsspecially adapted support structure. The modification strengthened the mounting area

to provide _ required factor of safety. Testing of the flight hardware is planned to verify

that this rnechanical obstruction was the cause of the jamming of the deployment reel and

the subsequent unplanned stops of the satellite at 179 and 256 meters. The Board

believes that even without the problems with the umbilical and the jamming of the tether

at the upper tether control mechanism, this problem would have prevented full

deployment of the tethered satellite. Branscome said the board is continuing work to

identify causes for the other anomalies: the umbilical problem; the first "flyaway"attempt;

and the jamming at 224 meters. The next intedm report is expected to be complete in
abouta month.['Tether InvestiaatJonStatus Report 1, Aug. 28, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA

TODAY., p. 4A, Aug. 29, 1992.]

August 29. FORECAST GOOD FOR DELTA UFTOFF

Capt. Mark Secdst of the 45th Weather Squadron at Patrick Air Force Base said today

that the weather was expected to be good for Monday's [September 1] launch of a Delta

2 rocket carrying a communications satellite built by Q. E. Aero Space. Launch is

scheduled for between 6:41 and 7:34 a.m. or 8:38 and 9:18 a.m. The launch willthe 12th

commercial Iiftoff for McDonnell Douglas Space Systems Co. and the 34th consecutive

success for the Delta program since a 1986 failure. The satellite is a SATCOM 4 and will

be used to provide cable programming to more than 10,000 cable systems in all 50

states. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Aug. 30, 1992.]

n COLUMBIA: LAGEOS MISSION IN OCTOBER

Auoua

The Space Shuttle Columbia will launch the Laser Geodynamic Satellite in October. The

STS 52 mission will study the Earth's continents and such features as Califomia's San

Andreas Fault. LAGEOS will work in tandem with a similar golf-ball sized satellite

launched in 1976 on a Delta. The two satellites will be tracked by 26 ground stations

which will fire lasers at the satellites and calculate the time it takes for the light to retum

to the ground stations. LAGEOS will be boosted to its ultimate orbit by an Italian-built

upper stage motor. [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, Aug. 30, 1992.]

30: ENoEAVOURRF. ' Ne FORLAUNCH

'Evecything's looking good," said KSC spokesman Bruce Buc_ about pre-launch

preparations for Endeavour's STS 47 mission set for the second week of September. The

Shuttle's propulsion system has been checked for leaks and have begun to prepare for

hypergolic propellant loading onto the Orbiter's onboard fuel storage tanks_ Meanwhile,

weather forecasts continue to look favorable for September l's launch of a Delta 2 with

its communications satellite payload. Meteorologists predict a 90 percent chance of

favorable weather for launch. ['Endeavour'$ Preparations Rolling Along,' FLORIDA

TODAY. p. 4A, Aug. 31, 1992; "Delta Set For Launch Monday," FL,ORIDA TOD.AY, p. IOE,

Aug. 30, 1992.]

August 31: STS 47: ENDEAVOIJR.TI_.. N_ ON PAD

At Launch Complex 39B, Endeavour has had its inertial measurement unit calibrations

completed. A main engine flight readiness test, helium signature test and the terminal

countdown demonstration test have also been completed. The pad is being cleared for

the loading of hypargolic fuels on board the Orbiter and the pad will remained closed

through midnight September 1. Hypergolic fuel pressurization and the STS 47 flight

readiness review have been scheduled. [KSC SHUTTLE ST.ATUS RI_PORT, 12:30 p.m.,

Aug. 31, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, Sept. 1, 1992.]

STS qOt,UMBUVLAGEOS M SK)N

The remote manipulator system (robot arm) has been installed in the cargo bay of

Columbia in preparation for its upcoming STS 52 LAGEOS mission. Payload pre-mate

operations and the crew equipment interface test have also been completed. Forward

reaction control system installation is underway and Columbia has been scheduled for

175
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orbital maneuvering system functional tests. In the Vehicle Assembly Building, lift and

mating of the external tank to the solid rocket boosters is scheduled to occur no earlier

than September 1. [KSC SHU'I'I'LE STATUS REPORT, 12:30 p.m., Aug. 31, 1992; Brown,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 10E, Aug. 30, 1992.]

CEff COMPLETED FOR DISCOVERY

In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay S, technicians have completed Discovery's crew

equipment interface test. Work in progress: raising the main landing gear for tile work;

crew module leak checks; deservicing freon coolant loop O1. I'KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT, 12:30 p.m., Aug. 31, lg_P..]

AllAN116: MOOIRCATION PERIOO CONTINUE8

In OPF Bay 2, technicians have removed the forward reaction control system from

Atlantis. Work in progress: the FI:ICS has been moved from OPF Bay 2 to the Hypergolic

Maintenance Facility; main propulsion system leak checks; preparations for removing the

power reactant and storage distribution system tanks, Work scheduled: removal of

Atlantis' three main engines and removal of the power reactant and storage distribution

system tank sets number 3 and 4. [K$C SHLrl'rLE STATV$ REPORT, 12:30 p.m., Aug.

31, 1992.]

CABLE TV SATELUTE OI:BffIED

A new cable televlslon smellite was launched into orbit today aboard a McDonnell

Douglas Delta 2 launch vehicle. Ultolf came from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's

Launch Complex 17 at 6:41 a.m. Because the rocket's exhaust billowed Into an unusual

shape, several radio stations mistakenly reported that it had exploded. 'I told them that

they forgot to take gravity and the curvature of the Earth into account,' said Tom WiBams,

a McDonnell Douglas SPaCe Systems Co. spokesman. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p.

2A, Sept. 1, 1992.]

V

V

i
SEPTEMBER

Sefxember 1: STS 47: TCDT COMPLETED

At Launch Complex 39B, technicians and the crew of Endeavour's STS 47 mission have

completed their terminal countdown demonstration test. Inertial Measurement Unit

calibrations are complete and the main engine flight readiness test and the helium

signature test have also been completed. Work in progress: LC 39B has been cleared

for the loading of hypergolic fuels on board the Orbiter;, flight readiness review; launch

countdown preparations. Work scheduled: hypergolic fuel presau_; Orbiter aft

cioeeot_; further troubling of the 2-inch gaseous oxygen line quick disconnect

valve near the main propulsion system's 174nch liquid oxygen umbilical. [_

STATUS REPORT. 10:00 a.m., Sept. 1, 1992.]

g COLUMBIA: APUS INSTALLED

Columbia has now been outfitted with its APUs in preparation for its upcoming STS 52

LAGEOS mission. Other completed tasks include: the installation of fuel cells storage

tank set number 5; crew equipment interface test; payload pre-mate operations; payload

bay door cycles. Work in progress: forward reaction control system electrical mates and

checks; Orbiter-payioad interface verification tests; ammonia boiler servicing. Work

scheduled: orbital maneuvering system functional tests; auxiliary power unit hook-ups;

external tank mate with solid rocket boosters (on hold pending determination of VAB 250-

ton crane status). [K,_K_SHUI"rLE STATUS REPORT. 10:.00 a.m., Sept. 1, 1992.]

n DISCOVERY: STS 53 PREPARATIONS CONTINUE

.in Orbiter Procesalng Facility Bay 3, tachniclans have completed crew module leak checks

on Discovery and have finished the crew equipment interface test as well. The Orbiter's

main landing gear have been raised for tile work. Work in progress: dseervioing freon

coolant loop #1 and hydraulic line fill and bleed operations. [KSO SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT, 10:00 a.m., Sept. 1, 1992.]

n ATLANTIS: MODIFICATIONS CONTINUI _

The forward reaction control syst_rn of Adantls has been moved to the Hypergolic

Maintenance Facility during the pre4erry flight phase of modification of the Orbiter. Work

in progress: main propulsion system leak checks; preparations for removing the power

reactant and storage distribution system tank sets numbers 3 and 4; deservicing of the

payload bay active cooling system and removal of the robot arm (RMS) from the vehicle's

payload bay. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10:00 a.rrL, Sept. 1, 1992.]

g STS 47: ,SEPTEMBER 12 IS LAUNCH DAY

NASA has targeted the launch of the Space Shuttle Endeavour on a joint U.S./Japanese

mission [STS 47] on September 12, pending resolution of a technical problem with a

connection in an oxygen line in the Orbiter's main propulsion system. If the problem is

not resolved by the end of the week, NASA managers will reassess the launch date.

Endeavour's 7-member Crew will liftoff from Launch Complex 39B at Kennedy Space

Center during a window that extends from 10:23 a.m. to 2:17 p.m. EDT. The 6°day, 20-

hour and 37 minute mission will end with a landing on September 19 at the Kennedy

Space Center.

_ 177
g

STS 47 - also identified by its payload, Spacelab J - will be the 50th launch of the Space

Shuttle Program and the second for Endeavour. Aboard the orbiting laboratory will be

43 experiments provided by Japan and the U. S. Astronaut Robert L "Hoot" Gibson,

making his fourth flight, will be the mission commander. The pilot is Ctatis L Brown, Jr.

Missions Specialists are Mark C. Lee, Jay Apt, N. Jan Davis and Mae C. JemisoR

Japan's Mamoru Mohd willthe payload specialist.

Spaceleb J's primaryobjectk_ is to use the space environment to address Important

scientific and technical questions in materials science, life science and technology. The

joint mission will emphasize interrmtion_ cooperation of governments, industry and

academia in an evolving partnership to explore and develop the potential of the space

envlmnmer¢ The mission also will add to the growing base of experience in preparation

for the start of Space Station operations later this decade. ['Launch Advisory: NASA to

Launch Joint US/Japanese Flight September 12', Sept. 1, 1992; Haivorson, FLORIDA

TODAY, p. 1A, Sept. 1, 1992.]

KSC HURRICANE RBJEF EFFORT CONTINUES

Employees of Kennedy Space Center are uniting in their efforts to assist Hurricane

Andrew victims in South Florida by donating food, supplies and cash. KSC is

encouraging its 20,O00-plus employees to bring in additional supplies to various drop

points around the center so they can be properly packaged for delivery to those areas

hit hardest by the storm. Items employees are being asked to bring include all types of

baby products and food, meel-type canned foods, an assortment of camping gear, large

family-size tents, flashlights, batteries, can opener& trash bags and personal hygiene

Items. Lou _ a packaging specialist for NASA, is assisting in the effort to properly

package the items brought in for South Rodda residents. 'We will be spending the next

making food packs for smell, medium and large fam_Tmsso they can be handed out

easily," PhllUps said. "We will also be sending a lot of excess building materials that we

have on hand here at KSC.'

Materials from _ employees will be gathered through tomorrow in time for a convoy

of at least three 40-foot long flat-bed trucks to leave KSC Thursday morning.

Contdbutions coming in after Wednesday will be transported to South Rorida later. Cash

donations are also being accepted through a special fund established with the Salvation

Army in Tltusviile. The effort to collect needed items will continue throughout the next

several weeks. Last week a convoy of nearly a dozen trucks and cars packed with

durable goods left Kennedy Space Center en route to South Florida to assist residents

hit hardest by Hurricane Andrew. NASA and its KSC contractors began mobilizing soon

after the storm passed to do whatever POSSibleto assist the nearly 250,000 people left

homeless and hungry in Andrew's wake.

Friday morning, August 28, three 5,000-gallon water tankers led the convoy on the fivehour drive, followed by two 40-foot tractor trailers loaded with an assortment of relief items

for the people of South Florida. Included on the trucks were: meal packets, sleeping

cots, blankets, mattresses, tents, tables, shelves, chairs, generators, plywood, rope, wire

fencing, tool boxes and a three-ton hoist. The water tankers will remain in the

Homestead, FL, area for an indefinite period of time. Everything sent down last week was

excess material over and above what is required to be kept at KSC for the center's own

hurricane plan.

V

V

178

ORIGINAL PAGE IS

OF POOR QUALITY

V
- / "-..._j

'The group, made up of about 16 NASA and contractor employees, dispatched the wares

from a darkened Homestead Pizza Hut parking lot late Friday night," said Cal Staubus,

NASA's Fire and Rescue Office Chief and convoy commander. "Everything was given

away." On August 26, six EG&G Flodda Fire Services personnel headed down to Miami

to assist local emergency personnel with rescue efforts. They took with them a

rescue/extraction vehicle from KSC. While there, the crews assisted with search and

rescue, emergency response, and hospital field work efforts. This team was among the

first outside tim/rescue personnel to respond to the need. They are providing around-theclock assistance on a continual basis. {NASA/KSC News Release No. 119-92, Sept. 1,

1992; Banke, _ p. SA, Sept. 3, 1992.]

8epl_r_w 2: $I_ 47:. FRR COMPt.EI"_)

Shuttle managers at Kennedy Space Center have completed the Flight Readiness Review

for STS 47; the managers have picked September 12 as launch day contingent on further

troubleshooting the 2-inch gaseous oxygen line quick disconnect valve near the main

propulsion system's 17-inch liquid oxygen umbilical. Technicians have also finished

loading hypergolic fuels onboard the Orbiter. Work in progress: open pad for normal

operations following hypergolic loading operations and launch countdown preparations.

Work scheduled: auxiliary power unit leak checks; Orbiter aft closeouts. [KSC SHLTR1.E

STATU._ REPORT. 10:00 a.m., Sept. 2, 1992.]

g COLUMBIA:STS52 MISSIONPREPARA'nONS

Technicians have installed auxiliary power units and fuel cells storage tank set number

5 in the Space Shuttle Columbia which is being processed in OPF Bay I for its upcoming

52 mission. The Orbiter's payload bay doors have been cycled. Work in progress:

forward reaction control system electrical mates and checks; Orbiter-peyload interface

verification tests; ammonia boiler sendclng; orbital maneuvering system electrical

redundancy checks; mncCe manipulator system (RMS) verification checks, Work

scheduled: auxiliary power unit hook-ups; external tank mate with solid rocket boosters

(on hold pending rasolution of VAB 250-ton crane status. [KSC SHUITLE _;TATUS

REPORT. 10:00 a.m., Sept. 2, 1992.]

n STS53/IX)0: DISCOVERYPROCESSING

n

Discovery's crew equipment verification test and crew module leak checks have been

completed in OPF Bay 3. Work in progress: deservicing freon coolant loop #1; hydraulic

line fill and bleed operations; main propulsion system leak checks; auxiliary power unit

leak checks; cabin vent valve replacement. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10:00

a.m., Sept. 2, 1992.]

ATI.ANTIS-MODFlCAllONSPERIO0CONTINtJI 

In OPF Bay 2, the RIVEShas been removed from the cargo bay of Atlantis prior to is ferry

flight to Caiifomla for extensive modification work. Work in progress at KSC: main

propulsion system leak checks; daservice payload bay active cooling system; removal of

power reactant and storage distribution system tanks sets numbers 3 and 4; removal of

the Orbiter's three main engines, rKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10:00 &m., Sept.

2, 1992.]
g MARS OBSERVER LAUNCH FB=_ _-n

NASA today rescheduled the launch of Mars Observer aboard a T_an II! rocket from

Launch Complex 40 for Friday, September 25. The launch window extends from 12:27

to 2:27 p.m. EDT. The payload cleaning has been completed and re-encapsulation will

begin tonight. The payload will be transported from Kennedy Space Center to Complex

40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station late on Thursday night, September 3, and mated

to the Titan III rocket early on Fdday morning, September 4. A countdown dress

rehearsal is scheduled for September 17. Because there Is no contingency in this

schedule, the launch date wig be reviewed after the countdown test. Additional

precautions have been taken at the launch pad and with the spacecraft to assure that

recontamination is unlikely to occur. [NASA/I(SC News Release No. 120-92. Sept. 2,

1 2.]

g ENDEAVQI,_ _ q'QTAM,.Y

NASA officials continue to believe that a leaking oxygen line aboard Endeavour can be

repaired sufficiently soon so that the Orbiter will launch on time on September 12. 'It's

totally makable,' said KSC spokesman Milch Varne_ The leak is from a seal where the

gaseous oxygen lines from the Orbiter and the external tank connect to each other.

Officials have said that the leak occurs only when exposed to pressures greeter than

those normally used during launch. The problem was detected during a special highpressure check earlier in the week. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 3A, Sept. 3, 1992.]

ENDEAVOUR: EVA _XI" ADp_

At Launch Complex 39B, Endeavour ISbeing readied for its ST8 47 flight scheduled for

September 12. Work completed: loading of hypergolic fuels on board the Orbiter;,

auxiliary power unit leak checks; installation of contingency Extravehicular Mobility Unit

into the Orbiter. Work in progress: launch cOuntdown preparations; continued

troubleshooting of the 2-1rich gaseous oxygen line quick disconnect valve near the main

propulsion system's 17-1rich liquid oxygen umbilical; Orbiter aft closeouts; EVA suit

functional checkout. Work scheduled: leak checks on reassembled 2-inch gaseous

oxygen llne quick disconnect September 4; ordnance operations September 5;

countdown scheduled to pick up at T-¢3 hour mark at 3:00 a.m., September 9.; the STS

47 crew ISscheduled to arrive at KSC on the morning of September 9. [KSC SHUTTLE

STATUS REPORT, 10:00 a.m., Sept 3, 1992.]

g STSS UCC-OS PREP/UP TIONS

Remote manipulator system (RMS) verification checks have been completed on Columbia

which IS undergoing STS 52 mission processing in OPF Bay 1. Other work completed:

auxlllary power unit hook-ups; ammonia boiler sarvlclng; Installation of fuel cells storage

tank set number 5. Work in progress: forward reaction control system checks; Orbiterpayload interface verification tests; orbital maneuvering system electrical redundancy

checks. Work scheduled: external tank mate with solid rocket boosters (on hold pending

resolution of VAB 250-ton crane status.) [KSC SHU'I'FLE STATUS REPO.RT, 10:00 a.m.,

sept. 3, 1992.]

V

V

180
g DISCOVERY; OPF BAY 3 PROCESSING

APU number 3 has been installed in Discovery which is undergoing processing in OPF

Bay 3. A cabin vent valve has been replaced and hydraulic line fill and bleed operations

are complete to date. Work in progress: installation of drag chute; deservicing of freon

coolant loop #1; main propulsion system leak checks; APU leak checks. [KSC SHUTTLE

STATUS REPORT. 10:00 a.m., Sept. 3, 1992.]

I1 A'I1.AN_: PI__ FUGHT MODIRCATIONS

The three main engines of Atlantis have been removed while the Orbiter undergoes

preliminary modifications in OPF Bay 2. The RMS has also been removed from the

vehicle's cargo bay. Work in progress: desendce of the payload bay active cooling

system and removal of the power reactant and storage distribution system tanks sets

numbers 3 and 4. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10:00 a.m., Sept. 3, 1992.]

September 4: 47; EVA UNITS INSTALLED

Contingency extravehicular mobility units have been Installed in Endeavour and a

functional checkout of the spacesuits has been completed. The Space Shuttle

Endeavour remains poised for launch September 12 on its STS 47 mission at Launch

Complex 39B. Work in progress: launch countdown preparations; troubleshooting

continued on the 2-inch gaseous oxygen ilne quick disconnect valve near the main

propulsion system's 174nch liquid oxygen umbilical Reassembly of the line is in

progress and leak checks of the system are planned for tonight. Orbiter aft closeouts;

Installation of crew escape pole; ordnance range safety checks. Work scheduled:

ordnance operations (September 5); purge of the externaltank (September 8); countdown

scheduled to pick up at the %4.3 hour mark at 3:00 a.m., September 9. The STS 47 crew

is scheduled to arrive at Kennedy Space Center on the momlng of September 9. [Banke,

FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, Sept. 4, 1992; KS_ SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10:00 &m.,

Sept. 4, 1992.]

8 co Mm: STSs2 mOCSSSW 

In OPF Bay 1, technicians have completed servicing Columbia's ammonia boiler and the

installation of fuel cells storage tank set number 5. Work in progress for STS 52: forward

reaction control system checks; orbital maneuvering system electrical redundancy checks;

remote manipulator system (robot arm) checkouts; main angine eiectricai checks and

heat shield installation and retest of auxiliary power unit number 1. Work Scheduled:

Orbiter-payload interface verification tests; extemal tank mate with solid rocket boosters

(on hold for no earlier then the morning of September 9 pending resolution of the VAB's

250-ton crane status.) IKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10:00 a.m., Sept. 4, 1992.]

n DISCOVI_Y & A_; PROCESSING

Discovery remains in OPF Bay 3 where it is being processed for its STS 53 mission for

the Department of Defense. Work in progress: deeervicing freon coolant loop #1; main

propulsion system leak checks; auxiliary power unit leak checks; nose wheel steering

checks; payload interface verification tests; drag chute electricai connections. Atlantis is

being prepared in OPF Bay 2 for its ferry flight to Palmdale, CA, where it will undergo

extensive modification at the Rockwell Intemational plant in Palmdale. Work completed:

the removal of the power reactant and storage distribution system tanks sets numbers

_ 181
3 and4;removaloftheOrbiter'sthreemain engines; removal of the robot arm from the

payload bay. Work In progress: deservicing of the payload bay active cooling system;

aft bay clean-ups; auxiliary power unit flush. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10:00

a.m., Sept. 4, 1992.]

September 5: I.EVITr WINS SILVER SNOOPY

Jeff levitt, a McDonnell Douglas Space Systems employee for the last 10 years, received

the Sliver Snoopy Award recently from astronaut James H. Nswrna_ Levitt was rewarded

for his role in troublesho_ a problem with the Hubble Space Telescope. Geoege

Famtza, Vice President and General Manager of McDonnell Douglas at KSC said, "Jeff is

the em_ of an aggressive, _ceptional engineer who taught the principles of Total

Quality Management long before TQM became our performance standard.' "KSC Worker

Pinned With Snoopy Award,' FLORIDA TODAY. p. 9E, Sept. 6, 1992; SEE ALSO: Eisler,

FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A-2A, Dec. 12, 1992.]

g DRAGCHU TEST

Referring to the special drag chute test which will be performed at the landing of

Endeavour, NASA spokeswoman Karl Ruegal said, 'This is the first test of the drag chute

in an operational sense.' All Orbiters will be fitted with drag chutes as part of

modifications mandated afterthe Challenger accident. Two limited tests of the drag chute

have been performed - on Endeavour and Columbia - during which the chute was

deployed only after the nose wheel had touched down on the runway. [Haivorson,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. IOE, Sept. 6, 1992.]

g SI'RR'RE UPDATE8

is at Launch Complex 3.9B where technicians are readying the Orbiter for its

week-long Spaceleb-Japan mission. The seven-member crew will arrive at KSC on

September 9, just alter the countdown for the 81"8 47 mission has begun. Atlantis is In

OPF Bay 2 where workers are preparing the vehicle for a year of modifications at

Rockwell International's Palmdale, CA, plant. Atlantis will be ferried to California aboard

the Shuttle Carder Aircraft next month. Discovery is being processed in OPF Bay 3. In

November the Orbiter will fly a classified mission for th? O_epartment of Defense.

Columb_ the senior Sp_ 8h_ie, is being processed for a flight scheduled for next

month, STS 52. Currently technicians are working on the vehicle's hydraulic system and

checking connections on the Shuttle's three main engines. ['Orbiter Update," FLORIDA

TODAY. p. IOE, Sept. 6, 1992.]

Seplentler 6: DELT_VOtJR LAUNCH _ WEEK

In the early morning hours of September 9, a Delta 2 launch vehicle will lift off from Cape

Canaveral Air Force Station's LC 17; the Deltas window extends from 4:57 a.m. until 5:24

a.m. The Air Force rocket will orbit the 15th Navstar satellite, part of the Navstar Global

Positioning System Satellite Network. In the mid.moming of September 12, NASA will

launch Endeavour onits second Shuttle mission, STS 47. Endeavour's window is from

10:23 a.m. until i2:53 p.m. [Brown, FI, ORII_A TODAY, p. 1A, Sept. 7, 1992.]

.V
September 8: STS 47: WEATHE_R LO01_ GOOD

Forecasters are predicting an 80 percent chance of having acceptable weather conditions

at launch time on September 17- Crew members are scheduled to arrive September 9

at the Shuttle Landing Facility. Work in progress: preparations to startthe STS 47 launch

countdown; purges of the external tank; pulling work platforms out of the aft

compartment; stowing gear in the crew module. Work scheduled: Installation of aft

compartment doors for flight is planned for tonight; begin launch countdown at 0300

tomorrow;, move rotating servlce stricture away from the vehicle at 1100 September 11;

loading of hypergolic cryogenic propellants into the external tank at 0203 September 12;

launch at 10:23 a.m. EDT September 12. [KSC SHUTI'LE STATUS REPORT. 11 a.m.,

sept.8, 19e2.]

n oPF AcnVmES

While the youngest Orbiter in the Space Shuttle fleet - Endeavour - is being readied for

its STS 47 launch on September 12, the other three vehicles are each in an Orbiter

Processing Bay undergoing Shuttle Processing Operations. Columbia is in OPF Bay 1

where the following processing work was in progress: checking out the forward reaction

control system; verification of the remote manipulator system (RMS); minor repair of

radiators; closeouts of the vehicle; main engine interface leak checks. Discovery, in OPF

Bay 3, had leak tests of the crew module completed. "Work in progress: leak and

functional tests of the auxiliary power units; installation of its drag chute; integrated testing

of the main propulsion system; testing of the vehicle's Ku-band antenna. Atlantis, being

readied for its fern/flight to Califomia for Intensive modil_.atiore_ is housed in OPF Bay

2 where it is undergoing preparalJons to flush the auxiliary power units; preparations to

deeervice the fraon cooling system; removal of tacan antennas and the radar altimeter.

[KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 11 a.m., Sept. 8, 1992.]

Sepwmber 9: DELTA LAUNCH A SUCCESS

At 4:57 a.m., the Air Force launched a Delta II rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force

Station's Launch Complex 17. The rocket carded a NAVSTAR Global Positioning System

Satellite into orbit, the fifteenth such satellite in the system. "We're a pretty happy bunch.

of people at this point," said flight commentator Sldp Mackey. The launch was the 15th

successful liftoff of Navstar satellites. It was the second Delta launch from Cape

Canaveral in 10 days. The Air Force and the 45th Space Wlng at Patrick Air Force Base

will now be prepared to assist at Eastern Test Range for the launch of Endeavour on

Saturday morning. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, Sept. 8, 1992; 'Delta Rocket

Scheduled to Lilt Navigation Satellite Into Orbit,' FLORIDA TODAY, p. 6A, Sept. 9, 1992;

Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Sept. 10, 1992.]

g STS 47 CFEW ARRIVES AT I¢SC TODAY

The seven-member crew of the Space Shuttle Endeavour arrived at Kennedy Space

Center's Shuttle Landing Facility this moming at approximately 8:30 a.m. "We're all

excited about the idea of getting ready to go into space," said Commander Robert L

"Hoot' _ "We think we have some exciting things we are going to get a chance to

look into and investigate.' The crew also includes Pilot Curds L Brown, Jr. and Mission

Specialists Jay Apt, Mae C. JemisoR Mark C. Lee and N. Jan Davis (who will be the first

married couple In space) and Mamoru Mohd, a Japanese astronaut. Apt, Jemison and
Davis,willbeddownshortlyalterarrival,whiletheremainderof thecrewwilleat lunch

and attendShuttleand payload status briefings. 'They are getting acclimated to the

schedule they'll be working during theffight," said KSC spok_om_i __

Asked about progress in pre-launch operations. Malone said, "We're doing great at the

pad. We're pressing on for a launch Saturday [September 12] and we don't expect any

problems." ff the launch goes as scheduled, a landing would occur at KSC at 6:59 a.m.

on September 19. The three-day countdown also got underway today at [Halvorson,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 6A, Sept. 9, 1992; Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Sept. 10,

1992; Hoversten, USA TODAY. p. 2A, Sept. 11, 1992.]

SelXamber 10:. QUAYLE TO wrrNESS STS 47 LAUNCH

Vice President J. Dan_m_ Queyla will be on hand at Kennedy Space Center to witness

the second launch of Endeavour on its STS 47 mission September 17_ The vice

president will meet with the families of the STS 47 crew before the launch; alter the liftoff

he wig address the launch team. 'We're looking forward to eating beans with the vice

president,' said Shuttle Launch Director Rebezt B. Sieck, A meal of beans and combread

is a tradition following every Shuttle launch. Queyle is chairman of the National Space

Council and has visited KSC twice previously, in February and May 1991. After the

launch, the Queyles will fly to South Florida to tour the hurricane damage in Homestead,

FL ['KSC Readies for Quayle Visit," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Sept. 10, 1992; OFFICE OF

THE VICE PRE_SID_NT, "Visit of the Vice President and Mrs. Quayle to Cape Canaveral,

Florida, Sept. 12, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Sept. 11, 1992.]

D HYDROC-.-.-.-.-._N REACTANTS LOADED

Technicians at Launch Complex 39B have loaded liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen

reaotants into Endeavour for use by the fuel ceg¢ STS 47 remains on target for a

September 12 lUtoff. Crew activities: Commander Robert L "Hoot" Gibson and Pilot

Cu_l= L Brown, Jr. flew in the Shuttle Training Aircraft this moming. Crew members

receive a medical e0oamtoday, review _ght data files and collect baseline data. Work in

progress: preparations to disconnect the Orbiter midbody umbilical unit used to load

cryogenic reactants into the Orbiter's onboard fuel cell storage tanks; acthratlon of the

Orbiter's communications system; preparations to load time critical experiments into the

Spacelab module including the frogs and fish; countdown clock enters a planned 4-hour

built-in hold at the T-19 mark. Loading the animals into Endeavour requires that two

McDonnell Douglas Space Systems technicians be lowered by rope from the crew cabin

down a 20-foot-long tunnel to the opening of the Spacelab. Work scheduled: moving the

rotating service structure away from the vehicle at 1100 a.m. September 11; begin loading

cryogenic propellants into the external tank at 0203 September 12; crew wake-up time on

September 12 is at 4:58 a.m. for the blue team and at 5:28 a.m. for the red team; crew

breakfast is at 5:58 a.m. September 12 with departure of the flight crew for the LC 39B

at 7:08 a.m. Launch is set for 10:23 a.m. EDT September 17_ Forecasters are predicting

an 80 percent chance of having acceptable conditiorls at I_ time. The main weather

concern is thunderstorms and the clouds left over after the storms dissipate, rKSC

SHLrl"rLE STATU.,S REPORT, 10 a.m.. Sept. 10, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 7A,

Sept.1I, 1997_]

V
I] COLUMBIA: STS 52 PROCESSING

TACANS number 1 and 3 are being replaced on Columbia while the Orbiter is being

processed for STS 52 in OPF Bay 1. Other work in progress: checkout of the forward

reaction control system; tests of the robot arm; closeouts of the vehicle; main engine

interface leak checks. Work scheduled: transfer of the Orbiter to the Vehicle Assembly

Building next week for mate with the extemal tank and boosters. [KSC _HUTTLE STATUS

REPORT. 10 a.m.. Sept. 10, 1992.]

g DISCOVERY: DRAG Q-tLR1EDOOR INST/CLED

In OPF Bay 3 technicians have installed Discovery's drag chute door. Work in progress:

electrical redundancy testing of the orbital maneuvering system and reaction control

system; leak and functional tests of the auxiliary power units; integrated testing of the

main propulsion system; testing of the Ku-band antenna. [KSC SHUI"R.E STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m.. Sept. 10, 1992.]

!1 AIlANI"IS: MODIFICATION PEJ:gODCONTINUES

Technicians have flushed the auxiliary power units of Atlantis while the Orbiter in OPF Bay

2 awaits its ferry flight to Palmdale, CA, for extensive modifications. Other work in

progress on the vehicle: transfer of the power reactant storage and distribution system

tanks to the Logistics Facility for storage; removal of auxilimy power unit lines;

preparations to daservice freon cooling system; removing TACAN antennas and the radar

altimeter, fKSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m.. Sept. 10, 1992.]

s w er SOTHSHUn I, UNCH SUCCESSR¢

Endeavour's launch was the first post-Challenger Shuttle launch to take place on time at

10:23 a.m. EDT. Mission Spactalist Jay Apt said, "rye got to tell you this is a great way

to commute to work.' I_A spokesman James _ said, 'It was loud - louder than

normal.' GliselleAlntar_ a receptionist at Kennedy Space Center said, It was awesome.

I enjoy the feel of the launch more than the visual aspect. The Earth shaking, car alarms

ringing. I call it 'rolling thunder'." Next to God, it's the most powerful thing I know."

Launch Director Robert B. Sieck noted that the launch was merely saven-hundredths of

a second late. He said, 'Looks close enough for government work." [Halvorson,

FLORIDA TODAY, pp. 1A-2A" Sept. 13, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SENTIN.EL pp. A-1

& A-15, Sept. 13, 1992; KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 11 a.m., Sept. 14, 1992.]

g OUAYLE:'GOODLUCKAND

Vice President J. Denioflh Quayle was on hand today to view the Shuttle Endeavour's

second launch. About 20 minutes before launch, the vice president radioed to the crew:

'On behalf of the president and all Amedcmw, we just wish you and your craw good luck

and Godspeed. We know it's going to be great." Mission Commander Robeet L "l-kxX"

replied, 'Thank you, sir. We very much appreciate your support and we look

forward to having a safe and successful 50th launch of the Space Shuttle by the world's

greatest launch team and we're very pleased to have you here today." [Coleman and

Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A"Sept. 13, 1992.]

185
n LOCKHEED WORKERS HONORED

Bnjan Bake="(Edgewater, FL) was named Lockheed Space Operations Co.'s Employee

of the Month and Slaphen Leonhard (Mires, FL) was named the company's Supervisor

of the Month. Baker has worked at Kennedy Space Center for 26 years and Leonhard

has spent 13 years at KSC. Leonard said, 'It makes you feel like they appreciate the work

you do.' ['2 KSC Workers Honored," FLORIDA TOI_AY, p. 9E, Sept. 13, 1992.]

Sepmnber 14: pQST_ REPOFn"

g

For the flint time since _ 61-B, a Shuttle was launched on time Saturday at

10:23:00.0600 &n_ EDT. Endeavour's second launch marked NASA's 50th Space Shuttle

launch. The STS 47 solid rocket boosters ardved at Hangar AF on Cape Canaveral Air

Force Station at 16 and 1830 yesterday. Both boosters are secured in the work stands

and engineers are performing an open assessment today. A preliminary look at the

boosters indicates they are in good condition. Launch Complex 39B sustained a minimal

amount of damage as a result of Saturday's launch. Mobile launcher platform number

2 wig be moved from the pad to the refurbishment site tomorrow. Endeavour is

scheduled to land on Saturday (September 19) at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle

Landing Facility at 6:59 a.m. EDT. [KSC SHU'I'I"LE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., Sept. 14,

1992.]

COUJMBIA: LEAK CHECI_ COMPI.ETED

In the counm of preparing Columbia for its STS 52 mission, technicians have completed

leak checks of the vehicle's crew module. Work in progress: cleaning of the payload

bay; closeouts of the vehicle; tests of the hydraulic system; troubleshooting of the water •

system_the crystals by vapor transport expedmanHocatedin the middeck. Columbia's

transfer from OPF Bay 1 to the Vehicle Assembly Building wig occur September 18. Once

in the VAB, Columbia will be bolted to its external tank and boosters. |KSC SHU'I'I'LE

STATUS REPORT. 11 a.m., Sept. 14, 1992.]

g I;)ISCQVERYIATI.ANTIS

Discovery continues to undergo processing in OPF Bay 3. Work in progress:

preparations to remove the left orbital maneuvering system pod for repairs of an oxidizer

isolation valve. The pod will be transferred to the Hypergollc Maintenance Facility where

repairs will be made. Other work: servicing of the potable water;,testing of the Ku-band

antenna; replacement of a regulator for a water spray boiler. Atlantis is in a modification

period at KSC before its ferry flight to Caiifomia for extensive changes and improvements.

Work in progress: preparations to deservice the freon cooling system; removal of various

components. Atlantis WIll be fardad to Pairndale, CA, in mid-October. [KSC SHUTI'LE

STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., Sept. 14, 1992.]

g LEE MADE PFKX_REMENT DEPUTY

NASA Administrator Daniel S. Goldln announced today the appointment of Deidre A. Lee,

a veteran aerospace acquisitions officer, as Deputy Assistant Administrator for

Procurement. Lee, who managed a variety of procurement activities in both NASA and

the Air Force, currently serves as the Executive Officer to NASA's Acting Deputy

Administrator Aaron Colten. "We are very fortunate to have a person with Deidre Lee's

considerable experience and energy to fillthis position at a time when we are undertaking

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major reforms in NASA procurement activities,' Goldin said. [NASA/KSC News Release

No. 92-146, Sept. 14, 1992.]

September 15: HANGAR AF: BOOSTERS STRIPPED

At Hanger AF, blasts of high power water ere stripping the exterior cork and thermal

protective foam away from Endeavour's boosters' aft skirts. Both boosters will be

disassembled and shipped back to the respective vendors for refurbishment. Mobile

launcher platform number 2 will be moved from the pad to the refurbishment site

tomorrow. F.ndeavo_s landing continues to be scheduled for _tember 19 at Kennedy

Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility at 6:59 a.rrL EDT. [KS_ _;HUTTLE STATU_;

10 sept is, 1992.]

n COLUMBIA: PRI_ARATIONS IN OPF BAY 1

Technicians are preparing Columbia for itsSTS 52 flight in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay

1. Work in progress: cleaning of the payload bay; closeouts of the vehicle; tests of the

hydraulic system; preparations to replace the water accumulator for the crystals by vapor

transport expedment located in the middeck. Transfer of the Orbiter to the VAB will occur

no earlier than 0001 September 19; Columbia willthen be bolted to its external tank and

solid rocket boosters. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Sept. 15, 1992.]

D _: OPF BAY 3 _

Discovery is in OPF Bay 3; work in progress: pr_ to remove the left orbital

maneuvering syetem pod for repairs of an oxidlzer isolation valve; transfer of left OMS pod

to Hypergolic Maintenance Facility for repalm; leak and functional tests of the ammonia

system; servicing of freon coolant loop number 1; servicing of the potable water,

mplaceme_ of a regulator for a water spray boiler. [K_C SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT,

10 &m., Sept. 15, 1992.]

D ATL4NTIS: MODIFICATIONS AT I¢SC CONTINUE

The Space Shuttle Atlantis began a period of modification at the conclusion of its recent

STS 46 mission. Work in progress: installation of the forward reaction control simulator;

preparations to deservice the freon cooling system; removal of various components. In

mid-October, the vehicle will be shipped to Rockwell International's Palmdale, CA, plant

for further, more Intensive modifications. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m.,

Sept. 15, 1992.]

8e_ 16: ENOEAVOU vq o" G V TE

Hydrolasing activities are continuing on the boosters to remove extedor cork and thermal

protective foam. Both boosters will be disassembled and shipped back to the respective

vendors for refurbishment. Mobile launcher platform number 2 was moved from the pad

to the refurbishment site yesterday. Endeavour's STS 49 mission has been extended one

clay pushing landing at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to Sunday

morning at 7:22 a.m. The extension was authorized to allow the astronauts more time

to run expedment¢ 'You have another 24 hours to enjoy those aurora," said astronaut

ChaBJes D. "Sam" Gemer speaking to the Endeavour crew from Mission Control in

Houston. Commander Robert L "Hoo¢"_ responded: 'Gee Sam, everybody's

frowning.' [KSC SHU'I-rLE STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., Sept. 16, 1997_]

187
g COLUMBIA: OPF BAY 1 PROCESSING

The Space Shuttle Columbia continues to undergo processing prior to itsSTS 52 mission.

In OPF Bay 1 the work in progress includes: cleaning of the payload bay; closeouts of

the vehicle; final brazing of gaseous nitrogen lines in the aft compartment; replacement

of the water accumulator for the crystals by vapor transport experiment located in the

middeck. Work scheduled: transfer of Columbia to the Vehicle Assembly Building no

earlier than 0001 September 20 when the Orbiter will be mated to its extemal tank and

solid rocket boosters; the STS 52 flight readiness review is set for October 1 and the

launch is ter_ targeted for mid-October. II<SC SHUTTLE STATUS RI_PORT, 11

a.m., Sept. 16, 1992.]

g DISCOVERY: CO "ONENTB

Preparations am underway in OPF Bay 3 to remove Discovery's left orbital maneuvering

system (OMS) pod for repairs of an oxidizer isolation valve; the pod goes to the HMF for

completion of the repair work. Other work in progress: tests of the Ku-band antenna;

electrical redundancy tests of the OMS and reaction control systems; leak and functional

tests of the ammonia system; preparations to connect the auxiliary power unit lines;

servicing of the freon coolant loop number 1 and the potable water. [KSC SHUTTLE

STATU.S REPORT. 11 a.m., Sept. 16, 1992.]

g MOO.=¢A'nONOF ATuucr 

In OPF Bay 2, _ continues in the eerly phases of the major modillcation work which

will be continued in mid-October in Palmdale, CA. Work in progress at KSC: Installing

the reinforced carbon chin panel; preparations to deservice the freon cooling system;

tests of the main propulsion system. The lnetaliatJon of the forward reacuon control

simulator. Atlantis will be ferried to California on October 17. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS

REPORT. 11 a.m., Sept. 16, 1992.]

Seplentx_ 17: TO eREF NEWSMEt;M

Several times a year Kennedy Space Center Director Robert L Crippen meets with editors

and other members of the media who are interested in what is happening at the space

center, but do not get a chance to talk to him regularly. Crippen's next such meeting with

the press is set for the afternoon of September 21 at 1:30. [NASA/KSC Release No. 126-

92, Sept. 17, 1992.]

,Sepmmber 18: ENDEAVOURS LAN_ PLANS/ICSC

The Space Shuttle Endeavour is scheduled to land at Kennedy Space Center September

20, alter spending eight days in space on Shuttle mission STS 47. The landing will mark

the conclusion of the Orbiter's second mission which began at KSC on September 12.

Landing had earlier been slated for September 19, but was extended to gather more

science data. Landing of Endeavour at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility (SI.F) is currently

planned for 7:19 a.m. EDT on orbit 126. Landing on that schedule will bring mission

elapsed time to 7 days, 20 hours and 56 minutes. Deorbit bum is set to occur on orbit

125 at about 6:19 a.m. at 7 days, 19 hours and 56 minutes. There is a second landing

opportunity at KSC at 8:53 a.m. on orbit 127. [See lending story below.] The main

weather concern is the possibility of rain within 30 miles of Kennedy Space Center's

Shuttle Landing Facility, according to Gray Coen, mission operations manager at Johnson

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Space Center (Houston, TX). The decision to land will be made about 100 minutes

before the scheduled touchdown; Coen added that it was very likely that the first landing

opportunity would be bypassed. Two landing opportunities are also available at KSC on

September 21, at 7:13 a.m. and 8:46 a.m. Should weather prevent a landing at Kennedy,

opportunities are also available at Edwards Air Force Base, CA, on September 20 and 21,

at 10:23 and 11:57 a.m. and 10:14 and 11:47 a.m., respectively.

KSC Ground Operations

Once the Orbiter is on the ground, sating operalkms commence and the flight crew will

prepare the vehicle for post4andlng openaJon¢ A new transport vehicle will be used for

the first tlme on this mission; it will assist the crew by allowing them to egress and

changeout of the re-entry suits more easily and quicker. This vehicle, called the Crew

Transport Vehicle (CTV), was purchased from Continental Aidines at Denver for use at

KSC. A similar CTV will be on hand at Edwards. The CTV and other KSC landing convoy

operations have been in an 'on- car status since Endeavour launched September 12.

The primary functions of the Space Shuttle recovery convoy are to provide immediate

service to the Orbiter alter landing, prepare the Orbiter for towing to the OPF and assist

crew egress.

Convoy vehicles are stationed midway along the SLF. About two hours prior to landing,

convoy personnel don SCAPE suits, or Self Contained Atmospheric Protective Ensemble,

and communications checks are made, A warming of coolant and purge equipment is

conducted and needy two dozen convoy vehicles are positioned to move onto the runway

as quickly and as safely as possible once the Orbiter coasts to a stop. When the vehicle

is deemed safe of all potential explosive hazards and toxic gases, the purge and coolant

Umbilical Access Vehicles move into position at the rear of the Orbiter. Alter purge and

coolant operations, flight crew egress preperatJons will begin and the CTV is moved into

position at the crew access hatch located on the Orbiter's port side.

Once access to the vehicle is gained, a doctor will board the Shuttle and conduct a brief

preliminary e0<arninationof the astmnautL The crew will then make preparations to leave

the vehicle. Several hours after landing, the Orbiter will be towed to OPF Bay 1 for postflight desmvidng and preparations for the next mission, STS 54. Following departure

from the SLF, the seven astronauts will be taken to their quarters in the O & C Building,

meet with their families, undergo additional physical examinations and depart for the skid

strip at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station for their flight back to JSC. The crew intends

to depart for JSC about eight hours after landing. In the event a landing at KSC is not

feasible and Endeavour lands at Edwards, an augmented KSC convoy team will be at the

Califomla site to safe the vehicle, disembark the crew and move the Orbiter to the

Mate/Demate Device. The tumaround team will be deployed to Edwards by charter

alrcrait on landing day. [NASNKSC News Release No. 129-92. Sept. 18, 1992; KSC

SHUTI"I._ STATUS RE_PORT,10 a.m., Sept. 18, 1992.]

COUJMBI_ PAYI.OAD_ TO LC 39B

The payloads for Columbia's STS 52 mission have been transferred to Launch Complex

•39B and the Orbiter's payload bay doors have been closed. Work in progress: repairing

an hydraulic leak in the elevon actuator line; preparations for the positive pressure

structural leak test; closeouts of the vehicle; transferring the STS 52 payloads into the

Payload Changeout Room at LC 39B. Work scheduled: weight and center of gravity

determination tomon'ow; transfer of Columbia to theVehicle AssemblyBu_lding September

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20 for mating with its extemal tank and solid rocket boosters; flight readiness review in

early October;, launch in mid-October. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, 10 a.m., Sept.

18, 1992.]

_Di,._vOVERY& All.AN1_: PROCESSING ACTIVITIES

Discovery, in OPF Bay 3, is having its .orbital maneuvering system crossfeecl lines

disconnected. The Orbiter is undergoing leak and functional tests of the auxiliary power

units and is being prepared for removal of the left orbital maneuvering system (OMS) pod

for repair of the system's oxkJizer isolation vaJve. The pod itself wlUbe transferred to the

Hypergolio Maintenance Facility for repairs. Atlantis, in OPF Bay 2, is having its residual

oxidizer and fuel hypergolic pmpetlanW olfloadecL Both OPF bays I and 2 are closed to

non-essential personnel both today and tomorrow during the hazardous operation.

Atlantis work scheduled: tests of the OMS pods next week; deployment of the radiators

next week; removal of fuel cells and installation of simulators in their place. The crosscountry fern/to Palmdale, CA, is scheduled to start October 17. rKSC SHUTTLE STATU S

REPORT. 10 a.m., Sept 18, 1992.]

_: PLANT BIOLOGY EXPERIMENTATION

The time when astronauts will be required to grow their own food in space may still be

many years away, but a pair of scientists from NASA's Kennedy Space Center and Walt

Disney World's EPCOT C.,e_er are already mixing soil, planting crops and preparing for

humanldnd's long-distance voyages of the future. Their goal is to see that food is not an

issue when astronauts once again leave Earth orbit and move on to the moon, Mars or

bayoncL The anangemem is Involves two of Central Florida's largest employers

dedicating two of their most highly educated employees to a project in a field where

neither conglomerate is best known. Chris Brmm, Ph, D., a plant physiologist with The

aionetJcs Corporation, and Andrew ,_mger, Ph.D., plant pathologist based at The

Land pavilion at EPCOT Center, joined forces just over a year ago and have since been

expedrnenting with lighting, plants and various types of growing environments.

Working in a labormory near The Land pavilion, Brown and Schuerger have not only

studied plant development but also new ways of growing them. They are focusing on

artificial lighting used to nourish and stimulate the plants. Rather than relying on

fluorescent or high-pressure sodium lights which have been used before, the two

scientists are instead using light emitting diodes (LEDs) - like those used to illuminate

digital clocks and watches - to stimulate their crops. The two scientists are using blue

and red light.

With a limited area to grow plants on Space Station Freedom, Brown and Schuerger were

forced to modify their approach to the project. "Sodium or fluorescent lights work great

in indoor laboratories hem on Earth, but we're going have some substantially different

circumstances once we start growing plants in space,' said Brown. "The presence of

humans and a less than ideal environment provides us with some unique challenges.'

Those challenges center around the intensity and types of lighting needed to invigorate

and sustain plant life. T_/pical greenhouse lighting was bypassed because they produce

short lifespans, poor energy efficiency, safety concems with fragile glass lights and an

intolerable amount of heat output. The idea of using LEDs as an artificial light source for

plants is not a new one. Developed and marketed by Quantum Devices, Inc. (Bameveld,

WS), the growth-spurring LEDs were first studied at NASA's Ames Research Center.

Experimental studies have been undertaken by a handful of researchers from various

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universities and private institutions, but none are known to be as extensive or fruitful as

those conducted by Brown and Schuerger.

The LEDs are being tested for their usefulness in spaceships, but spin-offs of the

research conducted by Brown and Schuerger will likely someday find its way into the

commercial marketplace. The miniature LEDs - which can generate up to 1/2 the light

intensity of mid-day sunlight - may have uses in commercial gardening, pest management

and experimental growth chambers. 'The technology is still early inthe development, but

I think LEDs could have far-reaching ImplicatlorB,' said Brown. Schuerger added, 'We're

delving into a new area of plant research here. I'm Involved because EPCOT Center and

The Land pavmon are dedicated to the future and particularly futuristic research....It may

be a while before the results of our studies fly in space or before their spin-o_ are in

your local garden shop, but we're confident that those days will come.' [NASA/KSC

News Release No. 128-92. Sept. 18, 1992.]

,_q_and:_n" 19:. WOOI_ NAMED _

Warren Woodworth (Lockheed Space Operations Co. engineer) has been named a 1992

Manned Space Flight Awareness honoree. He was given the award for his contributions

as the Orbiter airframe structural lead engineer for Endeavour. ['Lockheed Engineer Wins

Award,' Photo, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 9E, Sept. 20, 1992.]

n ADM_TOR GOI,DIN TO SPEAK LOCALLY

NA_ Administrator Daniel S. _ will speak September 22 at the Brevard County

Manufacturers Association and the Bravard Economic Development Corporation's Industry

Appreciation '92. The dinner is to be held at 6:30 p.m. at the Cocoa Beach Hilton.

['Goldin to Speak at Industry Appreciation,' FI,0RIDA TODAY, p. 9E, Sept. 20, 1992.]

21: ENDEAVOUR _ AT

•Uke they say inthe commercial, 'it doesn't get any better than this',' said Kennedy Space

Center Director Robed L Cdppen when Endeavour ended its eight-day STS 47 mission

yesterday. Touchdown came at 8:5,3:24 a.m. EDT; it was a successful conclusion to the

50th Space Shuttle mission. Endeavour Commander Robert L "Hoot" _ remarked

after the landing, 'We got to go have the fun. We got to go do the good part, but we very

much appreciate what the Kennedy Space Center - the world's greatest launch team - did

for us. They're now turning Endeavour around for the next mission. So, the mission is

over and the mission continues.'

Endeevour's landing was on Runway 33; the drag chute was deployed at touchdown and

the total rollout distance was approximateiy 8,567 feet. This landing marked the 12th

Shuttle landing at KSC. Nose gear touchdown came at 8:53:41 end wheels stopped at

8:54:11 a.m. The total mission elapsed time was 7 days, 22 hours, 31 minutes and 11

seconds. Endeavour logged at total of 3,310,922 million miles in space during its second

flight. The vehicle was safed on the runway and Endeavour was parked inside the OPF

by 3:47 p.m. Time-critical experiments were removed from the Orbiter ovemight. Postflight inspections and deservicing operations are underway.

Residual cryogenic propellants will be offloaded tonight; main engine drying operations

are scheduled to begin today. Preliminary inspections indicate the vehicle sustained

minor tile damage. Two tiles were damaged when the drag chute was deployed and two

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tiles on the nose landing gear door may have to be replaced. Overall the vehicle appears

to be in good shape. Access is being established to all areas of the vehicle.

Preparations are in work to open the payload bay doors tomorrow. Removal of the

Spacelab-J payload is set for Friday, September 25. [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, pp. 1A2A, Sept. 21, 1992; KSC SHU'I-I'L_ STATUS REPO=RT,September 21, 1992.]

COLUMBIA MOVED TO VAB

The Space Shuttle Columbia, the next Orbiter that _ will send into space, was

transferred to the Vehicle Assembly Building by 1:10 p.m. yesterday (September 20).

Today technicians hoisted the vehicle above the transfer aJ_e floor and into high bay 1

where it will be bolted to its external tank and solid rocket boosters. Work scheduled:

rollout to Launch Complex 39B is targeted for September 26. A terminal countdown

demonstration test is set for October 1-2, followed by a flight readiness review and launch

by mid-October. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, Sept. 21, 1992.]

DISCOVERY IN OPF BAY 3

Preparations are underway to remove the left orbital maneuvering system (OMS) pod of

Discovery for repaim of an oxidizer isolation valve. The pod will be transferred to the

Hypergolic Maintenance Facility where the actual repair work will be done. Discovery's

landing gear struts are being pressurized for flight;, the main landing gear wheels and

tires are being installed and leak checks of the liquid hydrogen main propulsion system

are underway. [KSC SHUTTLE STATUS R_PORT, Sept. 21, 1992.]

ATI.ANT_: OIT BAY 2 MOOIRC_TIONS

In OPF Bay 2, Atlantis is undergoing tests of the orbital maneuvering system pods;

preparations to remove the fuel cells and star trackers and desendolng of freon coolant

loop number 1. Work scheduled: deployment of the radiators this week; removal of fuel

cells and installation of simulators in their place. Atlantis' ferry flight to Palmdale, CA, is

set for October 17. [KSC SHUTTLE STA'I'U_ RI_PORT, Sept. 21, 1997_]

ENDEAVOUR"LOOKSQ.EN 

'it looks clean. It really does," said Endeavour's Processing Manager J(d_ "r'_' Talone

the day after Endeavour landed at Kennedy Space Center. "It's in real good shape." He

said that of the 30,00 tiles covedng the vehicle, only four need replacement. All the

animals which flew aboard the vehicle in experiments have been removed from the

payload bay. These included: 155 tadpoles conceived in space and seven hatched in

flight; 180 hornets; 7,600 fruit files and 30 chicken eggs, Endeavour's next mission is

scheduled tentatively for January 13. [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Sept. 22, 1992;

Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL pp. A-1 & A-4, Sept 21, 1992.]

DISCOVERY: O-RING LEAK FouIP_

A leak similar to the one that caused the Challenger accident has been spotted in a

booster intended for the use of Discovery on its next mission. Early on the 18th a test

showed that one of three o-rings was leaking slightly. Finding out which ring is leaking

and why could delay Discovery's launch now tentatively set for November 10, according

to Director of Shuttle Operations Jim Hardngto_ He said that the recent test was the first

time a joint between segments had failed a check since flights resumed in 1988.

V
Harrington noted that the leak was tiny; it could not be seen or heard without special

instrumentation. It was discovered because of a drop in pressure. Sensitive sound

detectors will be used to locate the leak, he said. The joints have 'all kinds of

redundancy in there," said Hardngton. He said, further, that the segments used on the

redesigned rockets were safer than those used on Challenger. KSC Director Robert L

Cdppen said that test directors don't want to use the SRBs unless every o-ring passes

inspection. [Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL pp. A-1 & A-IO, Sept. 22, 1992.]

_epmmber 22: SRB LEAK OBSERVED

As part of the booster assenbly process at Kennedy Space Center, special equipment

is used to check for minute leakage past o-dngs inthe field Joints. Dudng these standard

leak check operations on the right-center field joint of the STS 53 solid rocket boosters,

a leak was observed by test engineers at the primary o-ring seal. As planned for

contingencies such as this leak check anomaly, engineers are scheduled to de-stack the

booster segment to inspect the seal and determine the cause of the leak. The o-ring will

be replaced and engineers will conduct athorough inspection and analysis of the original

o-ring. Potential causes for the leak could include debris, contamination or improper

seating of the o-ring. Cleanliness and contamination control precautions are emphasized

during the assembly procedure and have been effective for the previous 150 field joint

assemblies for the 25 flights of the redesigned solid rocket motors. In this instance the

leak check performed its function by identifying an unusual condition which is being

investigated°

•It's a small leak - most likely less than _ of an inch in diameter,' according

to NASA Project Engineer PM Weber. 'It's not audible, and it's not a physical, blowing

leak. It's very possible that we may disassemble (the segment) and not even find

anything wrong. We deal with problems with flight hardware on a day-to-day basis.

That's what we do out here. The key is you have to have the procedure in place. It

wasn't a big shock (when we found the leak.) We knew what to do," Weber said.

The leak check IS performed on all field joints as part of the assembly process in stacking

the boosters for flight. The test includes imposing high-presaum (1,000 psi) between the

secondary and pdmary o-ring seals. Engineers monitor for any pressure increase

between the capture feature seal and the pdmary, ffany changes in pressure are noted

during this test, the pdmary seal is suspect and fails the test. Leak checks are also

performed at lower pressures, between the secondary and pdmary seals, and between

the capture feature and primary seals. These followon checks are performed only after

passing the initial leak checks. Successful completion of the leak check procedures

provides the final assurance that the assembled RSRM fully meets seal requirements.

The STS 53 mission IS currently targeted for a mid-November launch; impact of the

destacking and o-dng replacement on the target launch date, if any, is still being

assessed. ['EI'S 53 Redesigned Solid Rocket Motor Stacking Operations," Sept. 23,

1992; Brown, FI,ORII_A TODAY, p. 4A, Sept. 23, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL

p. A-IO, Sept. 23, 1992.]

n CONCd:IESS: FREEDOM _ _ APPROVAL

President Bush has won nearly all themoney he sought for the budget of Space Station

Freedom. Congressional negotiators for the House and Senate have agreed to a budget

calling for the expenditure of $2.1 billion. Bush had asked for $2.2 billion. ['House-

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Senate Negotiators Approve $2.1 Billion for Space Station Freedom,' FLORIDA TODAY,

p. 4A, Sept. 23, 1992; Holton, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL p. A-l, Sept. 24, 1992.]

GOLDIN: PROCU_ENT RULES TO CHANGE

NASA Administrator Daniel 8. Gofd'msaid today that his agency's procurement rules will

change to encourage small businesses to pursue contracts in the space program. 'We

need to open our arms to bdng in small and disadvantaged businesses,' he said. Goldin

said he wanted to simplify procurement rules and set up an electronic bulletin board for

companies to learn what NASA's needs are. "One of the challenges we face in our

society istofocus not on our prasent problems, but onthe future." ['NASA ChlefTargets

Small Businesses,' FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2B, Sept. 23, 1982.]

Seplaedaer 23: SnBUPDA'n s'rs

In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3, workers began dernating the two booster

segments designated for the STS 53 mission last night. When the right forward center

segment was demated from the right aft center segment this moming, a one-inch piece

of one of the V-2 filler sections was found pinched between the tang and clevis. Officials

have determined that this V-2 filler caused the leak that was detected September 18.

Today's inspection of the three o-dngs proved they were intact and undisturbed. No

foreign debris or contamination was present in the joint. There are 8 sections of the V-2

filler sections that are held In position with grease and are press-fitted into place within

the joint. The rubber V-2 filler sections are about four feet long, about a half inch wide

and "U" shaped. The right forward center segment has been lowered down into the

transfer aisle. Both joints are being cleaned, Inspected and prepared for re-mate. New

o-dngs and V-2 filler sections will be installed. A leak check of the joint will be performed

after the segments have been remated. The STS 53 mission is currently targeted for a

mid44ovamber launch. Impact of the destacking activities on the target launch date, if

any, is still being assessed. _TS-53 SoUd Rocket Booster Update," 2 p.m., Sept. 23,

1992; Brown, _ p. 4A, Sept. 24, 1992.]

,_a_mnl=er 24: MAIN STATUS

Shuttle officials decided today to replace one of the three main engines (Engine Number

3) on Columbia during its stay at the launch pad. Columbia is scheduled to be

transferred to Pad 39B at 12:01 a.m. October 3. It is expected that the engine

replacement work will begin next week. After examining X-rays taken after

manufacturing, engineers found indications of possible small cracks in the engine nozzle

liquid hydrogen coolant manifold at the bottom of the nozzle. This manifold funnels

supercoid liquid hydrogen into tiny tubes inside the nozzle to provide cooling to the

nozzle and other areas of the engine.

X-raying the areas of concern at the pad would require an Involved process including

removal of the main fuel vane. In the Interest of time, another engine is being prepared

in the Main Engine Shop for Installation on Columbia. X-rays will be performed on a

different area of main engine number 1 while the vehicle is in the VAB. Weld concerns

on engine number 1 are In a different location than in engine number 3 and do not

require removal of the main fuel valve. There are no concerns with engine number 2.

Possible impacts to the STS 52 launch date, currently targeted for mid-October, are being

assessed. ['STS 52 Main Engine Status," 4:30 p.m., Sept. 24, 1992.]

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,_eptember 25: COLUMBIA: EN_,NIE 3 A CONCERN

Yesterday, officials decided to replace main engine number 3 of Columbia because of

concerns of small welds in the nozzle's aft manifold. Performing x-rays of this particular

area is an involved task and would require a significant amount of time. After evaluating

options, it was determined that replacing engine number 3 at the pad is the prudent thing

to do. X-rays of welds in a different location In the engine number 1 aft manifold are

being taken today. There are no concerns with engine number 2. Work in progress:

preparations to transfer the Orbiter to Launch Complex 39B; retracting platforms away

from the vehicle; defoaming around the main engine number 3 interfaces in preparation

for removal next week; x-rays of the welds in the engine number 1 alt manifold. Work

scheduled: rollout to LC 39B targeted for 0001 Saturday (October 3); hot fire of the

auxillaw power unitsSaturday night;,moving the rotating service stnJcture in place around

the vehicle at 0400 October 4; terminal countdown demonstration test set for October 1-2;

a flight readiness review is set for October 6. Launch is still targeted for mid-October.

Referring to the engine changeout, KSC spokeswoman Lisa Malone said today, 'We

should know more by the end of the week.' [KSC SHUT'TI_ STATUS REPORT, 10 elm.,

Sept. 25, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL p. A-4, Sept. 25, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA

TODAY_ p. 1A, Sept. 28, 1992; Halvorson, FI_ORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Sept. 29, 1992.]

g TITAN lIFTS MARS OBSERVER TO MISSION

At 1:05 p.m. this afternoon, the Mars Obsever Spacecraft atop a Titan 3 rocket was

launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40. The launch was

held up for 38 minutes while last minute pad work was completed. Then, after launch,

the mission was in danger of failure while ground controllers struggled for an hour to

communicate with the probe's Transfer Orbit Stage Booster rocket. The remaining

problems with the probe are considered minor and not a threat to the mission. Mars

Observer Program Manager Wiam INolxomdd said, "We expect to arrive at Mars with a

fully functional spacecrafL' A global survey of the planet is expected to commence in

mid-December 1993. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, Sept. 25, 1992; Banke, FLORID.A.

p. 1A, Sept. 26, 1992; Banke, FI,ORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Sept. 27, 1992; Hoversten,

USA TODAY. p. 8A, Sept. 24, 1992; Date, THE ORI, ANDO SENTINEL pp. A-1 & A-4, Sept.

25, 1992.]

g DISCOVERY; (;_-!_--'I_ AND INSPECTIONS

In OPF Bay 3, technicians are at work on Discovery connecting auxiliaW power unit fuel

tank lines; servicing the potable water system; performing leak checks of the liquid

hydrogen main propulsion system; preparing to replace a relief valve in the ammonia,

System and inspecting solenoid valves in the main propulsion system. [KSC SHUTI"LE

STATUS REPORT, 10 elm., Sept. 25, 1992.]

n A'rkANm: MOOIFlCA110NSCONTINUE

Technicians have completed removal of the left orbital maneuvering system pod and the

star trackers from Atlantis; they have also deserviced the Orbiter's freon coolant loop

number 1. Work in progress: disconnecting the radiators for inspections; preparations

to remove the dght orbital maneuvering system pod and removing the auxiliary power unit

controllers. Work scheduled: removing the radiators this weekend; ferrying Atlantis to

Palmdale, CA, set for October 17. [KSCSHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 10 elm., Sept. 25,

1992.]

_._j 195
g ENDEAVOUR: pOST-FUGHT INSJ:_ECTIONS,I"I_STS

Post-flight inspections and tests are the order of the day for the Space Shuttle Endeavour

which has just completed its STS 47 mission with a landing at KSC. Other work in

progress: validations of the Orbiter's power system; inspections of the windows; leak and

functional tests of the main propulsion system helium system. On Endeavour's next

mission, STS 54, a TDRS.F satellite will be deployed. [KSC SHUTTLE_STATUS REPORT,

10 am., Sept. 25, 1992.]

I1 STS 53 BOOSTERS

Work in progress on the b_P3 53 boosters includes: lifting the right forward center

segment to the high bay for mating to the right center segment. The two segments are

expected to be re-mated by tomorrow and a leak check will follow. The STS 53 mission

is currently targeted for a mid-November launch; the impact of the destacking on the

target launch date, if any, is still being assasse(l rKSC SHUI'rLE STATUS RE,PORT. 10

a.m., Sept. 25, 1992.]

September 26: ROCKWELL GETS I¢SC QUALITY AWAF_,

This year's Kennedy Space Center Excellence Award for Quality has been given to

Rockwell International Corp., Space Systems Division Field Operations. A letter to

Rockwell from KSC Director Robert L Crippen to Rockwell Vice President and General

Manager Leroy D. Solid said, "Yourquality organization, in support of the Kennedy Space

Center's Shuttle operaUon¢ was judged to be truly worthy of this prestigious award."

Solid said, in reply, 'Manned space flight demands a culture based on quality above all

other considerations. It is gratifying to see Rockwell recognized for putting quality first."

The award will be presented in October. ['Rockwell International Space Systems

Receives KSC Excellence Award,' FI,QRIDA TODAY, p. 2B, Sept. 26, 1992.]

Seplamber 26: JOB CtR_ SllI.L _

Despite nearly complete funding for most of NASA's major programs, job cuts in the

Shuttle Program are still forecast. John WIBanlB, Lockheed Space Operations Co.

spokesman said, 'The budget is very positive as far as the long-term health of the Space

Shuttle Program and the Space Station Program, which is good news for Brevard

County." Nevertheless, Lockheed is anticipating layoffs in the range of 200 to 300

parsons from its 6,000.plus work force. Most job losses, according to Williams, will come

as the result of attrition. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Sept. 29, 1992; Date, THE

ORLANDO SENTINEL. p. A-13, Sept. 30, 1992.]

September 29: COLUMBIA: ENGINE 3 REMOVAL

Technicians at Launch Complex 391] have finished removing the heat shield from around

main engine number 3 and have opened Columbia's payload bay doors to receive the

STS 52 payload. The welds in main engine number I aft manifold show that there is no

indication of defects; this was verified by X-raying the relevant components. Work in

progress: removal of main engine number 3 from Columbia this afternoon and transfer

of the payload into the Orbiter. Work scheduled: installation of replacement main engine

number 3 tomorrow; launch readiness review for STS 52 tomorrow; terminal countdown

demonstration test (TCDT) October 1-2; craw arrival for TCDT tomorrow at 11:30 a.m.;

launch remains targeted for the third week of October. The STS 52 crew includes:

V

196
D

D

D

Commander James D. Wetherbee; Pilot Michael A. Bake_, Mission Specialists WilClm M.

Shepherd, Tamara E. Jernlgan and Charles Lacy Veach; Payload Specialist is Steven

MacLean, who is from Canada. [KSC .SHU'I-i'LESTATUS REPORT, 10:00 a m., Sept. 29,

1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, Sept. 30, 1992.]

DISCOVERY: STS 53 PROCESSING

In OPF Bay 3, pressurization of the auxiliary power unit lube oil has been completed.

Work in progress: checks on the dght hand Orbital Maneuvering b'_jstern(OMS) pod;

body flap oiceeouts; transport to the VAB of the right forward SRB segment for stacking.

The left hand OM8 pod is set for installation in Discovery tonight. [KSC SHU'I'I'LE

6"I'ATUS REPORT. 10:00 a.m., Sept. 29, 1992.]

ENDF.AVOUR: SPACB.AB J REMOVED FROM PAYLOAD BAY

Now in OPF Bay 1, the STS 47 mlaslon cargo - Spacelab J -has been removed from the

payload bay of Endeavour. Preparations are underway to remove residual hypergolic

fuels; remove main engine heat shields; deservice the auxiliary power unit water and to

conduct post-flight inspections. The right hand OMS pod has been removed from Atlantis

and sent to the Hypergolic Maintenance Facility today. Technicians in OPF Bay 2 are

troubleshooting the Orbiter's Kcvband antenna. [KSC _HI.rTrl_ STATUS REPORT, 10:00

a.m., Sept. 29, 1992.]

PAYLOAI:_ INS"rALLED

The LAGEOS II (Laser Geodynamic Satellite) spacecraft was installed into Columbia's

payload bay today in preparation for the upcoming ST8 52 mission in October. LAGEOS

was built by the Italian Space Agency (ASI) and is attached to an IRIS (Italian Research

Intedm Stage) booster, a low-cost spinning solid upper stage developed by the Italians

for deploying moderate sized satellites from the Space Shuttle. USMP-1, the first in the

U.S. Microgravlty Payload sedes, was also installed into the payload bay today. The tenday STS 52 missk:_ will provide the flight duration necessary to achieve the desired

microgravity science objective.

The next major activity for each of these payloads is an Interface Verification Test (IV'I')

which verifies the electrical connections with Columbia and ensures that the payloads will

respond correctly when sent commands from the flight deck. The IVT for USMP is

scheduled for October 2 and the IVT for LAGEOS/IRIS is scheduled for October 13.

Project Management of LAGEOS II is by the Goddard Space Flight Center (Greenbelt,

MD). Mission Management of USMP-1 is by the Marshall Space Flight Center (Huntsville,

AL). Program Management for both payloads is by the Office of Space Science and

Appl'cations (NASA, Washington, D.C.). [NASA/KSC News Release No. 135-92. Sept. 29,

1992.]

STS47 CALUm

Endeavour's STS 47 Commander Robert L 'Hoot" _ called his mission a landmark

flight that should serve as a 'steppingstone" for NASA's Space Station. "1 think it's

probably one of those flights that they'll look back on and say that it was a milestone,'

said Gibson. "Itwas the 50th [Space Shuttle] mission. We have gone through a lot of

growing pains, a lot of learning processes in the course of flying those 50 missions. They

haven't all flowed smoothly and they haven't all gone well, but it has been very definitely

_ j 197

i
a learning process for us and we are still learning. I think one of the biggest landmarks

of this flight was our cooperation with the Japanese." Referring to the presence in his

crewofh_Sandand wife as{r0rla_ Mark C. Lee and N. __ Gibson-said, "The

mission itseffwas conducted in a very professional way, and that's the entire story of the

husband-and-wife couple on the mission,"said Gibson. [Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p.

4A, Sept.30, 199" ]

Saptember 30: COLUMBIA: ENGINE _1_

At Launch Complex 39B the _ 52 payloads have been installed in Columbia and the

Orbiter's No. 3 main engine has been removed. Work in progress: interface verification

tests of the payloads; preparations to replace main engine number 3; check out of the

booster hydraulic system; calibrations of the Inertial measurement units; KSC launch

readiness review;,STS 52 crew arrival at approximately 11:30 a.m. Work scheduled:

terminal countdown dernonstmtion test October 1 and 2; flight readiness review October

6. Launch remains targeted for the third week in October. [KSC SHU'Fr1.E STATUS

REPORT, 10 a.m., Sept. 30, 1992.]

g DC,COVERY:LEFT PODINSTAU-ED

During processing activities in OPF Bay 3 the Space Shuttle Discovery has had its left

orbital maneuvering system pod installed. Work in progress: electrically connectihg the

left OMS pod; checkout of the body flap; tests of the waste collection system; tests of the

flight control system; purging of the main propulsion helium system. [KSC SHUTn.E

STATUS REPORT. 10 a.nt, Sept. 30, 1992.]

n A'n.AN'rB L OF .A'nON AT

The right orbital meneuvedng system (OMS) pod of Atlantis has been removed and the

potable water has been offioaded. Preparations are underway in OPF Bay 2 to install the

simulator OblS pods and to conduct auxiliary power unit leak and functional tests. The

femj flight to California remains scheduled to occur on October 17; at Palmdale, CA, the

Orbiter will undergo extensive modification of the sort done to Columbia and Discovery

eadler. Endeavour, being processed in OPF Bay 1, is undergoing cycling of its external

tank door_ Other processing activities: removing the main engine heat shields; postflight inspections and tests; polishing of its windows and preparations to offioad residual

hypergolic propellants, rKSC SHUI"n.E STATU_ REPORT, 10 a.m., Sept. 30, 1992.]

V

g MILITARY CON_il_IG'noN CONTRAGT AT !¢SG

Military Construction Co. (Merdlt Island, FI.) has been awarded a $224,377 fixed price

contract for the Installation of a fire detection system in the Vertical Processing Facility

(VPF) at Kennedy Space Center. The VPF is the largest of the Shuttle vertical payload

handling facilities at KSC. It features a 10,513-square-foot high bay area and an

environmentally controlled "clean room' atmosphere. Although the contract was awarded

September 15, 1992, work will not begin until Apd11993. Until that time, scheduled Space

Shuttle payload processing activities preclude access to the areas where the contract

calls for 52 detection sensors to be installed.

The small business firm will provide the sensors, a new fire control panel and other

materials, and installthem. The ultraviolet/infrared detector sensors will be located in the

facility's air lock, high bay and work stands that support the payloads while they are
n

being assembled and checked out pdor to transport to the launch pad and integration

into the Orbiter's payload bay. The sensors will be able to detect fire up to a distance

of 40 feet, pinpoint its location and relay the information via the control panel to personnel

in the VPF and the Complex 39 Launch Control Center for further action. [NASA/KSC

News Release No. 134-92. Sept. 30, 1992.]

STS 5_ CI:IEW ARRIVES FOR TCDT

The slx-member crew of Columbia's STS 52 mission ardved at Kennedy Space Center

today to partlclpate in the **terminal countdown demonstraI_n test and in emergency

egress and Shuttle landlng practice. Commander James D. Welhed)ee spoke for the

crew on arrival: 'In the next couple of days, we're golng to borrow the vehicle for a little

bit and get some practice in for ourselves,' Launch day is now targeted for October 22.

The remaining members of the STS 52 crew are Pilot Michael A. Baker, Mission

Specialists WiBam M. ,Shepherd, Tanara E. Jemigan and Cttades Lacy Veach. The single

Payload Specialist for the mission isSmven Mact.ean, a Canadian astronaut. A firm date

will be set following the flight readiness review next week for Columbia's 13th mission.

[Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Oct. 1, 1992.]

199
October1:

OCTOBER

COLUMBIA: IMUS CALIBRATED

g

At Launch Complex 39B, technicians have calibrated Columbia's inertial measurement

units in preparation for the Orbiter's STS 52 mission later this month. Work in progress:

terminal countdown demonstration test began at 8 a.m. at the T-24 hour mark;

preparations to replace main engine number 3 if acceptable wind conditions prevail; STS

52 flight crew will perform sharp edge inspection of the payload bay and practice

emergency escape procedures at the pad. Work scheduled: conclusion of the terminal

countdown demord_mtk_ test tomorrow;, flight readineu review set for October 6.

Launch is curr_ targeted for October 22. IKSC SHUT_ STATU_ RI_P_RT, 10 _m.,

Oct. 1, 1992.]

DISCOVERY: PAYLOAD BAY Ct.EANING

Discovery is currently t_ing processed for its STS 53 mission in Orbiter Pr(:_cessing

Facir_y Bay 3. The payload bay is being cleaned and technicians are conducting an

interface verification test of the left orbital maneuvering system (OMS) pod; checking out

the body flap; testing the communications, waste collection and the flight control systems.

[KSC SHU'I'I'_ STATUS REPORT. 10 a.m., Oct. 1, 1992.]

g

g

An.Am'S: FUELCELL tNSTN,J-ED

With its ferry flight to Cailfomia upcoming - October 17 - techniciar,.s in OPF Bay 2 have

Installed fuel cell simulators in the Space Shuttle Atlantis. The Orbiter is undergoing an

intensive modification period. Preparations have been made to install the simulator OMS

Pods and the left hand fixed radimor¢ Atadilary power unit leak and functional tests are

ongoing. [KSC SHUT'_ b"I"ATUSREPORT, 10 a.m., Oct. 1, 1992.]

ENOF VOURCt N P/U EEREM0VB 

Endeavour's chin panel has been removed following its retum from the STS 47 mission.

Work in progress: removing the $pacelab-J tunnel adapter and extension; removing the

main engine heat shields; post-flight inspections and tests; polishing the windows;

preparations to oflload residual hypergolic propellants. [KSC SHLrl"I"LE STATUS

10 a.m., Oct. 1, 1992.]

g WEll.lERBE_ "rM NOT CONCERNI_P

81"8 52 Commander James D. Wethed_e said today, "1am not concerned in the least

about the need to replace the engine [on Columbia]= They re=ly do a good job down

here, and rm not concerned at all.' Wetherbee referred to the changeout of the Orbiter's

number 3 main engine which is nearing completion today. Another main engine may

need replacement if an x-ray inspection shows the presence of cracks. Meanwhile, the

crew is going about usual preflight training exercises. 'They'll be going through the

normal launch-day activities," said KSC spokeswoman Usa Malone concerning the TCDT

going on now at Launch Complex 39B. The practice concludes with a simulated launch

at 11 a.m. The crew will return to Houston until October 20 when they arrive for the

launch of STS 52 now targeted for October 22. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Oct.

2, 1992.]

V

L,_J

2O0
g YOUNG HONORED FOR 3O YEARS SERVICE

Astronaut John Young was awarded the NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal today by

NASA Administrator Daniel S. C-=ofd'min a ceremony at NASA Headquarters (Washington,

D.C.). 'Today we're here to honor one of NASA's finest and an authentic American hero

if there ever was one,' Goldin said. 'John Young first became an astronaut 30 years ago

- September 1962 - back in the days when we were still flying Mercury spacecraft. He

had the right stuff back before we even had a name for it. His first flight in space was

with _ "Gut Gdssom aboard the very first Gemini flight,* Goldin continued. 'Later he

flew with Michael Colin on Gemini 10. In 1969, John made his first trip to the Moon

aboard Apollo 10 and returned three years later to become part of the world's most elite

fraternity: one of the 12 men to walk on the Moon. For most people, that would have

been enough accomplishment for one lifetime. But not John. He waited almost a

decade, then became the uitimate test pilot by taking the Space Shuttle for its first flight

into space. In 1983, he set a new record as the first man to make 6 flights into space."

Young, 62, currently serves as Special Assistant to the Director of the Johnson Space

Center (Houston, "i'X)for Engineering, Operations and Safety. Prior to this assignment,

he was Chief of the Astronaut Office from 1974 to 1987. During this period astronaut

crews participated in the Apollo-Soyuz joint American-Russian docking miasion, the Space

Shuttle Approach and Landing Test program and 25 Space Shuttle flights. In addition

to the Outstanding Leadership Medal, Young is the recipient of the Space Congressional

Medal of Honor, 3 NASA Distinguished Service Medals and 70 other major awards. He

also has been Inducted into the National Aviation Hailof Fame. [NASA/KSC News

Release No. 92-160. Oct. 1, 1992; 'John Young Receives Leadership Medal," F.LORIIpA

TODAY. p. 9E, Oct. 11, 1992.]

October 2: COLUMBIA: ENGIME _J I:EMOVED

Technicians at Launch Complex 39B successfully removed suspect main engine number

3 from Columbia yesterday. High winds had held up the operation until then. The STS

52 flight crew performed sharp edge Ir_ of the payload bay and practiced

emergency egress procedures at the pad yesterday, as well. Work in progress today:

the terminal countdown demonstration test was successfully concluded at 11 a.m. at the

T-11 second mar;, the replacement main engine was connected in place. KSC

spokeswoman Lisa Malone said, 'It was a good test, although had it been a real launch

day, we would have had to hold for the (rainy) weather." The STS 52 crew departed KSC

about 2 p.m. for a return to Houston, TX. Work scheduled: interface verification tests

between the payloads and the Orbiter planned this weekend; helium signature leak test

of the three main engines and main propulsion system on Wednesday (October 7); flight

readiness review October 7; launch on October 22. [KSC SHUTrl.E STATUS REPORT.

12 p.m., Oct. 2, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 4A, Oct. 3, 1992.]

n Am;)AlZ/wnS

Discovery is undergoing tests of its main propuision system in Orbiter Processing Facility

Bay 3. Also underway: Interface verification testing of the left orbital maneuvering system

(OMS) pod; checkout of thebody flap; tests of the waste collection system; final payload

bay cleaning. Atlantis, now in a modification phase, will be ferried to Palmdale, CA, for

further work on October 17. Meanwhile, work is in progress here: installation of the

simulator OMS Pods; tests of the payload bay doors; installation of the roll-around wheels;

modifications and inspections; installation of the left-hand fixed radiators.

. 201

v i
O ENDEAVOUR: STS 54 PROCESSING

The Spacelab-J tunnel adapter has finally been removed fromEndeavour while the

Orbiter has been in OPF Bay 1. The tunnel adapter aided access to the payload bay

during Endeavour's recently completed STS 47 mission. Work in progress: functional

test of the air data system; inspections of the radiators; removal of the main engine heat

shields; preparations to offload residual hypergolic propellants. [KSC SHU'I'n._ STATUS

REPORT. 12 p.m., Oct. 2, 1992.]

October & NI_W THIRD ENGINE INST_ a_n

Columbia had its number 3 main engine replaced today at Launch Complex 39B;

technicians are now pcepadng to test the engine for leaks, The replacement occurred

because NASA found a crack in a similar test engine's nozzle and did not want to take

chances with Columbia's engine. Replacing the engine was morn time efficient than

analysis at the pad. A leak test of the entire main engine propulsion system will be

conducted on October 7. [Brown, FI,QRIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Oct. 4, 1992.]

October 4: FRR _ TO RRM _ 52 DATE

When NASA managers meet October 6 for the STS 52 flight readiness review, one of their

objectives is to set a firm date for the launch of Columbia. That date is expected to be

October 22. Eadiar, Columbia's misskm was targeted for the second week of October,

but the replacement of a main engine caused preflight operations to fall behind. The

replaced number 3 engine has now successfully passed a leak tast at Launch Complex

39B; the entire propulsion system will be tested for leaks on October 7. ['NASA to Set

Columbia's Date Tuesday," FLORIDA TODAY. p. 3A, Oct. 5, 1992.]

C)c=otlr s: GOI.,IJMBIA: IVI'S _

n

At Launch Complex 39B, the Space Shuttle Columbia's number three main engine has

been replaced and it has undergone several leak tests. Interface verification tests (1VTS)

between the payloads the Orbiter have also been conducted. Work in progress: leak

tests of the number 3 main engine; making ground connections to the Orbiter in

preparation for loading hypergolic propellants into the Orbiter's onboard storage tanks.

Work scheduled: helium signature leak test of the three main engines and main

propulsion system on October 7. The flight readinass review begins October 6 and

launch is targeted for October 22. IKSC SHLrI'n.E STATUS REPORT. 11 a.m., Oct. 5,

1992.]

A thruster on Discovery's right orbital maneuvering system pod has been replaced during

the Orbiter's stay in OPF Bay 1. Work in progress: leak checks of the auxiliary power

units; brake anti-skid test; functional test of the landing gear;,tests of the main propulsion

system and final payload bay cleaning. [KSC SHU'I'I'_ STATUS REPORT, 11 a.m., Oct.

s, 19oj ]

. li,,Is'r'. 0 L,,A'i'iOi, C,OMt ..t "t 

In OPF Bay 2, technicians have completed the installation into Atlantis of the fight hand

simulator OMS Pod and the left hand fixed radiators. Work in progress: installing the left

V

V
\ /

hand simulator OMS Pod; leak checks of the main propulsion system; installation of the

ferry flight kit items. Extensive modifications of Atlantis will occur in Palmdale, CA, at the

Rockwell International plant to which the Orbiter will be ferried October 17. [KSC

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 11 a.m., Oct. 5, 1992.]

g ENDEAVOUR: RESIDUAL _ DRAINED

In OPF Bay 1, technicians have olfloeded the residual hypergollc propellants from

Endeavour. Work in progress: removing the main engine heat shields; taking samples

from the helium tanks; removing windows; functional tests of the forward reaction control

system. _ SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. 11 a.m., Oct. 5, 1992.]

October 6: COLUMBIA _I'ATU8 REPORT

The Space Shuttle Columbia has had its number 3 main engine replaced at Launch

Complex 39B and initial leak checks have been completed. Also concluded is an

InterfaceVerification Test for the USMP payload with the Orbiter.Currently, the STS 52

flight readiness review is underway in the 0 & C's Mission Bdeflng Room. Other work in

progress: APU #1 quick disconnect changsout; power-on testing; heat shield installation

around the number 3 main engine; preparations for hypergolic propellant loading;

preparations for the helium signature leak checks of the main engine and main propulsion

system; CVTE payload power supply checkout. Scheduled work on October 7: helium

algnatum leak check; USMP cwoganic senddng ; potable water sample. On October 8

and g technicians will undertake hypergollc storable propellant loading. On October 10,

technicians will conduct the IRIS/LAGEOS payload interface verification test (IV'r) with

Columbia. {SPACE SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT: STS 52. Oct. 6, 1992.]

g,

il

AUTO-LANDING SCRATCHED

NASA has canceled a test of the Shuttle's automatic landing system planned for

Discovery's next mission, STS 53. 'We worked hard on it...and you never like to see

something stopped that you've started,' said astronaut David M. Wa_er, who is

scheduled to command Discovery's upcoming launch. "On the other hand, no pilot that

I know of prefers to let a machine land the vehicle Instead of himself." He said the

decision suits him fine. "I'm personally a lot happier just to be able to land (the Shuttle)

myself rather than have to watch the machine do it and be prepared to take over if it

didn't do it correctly." The restofthe five-person crew includes: Pilot Robert D.

and Mission Specialists _ 8. Blulrord, James S. Voes and Michael R. U.

[Halvorson, FLORIDA TQI;)AY, p. 5A, Oct. 7, 1992.]

OCTOBER22 DATI TN=IGET

NASA managers today announced October 22 as the official launch date for the next

Space Shuttle mission. KSC spokeswoman Lisa Malone said at the conclusion of the

Flight Readiness Review that "there were no major issues that were identified that would

prevent us from launching on Oct. 22.--TheSTS 52 flight w=llsee the Space Shuttle

Columbia and her 6 person crew deploy a satellite developed by the United States and

italy to obtain precise measurements of the Earth's tectonic plates. A series of

U.S./Canadian experiments also will be conducted during the mission. The launch

window on October 22 opens at 11:16 a.m. EDT and extends for2 and 1/2 hours. The

mission duration for STS 52 is 9 days, 20 hours, 46 minutes. At the end of the mission

2o3
Columbia is scheduled to land at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility in

Florida. Mission Commander is James D. Wetherbee with M'mhael A. Baker serving as

Pilot. Mission Specialists are Charles Lacy Veach, _ M. Shepherd and Tamara E.

Jen_ Stephen Maclean is the payload specialist and the third Canadian to fly aboard

the Space Shuttle. ['NASA Sets Date for STS 52 Space Shuttle Launch,' Oct. 6, 1992;

Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 5A, Oct. 7, 1992; NASNKSC News Release No. 92-88.

Oct. 6, 1992.]

V

n SPACE STATION GRANI_ AWARDED

g

NASA has awarded epproxknately $15 billion in annual funding for 124 m_ograv_

research grants to develop the research potential of Space Staten Freedom as one of

the nation's premiere science and technology assets. 'These awards are a major step

towards the Space Station Era of microgmvity research," said Robmt I:ltmme, Director of

NASA's Mlcrogr_ Science and Appi_ Division, at agency headquarters in

Washington, D. C. 'The hardware and expedrnents developed from these grants could

make Space Station Freedom a microgravity laboratory unrivaled by any other." The

grants to the 119 researchers represent an increase-of 70 percent in the number of

investigators sponsored by the microgravity division. The division now sponsors needy

200 scientific investigators and plans to expand to at least 300 before Space Station

Freedom is operational in 1997. The selected investigators represent 60 universities,

eight corporate or private laboratories, five govemment laboratories and four NASA

centers. Nearly 500 proposals were submitted by scientists in response to the NASA

research announcements in fluid dynamics, btotechnoiogy, rnatedals science and

fundamental sclerce. The proposals were evaluated by peer review panels of recognized

expertsin thee areas, rNAsA/,,<sc News Retease No. 92-167. Oct. 6, 1992; Halvorson,

FLORIDA TQQAY, p. 9E, Oct. 11, 1992.]

RU_mlAnC_SA SIGN A_EEMENI"8

V

NASA and the Russian Space Agency (lISA) have signed two cooperative agreements

in Moscow, in the areas of human space flight and Mars exploration. "Signing these two

agreements is the next crucial step in expanding cooperative space activities with our

Russian partners. We are very anxious to begin working on these important programs,"

said NASA Administrator _ S. Gtddl_ The Human Space Flight Agreement outlines

the flight details of a Russian cosmonaut on the U.S. Space Shuttle, the flight of a U.S.

astronaut on the Russian Mir Space Station and a joint mission including the rendezvous

and docking of the Space Shuttle with the Mir Space Station.

The Mars '94 agreement is for the flight of two U.SJNASA scientific instruments on the

Russian Mars '94 lander. The agreements were signed by Administrator Goidin and RSA

Director Yud Koptev during the first annual U.S./Russlan Space Policy Consultations.

Ambassador Frank W_ner, UnderSecretary of State, headed the U.S. delegation and met

with Russian Ministry of Foreign Nfalrs officials to review the U.S./Russian space

relationship.

Human Space Fliaht Cooperation Agreement

An experienced cosmonaut will fly aboard the STS 60 Space Shuttle mission, scheduled

for launch in November 1993. RSA has nominated Cot. Vladlmir G. Ttov and Sergei K.

as the two cosmonauts who will undergo mission specialist training. One

cosmonaut will be designated the prime crewmember and the other designated backup

r _

2O4 V
crewrnember. The cosmonauts are scheduled for a_dval at NASA's Johnson Space

Center (Houston, "IX) in October 1992. A NASA astronaut will fly on a long-duration

(more than 90 days) Mir Space Station flight, The flight's timing will coincide with a

Shuttle docking flight in 1995. The astronaut will be flown to the Mir on a Soyuz

spacecraft. The astronaut's duties will focus on science, particularly life sciences, as well

as engineering and operational objectives,

Two NASA astronauts will receive full cosmonaut training with their cosmonaut crewmates

at the Yud GlagadrnCosmonaut Training Facility 'Star City" near Moscow. They will begin

training no later than 12 months prior to the agreed flight date. One astronaut will be

selected as the pdme crewrnember and the other will be designated backup

crewmember. NASA willtransport two cosmonauts in the Space Shuttle to replace the

two cosmonauts on board Mir. Life sciences experiments, involving the NASA astronaut

and the two cosmonauts on board the Mir, will be conducted while the Shuttle and the

Mir are docked. The NASA astronaut and the two cosmonauts who have been docked

on the Mir will be returned in the Shuttle to the United States for continued post-flight life

sciences experiments.

NASA ParticJ.p_!on in the Rus_i_al Mars'94 Mission

The primary objective of this mission is to carry out further joint exploration of planet Mars

in conjunction with the Russian Mars '94 mission. This may provide the opportunity for

U.S. scientific instruments to be carded aboard the Russian spacecralt. This cooperation

could significantly enhance the present Mars '94 mission and provide c_ data for

future human and robotic Mars missions. One U.S. instrument is the Soil Magnetic

Properties Experiment, and the other is the Soil Reactivity/Composition Experiment`

These will enable scientists to characterize the Martian physical and chemical surface

environmer¢ The soil magnetic properties experiment will use a magnet to collect and

measure the magnetic minerals in the Martian soil. The soil reaction/composition

experiment will provide chemical information about the volatile components inthe Martian

soil. [NASA/KSC News Rekpase No. 92-165. Oct. 6, 1992.]

_7:. _ _X.UMB_ 8TATt _

At Launch Complex 39B, workers have completed: APU #1 quick disconnect changeout;

galley water tank changeout; Space Shuttle main engine number 3 changeout and leak

checks; USMP payload interface verification test with Columbia. Work in progress:

power-on testing; heat shield and eye lid installation around SSME #3; preparations for

hypergolic propellant loading; helium signature leak checks of the main engines and main

propulsion system; USMP payload cryogenic servicing; CVTE payload power supply

checkout; potable water sampling. Work scheduled: hypergolic storable propellant

loading on October 8 and 9; IRIS/I.AGEO8 payload interface verification test with

Columbia on October 10; flight readiness test on October 11. [SPACE SHUTTI_ STATUS

REPORT: STS 57_ Oct. 7, 1992.]

October 8: PROPELLANT LOADING TODAY

Loading of hypergolic propellants into the Space Shuttle Columbia begins today. George

DiBer, KSC spokesman, said, "Everything is pretty much just clicking along." The loading

will begin about noon and continue until early this next morning. Prior to loading the

helium signature leak test will be conducted to insure that no leaks exist. [Halvorson,
g

FLORIDA TODAY. p. 6A, Oct. 8, 1992; "Workers to Fill Shuttle's Fuel Tanks," FLORIDA

_, p. SA, Oct. 10, 1992.] =__ .......... _ _ ..............

HELIUM TEST ON COLUMBIA GOES SLOWLY

The helium signature leak test of Columbia's main engines went smoothly, according to

KSC spokesperson George _ who said, "Everything is just trucking along.' The test

did proceed more slowly than expected and that caused managers to delay loading

propellants until tomorrow [October 9]. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 6A, Oct. 9,

1992.]

Ol,_,,ber 9:. COLUMBIA STA'RJ8 REPORT: _ 52

At Launch Complex 39t3, technicians have completed a helium signature leak check of

Columbia's main engines and main propulsion system. Other pre-launch work completed

includes: payload bay door closure for hypergolic loading activities; APU #1 quick

disconnect changeout; galley water tank changeout; main engine number 3 changeout

and leak checks; main engine number 3 heat shield and eye lid Installation; USMP

payload interface verification test and cryogenic servicing and potable water sampling.

In progress is oxidizer loading which requires the cleadng of LC 39B of all but essential

personnel. Scheduled work: fuel loading Saturday (October 10); reopen payload bay

doors Saturday night; gaseous oxygen system leak check; IRIS/1.AGEOS payload

interface verification test with Columbia on Sunday (October 11); flight readiness test

(FRT) on Sunday night;, aft main engine compartment closeouts begin October 12;

ordnance Installation and hypergolic pressurization on Monday night; EMU (Extravehicular

Mobility Unit) installation on Wednesday (October 14); external tank purges on Thursday

(October 15); USMP payload cryogenic topofflciose payload bay doors on Tuesday

(October 19). Launch is set for October 22 at 11:16 a.m. EDT and landing is planned for

Kennedy Space Center at 7:02 a.m. El)T, Sunday (November 1). [SPACE SHUTTLE

WEEI_.Y STATUS SUMMARY. Oct. 9, 1992; Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. IA, Oct. 11,

1997_]

g I_SCOVERY: STS 53 STATIJ8 REPORT

In the Vehicle Assembly Building, technicians have completed stacking the solid rocket

boosters for Discovery's upcoming S'P3 5,3 mission planned for the third week of

November with a planned KSC landing six days later. Hydrogen and Oxygen have been

delivered for the mission to Launch Complex 39A storage spheres. Discovery is still in

OPF Bay 3 where workers have completed ammonia, water spray boiler and potable

water servicing; potable water loop leak checks are also finished. Work in progress:

auxiliaw power unit checks; !eft OMS pad installation;test cycle of the right payload bay

door;, preparations in the VAB for ET/SRB mating on Tuesday (October 13); solid rocket

booster joint closeouts in the VAB. Work scheduled: preparations for the APU thruster

changeout on Sunday (October 11); hydraulic system testing; OMS electrical redundancy

testing; OlVlS Pod leak checks; load mass memory units; aft structural leak checks;

Orbiter positive pressure checks; position flight control surfaces for rollover to VAB;

rollover to VAB and mate to ET/SRB stack on October 20. [SPACE SHUTTLE WEEKLY

_TATUS SUMMARY, Oct. 9, 1992.]

V

206 V
g All.ANTIS; POWER DOWN COMPLETED

In OPF Bay 2, Atlantis has been powered down and its payload bay doors were closed

Thursday (October 8) night. Work In progress: closeouts for the Orbiter's ferry flight to

California for modifications; auxiliary power unit tank removal in preparation for that flight;

installation end configuration of ferry flight pods. Work scheduled: ferry flight tail cone

Installation on October 13; beginning Installation on Orbiter transporter on October 15;

move to rnate/demate device and mate to the 747 Shuffle Carder Aircraft on October 16.

The mated pair will depart Kennedy Space Center on Saturday morning, October 17.

[SpAC,E 6HUTI'LE WEEKLY STATUS SUMMARY. Oct. 9, 1992.]

n ENDEAVOUR POST m 47 WORK

Endeavour has undergone post STS 47 inspections in OPF Bay 1; Technicians have

completed a forward reaction control system func=ional test and replacement of the

payload bay floodlights. A Tracking and Data Relay Satellite mating to its IUS is complete

in the VPF (Vertical Processing Facility). TDRS state-of-health checks are completed.

Work in progress: drag chute installation; TACAN #2 retest; crew hatch functional check;

installation of crew sleep restraints; lending gear deployment; orbital maneuvering system

functional test; window inspections; main engine leak checks; external tank installation

into test cell in the Vehicle Assembly Building; TDRS White Sands compatibility testing

in the VPF. STS 54 work scheduled: installation of wheels and tires; OMS Pod functional

testing; APU 1/3 hot lube oil flush; window polishing. [SPACE SHUTTLE WEEKLY

STATUS SUMMARY. Oct. 9, 1992.]

[i PIONEER VENUS" CN:E]ER ENDED

The Pioneer Venus spacecraft, which had been orbiting Venus since 1978, did not survive

its passage through Venus' upper atmosphere at 3:22 p.m. EDT October 8. The

spacecraft passed throughout the lowest part of its orbit, which repeated every 24 hours,

at 3:22"p.m. EDT. During this period, the radio signal could not be tracked from Earth

because Pioneer was hidden behind Venus. No radio signal could be detected from the

spacecralt when it should have emerged fTornbehind the planet. Project officials believe

the spacecraft was disabled by the heat of friction with Venus' atmosphere, with

spacecraft insulation end other fragile components melting or breaking off. Although the

spacecraft's remains will continue to orbit Venus for a short while, no further data can be

collected without the radio signal. Pioneer Venus made the first maps of Venus end has

returned thousands of pictures of the planet over the past 14 years. [NASA/KSC News

Release Number:. N9_-89, Oct. 9, 1992.]

October 12 DELTA LAUNCH SUCCESSFUL

At 5:47 a.m. EDT this moming, McDonnell Douglas Space Systems Co. successfully

launched its Delta 2 rocket from Cape Cenaverai Air Force Station. "1think [the launch]

demonstrates the competitiveness of the U.S. industry and the ability of the U.S. launch

companies to compete internationally,' said Chuck K]ine, Associate Director for Program

Affairs, Office of Commercial Space Transportation in the Department of Transportation.

Aboard the rocket is a German communications satellite called Kopemikas, named for the

16th century astronomer. ['Delta Rocket to Lift Off," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Oct. 12,

1992; Photograph of Launch, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Oct. 13, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA

TODAY_ p. 4A, Oct. 13, 1992; Brown, FL,ORII_ATODAY, p. 1A, Oct. 11, 1992.]

207
October "13: ORDNAI',K_ INS'I"_.,_'I"ION FOFI.COLUMBIA

Techniclare ready today to install ordnance devices aboard the Space Shuttle in

preparabr its launch on October 22. The explosives separate Columbia from Launch

Complex for liftoff and the Orbiter from its solid rocket boosters and the external tank

after iaurPropellants have been loaded, according to George Dtler, KSC spokesman.

The inte= verification test between the Orbiter and its payloads was completed

succeesfover the weekend, as well Other completed work includes: RMS elbow

camera iced; flight readiness test of main engines and flight control surfaces have

been conted; thermal protection system closeout¢ Hyp_ tank pressurization is

in progresVork scheduled: alt main engine compartment closeout¢ contingency EVA

spacesuitaile_on;flrepoleinstallation;installationofflightcrewequipment;ETpurges;

ordnance_nectlons; filling of LC 39B cryogenic storage spheres; USMP payload

cryogenicrvicing; payload bay cloeeouts; validation of the pad's Firex system;

pad/mobikurmher platform weshdown. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, P. 4A, Oct. 13,

1992; SPA SHUI"rLE :_r'ATUS REPORT: STS 52. Oct. 13, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA

p. _Oct.14, 1992.]

D ATLANTIS STATUS

in Orbiter P_g Facil_ Bay 2, installation of the ferry flight tailcone is in work on the

Orbiter Atlartis. 3V-104 (Atlantis) will be placed on the Orbiter transporter on Thursday

(October 15j ant moved to the mate-demate device at the Shuttle Landing Facility on

Friday (October!6); departure for Palrndale (CA) is at sunrise on Saturday moming

(October 17). [__ACE SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT: STS 52. Oct. 13, 1992.]

14: COWMet U.JNCH eDA .

_! _ =_ _-_.T::_-_ _:_ _ _,_j _ _ _: _ •

At Launch Cornpk=39B, the Space Shuttle is eight days away from liftoff, set for 11:16

a.m. EDT, October22. Workers have completed: initial ordnance installation; hypergolic

•tank pressurization;IRIS/LAGEOS Interface Vedl'cmion Test (IVT) with Columbia; Flight

Readiness Test of the vehicle's main engines and flight control surfaces. Work in

progress: contingencyEVA (ExtravehicularAc_) spacesuit installation; Orbiter/Extemal

Tank cavity purge leak checks; IRIS/LAGEOS chengeouts; auxiliary power unit leak

checks; main engine number 3 gimbai check; carder panel/beet shield installation; PRSD

tank purges; countdown preparations and communication activation in FR (Firing Room)

#3.

Work scheduled for October 15: aft main engine compartment cleaning/closeouts;

flrepole installation; El" purges; begin flight crew equipment stowage in crew cabin;

Orbiter aft confidence test;,auxiliary power unit cloeeout Inspections. Work scheduled for

October 16: cavity purge retest. Work scheduled for October 17: ordnance connections.

Work scheduled for October 18: Orbiter aft _ pressure check; install Orbiter aft

flight doors. Work scheduled for October 19: USMP payload cryogenic servicing;

payload bay cloeeouts; pad/mobile launcher platform washdown/debds walkdown; begin

STS 52 countdown at 4 p.m. The payload doors will be closed on October 20. In OPF

Bay 2, installation of the ferry flight tailcone is complete on the Orbiter Atlantis. [SPACE

SHUTTL_ _I'ATUS REPORT: STS 52 Oct. 14, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 6A, Oct.

is, 1992.]

V

208 V
g ATLANI"IS FERRY FUGHT

The Space Shuttle Atlantis will begin its cross-country ferry flight to the Rockwell

International plant in Paimdale, CA, early Saturday morning (October 17) for a year-long

sedes of structural inspections and modifications. Atlantis is scheduled to leave KSC atop

the 747 Shuttle Carder Aircraft at 7:30 a.m. on the 17th. Tomorrow morning, Atlantis will

be towed from OPF Bay 2 to the mate-demate device located on the ramp at the Shuttle

Landing Facility. The Shuttle Carder Aircraft is expected to arrive at Kennedy Space

Center early tomorrow morning. It will then be mated to NASA 911, the SCA, which will

carry the Shuttle to California. [NASNK_(_ News Release No. 142-92. Oct. 14, 1992;

Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 6A, Oct. 15, 1992.]

October 15: COLUMBL PRE-LAUNG-ISTATUSREPORT

With seven days remaining before the liftoff of STS 52, Columbia has had a number of

pre.launch tasks completed while it sits upon Launch Complex 39B. Finished work:

contingency EVA spacesuit installation; Orbiter/extemal tank cavity purge leak checks;

IRIS/I.AGEOS closeouts; auxiliary power unit leak checks; main engine #3 gimbal check;

carder panel/heat shield installation; PRSD tank purges; countdown preparations and

communications activation in FR #3. Work in progress: aft main engine compartment

cleaning and closeout; Orbiter aft confidence test; stowage of consumables and flight

crew equipment in crew cabin; flrepole installa'donon the mid-deck; external tank purges;

auxiliary power unit closeout Inspections.

Scheduled work includes: cavity purge retest; loading of mass memory units; vehicle

ordnance connections; IRIS/LAGEOS ordnance connections; external tank/solid rocket

booster closecuts; Orbiter aft positive pressure check; removal of main engine protective

covers; aft compartment final inspections; installatiort of Orbiter aft flight doom; USMP

payload cryogenic topoff; payload bay closeouts; pad/mobile launcher platform

weshdown/debris waikdown; _ 52 countdown begins October 19; the payload bay

doors are closed October 20. [SPACI_ SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT: STS 52. Oct. 15,

199"Z]

g DISCOVERY: SIGNAL CONDITIONER FAILS

Testing indicates a power bus within a signal conditioner has failed on Discovery's left

OMS POd. There are two busses within each signal conditioner, and there are two signal

conditioners on each pod. While the signal conditioner does not affect performance of

the pod, it provides half of the Instrumentation data available from the pod. Should the

second power bus which does work fall in flight, half of the instnJmentation on the pod

could not be monitored, leaving flight controllers without data. The signal conditioner

cannot be replaced while the pod is on the Orbiter. A final test confirming the failure is

planned before a decision is made to remove the pod. However, should this course of

action be adopted, a schedule impact of more than a few days is possible. Whether to

replace the pod with another, or whether to remove the pod and replace the signal

conditioner at the Orbiter Processing Facility, and the schedule impact of each, is under

discussion should the failure be confirmed. [SPACE SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT: S'IS

Oct. 15, 1992; NASAJKSC News Release No. 92-055, Oct. 14, 1992; Banke, FL,ORIDA

p. 2A, Oct. 16, 1992`]

_.j 209
g vco croRs

The Ninth Annual NASA/Contractors Conference on Quality and Productivity will take

place at the Pasadena Center (Pasadena, CA), October 20-21, 1992. The theme of this

year's conference is "World Class Excellence: The Journey Continues.' The event is

expected to draw over 900 attendees. The conference, hosted by the Jet Propulsion

Laboratory in conjunction with the California Institute of Technology, both in Pasadena,

will provide a forum to discuss and exchange ideas, success stodes and lessons learned

in the practical application of the principles of Total Quality Management that spearhead

continuous Improvement wilting otgardzalk_lal structures and processes.

NASA Headquarters Associate Administrator for Continuous Improvement Dr. Laura

Broedlif_ will give the opening keynote address. A highlight of the event will occur when

Acting Deputy Administrator Aaron Cofmn announces the 1992 George M. Low Trophy

reclplent(s), NASA's Quality and Excellence Award, at the evening banquet on October

20.

19Q2 Low Trophy Rnsll_=

11

Cmy Ruemoh, Customer Service, Engineering and

Manufimtudng Divisions

Honeywell, Irm., Sl_ce _ Strateglo Sy_errw

IBM Federd Sy_em_ Co.

P_ 9y_en_ Co.

Stanford Teleoommunice_one,

Teehnlc4d An_/si_ Ino.

Chippewa=Falls, Wkmonsin

Clearwater, Flodda

_T_

Houston, T_

Redmond, Wuhlngton

(S._l B_r.=,)

_, Virginia

I-kxllton, TI¢(Ill

(Small B_inem)

The award recognizes both NASA's large and small pdme contractors, subcontractors

and suppliers for outstanding achievement in quality and productivity improvement and

Total Quality Management (TQM). Key goals of the award are to intemalize quality and

productivity practices and TQM processes throughout NASA andthe agency's contractors

and to transfer performance improvement methods of the award recipients to others.

[NASA/KSC News Release Number 9"g-90,Oct. 15, 1992.]

GOLDtN/ NOUlCES N/ SA

"Of all the agencies in government, NASA has a unique responsibility to invest in the

future to ensure there is hope and opportunity, to keep Amedca on the cutting edge of

technology," NASA Administrator Daniel S. _ said in Washington. 'Today, I am

announcing a series of structural changes to better focus NASA's programs, to streamline

how we do business so we can meet the challenges ahead." In preparation for today's

announcement, Goldin said over the past six months he has traveled to NASA's centers,

visiting with hundreds of employees, worked with the Red & Blue Teams, met with CEO's

V

21o
of America's top companies, mat with small and disadvantaged companies, small

entrepreneurial companies, and reached out into minority and women-owned companies.

He has also traveled abroad to meet with leaders in space policy, met personally with

almost 200 members of Congress and analyzed major reports such as the Augustine

Report, the Paine Commission Report, and the Rogers Commission Report. He has also

reached out to academia and the science community.

'The past six months I've reached deep into NASA to listen to the hopes and dreams of

employees. I've listened to concerns e)q:)ressad by America's leaders outside the

agency,' he said. 'If there is universal agreement on one point it's that NASA cannot

afford to fail, that it must be the preeminent technological leader of the wodd," Goldin

stated. "NASA must reach for the stars and bdng back to America dual-use technology

to improve life on Earth.' To achieve its goals, Goldin announced the following structural

and managedal changes at NASA:

8PACE Sl"ATION _: Strengthening the focus of management of Space Station

Freedom (8SF) is of the highest pdority to NASA. In a September 17, 1992, speech,

Goldin said he was "takingsteps to ensure NASA's top talent is working on this program."

MaNy Kress will become Deputy Program Manager for Policy and Management,

responsible for strengthening cooperation with the space station user community,

International partners, and the private sector. Kress's pravlous position was Assistant

Administrator for Legislative Affairs. 'Many Kress is one of NASA's best and brightest

young 'stars,' who has successfully helped me steer the agency through difficult budget

deliberaltons on Capitol Hill,' Goldin said. 'HIS talent IS now needed for even greater

challenges, to pull together, coordinate, and integrate the scientific and commercial

communities so they take full advantage of the opportunities [offered by] Space Station

Freedom." Marry Kress' appointment will allow Richard Kohm to focus his skills on the

day-to-day development and construction of SSF. May Kendn, Director, Liaison Division,

will become Acting Assistant Admlnistr_or for Legislative Affairs. Tom _ formerly

Comptroller, will become the Chief Financial Officer for SSF to help ensure SSF keeps

within its budget estlrnates. "Tom Campbell is recognized as the strongest financial

officer at the agency," Goldin said. 'He's NASA's top talent, who will be responsible for

keeping a watchful eye on the budget and schedule.' Gray _ who was Deputy

Comptroller, will become Acting Comptroller.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY: NASA, which is known for its science, must strengthen its

outreach to the science community to improve the integration and coordination of

research. I.ennard A. FBk will be promoted to the new position of Chief Scientist for

NASA. Lan's previous position was Associate Administrator for Space Science and

ApplicatloP_ 'l.an is one of NASA's most bdlliant and outstanding scientists,' Goldin said.

•HIS formidable challenge will be to aggressively work with the scientific and engineedng

community to fully involve them in our research goals. He will be responsible for forging

a strong bond with the directors of research and development in corporate America to

ensure NASA is getting the very best technology in all our science missions,' Goldin said.

'ten, because of his outstanding communication abilities, will also be instrumental in

explaining to the public the Importance of NASA's research to improve life on Earth and

Inspire opportunity and hope," Goldin continued.

EARTH & Pt.ANETARY SCIENCE: The office of Science and Space Applications will be

divided into two parts to bring focus to the programs. She_ _ will become Acting

Associate Administrator of Mission to Planet Earth. He previously was Director of Earth

Sciences. 'Mission to Planet Earth is more than a duty, it's a moral commitment to future
generations,"Goidinsaid. "Wemustunderstandourenvironment- separatingnatural

from human causes and effects - so policy makers can make decisions on hard data, not

suppositions.' Was __ pr_i_usly DirectOr Of So_ Systems Exploration, will

become Acting Associate Administrator of Planetary Science and Astrophysics. "We must

build more spacecraft that are smaller, faster, and cheaper,' Goldin said. "By studying

our solar system and the universe, we will be able to better understand Earth's

environment and its future, and see if life developed other places."

/_IONAUI1CS: Goldin announced in a recent speech that NASA needs a better balance

of programs batween subsordcs, NASP hypemordcs, and high speed civil transporL In

addition, NASA needs to develop a strateglo plan to erBum we have the proper facilities

to keep America's aerospace Industry the world's leader. The Office of Aerospace and

Space Technology will be divided to provide focus. Peru Pelnrson will become Special

Assistant to the Administrator to develop a comprehensive and integrated long-term plan

that identifies the critical facilities for aeronautics and space. He had been an Associate

Administrator. 'As the Augustine Report points out, NASA's infrastructure is critical to

meeting its mission goals,' Goldin said.

•NASA must develop an integrated facilities plan, in coordination with other government

agencies and private industry, to construct world class facilities for aeronautics and

space. We must avoid duplication in government and industry to achieve maximum

results and stretch taxpayer's dollars," he said. Cecil Rosen, who was Director for

Aeronautics, will become Acting Associate Administrator for the Office of Aeronautics.

Grega_ Reck will become Acting Associate Administrator for the new office of Advanced

Concepts & Technology. _ Sladd will become Acting Deputy Associate

Administrator for the new ofrce of Advanced Concepts & Technology. "NASA needs to

anract_d work withAmerlca'sgreatost_ _¢_Ian_epreneursinacademia and

industry,"Goldin said."1"hisofficewillpush America'stechnologicalfromjers.Itwiflbe

the catalystfor In_ and commercial_adon of technology,for b'ansferring

technology to creme jobs and opportunity.' As part of the rasmJctudng, the Office of

C0mmerclel Programs will become part of this new division. Jack MarnlK, who was

Assistant Administrator for the Office of Commercial Programs, will become Associate

General Counsel for Intellectual Property.

RUSSIAN _: Samuel Keller, Associate Administrator for Russian Programs will

be on Spocial Assignment. "Because of Sam Keller's talent and hard work, NASA has

been able to sign far-roaching contracts with Russia in record speed," Goldin said. "He

now will be moving on to new and exciting challenges.' [NASA/KS(_ News RQlease No.

Oct. 15, 1992; 'Goldin Revamps NASA Management," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 9E,

Oct. 25, 1997_]

October 16: COLUMBk PRE ST& t/S

Technicians at Launch Complex 39B have completed an Orbiter aft confidence test and

tile stowage of consumables and flight crew equipment inthe crew cabin of Columbia.

The flmpole has been installed in the mid-deck; the external tank has been purged;

auxgiary power unit closeout inspections have been conducted and the contingency EVA

spacasuit has been installed. Still in progress for the Shuttle's STS 52 mission: aft main

engine compartment closeouts; loading of mass memory units; cavity purge retest;

ordnance installation; preparations to pick up the countdown at 4 p.m. Monday (October

19). Work scheduled: vehicle ordnance connections; IRIS/LAGEOS ordnance

connections; USMP cryogenic servicing; external tank/solid rocket booster closeouts; aft

r I

V

2i2

i
g

compartment final inspections; installation of aft flight doors; Orbiter aft pressure check;

USMP cryogenic topoff; payload bay closeouts; astronaut arrival; closing of payload bay

doors on October 20; gaseous oxygen system leak check. [SPACE SHUTTLE WEEKLY

STATUS SUMMARY, Oct. 16, 1992.]

DISCOVERY: STS 53 PREPARATIONS

Discovery's solid rocket boosters have been completely stacked for mating in the Vehicle

Assembly Building; the external tank and SRBs have been mated and technicians have

conducted an Ius[rDRS interface verification test. STS 53 mission preparations in

progress .include: vibration testing; nose wheel steedng test;, auxillaw power unit

closeouts; left OMS Pod elactdcal troublashooting; IUS/I"DRS end-to-end communications

test inthe Vertical Processing Facility; aft section closeout_ Work scheduled: disconnect

left hand orbital maneuvering system pod croesfeed lines; remove and inspect left hand

OMS Pod; replace left hand OMS PooL A decision has not yet been made on whether

to repair and use the pod now on Discovery or to use another pod now at the Hypergolic

Maintenance Facility. [SPACE SHUTTI_ WEEKLY STATUS SUMMARY. Oct. 16, 1992;

•Spacecraft Passes Tests,' FI_ORIDA TODAY, p. IOE, Oct. 25, 1992.]

D ATLANTIS: GEl"riNG OUT OF TOWN

The Space Shuttle Atlantis continued in a pre4erw flight mode at Kennedy Space Center

today. The Orbiter was mounted on the Shuttle Carder Aircraft and moved to the Shuttle

Landing Facility. The mated pair were set to head for Palmdale, CA, tomorrow, barring

poor weather. [SPACE SHUTrLE WEEI<I.Y STATUS SUMMARY. Oct. 16, 1992.]

g ENDEAVOUR S'rS 54 _

Endeavour, also known as OV-105, remains in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay I where it

is being processed in antidpation of a January 1993 STS 54 launch. Work completed

to date: drag chute installation; drag chute mortar installation; crew hatch functional

check; OMS functional test; main engine leak checks; power reactant storage and

distdbution system checks; waste management system drain and flush. Work in

progress: auxiliary power unit servicing; reactant system checkout_ inspections of the 17

inch quick disconnect; main propulsion system leak "checks; nose wheel steedng

checkout; brake hydraulic system testing; left booster stacking in the VAB; external tank

electrical testing in the VAB; window replacement/window polishing. Installation of the

support beam for Get Away Special canisters has been scheduled. [SPACI_ SH_

WEEKLY STATUS SUMMARY. Oct. 16, 1992.]

Ocmber 19:, _ COUNTDOWN _I"ART8 TI_AY

The countdown for Columbia's 13th mission starts today at 4:00 p.m. EDT. "So far it's

been a pretty quiet, smooth operation,' said George Dim', KSC spokesman. "Unless we

get some kind of surprise, this is going to follow Justthe way we've laid it out.' Liftoff is

set to occur between 11:16 a.m. and 1:46 p.m. EDT. Technicians are trying to finish their

last tasks Inside Columbia so the payload bay doors can be closed Tuesday morning.

Atlantis finally began its cross-country ferry flight yesterday after bad weather prevented

the takeoff of the Orbiter and its Shuttle Carder Aircraft on Saturday. The Shuttle will

remain in California for almost a year until it returns to the space centerfor its April 1994

_...j 213
ri

g

g

g

launch. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Oct. 19, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A,

Oct. 18, 1992.]

COLUMBIA: STS 52 STATUS REPORT

Ordnance connections have been made for the IRIS/LAGEOS payloads aboard Columbia

for its STS 52 mission. The extemal tank and solid rocket boosters have been closed out.

Work in progress: payload cioseouts; USMP cryogenic topoff; removal of IRIS/I.AGEOS

safe and arm pin; aft main engine compartment closeouts; cabin stowage; countdown

p_ in Firing Room #3; pad/mobile launcher platform washdown/debris

walkclown. Work scheduled: aft access platform removal; Installation of alt flight doors;

Orbiter alt pressure chack; removal of payloed access; ciosing of payloed bay doors at

5:30 a.m. October 20; start of countdown at 4 p.m.; astronaut arrival at 5:30 p.m.;

installation of mid-deck experiments; retraction of rotating service _re; tanking. The

chance of acceptable liltoffweather on October 22 is 80%. Skies are forecast to be partly

cloudy, the temperature approximately 80 degrees, and winds are expected to be NNE

10-15 knots. [SPACE SHUI"I'LES'EATUS REPORT: STS 52. Oct. 19, 1992.]

ASTRONAUTSARRNEAT

The six astronauts of Columbia's STS 52 mission crew arrived today at Kennedy Space

Center about 5:30 p.m. "Columbia's ready to go. All of our expedments are ready to go,

and our training team says that we are ready to go. I can absolutely, positively guarantee

that we are reedy to go fly and take one more small stap in this great adventure,' said

Mission Spacialist _ Lacy Vem_t on his arrival at the Shuttle Landing Facility this

aftemoon. Foracasters continue to _ an 80% chence of favomble weether for the

launch window which e_tands from 11:16 a.m. until 1:46 p.m. October 22. Commander

Jamm D. Wethedbee remarked at the arrival ceremony: 'We have a pretty challenging

mission ahead of us. We're looking focward to it. We have a lot of science that we're

going to Ixyto accomplish and hopefully we'II bdng a lot of data back and keep the

scientists happy for a couple of years. We may end up with more questions than

answers but that's the nature of the game." Mission Specialist Tamam E. Jemigan

commented, "We're ready to go. We're ready to light 'era.' The other members of the

crew are Pilot Michael A. Baker and Mission Specialists _ M. S_ and

Canadian space rookie Steven _ [Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, Oct. 20,

199 ]

LAUNCH CLOSES PLAYAUNDA BEACH

Playalinda Beach will be reopened to visitors the day following the launch of the Space

Shuttle Columbia from Launch Complex 39B on Mission STS 52. Launch is scheduled

for 11:16 a.m. EDT, October 22. The beach closing is required whenever a Space Shuttle

is present at LC 39B or three days pdor to a launch from LC 39A. rNASA/KSC News

Release No. 147-92. Oct. 19, 1992.]

IML-2 MISSION ,_IE_

NASA today announced that Dr. Chiaid Mukai, Ph.D and M.D. of the Japanese National

Space Development Agency, has been designated as the pdme payload specialist for the

second International Microgravity Laboratory mission (IML-2) scheduled for launch in July

1994. Dr. Jean-Jacques Finder, a scientist with the French Atomic Energy Commission,

has been selected as an aitemate payload specialist. During the mission, Dr. Favier will

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be one of the principal communicators with the laboratory. As a backup payload

specialist, he also will train for the payload mission so that he could substitute for a flight

payload member should one be unable to fly the mission. Dr. Favier was selected by the

French Space Agency as a candidate astronaut in 1985.

'The selection of Dr. Mukal and Dr. Favier to the crew of the IML-2 mission truly accents

the International nature of the mission,' said NASA Administrator Daniel S. Gold'm. "Iwas

pleased to have the honor of informing both the Japanese and the French space

agencies of their selection.' The first mission in the sedes, IML-1, flew in January 1992

on the STS 42 flight of Columbia. For IML-2, an international team consisting of 80

principal investigators from more than 13 countries will focus on materials and life

sclances, two disciplines nesding crew participation and access to reduced gravity. IML-2

will use the Spaceleb long module and is a dedicated mlcrogravity mission. The overall

objective of the IML-2 mission is to conduct investigations in applications, science and

technology that require the low-gravity environment of Earth orbit flight and a stable

vehicle attitude over an extanded-duration mission.

The mission plan calls for the Space Shuttle Columbia to fly in a 160 nautical mile-high,

28.5 degree orbit. Mission duration is planned for 13 days. The Orbiter will fly in a

'gravity gradient" stabilized attitude (tail toward Earth), thereby producing the least

gravitational disturbances on the Spacelab laboratory during the flight. As previously

announced, NASA astronaut Richa_ J. Hleb will serve as Payload Commander and

Mission Specialist for IML-2. Other crew members will be named in the future. The IML

series is Intended as an ongoing international research program in materials and life

sciences in a microgravity environment. The program is managed by NASA's Office of

Space Science and Applications, Washington, D.C. Wayne Rlchle is the IML-2 Program

Manager, and Dr. Robert 8okolowsld, NASA Headquartem, is the Program Scientist. The

IML-2 Mission Manager is I.anny Upton, and the Mission Sclentlat is Dr. Robert Snyder,

both from the Marshall Space Flight Center (Huntsville, AL). [NASA/KSC News Release.

oct.19,1992.]

TDRS-F/IUS-13 _ KEY TESTS

The Tracking and Data Relay Satellite ('FDRS-F), scheduled to be launched on Shuffle

mission STS 54. completed two significant tests last week while inthe Vertical Processing

Facility at Kennedy Space Center. On October 14-15, the spacecraft, the sixth of its kind

to be launched aboard the Shuttle, successfully completed an interface verification test

(IVT) between the satellite and the inertial upper stage OUS) booster. The IVT, a 30-hourlong systems test, reve_ no pmbl_with the electrical or mechanical connections

between the "I'DRS and the IUS. The test also confirmed the ability of the two

components to communicate with each other and with the Space Shuttle vehicle. The

TDRS was mated to the IUS on October 5.

Following the IVT, Roeiof _ the "I"DRSPayload Manager, said, 'we are continuing

on schedule and found nothing that will cause us to deviate from our current timeline."

Also last week, the spacecraft successfully passed the all encompassing "end-to-end" test,

a network communications test designed to reveal any specific areas of concern with the

satellite and its ground controlling stations. The test involved the spacecraft and the IUS

booster;, the IUS control facility at the Air Force Consolidated Space Test Center

(Sunnyvale, CA); the TRW plant (Redondo Beach, CA), where TDRS was manufactured;

the TDRS ground station (White Sands, NM); Goddard Space Flight Center (Greenbelt,

MD), the primary network operations center for TDRS; Space Shuttle Mission Control at
Johnson Space Center (Houston, TX); the MILATracking Station (Kennedy Space Center,

FL); and the "I"DRSCheckout Station at Hangar AO end the IUS Checkout Station (Cape

Canaveral Air Force Station, FL). V

The end-to-end test checked the configuration of the satellite and its controlling NASA

centers, allowing for simulated control of the spacecraft in the Orbiter's payload bay end

in its eventual orbit in space. The test was completed October 17 without any surprises,

prompting SchuiUng to reiterate that the spacecraft is in good health and work is on

schedule. This week, TDFIS and IU8 will be powered up for additional power-on tests as

preparmkx_ continue to ready the apscscra_ and booster for dsiivew to Launch Complex

39B in mid-November. "I"DRS-F Is scheduled to be launched aboard the Shuttle

Endeavour In January 19g_. INASA/KSC News Release No. 146-92,, Oct. 19, 1992.]

October._0: STSS COUNmOWN

Columbia's payload bay doors were closed for flight today at 2:25 a.m.; the aft main

engine compartment was closed yesterday. Technicians have also completed an aft

compartment pressure check; they have washed down the pad and conducted a debris

inspection. Work in progress: fldng circuit verification check (PIC resistance) end loading

Orbiter fuel cell cryogenic storage tanks (PRSD). Work scheduled: Orbiter midbody

umbilical (OMBU) retract tonight; activateOrbitar communications systems overnight; load

main engine computer controller, software overnight; Install mid-cleck expariments on

October 21; retract rotating service structure at 11 a.m. October 21; configure COckpit

switches for launch; begin fueling at 256 a.m. EDT October 22. The chance of

acceptable Ilftolfweather on launch day is 70%. Clouds are forecaat to be scattered, the

temperature approximately 80 degrees, and winds am expected to be NE 12-18 knots.

The concerns am for an _ croeswind violation and a slight chance of developing a

low level ceiling, also an RTLS constraint. There am no technical issues or concerns for

launch of the STS 52 mission. [SPACE SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, Oct. 20, 1992.]

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g I:IKI"S LO/_)ED ONTO COLUMB_

A dozen male albino rats part of a life science expedment studying osteoporosis were

loaded aboard Columbia today. Astronauts tend to lose calcium in their bones during

space flights; the experiment looks to preventing calcium loss (osteoporosis) on the

ground. Loading the rats is the last major pad activity tonight before clearing the pad for

propellant loading. Shuttle Program Chief leonard S. Nichoison said today that "we're

ready to go; everything is moving right along at a smooth pace.' The major concem for

tomorrow's launch is high croeswinds at the Shuttle Landing Facility. Launch rules call

for winds no higher than 17 miles per hour end forecasts predict winds at between 13

end 21 mph. A second attempt may be made Friday if the winds prevent tomorrow's

liftoff. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Oct. 21, 1992.]

October 21: STS " mWSmSTHEORYTEST

Scientists will test a Nobel Prize-winning theory which may have applications ranging from

hurdcene dynamics to superconductivity during Space Shuttle Columbia's STS 52 mission

which is scheduled for launch tomorrow, October 22. The Lambda-Point Experiment

(LPE), part of NASA's first United States Microgravity Payload (USMP-1), will study the

strange behavior of helium at its critical temperature of 2.177 degrees above absolute

zero (minus 459 degrees F). "Cryogenics and ultra-sensitive thermometry (measuring

billionths of a degree) will be used to study the mysteries of changes in material

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properties during phase transitions,' said Reuben Ruiz, LPE Manager for NASA's Jet

Propulsion Laboratory (Pasadena, CA). Phase transitions, such as those between water

and steam or ice and water, are common in nature and technology and are well

understood with certain exceptions. [NASA/KSC News Release No. 92-176, Oct. 21,

1992.]

__ WlN LOW TROPHY

IBM Federal Systems Co. (Houston, TX) and Honeywe_ Inc., Space and Strategic System

Operations (ClaaP_rater, FL) l'mvo been named reclp4erU of the 1992 George M. Low

Trophy - NASA's Quality and Excellence Award. NASA Acting Deputy Administrator Aaron

Cohen announced the selection last night at the Ninth Annual NASA/Contractors

Conference on Quality and Productivity in Pasadena, CA. 'These companies have not

only made the commitment to improve, but they have demonstrated the courage to be

measured on their progress,' said Cohen. The Low Trophy recognizes NASA's prime

contractors, subcontractors and suppliers for outstanding achievements in quality and

productivity Improvement and Total Quality Management (TQM). Key goals of the award

are to internalize quality and productivity practices and TQM processes throughout NASA

and the agency's contractors.

'The success of NASA's mission is dependent on the quality of the products and services

our suppllars provide. The Low Trophy recognizes firms who are truly enhancing their

overall quality,' said Dr. lama Bro_ Associate Administrator for the Office of

Continuous Improvement. IBM Federal Systems has supported every crewed space flight.

Support consists of both ground and onboard hardware and software, which include

command and control, communications and edndrds_ra6ve functions. Honeywell, Inc. built

the flight control systems for the Space Shuttle and also built and rebuilt the odglnal and

Improved main engine controllers. Honeywell also is providing stabilization and control

systems for NASA's Space Station Freedom. [For a list of finalists, see the Low Trophy

sto_ above d_ed October 15.] [NASA/KSC News Retesses No. 92-178, Oct. 21, 1992.]

October 22: STS 52 LAUNCH

Columbia's STS 52 mission launched today at 1:09:39.0633 p.m. EDT after a nearly two

hour delay while launch controllers waited for improved wind conditions at Kennedy

Space Center. 'The flagship of the fleet is beck in space,' radioed Commender James

DoWettmCbee about 10 minutes after launch. Launch managers disagreed about whether

to bend weather rules for the liftoff. Rules prohibit launches if winds at the space center

are greater than 17 mph; higher gusts were recorded during the launch. There are three

possible landing opportunities for Columbia atKSC on November 1:7:31 a.m.; 9:05 a.m.;

10:38 a.m. EST. Which opportunity will be pdme IS under discussion by the Mission

Management Team. [Broad, THE NEW YORK TIMES. p. A15, Oct. 23, 1992; Date, THE

ORLANDO SENTINEL pp. A-1 & A-6, Oct. 23, 1992; SPACE SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT,

oct. 23, 1992; SPACE SHUTTLE STATUS RI_PORT, Oct. 28, 1992.]

October 23: DISCOVERY:PRE Pn0CES, NG

Technicians in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 have completed changing out the left

OMS Pod of Discovery and vibration testing of the Orbiter. They have also completed the

galley water tank installation. Work in progress for STS 53: left OMS POd electrical

hookups; aft compartment closeouts; nose wheel hydraulic actuator trouble shooting;
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galley water supply functional testing; solid rocket booster joint leak checks in the VAB.

Scheduled work: left OMS Pod electrical IVT, leak check, and functional test; nosewheel

steeHn_ retest; aft c0mpartment pos-_v_pr-essui:echeck;_iter-pos_epressure check;

crew module closeouts; weight and center of gmvRy determination. Rollover of Discovery

to the VAB is targeted for November 1. While a new launch date has not yet been set,

NASA managers have decided that there will not be an attempt to launch during the week

of Thanksgiving. [sPACI_ SHUI"rLE WEEKLY STATUS SUMMARY, Oct. 23, 1992.]

LAUNCHCOmU =e: Um.ED V. eE

Preliminary Inspections of pad B showed no abrmnnal damage to the due to the launch

October 22 of Columbia's STS 52 missioR The Shuttle's Solid Rocket Boosters are due

to arrive at Hangar AF this afternoon. [SPACE SHUTrLE WEEKLY STATUS SUMMARY,

oct. 23, lgR'z]

n ENDEAVOUR: STS 54 _

Main propulsion leak checks of Endeavour have been completed dudng the Orbiter's STS

54 processing in OPF Bay 1. Also completed: auxiUarypower unit hot o_1flush; APU leak

and functional checks; aft communications display panel changeout; posfflight structural

Inspections; chin panel thermal protection rework; lUS/TDRS payload interface verification

test (1V'I') In the VPF; IUS/FDRS payload and-to-end test (ETE) in the VPF; lUS flight

guidance system (RIMU) Installation In the VPF. Work in progress: routine main engine

changeoL¢ vertical stabilizer Inspections; crew hatch functional test;,tim pressure checks;

tile repak and replacement; payload bay light r_, payload bay door bulb seal

inspections. Work scheduled: window 5 and 6 replacement; potable water servicing;

main engine leak checks; OMS electrical redundancy checks; Orbiter/external tank

functional ched(; ammonia boiler _ng; Ku band antenna upper gimbal unit

replacement;, auxiliary power unit sendclng and functional checks; flight deck data display

system multlfunction test;,flight deck communications system retest and installation of the

waste containment system. [SPACE SHUI"rLE WEEKLY STATUS SUMMARY. Oct. 23,

1997_]

Oclmber 24: WETHERBEE: LAUNCH DECISION FUC-.-.-.-.-.-.-_T

STS 52 Commander James D. Wettlerbee said today that he agreed with Deputy Shuttle

Program Director Bmwstm I-L Shaw Jr.'s decision to launch Columbia October 22. "1

guess I am kind of happy to leave those decisions to the folks on the ground who are

well qualified to make those decisions,' Watherbee sak:L '! am confident that the folks

had some good discussion and came to the decision they felt was right, and I'm willing

to carry on with whatever decision that they come to. I'm sure the appropriate

discussions went on and I'm very happy with the outcome." He went on to say: "There

are many risksInvolved with the Space Shuttle program. We will never launch this vehicle

without assuming some risk. We do manage that risk the best way we can. ! think we

do a very good job of managing that risk and minimizing that risk and I think, by the way,

the science is worth going after." LAGEOS-2 was deployed at 9:57 a.m. yesterday. IRIS

upper stage and LAGEOS apogee kick motor performance was nominal. [Halvorson,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. 3A, Oct. 25, 1992; SPACE SHUTrU_ STATUS SUMMARY, Oct. 23,

1 z]

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Oc_ber 26: COMPUTERRRMSSELEC'n_

NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center (Greenbelt, MD), has selected eight firms for

negotiations leading to the award of nine separate Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity

(ID/IQ), firm-fixed price contracts for seven classes of work stations end two categories

of supporting equipment that comprise the Scientific end Engineering Work Station

Procurement (SEWP). The SEWP is an open systems procurement based on govemment

and Industry standards. The nine ID/IQ contracts will have a potential value of

approximately $800 million over a 1-year basic contract period plus four 1-year options,

according to Goddard officials, The firms and the classes and categories for which they

have been selected are:

* Class 1:

* Class2:

* Class 3:

* C;ass 4:

* Qass 5:

*class6:

* claas 7:

* Clam8:

* clms 9:.

Fedr_ Comp,m. Aided Sngm_r,g/Coewu_ Ak:kxJDesert Work

Slatkxs - SUN Ml_ (Mountain View, CA)

CAE/CN)Med'.mk_ DaskZnWorkStmkm- Hewk_-Packard(Roc_'_

MD

Mi=aor= OperaBm Work Stakm - Hants _ _ (Ft

Lauderda_ F1J

Network Data Server Work _alJorB - IBM (Bethasda, MD)

High Perfomtance 3-D Graphics Work StatiorB - sirmon Gracddcs Inc.

(eahesda,MD)

Mu_H=umo__ Se_er Wod(SU_Jons- SaconGraphics,Inc.

General Purpose Wod( Statiom - Dtgilai _ Coq_ 0.antBm, MD)

X-T_ CaegBy - Gfl'Sl (Chmvi_, VA)

NatwBt _ Cmgo_ - Pa-am= Sy=emsCoq_(RmV_ VA)

This effort provides for all NASA and NASA-funded sites, the procurement of leadingedge, state-of-the-art computer work Stations at the lowest cost for both the scientific end

engineering arenas. The contracts will also provide for the delivery, installation end

maintenance of the equipment as well as the ability to expand the capabilities of the Work

_ations by allowing the end-user to order from a sizable list of growth options. In

addition, 10 percent of the total value of the requirement will be reserved for use by other

government officials.

A further feature of this procurement is the development and maintenance of a unique

test-site/trouble-shooting support group known as the 'SE-'WPBowl.' The SEWP Bowl will

be staffed by the govemment to menage the nine resultant contracts end to provide

administrative end technical support for the end-users. Thirty day operational capability

demonstrations for each class and category are expected to begin shortly. The nine

contracts are expected to be awarded in December 1992- [NASAJKSC Release No. 92-

183. Oct. 26, 1992; Smith, Government Comput_ News, pp. 3 & 73, Nov. 9, 1992.]

Oclober 27: 6Ts 53: TESTSCOMPt.ElI_

In OPF Bay 3, technicians have completed a number of checks and tests upon Discovery

priorto its STS 53 mission in November. Work completed: left OMS Pod functional test;

left OMS Pod structural leak check end electrical checks; galley functional test. Work in

progress: left OMS Pod closeouts; aft main engine compartment closeouts; nose wheel

steering hydraulic trouble shooting; thermal protection system closeouts; crew module

closeouts. Work scheduled: aft compartment positive pressure check; Orbiter positive

pressure check; nose wheel steering retest; weight and center of gravity determination;

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rollover to the VAB set for Sunday (November 1). [SPACESHU3"rLE STATUS REPORT,

Oct. 27, 1992.]

g STSSSM SSIONSPECUUJST NAMED

Leroy Chiao, Ph.D,, and Donald A. Thomas, Ph.D., are assigned as Mission Specialists

on the International Microgravity Laboratory-2, Space Shuttle Mission STS 65, scheduled

for June 1994. "Both Don and Leroy bdng strong materials science backgrounds to the

IML-2 payload crew. Their strengths will complement the previously assigned crew

members in achieving the multi-science objectives of this important International mission,"

said Acting Director of Flight Crew Operations _ A. I-I,_. Other crew members

previously named to this mtcrogravity mission are Payload Commander FIIichacdJ. I-rmb

and Chlefd Mukai, Ph.D. and M.D., a Payload Specialist from the National Space

Development Agency of Japan.

Chiao, 32, holds a Ph.D. degree in chemical engineering from the University of California

Born in Milwaukee, WS, he was selected by NASA in 1990. He has worked on Space

Shuttle flight software verification in the Shuttle Avionics Integration Laboratory and

currently is working crew equipment issues in the Mission Development Branch of the

Astronaut Office. Thomas, 42, has a doctorate degree in materials science from Comell

University. His dissertation involved evaluating the effect of crystalline defects and sample

purity on the superconducting properties of niobium. He was born in Cleveland and, like

Chiao, is a member ofthe 1990 astronaut class. He has worked on lss_ _adng to the

Shuttle Orbiter systems in the Safety and Operations Development Branches of the

Astronaut Office. He curr_ is servtng as CAPCOM, an astronaut inthe Mission Control

Center who communicates with the Space Shuttle crew members during a mission.

[NASA/KSC News Release No. 92-187, Oct. 27, 1_ 'N/_A Assigns 2 to Flight,' p. 9E,

Nov. 1, 1992.] ..... .......

Oct0ber 28: DISCOVERY: OM8 WORK COMPt.Etl_)

Discovery's left orbital maneuvering system pod has been functionally tested and has

undergone electrical checks while STS 53 preflight processing continues in OPF Bay 3.

Work in progress: left OMS Pod leak check; aft main engine compartment closeouts; aft

main engine compartment positive pressure check; nose wheel steering hydraulic trouble

shooting; wheel well inspections; thermal protection system closeouts. Work scheduled:

Orbiter positive pressure check; nose wheel steering retest; cockpit CRT #1 removal and

replacement; weight and center of gravity determination; rollover to the VAB Sunday

(November 1). [SPACE SHUTrLE STATUS REPORT, Oct. 28, 1992.]

I1 STS 53: MAY GO DECEMBER 2

NASA officials said today that Discovery's STS 53 mission may commence December 2;

the mission's duration is seven days and is for the Department of Defense. A problem

with one of Discovery's Orbital Maneuvering System Pods has brought about an 18-day

delay. A terminal countdown demonstration test will run from November 11 through 12.

The STS 53 crew includes: Commander David M. Walker, Pilot RotmN D. Cabana and

Mission Specialists _ S. Bluford, M'mhaslFLU. Clifford and James S. Vee_ The firm

launch date will be set following November 18's flight readiness review. [Halvorson,

FLORIDA TODAY, p. ZA, Oct. 29, 1992.]

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October 29:. D OVERY: COCKPrrCRTREPLACED

During its pre-STS 53 processing in OPF Bay 3, Discovery has had its cockpit CRT #1

removed and replaced. Technicians have completed nose wheel troubleshooting and

retesting and a left OMS Pod structural leak check. Work in progress: left OMS Pod

closeout; Orbiter positive pressure check; aft main engine compartment leak checks and

closeouts; topping off tire pressures; thermal protection system (tiles) closeouts and a

retest ofthe cockpit CRT #1. Work scheduled: crew compartment closeouts; weight and

center of gravity determination; instailmion on Orbiter transporter;, rollover to the VAB;

mating to external tank/solid rocket boosters; rollout to Launch Complex 39A on

November 6. [SPACE SHUTrt.E STATUS REPORT. Oct. 29, 1992.]

n sis COLUMBIA Of Om'UNmES

There are three possible landing opportunities for Columbia at Kennedy Space Center on

November I (Sunday) which are 7:31, 9:05, 10:38 am. EST. Which opportunity will be

pdme has not been finally determined by the Mission Management Team. The weather

forecast calls for scattered low and high clouds, with a slight chance for fog or

ralnshowers within 30 nautical miles. Monday's forecast is similar, but with a reduced

chance for fog, and a slightly greater chance for ralnshowers within 30 nautical miles.

Weather at Dryden is good on both Sunday and Monday. [SPACE SHU1TLE STATUS

REPORT. Oct. 29, 1992.]

I] _ 'EXPRESS PROGRAM"

A common complaint by space scientists is that it takes too long to conduct an

experiment in space and get the data back. A new effort by the Space Station Freedom

program has been initiated to dram_ reduce the time it would take to integrate small

expedmants on the Space Station Freedom. 'It's called EXPRESS, for Expedited

Processing of Experiments to Space Station,' says Robed M(xxehead, Deputy Director

of Space Station Freedom. 'We establlsh_ the EXPRESS project because we are

committed to developing a user-friendly Space Station through the small payloads

program which will support innovative scientific, technological and commercial research

through a streamlined payload integration process,' Moorehead said.

Currently, it can take up to 5 years to get an experiment integrated on a Shuttle or

Spacelab mission. 'We hope we can cut the time it takes to get a small payload flown

aboard Freedom to less than a year," says Mad( Uhran, Manager of the EXPRESS

Payload Project. 'Freedom's three laboratories contain more than 40 refrigerator-sized

experiment racks. These racks supply the expedments with electricity, cooling, data lines

and other services," says Uhran. "They are called the International Standard Payload

Racks because the services are identical in the United States,European and Japanese

modules." [NASA/KSC Press Release No. 92-191, Oct. 29, 1997_]

October 30: PAYLOAD SPECIALIb_" NAMED

NASA today announced the selection of Dr. Marlin J. Fettnnmn,D.V.M., as the prime

Payload Specialist for the second Spacelab Life Sciences mission (SLS-2) scheduled for

launch inAugust 1993. "NASA's sedes of SIS missions play a central role in our program

of space biomedical research,' said Dr. Lennard A. Flsk, Associate Administrator for the

Office of Space Science and AppWcations. "The experiments that Dr. Fettman and his
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f_2crew members conduct will give us valuable information on how living and

Vspace affects the human body.'

E professor in the Department of Pathology in Colorado State University's

G/eterinary Medicine, will join the previously names STS 58 crew consisting of

C_rJotm E. Blaha (Col., USAF), Pilot Richard A. Searfoas (Maj., USAF), Payload

C_rMagarat Rhea _ (M.D.), and Mission Specialists W'dBarnS. McArltmr,

J_USA), Sharmon W. Lurid (Ph.D) and Dat_ A. Wolf (M.D.) [NASA/KSC News

R,. Oct. 1sg"Z]

53: DI6_0VERY_ PRE-ROM.OVER PREPARATION8

In 3, technicians preparing Discovery for its December 2 STS 53 mission have

COrnOrbiter composite pressure check; they have also closed out the left OMS

Po_ aft main engine compartment. Tim pressure checks and topoff have also

be_ed. Work in progress: aft main engine compartment leak check; crew

coht closeouts; thermal protection system closeouts; nose wheel steadng

tm_ng. Dudng a retest of the nose wheel steadng system yesterday an

inteerratic control anomaly reappeared. Contingency time will be used to allow

furtlleshooting. Work scheduled: nose wheel steering retest; weight and center

of gtermination; installation of the Orbiter on the transporter;, rollover to the VAB

no ran November 2. [SPACE SHUTTLE WEEKLY STATUS SUMMARY, Oct. 30,

199;,

-3_OF_AVOUR:OPF BAY 1, PROCE_IN_ CONTINI.,IE_

Enck,waste containment systam hes _ installed Inthe Orbiter;,other completed

Include: routine main engine changeout; main propulsion system leak

_ch functional test;,payload bay flood light mplacemer¢, APU hot oil flush;

Ills _ Installation in the VPF. _ 54 work in progress: post installation main

englrknd electrical checks; water spray boiler servicing; potable water servicing;

auxilkerunit lube oil servicing; OMS_ electrical redundancy checks; "I'DRS Ku

band a upper gimbal removal and replacement;, air-to-ground communications

uplink)ut; tile maintenance and water proofing; chin panel area rework; vertical

stabillrcturalbolt changsouts; bulb seal repair;,removal of windows 5 & 6 for seal

replacreinstallatton of window #7; closeouts of SRB joints and nosecones in the

Vehicknbly Building. Work scheduled: heat shield and carder panel installation;

leak cf the external tank/Orbiter quick disconnect; extemal tank/Orbiter door

functiomk; auxiliary power unit leak and functional checks; payload bay door #3

radiato;, payload bay door radiator cleaning; waste containment system functional

check; _Jon of drag chute door;, beginning of Orbital midbody cioseouts; IUS

ai_ equipment interface verification test; DXS payload installation; crew

equipmerface test (CErl"). rSPACE SHUTTLE WEEKLY STATUS SUMMARY, Oct.

30, 199;

LT _I'ORAGE SITE LOCATED ON NASA PROPERTY

NASA arFlodda Inland Navigation District (FIND) have agreed tentatively to dispose

of river Snt on KSC property. The silt was produced by dredging the Indian River

ship cha_ North Brevard County. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Manager

Ron Higll that FIND 'just kept asking until they asked the right question. The site

now beir_sidered has already been dug up and disturbed.' The site had been used

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by NASA for years to provide fill for KSC construction projects. NASA will allow FIND to

use the site and FIND will pay for wetland restoration. [Fiorini, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1B,

Oct. 31, 1992.]

AMF TO OPEN EDUCATION CE_'I"I_

James I:)eSarl_ new President of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, announced today

that groundbreaking will occur December 11 for the Center for Space Education. "Itwill

serve as the new home for NASA's enormously successful education programs,' he said.

NASA Deputy Administrator Chedas F. Bolden made the keynote speech at a ceremony

honodng outgoingAMF President Alan Halman. He remarked that the center would teach

youngsters that "allscience and math make sense.' Bolden has recently been reactivated

as an astronaut and will be commanding the first fight of Atlantis when it returns from

California; the mission is tentatively scheduled for June 1994. ['Astronauts Foundation

to Open Education Center," FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2B, Oct. 31, 1992.]

FOG FORECAST CLOUDS LANDING PROSPECTS

The 7:31 a.m. EEI" landing opportunity for Columbia's STS 52 mission has tentatively

been ruled out because of fog in November l's weather forecast. The two remaining

opportunities are 9:05 and 10;38 a.m. EST, with the 9:05 time tentatively selected as

prime, ff neither opportunity is achieved, a landing will be retargeted for KSC on

November 2. [Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL Nov. 1, 1992; sPACI__HU'Im.JEWEEKLY

STATUS SUMMARY, Oct. 30, 1992; 'Shuttle Heads Home Sunday,' FLORIDA TODAY, p.

1A, Oct. 31, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, Nov. 1, 1992.]

EG&G: POSSIBLE LAYOFFS

Base Operations Contract employees of EG&G Florida today received notification that

they would be "technically laid-off' if the company does not win the BOC recompetition.

EG&G spokeswoman Judy Casper said that, in all likelihood, most of the Incumbents

would be picked up by the winner of the contract;, only top managers would lose their

jobs. ['EG&G Notifies of Poasrole Layoffs," FLORIDA TOI_AY, p. 20C, Oct. 30, 1992;

Bumett, THI_ ORI_ANDO SENTINI_I., pp. D-1 & D-4, Oct. 30, 1992; See also: "Lockheed

Wins Base Operations Contract," Nov. 18 citation.]
Novondaer1:

NOVEMBER

TheOrbiterColumbialandedat the KennedySpaceCenterthismorningsuccessfully

endingaten-dayflight. Aftercompleting159orbits,theOrbitertoucheddownonKSC

Runway33at 8:05:53 a.m. CST. That equates to a Mission Elapsed Time of 9/20:56:13.

Drag chute deploy came at 8:06:07 a.m. CST. Wheel stop was at 8:06:53 a.m. Cst in a

Mission Elapsed Time of 9/20:57:14. NASA's official record keeping designates end of

mission as the time of main geer touchdown, sothe official mission elapsed time for the

STS 52 was 9 days, 20 hours, 56 minutes and 13 seconds. The Columbia traveled

4,129,028 statute miles during the STS 52 flight, which was the 51st mission of the Shuttle

Program. The Orbiter's of NASA's Shuttle fleet have now traveled in excess of 120 million

miles in space.

Kennedy Space Center Director Rotm_ L Crippensaid,'Thisflightwas chock full of work.

That crew spent 10 days on orbit delivering satellites and performing science. They

worked very hard at it. It was a superb mission as far as I'm concerned.' Columbia will

be moved from the runway to the Orbiter Processing Facility later this evening to begin

processing for its next flight scheduled for February to conduct work in the Spacelab

module in support of the German Spacelab D-2 mission. [Date, THE ORLANDO

SENTINEL pp. A-1 & A-5, Nov. 2, 1992; STS-5_ I,ANPlNG STATUS REPORT, Nov. 1,

1992; Brown, Banke, Halvorson, FI_ORIDATOI_AY, p. 1A-2A, Nov. 2, 1992; 'Home Again,"

USA TODAY. p. 12A, Nov. 2, 1992.]

No_mlber 2: STSs3 PR P/U TtqNs

Technicians in OPF Bay 3 l,h_,,e_pleted closeouts of Discovery's aft section and have

conducted an Orbiter positive pressure test. Weight and center of gravity checks and

crew comparl_ent cloesout have also been completed. Thermal protection system

closeouts are in progress and preparations are underway for moving Discovery from its

OPF bay to the Vehicle Assembly Building. Work scheduled: roIloverto the VAB at

approximately 5 a.m. November 3; mating with tank and boosters and all checkouts

between November 3 andT; rollout to Launch Complex 39A on November 8.

SHUTI'LE STATUS REPORT. Nov. 2" 1992.]

V

n NASA BOOSTS FLORIDA I_CONOMY

Space related employment and contracts at NASA's Kennedy Space Center yielded a

$1.567 billion growth to Florida's economy during the 1992 Fiscal Year which ended

- September 30, This represents an increase of about $69 million over the previous year.

Of KSC's expenditures, $1.238 billion went to contractors operating on-site at the space

center. An additional $80 million went to off-site businesses in Brevard County° Other

purchases and contracts awarded to Florida businesses outside of Brevard County

totaled about $43.3 million. Space center purchases and contracts to businesses out of

state totaled about $68 million. Civil service salaries and personnel benefits through the

end of FY92 amounted to $152 million, an increase of about $10 million over last year.

About $125 million was for regular salary, lump-sum payments, overtime and awards

programs. The remaining $27 million went for additional personnel benefits. (The $27

million civil service benefits package and $68 million in out of state business awards

increased KSC's total spending during the year to $1.582 billion.) It is estimated that

224
,,,._j

approximately 92 percent of KSC's total spending, in the form of payrolls and purchase,

remained in Brevard County.

Permanent federal employees at KSC totaled 2,676 during the same period. While 3,725

people were employed through construction and tenant jobs at KSC, the majority of the

workers were employed by on-site contractors and numbered almost 12,300. Overall,

approximately 18,700 workers were employed at KSC through the close of the Fiscal Year

on September 30. Major contractors at KSC Include Lockheed Space Operations Co.,

the Shuttle Processing Contractor;, EG&G Flodda Inc., the Base Operations Contractor;,

McDonnell Douglas Space b_jsternsCol, the Payload Ground Operations Contractor;, and

Rockwell International Corp., the Shuttle Orbiter logistics support contractor. [NASA/KSC

News Release No. 149-92. November 2, 1992; Banke, FI_QRIDATODAY. p. 1A, Nov. 10,

1992.]

I1 COLUMBIA LITnJE DAMAGED

Columbia's brakes were undamaged by its November 1 landing at KSC and its tires

incurred only minor scuffing during the touchdown and roll to a stop. Of the 27,000 tiles

which make up the Orbiter's thermal protection system, only about 110 had even minor

damage. One of these will be replaced and another 65 will be removed for routine

maintenance. "She's a beast on the ground, but boy when she gets in the air she just

Cadillacs right along. She really did a great job,' said Columbia's Processing Manager

BascornMurrah. NASA's Flight Director who was in charge of the re-entry and landing,

Jelf Bank said, "Any landing that does no damage to the vehicle is a good landing."

[Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL Nov. 3, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A,

Nov.3, 1992.]

November 3: _ ROI..LS OVER TO VAB

Discovery began its joumay to Launch Complex 39A by being mated to the Orbiter

transporter and rolling over from OPF Bay 3 to the Vehicle Assembly Building; the first

motion was at 8:15 a.m. Once inthe VAB, the Orbiter was mated to its external tank and

solid rocket boosters. The Orbiter lifting sling was also attached. Work scheduled:

establishing electrical connections tomorrow;, beginning the Shuttle interface test on

November 5. Rollout to LC 39A is set for November 8 at 12:30 a.m. The terminal

countdown demonstration test is set for November 12-13. [SPACI_ SHLJ3"rl._ STATUS

REPORT. Nov. 3, 1992.]

November 3:. GOLDIN RLLS T0P NASA PosmoNs

NASA Administrator D=,liel S. _ today announced the appointment of Dr.

Peledn as Associate Deputy Administrator for Strategic Planning, John R. DaJay as

Associate Deputy Administrator and Ralph C. _ as Assistant Administrator for Small

and Disadvantaged Business Utilization. Dailey and Thomas were selected after a nationwide search and review. Charles Pelledn, a 25-yeer NASA employee, was most recently

Deputy Associate Administrator for Safety and Mission Quality. "Dr. PeUedn has a broad

knowledge of L and will be responsible for creating a strategic plan to implement the

agency's vision, mission and values," Goldin said. "He also will direct and oversee key

elements of the strategic plan.'

John R. Dailey will plan, direct and manage the institutional operations required to

accomplish NASA's roles and missions. He comes to NASA from the Marine Corps,

_j 22S
havingretiredin September1992,fromthepositionofAssistantCommandant.'Jack

Daileybringsa remarkablebackgroundinsystemacquisition,strategicplanning,total

qualitymanagement and experience in the operation of government at its higher levels,"

Goidin said. Thomas, formerly the Executive Director of the National Association of

Minority Contractors, will become the first Assistant Administrator for Small and

Disadvantaged Business Utilization. "Ralph Thomas will spearhead a determined effort

to see that small and minority-owned businesses play a significant role in America's civil

space and aeronautics programs," Goidin said. [NAS/VKSC News Release No. 92-194,

Nov. 3, 1992.]

November 4: HARD I_TED TO TANlqBOG_

Discovery, now in High Bay 3 of the Vehicle Assembly BuUding, has been hard mated to

its external tank and twin solid rocket boosters. The assembled Shuttle stack was rolled

over to the transfer aisle in the VAB at 8:15 a.m. yesterday. Work in progress for STS 53:

removal of the lifting sling; establishment of the electrical connections between Discovery

and the stack; preparations for the Shuttle interface test (SIT). Work scheduled: the

mechanical and electrical portions of the Shuttle interface test will occur on November 5

and 6, respectively; removal of the access platforms and positioning of the crawler

transporter;, rollout to Launch Complex 39A is set for November 8 at 12:01 a.m.

•Assuming we do rollout on Sunday [November 8], that would make possible achieving

a launch during the first week of December,' said Kennedy Space Center spokesman

Geoqp DBIm'today. The terminal countdown demonstration test for _ 53 remains

scheduled for November 12-13. Workers are readying the external tank/solid rocket

booster stack for Endeavour's next mission at the beginning of the new year;,the Orbiter's

payload - a communications satellite - is being delivered to Launch Complex 39B on

November 9, Dilkm"said° [Space Shuttle Status Report. Nov. 4, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA

TODAY. p. 8A, NOV. 5, i_] i_ __.r_:_ __ _

STS5_ LF11NG SUNG REMOVED

In the VehicleAssembly Building, workers have removed Discovery's lifting sling and

completed the mechanical and electrical mating of the Orbiter with its stack. Tail service

mast connections to Discovery have also been made. The mechanical portion of the

Shuttle interface test is underway today in the VAB. Work scheduled: the electrical

portion of the Shuttle Interface test; removing the access platforms and positioning the

crawler prior to rollout; rolling out Discovery on November 8; TCDT on November 12 and

13 and a flight readiness review on November 19. [SPACE SHLrT'FLESTATUS REPORT,

Nov. 5, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, NOV.6, 1992.]

g 8T8 54 PAYLOAD AND EXTERNAL TANK

In VAB High Bay 1 today, the STS 54 external tank is being mated to the solid rocket

boosters. In the Vertical Processing Facility today, the STS 54 payload (TDRS-F/IUS-13)

is being installed into tl_ payload canister in preparation for transportation to Launch

Complex 39B on November 9. In OPF Bay 1 this weekend, Endeavour's crew equipment

interface test (CEll') with the STS 54 flight crew on hand is scheduled. [SPACE SHUTTLE

STA_Nov. 5, 1992.]

V

226 V
I1 KSC SpONSOFB THIRD BREVARD BUSINESS EXPO

About 200 exhibitors representing small businesses, govemment agencies, prime

contractors and large corporations will be accessible to the public on November 10 at the

KSC Business Opportunities Expo '92, from 9:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cruise Terminal 5, Port

Canaveral. Cosponsored by KSC's Small and Small Disadvantaged Business Council and

the Canaveral Port Authority, this trade fair is an opportunity to match buyers, contract

specialists, engineers and technical representatives with businesses. Most of the

exhibitors will be from small businesses.

'One of the objectives of the KSC Council is to establish closer relationships between

NASA, prime contractors and the business community. The expo is one tool for

accomplishing that objective,' said Ann Wat=mn, Chief, Industry Assistance and

Acquisition Management _aff, Procurement Office. 'This is KSC's third annual expo

which has gotten bigger and better each year,' she added. Representatives from

government agencies and prime contractors will provide counseling services to members

of Industry seeking potential markets for their supplies and/or se_ice¢ In addition, they

will provide information on future acquisition opportunities. [NASA/KSC News Release

No. 151-92. Nov. 5, 1992; Randall, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 20C, Nov. 10, 1992; NASA/KSC

Rel@.a#.eNo, 153-92, Nov. 1992.]

Novmlt3er ¢c DI_3OVERY MATING (X)MPLE'TED

In the VAB's high bay 3, Dtecovefy has been mated with its external tank and solid rocket

boosters in preparation for its ST8 53 mlsalon; rollout to Launch Complex 39A is set to

occur Novembe¢ 8.. Discovery is expected to be hard down at the pad by 2:45 p.m.

Today, however, Dlscovery is undergoing the electrical part of its Shuttle Interface test.

Scheduled for next week: roUout; auxiliary power unit hot firing early November 9 and

commencement of Inenka measurement unit calibration; main engine flight readiness test

on November 10; helium signature test November 11 and the terminal countdown

demonstration test on November 12 and 13. [Space Shuffle Weekly St.atus Summary,

Nov. 6, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 5A, Nov. 7, 1992.]

g ENDEAVOUR: IN OPF BAY 1

The TDRS/IUS payload is being Installed in the transport canister in the Vertical

Processing Facility in preparation for the STS 54 mission. Endeavour, in OPF Bay 1, has

had Orbiter window #6 removed and replaced. L3A and 1.5 (two reaction control

system thrusters) have been replaced. Technicians are conducting OMS/RCS flight

control system checkouts and OMS Pod redundancy checks. Other completed tasks

Include: auxiliary power unit water servicing; auxiliary power unit leak and functional

checks; potable water servicing; waste containment system installation; star tracker door

functional test. Work in progress: drag chutedoor installation; bulb seal repair;,midbody

closeouts; heat shield installation;torque readjustment of vertical stabilizer bolts; auxiliary

power unit leak and functional checks; tile water proofing. Scheduled work: crew

equipment interface test (CELT) for November 7; ammonia boiler servicing November 8;

waste containment system checkout and functional test; payload eirbome support

equipment interface verification test; changeout of reaction control system (L3A) thruster

bellows; payload bay cleaning commences; move of TDRS/IUS payload to Launch

Complex 39B November 9; installation of DXS payload in the Orbiter's payload bay on

November 10. [Soace Shuttle Weekly Status Summary, Nov. 6, 1992.]

227
n COLUMBIA: _ 55 PROCESSING

Columbia is being processed now (OPF Bay 2) for its late February 1993 STS 55 mission.

Completed work: Orbiter initial post flight sating; Orbiter jack and level; establishment of

Orbiter access; attachment of payload bay door strongback; opening of payload bay

doors. STS 55 work in progress: post flight Orbiter inspections; main engine inspections;

window inspections and polishing; cleaning and inspection of the star tracker;, removal

of USMP payload from the payload bay; Ku band antenna testing; Spacelab D-2 mission

sequence test in the O & C building; auxiliary power unit lube oil deservicing. Scheduled

work: hypergolic deservicing; forward reaction control system removal; removal of main

engine heat shields; removal of waste contalnrnent system; removal of wheels and tires.

[S_¢e Shuttle Weeldv Status Summary, Nov. 6, 1992.]

g _ATEUJTE _ ABIUTY/COVERT GROUP

A task group, looking into Issues concerning future satellite rescue and repair, says NASA

should continue to perform such missions, but only when they "produce genuine benefits

to U.S. interests In view of the inherent risks to the Shuttle and its crew." Task force

Chairman Dr. Eugene E. Cove_ said, "l'he unique ability to accomplish satellite rescue

and repair should not be forfeited, but these missions pose Inherent risks to the Shuttle

and should be undertaken only when the benefits outweigh the dsks.' Covert added the

authority to employ this capability should rest solely with the NASA Administrator. The

Advisory Council Group Task Force was estai_Bhed at the direction of NASA

Administrator Daniel 8. _ Chairman Covert is a professor of Aeronautics and

at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Vice Chairman was former

astronaut it. Gen. Ttmmm 4_alfDrd, USAF (ret). The charter of the group was to

recommend 'a policy outlining the criteria, the design slandards and the pdcing model

to gum-_in assessing _ responm'l_']itlesfor gov_'_ non.government

satellite rescue and repair missions." [_ News Release No. 92-197. Nov. 6,

1992.]

V

g CAI.I_E8 OF _ MALFUNCTION8

The report of NASA's Tethered Satellite System Investigative Board was released today,

presenting the panel's findings on problems which prevented full deployment of the

satellite during Space Shuttle mission _ 46. The 47-page report examiried five

problems that occurred during the deployment effort and identified causes for four of

them. It made recommendations for actions to be taken to prevent similar occurrences

in the future. The board said the two snags during deployment and retrieval - when first

releasing the satellite from the deployer and when the satellite was at 735 feet -were due

to slack which developed in _ tether at a point where it moves between one pulley and

another - somewhat similar to movie film misfesding in a projector. 'The crew found a

way to procedurally get around this slack problem," said Board Chairman

Br'anscome. "In both cases the jamming was overcome. By itself, this problem would not

have prevented us from fully deploying the satellite."

NASA previously had reported on August 28 that the cause of the unplanned stops at

587 and 840 feet was a mechanical obstruction - a protruding bolt - which prevented part

of the tether real mechanism from moving across its full range of travel. "We contacted

the bolt when the satellite was out at 587 feet," said Branscome. "What we leamed from

our ground simulations was that in spite of the bolt obstruction, it was possible to pull

additional tether off the reel, out to 840 feet." According to the report, the bolt was part

228 V
g

of a hardware change made late in the review process and should have been caught in

the systems engineering review. "The board made some excellent recommendations in

the report on how to deal with things like late changes to the hardware,' said Jeremiah

W. Pearson IlL 'We are going to look carefully at their recommendations and apply the

lessons learned from this flight to future missions." No plausible scenario has been

validated by post-flight demonstration regarding difficulty in retracting one of two

umbillcals between the tethered satellite and deployer. Based on its findings, the board

recommend several specific hardware assessments and modifications which should be

made to other aiements of the tethered system if NASA decidas to refly it. The board was

formed on August 12 by PNnmn, NASA Assoclate Admlnlstrator for Space Flight. The

slx-member board Included representalJves from verlous NASA centers and the italian

Space Agency. [Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL Nov. 7, 1992; NASA/KSC New_

Release No. 92-196. Nov. 6, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 5A, Nov. 7, 1992.]

DELTALAUNCHSCRUBeEb

An apparent valve failure kept a Delta rocket's main engine and nine solid rocket boosters

from igniting and launching on an Air Force mission. The rocket remained bolted to the

pad. "The flash you saw from the vehicle was what appears to be the vernier engine

start. There was no main engine start and no ignition signal sent to the solids,' said Air

Force Maj. Gadan PerugiN, Director of Public Affairs, 4F,th Space wing. The cause of the

failure was not Immediately known, but a similar failure occurred on May 24, 1989, and,

in that instance, the failure was traced to a valve that had not opened when the

countdown reached zero. The mission had not been reecheduled as of November 8.

[Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL Nov. 7, 1992; Haivomon, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 5A, Nov.

7, 1992; Halvorson, FI,ORIDA TODAY, p. 4A, Nov. 8, 1992.]

November 8: DISCOVERY I:iOu_ TO LC 39A

Discove_ made a start, then stop, then start again roUoutto Launch Complex 39A this

morning. Shortly alter beginning its roUoutfrom the VAB at 7:20 a.m., the transporter had

to be stopped. "We had to stop just outsidethe barn [VAB] because we had a steering

problem we had to fix [on the Shuttle transporter]," said Dick Youn[_ KSC spokesman.

'It was no big deal." Following repairs, the transporter moved again at 9:20 a.m. Arrival

and hard down at the pad came at 1:07 p.m., according to Young. Tentative launch date

for Discovery's five member crew is December 2. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A,

Nov. 9, 1992; Halvorson, FL,QRI_A TODAY, p. 1A, Nov. 8, 1992.]

November 9: DISCOVI_:_: _ Ct.(3C_D

At Launch Complex 39A the rotating service structure is dosed around Discovery which

awaits its payload and the start of itsSTS 53 mission. The Orbiter has been powered up;

it achieved hard down status November 8 at 1:07 p.m. Work in progress today: launch

pad validations; inertial measurement unit (IMU) calibrations; X-rays of reaction control

system bellows; solid rocket booster flight readiness test. Work scheduled: main engine

flight readiness test November 10; _ 53 astronaut arrival at the Shuttle Landing Facility

tomorrow to take part in the terminal countdown demonstration test scheduled for

November 12 and 13. A helium signature leak test will be conducted on November 11

and an auxiliary power unit hot firing will occur this weekend. The IUS/'I'DRS payload left

the Vertical Processing Facility last night as scheduled but is currently in the Vehicle

Assembly Building awaiting improved weather conditions before continuing on to Launch

Complex 39B. [SPACE SH.UI_ STATUS REPORT, Nov. 9, 1992.]

_._., 229
November10: OPEN HOUSE SET FOR NOV. 21

in celebrat_ of the International Space Year, KSC is hosting an open house for =all of its

employees and their families on Nov. 21. The feature attraction is expected to be the

Space Shuttle Endeavour, which is scheduled to be rolled from the Orbiter Processing

Facility to the Vehicle Assembly Building transfer aisle where it will be on display.

Thousands of KSC employees and family members are expected to visit Kennedy Space

Center and view Endeavour. They will also be permitted to drive around Shuttle Launch

Complex 39B, visit the Launch Control Center, the Shuttle Landing Facility, the Thermal

Protection System Facility,the,_311dRocket Booeter Aasembly and Refurbishment Facility

and the NASA News Center. Also open to visitors wig be a solid rocket booster recovery

ship to be located at the turn basin adjacent to the News Center. [NASA/KSC Release

No. 153-92. Nov. 1992;, Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Nov. 21, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA

TODAY.p.2A, Nov.22,

g 1983 PAYLOAD PROCESSING

Even though there is one more Shuttle launch in 1992, next year's buffet of American and

international payloads to be launched aboard the Space Shuttle are in various stages of

preparation at KSC. Some are first-time flyers and others will be continuing a program

of fights aboard the Orbiter as NASA's international partners in space. These include the

secondGermanSpacelabmoduleto flyonthe Shuttle; the ATLAS-2, a pallet and igloo

of expedmenl¢ and the second Space Life Sciences spacelab module. In addition, the

first Spacehab payload to be flown aboard the Shuttle will arrive at KSC in January, 1993.

[NASA/KSC Release No. 15,3-92. Nov. 1992.]

D KSC NEWmomc'n COA'm 

KSC is spearheading the Industry in developing a revolutionary protective coating to

safeguard metals such as steel and aluminum and which could have unlimited

possibilitk_ In the private sector. These coatings will be used on the Shuttle launching

pads and various support equ!pment to guard against the corrosive effects of launch and

the seaside environment. This pdrner coating could have applications for off-shore oil

rigs, automobile parts, underground tanks, bridges and aerospace structures. Several

leading coating industries have recently bid on a contract to develop the highly soughtafter commercial product. [NASA/KSC Release No. 153-92, Nov. 1992.]

D FLORIDA ECONOMY UFTED BY ,_-IU'WLE,,

NASA spent $1.48 billion in the 1992 budget year on launching Shuttles. 'The numbers

reinforce what an Important comerstone that facility [KSC] is to Brevard and to the entire

region. We always look forward to the release of those figures,' said Brevard Economic

Development Corp. President kany

D NEWFREONRECOVlmYSYS11 

KSC is working with a new recovery system used to capture unused freon from Space

Shuttles following their mission and retum to Kennedy Space Center. Freon is used for

the cooling of Orbiter electronic avionics, payloads and the crew module. Due to

information that indicates freon is harmful to the environment, proper disposal is practiced

at KSC. [NASA/KSC Release No. 153-92, Nov. 1992.]

V

23O V
'

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[ _ 53: LAUNCH PAD VALIDATIONS

inicians at Launch Complex 39A have completed pad validations prior to Discovery's

5,3 mission liftoff, now targeted for the first week in December. The solid rocket

,ler flight readiness test has also been completed. Work in progress: inertial

surement unit (IMU) calibrations; X-rays of reaction control system bellows; main

ne flight readiness test; changeout of right booster integrated electronics assembly

=;S'IS 53 astronaut arrival at the Shuttle Landing Facility today at 4:30 p.m. EST.

( scheduled: helium signature leak check of main propulsion system November 11;

of dght booster hydraulics and lEA November 11; astronaut emergency ogress

ing November 11 and 12; Shuttle training aircraft fights on November 11 and

_nber 12; TCDT count begins at 8 a.m. November 12 and reaches T-0 at 11 a.m.

)tuber 13; change0ut OfSRB fuel isolation valves onNovember 13; auxiliary power

hot firing this weekend. [SPACE SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, Nov. 10, 1992; Banke,

:tlDA TODAY. p. 5A, Nov. 11, 1992.]

.: srs ^T.KSC

_j the STS 53 crew of Discovery will learn how to use the emergency egress system

tunch Complex 39A; in an emergency the astronauts would climb into the slidewire

at for a rapid ride down the 1,200-foot wire to a bunker on the west side of the pad.

he usual ddll; nothing out of the ordinaw,' said KSC spokesman _ DBer. The

inai countdown demonstration test begins tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. and runs until 11:00

on Friday rooming. Today workers tested a spare electronics assembly on the dght-

! solk:l rocket booster;, it replaces an assembly which failed last week. Technicians

conducted an important test of the main propulsion system, the helium signature

test. [Haivorson, FI,0RIDA TODAY. p. 2A, Nov. 12, 1992.]

p RSOfl B. CHANCam

_.Administrator Daniel S. Gok_ today announced that Paul F. I-loloway, in addition

s responsibilities as Director of Langley Research Center (LaRC) (Hampton, VA),

orerily will be assigned to NASA Headquarters as a special assistant to the

inistrator. 'Paul has a distinguished record of service with NASA and has provided

uralleledleadership at Langley. i'm venj pleased to announce his new position as

iai assistant at Headquarters, where he will be intimately involved with the day-to-day

_ons ofthe agency,' said Goldin.The Administrator also announced today that Don

ush, Assistant Ad_rninistratorfor Pmcuremant, would be leaving the agency on

a_ 11, 1993. Bush, who joined the agency in 1990 after numerous assignments in

Department of Defense, plans to pursue opportunities in-the private sector.

;A/KSC Release No. 92-202. Nov. 12, 1992; "Goldin Announces Appointments,"

_IDA TODAY. p. 9E, Nov. 15, 1992.]

[ DBCOVB : PRE STATUS

_unch Complex 39A, technicians have completed Discovery's inertial measurement

-.alibrations; changing out and retesting-the-dgi_t "booster's integrated electronics

_bly (IF_A);the Space Shuttle main engine (SSME) flight readiness test (FRT); main

Jlsion system helium signature leak check and leak checks of the Orbiter/external

quick disconnects. Work in progress pdor to the STS 53 mission of Discovery:

hal countdown demonstration test (TCDT); X-rays of the reaction control system

Ns; star tracker inspection; astronaut emergency egress training at Pad 39A; and

231
Shuttletrainingaircraft(STA)flights.Workscheduled:conclusionoftflI a.m.

November13;changeoutoftheleftandrightSRBfuel isolation vaivesber 13;

OMS/RCS hypergolic propellant loading activities during the weeken= of the

rotating service structure for performance of an APU hot firing on Nov_PACE

SHU'I'I'LE STATUS REPORT, Nov. 12, 1992; Haivorson, FLORIDA TODIov. 13,

1992.]

n CHUTEMADECOLUMBAVEER

When Columbia landed at Kennedy Space Center to conclude its _,ion, it

veered ten to fifteen feet olf the 300-foot wide nmway's center line. Ms said

today that the Orbiter's drag chute had caused the vehicle to veer. ch of a

pull; ten to fifteen feet on a 3004oot wide runway is not a big deal. In t cause

me any concern at all,' said Columbia's commander Jamee 13.Wathherbee

and Pilot Robe_ L 'Hoot' Gibe0n countered the drift by stepping on rudder

pedal and using the nose wheel steering system to control the Orbibaid the

drifting appears to occur only when the chute is deployed before the touches

down on the runway. Discovery commander David M. Wa_er said, _k it's a

major concem for us, provided we understand the conditions under _ploy it.

We're still gathering data, but rm not concerned that if we do the test_ve any

problems.' The possibility of modifications is being explored by NA_ry may

land at Edwards Air Force Base, CA, in order for NASA scientists to ,_losely

the effects of cros.swinds. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, No_Banke,

FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, Nov. 14, 1992.]

DISCOVERY:m SaPRE 

At Launch __ _A, _techniclar_llave _n_pleted X-rays of tl'control

system bellows and have inspected the Discovery's _ tracker. Wess on

terminal countdown demonstration test ('rcD'r); chengenut of the lefiRB fuel

Isolation valves and the launch readiness review (LRR). OMS and R_dlng

will take place November 14 and 15; the rotating service structure '¢ted on

November 16. [SPACE SHU'I'I'LE WEEKLY STATUS SUMMARY, No_

!1 ENDEAVOUR: 81"8 54 PREPARATION_

Endeavour's next mission - STS 54 - IStargeted for the second weel, 1993.

The six-day mission will have a crew of five and deploy the TDRS-F armX-Ray

Spectrometer (DXS). Presently in OPF Bay 1, the mission's crew equipce test

(CEIT) has been completed. Other completed tasks include: ammo_vicing;

payload airborne support equiprnent Interface Verification Test; tran_RS to

Launch Complex 39B; installmion of DXS payload in cargo bay on No_terface

verification tee¢ Work in progress: OMS thruster reaction control systernovai

and replacement; drag chute closeouts/door installation; Orbiter/|k door

functional testing; waste containment system functional testing; mainsystem

leak checks (hydrogen side); mid-body cioseouts. Work schedule_e flight

controls and aerosurfaces; tire checks/pressure topoff;,aft compartmeks and

closeouts; Orbiter structural leak checks; crew compartment closeotfueling

at LC 39B. [SP/_(_I_SHU'I"_.. WE.I_KI_YSTATUS SUMMARY, Nov. 1,

232

V

V
n COLUMBIA: STS 55 PROCESSING WORK

In OPF Bay 2, a number of processing tasks on Columbia have been completed: USMP

payload removal; remote manipulator arm (RMS) removal; main engine heat shields

removal; waste containment system removal; wheels and tires removal; hypergolic system

and APU deservicing; post flight system inspections; main engine inspections; Ku band

antenna testing; Spacelab D-2 mission sequence test. Work in progress for STS 55:

powedng up Orbiter systems electrical testing; forward reaction control system

daservlclng and removal preparations; main engine removal; main propulsion system leak

(hydrogen side); wheel and tire re-installation; star tracker door cycle testing; left

hand payload bay door radiator #1 inspections; tile repair and replecement, work

scheduled: removal of window #1; removal of the forward reaction control system;

removal and replacement of the freon pump package;crew hatch functional test; S-Band

air-to-ground antenna testing; drag. chute system daservicing; Orbiter structural

inspections. [$PACE_SHUTTLE WEEKLY STATUS SUMMARY. Nov. 13, 1992.]

n STS 53: LAUNCH READINESS REVIEW

The Launch Readiness Review for Space Shuttle mission STS 53 was held today at KSC.

Following the review, KSC mission managers deemed Shuttle Discovery and the KSC

launch team ready to support launch dudng the first weak of December. A firm launch

date will be determined at the Flight Readiness Review scheduled for Thursday,

November 19, at Kennedy Space Center. Speaking of the role of the managers In the

FRR, KSC spokesman George DBer said, 'They'll go through everything Discovery has

been through since its last flight.' Discovery last flew in January and since that mission,

the Orbiter has been closely inspected and extensively modified. A drag chute has been

installed; improvements were made to the nose wheel steering mechanism and improved

auxiliary power units have been added. At Launch Complex 39B, technicians are fueling

Endeavour's pdme cargo, the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite. Endeavour will roll to

the launch pad next week. [Buckingham, Nov. 13, 1992, KSC Press Site; Halvorson,

FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, Nov. 1i, 1992.]

_15: RECENES SILVER SNOOPY

•We are very proud that Dan [Piltnm] has received this received this [Silver Snoopy]

award,' said John MiBoR Boeing Inertial Upper Stage Program Manager. 'He is a skilled

and highly motivated person whose goal is 100 percent flight success and safety. After

a redundant inertial measurement unit failed on STS 44, Dan's quick tumaround in

removing, replacing and retasting the unit allowed a successful Defense Department

launch and flight.' Pittner was presented his award by astronaut Andrew M. AlleR

['Boeing Employee Receives Silver Snoopy," R, ORIDA TODAY, Nov. 15, 1992.]

_: CRUCIAL _

A hot firing of Discovery's auxiliary power units will occur today; it is a crucial pre-launch

test that will enable final preparations to. continue. The test will take -place at 10 p.m.

following the retraction of the rotating service structure at 6:00 p.m., according to KSC

spokesman George DEer. He said, "Right now, we're dght on schedule.' Last weekend,

workers loaded propellants into the Orbiter's onboard storage tanks. SRB fuel isolation

valves have bean changed out and technicians have finished work in the X-ray reaction

control system thrusters. Also scheduled for today are OMS/RCS fuel system

disconnects and purges. Technicians will begin SRB closeouts and Orbiter aft

. j 233

v
compartment closeouts November 18; final ordnance work will begin Nov. 22.[Brown,

FLORIDA TODAY., p. 2A, Nov. 15, 1992; Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 3A, Nov. 16, 1992;

SPACE SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, Nov. 16, 1992.] V

n I,AUNCH COMPLEX 39B ACTIVITIES

Fueling operations for the TDRS-F payload at Launch Complex 39B will be conducted

Tuesday (November 17) through Thursday (November 19). On Orbiter Endeavour in OPF

Bay 1, bellows changeout on one of the RCS thrusters is in work and on schedule.

Cleaning of the payload bay Is underway in pr_ for closing the payload bay doors

Wednesday night. The Orbiter structural leak check will follow on Thursday, with aft

compartment closeout8 and the weight and center of gravity deterrninalJons set for Fdday,

November 20. Rollover to the Vehicle Assembly Building transfer aisle is targeted for 3rd

shift on the morning of November 21. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAy, p. _ Nov. 15, 1992;

SPACE SHUTn.E STATU_ RlipORT, Nov. 16, 1992.]

!1 Bscove : PnE-LAUNCHm'A'n 

Post-test analysis of the Discovery's APU hot firing data showed that the #1 fuel pump

inlet pressure transducer had a higher than acceptable reading. This device furnishes

APU fuel pressure informa_on. Whether the unit will require a changeout is under

discussion. If this work is done, about a day of two of the remaining days of contingency

time will be necessanj to complete the activity. The primary payload of STS 53 has been

delivered to Launch Complex 39A. The mission is for the Department of Defense. Work

in progress: connection of Orbiter midbody umbilical (OMBU); liquid oxygen pump leak

checks; aft main engine cornpallment and crew compallznent cleaning. Work scheduled:

vehicle powering up; OMBU leak checks also; beginning SRB closeouts and Orbiter aft

closeouts; installatjofl of contingency EVA space suits; installation of the primary payload;

Orbiter/payload interfaceveriflcalJon test (IVT); final ordnance work November 22.

[SPACE SHLrI'I'LE STATUS RI_'pQRT, Nov. 17, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A,

Nov. 18, 1992.]

V

Novenlber 18: [XS(X)VERY: 8TS 53 PREPARAT!QNS

The decision on whether to change,out the #1 fuel pump inlet pressure transducer will

be made at the flight readiness review for STS 53. A fly-as-is option is under assessment;

if the changeout is made, contingency time on November 21 could be used for the

activity. Meanwhile, mating of Discovery's mid-body umbilical has been completed at

Launch Complex 39A. Work in progress: closure of the rotating service structure;

powering-up of the Orbiter;, leak checks of the Orbiter Midbody Umbilical (OMBU);

beginning of solid rocket booster clceeouts; beginning of avionics bay closeouts; start

closeouts of the Orbiter aft main engine compartment; continue aft main engine

compartment and crew compartment cleaning; troubleshooting APU #1 fuel pump inlet

pressure transducer. Work scheduled: installation tomorrow of contingency EVA space

suits and primary payload. The flight readiness review will be conducted also be

conducted November 19. The Orbiter/payload interface vertficetJontest (IV'r) will be held

November 20 and final ordnance work should be completed November 22. rSPACE

SHU'ITLE STATUS RI_PORT, Nov. 18, 1992.]

i V
g

g

n

L,OCKHk'k-DWINS BASE O_ATK)NS CONTRACT

Lockheed Space Operations Company won out over three competitors to win Kennedy

Space Center's base operations contract, worth an estimated $1.9 billion over the ten

years of the contract. Alter the first four years, there will be two three-year options.

Lockheed will now become the second-largest employer in the county, alter Harris Corp.

Gerald O_, president of Lockheed, said, 'We am delighted with this contract award.

rm very gratified that NASA has demonstrated such confidence in us, and rm proud of

the outstanding proposal our people turned in.' (Melbourne, FL). EG&G Flodda has

operated the contract for the past ten year& Lockheed officials said they expected to reemploy the "vast majodtlP of current BOC employees, but spokesman John WffiimtB said,

'I would think that the work force would be smeller.' He did not say how much smaller.

Lockheed already employs 6,200 as the Shuttle processing contractor. The new base

operations contract includes security services, doctors and nurses at the occupational

health facility, flmfightar¢ computer technicians, janitors and handlers of toxic rocket fuel.

Lockheed will subcontract such services as the Kennedy Space Center I.ibrary and mail

operation.

EG&G president James Dubay said, "Obviouslywe are extremely disappointed about the

news that we weren't selected, because we know we provided outstanding service to

NASA. We don_ yet haye any specifics about why we weren't selected, so we cannot

comment any further except to say that we want the tranaltion process to be as smooth

as poesible for our employeas and we will cooperate fully with NASA and Lockheed to

ensure that occurs.' NASA Procurement chief Wee Dean said, 'it was a very close

competition.' He said he would have no specifics on the evaluations until after he has

debriefed the losing companies; that will take two or more days. [Date, THE ORLANDO

SENTINEL p. C-1, Nov. 19, 1992; Liden and Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY. pp. 1A-2A, Nov.

19, 1992; Reltz, FLORIDA TODAY. Nov. 19, 1992; KSC News Release No. C92-20. Nov.

18, 1992; Suskind, THE WALL STREET JOURNAL p. AS, Nov. 19, 1992; Boylan, FLORIDA

TODAY.Nov.2S,1992.]

VaNSSNOOPYAWARD

Joyce Bo_ has been awarded a Silver Snoopy by Astronaut Andrew Allen for her

role in saving money and time by developing a set of electronic mail procedures for

secretaries who log onto KSC's computer network. Boneberger is a secretary for

McDonnell Douglas. ['McDonnell Douglas,' STAR-ADVOCATE, Nov. 18, 1992.]

cP, INVESTC TK CONCLUOES

An investigation board, chaired by JecldmE. _-_ Director of Safety and Reliability, has

completed a thorough review of cranes used in lifting _ght hardware Inside the 52-story

Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB). Center Director _ L Cdppen appointed an

investigation board to examine an August 11 incident Involving a 2S0-ton crane that

suddenly and unexpectedly accelerated while moving a Space Shuttle solid rocket

booster segment in High Bay 1 of the VAB. Although unable to determine the exact

reason, the board found that the most probable causes of the crane's sudden movement

were contamination in the motor generator and excessive resistance of the relay contacts

in the crane's control system. The generator, known as a metadyne, amplifies an

operator initiated control signal to regulate trolley speed.

. ." 235
All components of the crane were carefully tested in KSC's Malfunction Laboratory and

only the metadyne and the relays exhibited abnormal results. Dudng the course of the

investigation, the board found that the cleaning process for the metadyne left a residue

that could have caused the unexpected movement. Also, laboratory tests of the relay

controls demonstrated unwanted resistance changes. Consequently, to improve crane

reliability and reduce risk, the metadynas have been replaced and the cleaning process

has been changed. In addition, operating rules regarding speed selection have been

refined. As recommended by the board, the metadynes on all VAB cranes are being

replaced with new solid state control systems. Officials are also investigating the

continued use of the present control re_ This _ did not cauee any injuries to

personnelor damage to hardwereor fadllUes.

Assisting Smith on the Investigation were board members: David Keley, Chief, Structural

System Branch, Ground Engineering Directorate; Howard Mesks, Systems Engineedng

Section, Payload Operations Directorate; Ronald Eatman of the Project Engineering Staff,

Facilities Engineering Directorate; James Myem, Systems Assurance Office, Mission

Assurance Directorate; _ Clark Cables and Special Power Section, Facilities

Engineering Directorate; and Todd Steimod_ Mechanical Section, Facilities Directorate.

Malcolm Glenn served as the safety advisor, John BledarCtam provided legal assistance

and Lisa Malone was the public affairs representative. Board functions include

invastigming the facts surrounding the mishap, determining the probable cause,

assessing the possibility of a recurrence or similar mishap and recommending con'ective

action. [KSC Release No. 158-92, Nov. 18, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA T0_AY, p. 4A, Nov.

18, 1992.]

B SPEEGLEWIN8 KSC CON/RACI"

Speegle Construction, Inc. (Cocoa, FL) has been awarded a $197,000 fixed price contract

to replace portions of the roof of the Operations and Checkout (O & (3) Building at

Kennedy Space Center. The small business firm began work on the contract October 26,

1992, and is required to complete this effort by April 24, 19g_. This'contract is for the

Phase I! and Phase III segments of the project to replace the entire O & C roof, which

covers more than 220,000 square feet. The O & C Building, constructed in 1965 to

support the Apollo program, houses astronaut crew quarters, clean room facilities and a

high bay area where horizontal Space Shuttle payloads, primarily Spacelab modules, are

processed. Some recent Spacelab missions include Spacelab-J in September 1992 and

the U.S. Microgravity Laboratory in June of this year. [KSC Release No. 152-92, Nov. 18,

1992_]

November 19:. DISCOVERY: FI_ UNDERWAY

.... :The flight:reac_ness _ _ 5TS 53, O_'s next mission' is underw_ today at

Kennedy Space Center. Technicians at Launch Complex 39A have finished loading

_for OMS, RCS, APU$ and HPUs. Work in _rese: checkout of solid rocket

booster thrust vector control systems; payload transfer into payload bay; installation of

contingency EVA space suits; Orbiter aft closeouts and leak checks of the Orbiter midbody umbilical (OMBU). STS 53 is expected to begin in the first week of December and

land a week later at Kennedy Space Center. [SPACE SHUTTLE STATUS REPO.RT, Nov.

19, 1992.]

V

2:_ V

=
[] STS 53 TO LAUNCH DEC. 2

Managers here today officially targeted December 2 for launch the Space Shuttle

Discovery on its 15th mission. The decision was made at the conclusion of today's STS

53 flight readiness review at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The launch window opens

at 6:59 a.m. EST. The pdmary payload for this ninth dedicated Department of Defense

(DOE)) mission is designated DoD-1 and is classified. Although there will be no public

discussion of the identify or purpose of DoD-1 operations before, dudng or alter the

mission, a number of seconden/expedments in the cargo bay and in Discovery's cabin

be conducted openly throughout the planned 7-day, 5-hour flight. Commanding this

53rd Space Shuttle mlasion aboard the newly refurbished Discovenl will be 48-year.old

Navy Captain David M. Walker, making his third Shuttle flight. Silting In the right seat will

be Pilot Robe_ D. CabaM, 43, a Marine Colonel making his second flight. Three mission

specialists will round out the five-man STS 53 crew:. Air Force Colonel Guion S. Bluford,

50, making his fourth flight; and two Army It. Colonels - James S. Voas, 43, making his

second flight, and Michael FLU. CBhxd, 40, flying into space for the first time. rKSC

Release No: N92-99, Nov. 19, 1992; Halvorson, FI,ORIDA TODAY, p. 11A, Nov. 20, 1992.]

g wHrrE HOUSEFtl :'Om': REPLACESHUTTLES

A White House repo_ created by the Vice President's Space Policy Advisory Board, has

recommended that "theAir Force build a new launch vehicle to serve the nation's spacelift

needs and replace the Space Shuttle by 2005.' An author of the report, former Air Force

Secretary Edward C. 'PeUf _ said, 'Spacelilter is the best answer from the

taxpayers' point of view." Aldridge pointed out that Shuttles cost $5 billion annually.

NASA managers at Kennedy Space Center declined to comment. NASA Administrator

Dmti_ S. (3dofn said rega_ the report, 'That Shuttle program is the No. 1 pdodtyfor

NASA. It is our only means of human access to space for the next decade and a half.

Them Is no stepping away from that. That is chiseled in granite. That's very important

for the folks down them [Kennedy Space Center] to know." [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY,

p. 1A, Nov. 20, 1992; Holton, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL p. A-14, Nov. 20, 1992.]

g SECOND LAUNCH 11:!YFOR DELTA 2

The Air Force willtry for a second time to launch its Delta 2 rocket this weekend. The first

effort, on November 5, was unsuccessful when the first stage engine did not ignite. Air

Force officials continue to study the abort and have drawn no firm conclusions as to its

cause. The Nevstar Global Positioning System satellite, the Deita's payload, was not

damaged inthe failed attempt to launch. ['Delta 2 That Failed to Launch Might Try Again

On Saturday,' FLORIDA TOI_AY, p. 11A, Nov. 20, 1992.]

November 20: DISCOVERY: PAYLOAD INSTAU.B}

At Launch Complex 39A where technicians have installed the classified 13oOpayload into

Discovery's cargo bay, preparations for the launch of STS 53 continue without Incident.

Avionics bay closeouts have been completed as has the Orbiter aft confidence test and

a disconnect/closeout of APU #1 fuel pump inlet pressure transducer. Work in progress

today: aft main engine compartment closeouts; main propulsion system insulation

foaming; solid rocket booster closeouts; changeout of #1 data display unit; payload

interface verification test; and OMBU leak checks. Scheduled work: final ordnance work

November 22; OMS/RCS fuel tank pressurization also on the 22rid; loading mass memory

units November 23 and external tank purges on November 24. At present there are no

_._/ 237
issuesof concern for launch managers. [SPACE SHUTrl.E WI_I_K],,YSTATUS SUMMARY,

Nov. 20, 1992.]

g ENDEAVOUR: STS 54 PROCESSING

A number of processing activities leading to Endeavour's STS 54 mission have been

completed while the Orbiter is in OPF Bay 1: TDRS fueling at Launch Complex 39B; aft

compartment cioseouts; crew compartment cloeeouts; external tank door functional test;

Orbiter structural leak check; aft compam'neflt leak check; right nose wheel changeout;

no6e wheel ateering retest; payload airborne =_ott equipment intmface verification test;,

DXS interface vedllcation teat. Work in pmgres¢ weight and center of gravity

determination and mating to Orbiter _er. Scheduled work Includes: roliover to

the Vehicle Assembly Building transl_r aisle November 21; attaching lifting sling and

Orbiter lifting preparations that night;, mating to external tank and solid rocket booster

stack November 22. [SPACE SHUTTLE WEEKLY STATUS SUMMARY, Nov. 20, 1992.]

g STS COLU 

Columbia's three main engines and the forward reaction control system have been

removed; window #1 has been removed and replaced. Technicians have completed

payload bay deconflguration and Orbiter structural inspection¢ Work in progress:

powered-up Orbiter systems electrical testing; freon closed-ioop coolant system

modifications; X-ray reaction control system bellows; OMS/RCS pressure decay test; tile

repairs; installation of payload bay liners and stacking of the left-hand solid rocket booster

in the VAB's High Bay 3. Scheduled activities include: co¢_ of the payload bay

forspace o- ruepos-mght pectk =; par reworkanda=dnary

power unit leak and ftmction_ checks, fSPACE SHUTTLE WEEKI=y STATUS SUMMARY,

_22: DELTA LN.H_H

Tonight at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's LC 17A the Air Force successfully launched

its Delta 2 rocket. The vehicle carded a military satellite which will be used to guide

troops on missions around the wodd. Two previous attempts to launch were scrubbed;

the first due to bad weather and the second because of a technical problem in the

rocket's first stage main engine. The satellite became part of the Navstar Global

Positioning System. [Banke FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Nov. 21, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA

TODAY. p. 1A, Nov. 22, 1992; Halvorson and Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Nov. 23,

1992_]

g I¢SC PROJECi_ ON HOtJD

Plans to construct a 24,000-square foot high bay to process new, more powerful, Shuttle

boosters have been shelved for the time being; there have been delays in developing the

new booster. 'We're the last set of facilities in line on ASRM [Advanced Solid Rocket

Motors] projects,' said James ToBies, KSC FacilltJes Director. Money for the Kennedy

Space Center project is expected to be in the 1994 budget. The new boosters will have

three instead of four segments and will be too big to be processed in current facilities.

[Brown, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 10E, Nov. 22, 1992.]

V

V

23S V
g OPEN HOUSE AT KSC

More then 32,000 people took advantage of the opportunity to tour Kennedy Space

Center during Open House this past weekend. 'This is a real treat,' said Jan Brown

(Melbourne, FL). 'You see this on TV end read about it in the newspaper, but it's even

more exciting to see a real spaceship in person.' [Benke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 2A, Nov.

22, 1997_]

DISCOV_q_80DlYlPUItERB TO BE LOADED

On KSC's to-do list today is a procedure to load Discovery's onboard computers with the

programs necessary to fly the Discovery durk_ its STS 53 mission which is currently

slated to begin with a December 2 launch from Launch Complex 39A. Discovery has five

general purpose computers and two mass memory units which house all the Shuttle's

programs. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 4A, Nov. 23, 1992.]

I1 STS 5_: ORDNANCE OPEP_TIONS RNISHED

At Launch Complex 39A, technicians have completed final ordnance operations upon

Discovery prior to its December 4 launch on its STS 53 mission. Technicians also

completed OMS/RCS tank pressurization end the chengeout of DDU #1. Work in

progress today: auxilianj power unit tank pressurization and closeouts; loading mass

memory units (lVlMU); main engine sensor calibrations; aft main engine compartment

closeouts; solid rocket booster closeouts; payload closeoul¢ Scheduled work includes:

external tank purges; closing the payload bay doors; retestlng the Data Display Unit #1;

orbiter aft systems confidence test and picking up the countdown at 11 a.m. on

November 29. Due to the Thanksgiving holidays on November 26 and 27, no work is

scheduled for the launch temn. Novernber 28 is a contingency day for eny catch-up or

unscheduled work. [SPACE SHUTrI.E STATUS REPORT, Nov. 23, 1992.]

November 24: DISCOVERY: STS 53 MMU'S LOADED

The main memory units (IVlMUs) of Discovery at Launch Complex 39A have been loaded

with flight software. Main engine sensor calibrations have been completed as have

auxiliary power unit tank pressurization and Closeou_ Work in progress: launch

countdown preparations in LCC Fidng Room 1; external tank purges; crew compartment

closeouts; aft main engine compartment cleaning end closeouts; solid rocket booster

closeouts; closing of payload bay doors; DDU #1 retest. Work scheduled: Orbiter aft

systems confidence test; installation of aft compartment flight doors. The countdown for

STS 53 will be picked up at 11 a.m. November 29 for launch on December 2. Aft

compartment closeout activity today and tomorrow Includes documentation photographs

and the removal of access platforms, supplemental lighting, communications gear, end

protective caps and covers. [SPACE SHUTrLE STATUS REPORT. Nov. 24, 1992.]

n DISCOVERY: MNN ENC.-.-.-.-.-.-.-._ _ OK'D

A main engine controller aboard Discovery experienced a minor problem after activation

today; it was tested for about 16 hours subsequently and mission managers feel

confident that the computer will operate properly for flight. Nevertheless, managers will

conduct a retest of the controller on November 30. Similar problems have surfaced

before other flights. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Nov. 25, 1992.]

--._.j 239
NovemtxN" 25: DISCOVERY: pRESStJF_ DECAY

An extra three hours of hold_-timewill be added into the launch countdown at the T-19

hour mark to give managers extra time to examine a slight pressure decay that could be

in ground support equipment or in the oxygen side of the power reactant storage and

distribution system. Officials want the extra time to evaluate the situation following the

holiday pedod. Discovery's payload bay doors were closed for flight at 3:45 p.m.

yesterday; the external tank has been purged in preparation for fueling at Launch

Complex39A. Work in progrees today for the STS 53 misston: closeouts of the aft

engine compartment; launch countdown Ixepara_; preparing the crew compartment

for flight; solid rocket booster _; moving the booster flame deflectors to the

launch posltk_ _¢heduledworksc0vit_: boltingthedoomontheaftcompartmentfor

flight; powering down the vehicle; beginning the launch countdown at 8 a.m. November

29; arrival ofthe crew at the SLF at I p.m. November 29; launch December 2 at 6:59 a.m.

EST. Kennedy Space Center workers will have off Thursday and Friday for the

Thanksgiving holiday. A number of employees will work November 28 to prepare for the

start of the launch countdown and the STS 53 launch team will be at stations beginning

with the countdown's commencement on November 29. [SPACE SHUTrl.E STATUS

REPORT. Nov. 25, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 9A, Nov. 26, 1992.]

n

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STS 54: ELEMENTS MATED

In the Vehicle Assembly Building, Endeavour has been mated with its external tank and

solid rocket boosters. Workers are closing out the electrical connections between the

Orbiter and _ern_ tank in pmparetk_ for roliout to Launch Complex 39B on December

3. Preparation8 am also underaay to power up the vetdcle for the shuttle interface test

scheduled for December 1. Endeavour's third mission, STS 54, will begin alter the first

of the year. [SPACE SHUI"rLE STATUS Rf_PORT, Nov. 25, 1992.]

8"m ss _

Columbia, the senior member of NASA's Space Shuttle fleet, is currently in OPF Bay 2 at

Kennedy Space Center where the Orbiter is having a drag chute Installed. Technicians

are X-raying the orbital maneuvering system pods; purging the freon cooling system;

conducting leak and functional tests of the auxiliary power units and inspecting the

vehicle's hydraulic system. Columbia's STS 55 mission will be the second flight of 1993.

[SPACE SHLrl"I'LE STATUS REPORT, Nov. 25, 1992.]

BEACHCLOSEDUNnL /UW

Playalinda Beach will be closed to visitors horn November 29 through mid-January due

to Space Shuttle operations. Space Shuttle Discovery is scheduled to be launched from

LC 39A on Mission STS 53 at 6:59 a.m. EST, December 2, 1992. The beach closing is

required three days prior to a Space Shuttle launch from 39A, which necessitates closing

on November 29. On December 3, the Space Shuttle Endeavour will be rolled out to

Launch Complex 39B in preparation for the STS 54 Januan/1993 launch. Pad 39B is

KSC's northernmost pad and requires the beach be closed whenever a Shuttle is present

there, rNASA/KSC New_ Release No. 160-92, Nov. 25, 1992; "Playalinda Beach To

Close," FLORIDA TODAY, Nov. 27, 1992.]

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27: PRESSURE LOSS PROVOKES I_STS

A problem with ground support equipment-at Launch_Cbmplex 39A has causing NASA

to decide to conduct some tests today, rather than tomorrow; an unwanted drop in

pressure in a liquid oxygen line was noted at the pad today. KSC spokesman Karl

said the problem was not with Discovery or any of its flight hardware.

'Neither of those operations [the tests] are expected to delay Wednesday's scheduled

launch of Discovery at 6:59 a.m.,' said Kdstofl'erson. Meanwhile, workers will either repair

or replace a seal within a liquid hydrogen storage tank aboard Discovery. [Banke,

FLORIDA TODAY. p. 8A, Nov. 28, 1992.]

November 29:. 53: COUNTOOWN STARTS TOOAY

At 8 o'clock this morning the countdown clock will start at Kennedy Space Center for the

STS 53 mission of Discovery. The five-man crew of this Department of Defense mission

Includes: Commander David M. Walker, Pilot Robect D. Cabana and Mission Specialists:

S. _ Michael R. U. CMord and James S. Voe_ Weather appears to the

prime concern for launch at present. A plan to land the Orbiter with a computer at the

controls has been canceled. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Nov. 29, 1992; Date, THE

ORLANDO SENTINEL, pp. A-1 & A-11, Nov. 29, 1992; See Crew Profiles in FLORIDA

TODAY. p. 9E, Nov. 29, 1992; 'Countdown for Discovery's Wednesday Launch Begins,'

THE ORLANDO SENTINEL Nov. 30, 1992.]

3O:. _ 53: WI_THER 60_ UNFAVOFIABLE

Theweather forecast for December 2 calls for a 60% chance of violating the weather rule

prohibiting launch if there is a stesdy-state wind below 5 knots with a temperature of less

than 47 degrees for longer than 30 conescutive minutes. Meanwhile, KSC technicians

have completed a number of tasks concerning preparations to launch Discovery on its

STS 53 mission: Orbiter potable water sampling; crew arrival; crew medical exams and

flight suit check this morning and commander and pilot Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA)

flights this afternoon. Work in progress: launch countdown in LCC Firing Room 1;

loading fuel cell cryogenic reactants; activating Orbiter navigation system; troubleshooting

pyrotechnic initiator cable on left-hand booster holddown post;, preparations to retract

rotating sen/ice structure. Work scheduled: remove and replace holddown indicator

cable this afternoon; retest holddown post indicator cable tomorrow;, retract Orbiter

midbody umbilical (OMBU) tonight;,training flights for astronauts tomorrow; retraction of

rotating service structure for launch at 11 a.m. December 1. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY,

pp. IOE & 9E, Nov. 29, 1992; SPACE SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, Nov. 30, 1992; Banke,

FLORIDA TOI;)AY, pp. 1A-2A, Dec. 1, 1992.]

g LAUNCH WEATHER RULES

NASA managers are meeting today to discuss Discovery's _ 53 countdown and the

chilly weather forecast for launch day. 'Their big concern will be the temperatures and

the temperature-wind relationship,' according to Shuttie Weather Officer Ed Priselac of the

4,SthSpace Wing. By contrast to the procedure in use at the time of the 1986 Challenger

accident, heaters installed around the main booster joints keep seals properly conditioned

during every countdown. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, pp. 1A-2A, Nov. 30, 1992; Date, THE

ORLANI_0 SENTINEL, pp. A-1 & A-4, Dec. 1, 1992.]

- ; 241
[] _l'S 53 CREW ARRNES

U

'It's good to be back in Florida. We hope we don't stay here very long," said STS 53

Commander David M. Walker upon his ardvai with his crewmates today at the Shuttle

Landing Facility. Walker added, "We're planning to go up as quickly as the airplane's

ready, and we think that's going to be Wednesday. Everything we're hearing about the

condition of the Orbiter says it's ready to go. We're ready to go, and we're looking

forward to a good mission.' Meteorologists currently eetimate a 50 percent chance of

acceptable weather for launch between 6:59 and 9:29 a.m. on December 2. [Banke,

FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, Nov. 30, 1992.]

I_C AWARDS BRIDGE CONTROLS CONTRAG'_

Military ConstnJctJonCorp. (Merdtt Island, FL) has been awarded a $1,089,000 fixed price

contract to replace the electrical control systems of the four drawbridges at Kennedy

Space Center. Work under this contract is scheduled to begin in February 1993 and

must be completed by June 1994. The contract calls for the small business firm to

replace operator controls in the controe houses of the Indian River bddge on NASA

Causeway West, the Banana River bridge on NASA Causeway East, the Haulover Canal

bddge on Kennedy Parkway North and the JJ Railroad bridge north of T'K_Jsville(FL). The

existing controls are original equipment installed when the bddges were constructed in

the early 1960's and are considered to be obsolete. The new operating systems will

include computerized control of the bridge mechanical systems. Pdmary advantages of

the new systems over the extsth_ equipment are less operator involvement, a higher

degree of re_Cdlity and reduced maintenance costs. _ ReleaseNo. 159-92, Nov. 30,

lg_.]

V

V

242 V
DECEMBER

December 1: DISCOVERY: LOADING PROPELLANTS

Today at Launch Complex 39A workers removed and replaced the left booster holddown

post pyro Initiator cable. They loaded cryogenic reactants into Discovery and activated

the Orbiter's navigation and communications system. As part of the final preparations for

the STS 53 launch tomorrow, they retracted the Orbiter midbody umbilical (OMBU). Final

astronaut medical e0(aminmJonswere conducted as well as a flight suit fit check Work

in progress: launch countdown in the launch Control Center's Rring Room 1;

tmublestmo(ing the Orbiter Electronics Interface Unit (E]U); astronaut T-38 training flights;

astronaut status briefings on countdown, Discovery, payload; retrscting rotating service

structure; loading the Space Tissue Loss experiment;, configuring cockpit switches for

launch; activation of Orbiter fuel cells. A re-test of the left booster holddown post

pyrotechnic initiator cable is scheduled. [SPA(_I_ SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. Dec. 1,

1992.]

SPACE STATION MANAGEMENT CHANC.-,ES

Culminating 6 months of reviews, NASA today announced plans to consolidate some

management functions for the Space Station Freedom program and create a contractorled integration team to ensure the successful building and deployment of the international

space station. 'These moves will improve overall program management and significantly

strengthen the integreticn of the various station elements," said Axnold Ndd(_ Associate

Administrator for Space Systems _ "We foresee no schedule or budgetary

impact from these change¢ In fact, when fully implemented, these changes will reduce

'overhead' costs and strengthen program execution and accountability."

NASA plans to combine the existing Level 1 (Headquarters) and Level II (Reston) Space

Station Freedom offices in Reston, VA. This step will consolidate overall program

managermmt at Reston. "Re=on will remain the focal point for the space station program

for the foreseeable future," said Aldrich. NASA is working toward establishing a Joint

Vehicle Integration Team (JVIT) at the Johnson Space Center (Houston, "IX). The JVIT

will be staffed by the 3 space station prime contractors (Boeing, McDonnell Douglas and

Rocketdyne). NASA will manage the JVIT contract.

'It is my strong view, which is shared across NASA senior management, that these

changes are essential tothe successful implementation of this program,' said Aldrich.

•Further, they are consistent with the findings of a number of intemal NASA reviews and

with congressional direction. The changes are fully supported by the space station

hardware contractors and by Grumman." Grumman is the space station engineering and

Integration contractor who will parttcipam with the JVIT and who will continue at Raston

as the program integration contractor. Aldrich said, "Withthese changes, the civil service

manpower level at Raston will likely increase above the current level of about 210.'

Aldrich said _ Kohm will continue as Director, Space Station Freedom and will be

located at Raston. He added that the Deputy Director for Program and Operations would

be transitioned to the Johnson Space Station to provide for full and effective management

of the Freedom program, including the JVIT.

According to Aldrich, details of these changes will be spelled out in a transition plan

developed by Kohrs in mid-February 1993. The plan will clearly define the roles and

responsibilities for the space station offices at Reston; the Lewis Research Center

243
(Cleveland,OH);theJohnsonSpaceCenter;,the Marshall Space Flight Center (Huntsville,

AL); end the Kennedy Space Center, FL Kohrs plan also will address the longer-renge

plans to consolidate Space,hurtle end Space Station_operations by mid-1997 end

combine the Shuttle end Station programs by late 1999. "This will result in significant

economies of scale in the outyear budget for Space Station operations and will greatly

improve the overall operations management of both programs," said Aldrich.

'Over the course of the lastfew years, the men end women of the NASA team have made

substantial progress in meeting key program milestones," Aldrich said. "However, as the

program shuts b emphasis from design aotiv_km to hardware devek_o_ant,

manufacturing and integration, the buildup to support thase activities at the NASA

Centemwas planned and is required.' Alddchseid thesechengas havebeen revk_ed

with the Office of Management and Budge¢ and the Congress and will be presented to

the President-Elect's transition team in the near future, rNASA Release: 92-214. Dec. 1,

1992; Halvomon, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, Dec. 16, 1982.]

V

_2: D_X_Y; STATUS

Discovery was launched upon its STS 53 mission today at 8:24 EST; the launch was

delayed 85 minutes because of cool weather at the launch pad which caused icing on

the external tank. The pdme payload - DoD-1 - was deployed about six hours after

launch end the crew and Shuttle Orbiter remain in good condition. Landing is planned

for December 9 at ttm Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility after completion

of its six-dey flight. [Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL pp. A-1 & A-8, Dec. 3, 1992;

SPACE SHUTn.E STATUS RL=PQRT,Dec. 3, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A,

Dec. 2, l_e_-I

m F.AVOUROti.O V

Today, Endeavour is being moved from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch

Complex 39B; first motion occurred at 7:14 a.m. EST. The vehicle was expected to arrive

at the pad by early afternoon and the rotating service stnJcturawill be deployed around

the Orbiter by 5:30 p.m. today. 'We're certainly not wasting any time getting the next one

ready to go. We wanted to get it out to the pad as soon as we could end get as much

work done as possible before we break for the holidays," said Kennedy Space Center

spokesman Bruce Buckinglun. Work scheduled: hook-up of ground support equipment

and checkouts of systems between the mobile launch platform, the vehicle end the

ground. Installation of the TDRS-F spacecraft into Endeev r's payload bay is scheduled

to occur December 4, beginning at 8 a.m. The task is expected to be completed by

midnight. Connections and checkouts between the Orbiter and satellite will occur

throughout the weekend. Endeavours terminal countdown _ test is set for

December 18. [SPACE SHUI"rLE STATUS REPORT, Dec. 3, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA

TODAY. p. 4A, Dec. 3, 1992; Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 6A, Dec. 4, 1992.]

December 4: BOC CONTRACT _

NASA has been informed by the General Services Board of Contract Appeals end the

General Accounting Office that all three losing contenders for the Kennedy Space Center

Base Operations Contract (BOC) have filed protests over the selection of Lockheed Space

Operations Co. for negotiations on the contract. The selection was made November 18.

The BOC will be a cost-plus-award fee contract with incentive fee features covering an

initial period of four years, with three priced 2-year options for a total potential period of

244
10 years and value of approximately $1.9 billion. For the past 10 years the contract has

been held by EG&G Florida, Inc. EG&G Florida General Manager James Dubay said, 'We

are pleased to hear of NASA's plans to extend the base operations contract with EG&G

Florida long enough for resolution of the protests.' Approximately 3,000 persons are

employed by EG&G for work on the BOC.

BAMSI, Inc. (Titusville, FL) and EG&G Florida, Inc. have filed their protests with the

General Sendcee Board of Contract Appeals. Westinghouse Electric Corporation's

Government Operations Business Unit pittsburgh, PA) has filed its protest with the

General Accounting Office. As a rasult, KSC is planning to extend the prasent contract

with EG&G Florida long enough to allow for resolution of the protests and an orderly

transition to the new contractor. It is expected that the proteus will be resolved by midFebruaw. 'The extension will cover the rasolution of the protests,' according to Wee

Dean, Chief of Procurement. Lockheed Space Operations Co. spokesman J. B. Klump

said, "Considering that a review is under way, it is not appropriate to respond at this time."

Lockheed, already the Shuttle Processing Contractor, employs about 7800 people.

[Boylan, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 14C, Dec. 3, 1992; KSC Release" 16692; Dec. 4, 1992;

Uden, FLORII_A TODAY, p. 1A, Dec. 5, 1992; I.iden, FLORIDA TODAY. pp. 1A-2A, Dec.

23, 1992.]

I1 ENDEAVOUR: PAD VAMDATIONS

Endeavour has been transferred from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Complex

39B; the rotating service structure has been deployed around the Orbiter and the vehicle

has been powered up. The payload bay and crew module doors have been opened and

the "I'DRS/IUS covem have been removed. Work in progress today: installation of TDRS

(manufactured by TRW) into the Orbiter payload bay;, launch pad validations; gaining

_ _ access to the aft engine comparlmer¢, preparations for prelaunch hypergolic propellant

loads; main engine leak checks. Scheduled work: TDRS/Orbiter integration verification

test and the helium signature leak test. Kennedy Space Center spokesman Bruce

Buddngham said, "We're in good shape. The first mission of the new year should be

processed without any problems.' [SPACE_SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. Dec. 4, 1992;

Halvorson, FI_QRIDA TODAY. p. 5A, Dec. 5, 1992.]

Deeelnber 5: USB: EMPtOYEES OF THE MONTH

United Technologies USBI has announced three employees of the month awards:

Paldda Ovington was named September employee of the month; Robe_ Church and

/undraw Bradley were named for October and November, respectively. USBI is a prime

contractor working at Kennedy Space Center to assemble and refurbish Space Shuttle

solid rocket boosters. ['USBI Announces Employees of Montl:t,' FI,ORII_A TODAY, p. 9E,

Dec. 6, 1992.]

December 7: ._RM "(_AN_R]_:_ _ AT I¢_

The first major items of ground support equipment for the Advanced Solid Rocket Motor

(ASRM) arrived at the Kennedy Space Center yesterday by barge. Called Kneel-Down

Transporters (KDTs), they are speciai-purpoee trucks designed to carry ASRM segments

when loaded on special transportation pallets. Each segment with pallet weighs 795,000

pounds. The two KDTs are the first of four transporters that have been ordered from

KAMAG Transportation Company of Germany. These transporters will eventually be taken

to the Yellow Creek, Mississippi, manufacturing site for the ASRM when these facilities are

, _ 245
g

complete. The cost of the first set of transporters is $5.8 million dollars. Two more

Identical KDTs will be delivered later for use at KSC and will cost somewhat less money.

The term 'kneel down transporter' refers both to the action of the transporter in kneeling

down to pick up the pallets, as well as the configuration of a wheel set, or "bogle.'

Looking at Individual bogle, one can see that its supporting leg does indeed have a pivot

point like a knee-hence the term kneel down transporter. The mission of the transporter

Includes several tasks:

*movethefilledand unffiledmotorse_ dudngthe manufacturingprocess=Yellow

Creek, Mbs_Jpp4.

*load the completed rocket segments onto the barge at Yellow Creek for transportation

to Kennedy Space Center, Stennis Space Center (Bay St. Louis, MS) or Marshall Space

Flk]htCenter(Hunt lkD,AL).

*unload the rocket motor segments from the barge at KSC for transportation to and

between ordnance storage facilities and the Vehicle Assembly Building.

The transporter can also be configured for a variety of other general purpose applications.

A 600-horsepower diesel engine furnishes the pdmary power for the transporter and its

associated electrical and hydraulic systems. The transporter provides precision speed

control ranging from creep to a maximum of ten miles per hour. The transporter is highly

rmmeuverab_, having a turning radius of only 30 feet. The front and rear bogles pivot

at different angles about the two center rows of bogies, which are fixed. Combined with

the precisionspeed contro ttt nmneuveraU /alk ws ttm operatorto the

transporter precisely under the load. An operator from KAMAG arrived _withthe first two

transporters to drive them off the barge to their storage area which is north of the Vehicle

Assembly Building. He wtRthen assist in training the ddvem who are to be furnished by

the KSC Shuttle Processing contractor, Lockheed Space Operations Co. [KSC Release

No. 165-97. Dec. 7, 1992.]

GI:IOUNDI_=AION_ ,_hoACEI_)UCATION

The Astronauts Memorial Foundation (AMF) board members, families of deceased

astronauts and invited guests will join together in breaking ground for the new Center for

Space Education at 10 a.m. on Thursday, December 10, at the construction site on the

northwest side of KSC's Spaceport USA visitors center. Planned as a "living memorial"

to U.S. astronauts who have given their lives in the line of duty, the new 44,000-squarefoot education facility will provide a large area for educational materials to further

students' knowledge and interests in space, science and aeronautics. NASA educational

activities and teacher re_oumes services, currently located at the visitors center, will be

moved into the new building which is expected to be completed by 1994.

Grace Cmflgan, mother of 51-1. teacher in space Christa McAuife, will be the keynote

speaker at the event. KSC Center Director Robert L Crippen, Chairman of the AMF

board of directors Alan Hefman and AMF President Jamee De6anl_ are also scheduled

to speak. The theme of the event is "youth"and the Merdtt Island High School Band will

perform for the invited guests which include former Gemini and Apollo astronaut James

Lovell and relatives of deceased astronauts Roger Chaffee, Ed _ Elliot See, Jr. and

_ In addition, the Satellite High School Air Force Junior ROTC will present

V
%,,,___jt

the colors. [KSC R(_lease No. 168-92, Dec. 7, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A,

Dec.lO, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. Dec. 11, 1992.]

December 8: LANDING DELAY PROBABLE

Kennedy Space Center officials who have an eye on the weather are planning to extend

Discovery's Department of Defense STS 53 mission. Commander David M. Walker said

December 7, 'We haven't run out of food yet, so we're in no hurry. Forecasters predict

cloudy skies for Brevard's Wednesday attemoon and the prospects are 'definitely bad'

at Edwards Air Force Base, CA, and at the Northrup Strip (White Sands, NM). NASA

Flight Director Mat HelEn said, "Right now we plan to land at KSC on Wednesday." The

Initial KSC landing opportunity (at 2:16 p.m. EST) will require a deorbit bum at 1:11 p.m.

EST. A second landing opportunity occurs at 3:50 p.m. EST. Some NASA officials think

the upcoming landing at KSC will present an opportunity to study-how the vehicle

performs in runway crosswinds. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, Dec. 8, 1992; Banke,

FLORIDA TODAY. p. 1A, Dec. 9, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL, Dec. 9, 1992.]

D WOI, IGI/Y/ELIN_3 AWARDED SNOOf=NS

Titusville residents Sharon Won{] and Edward W11Bamshave been awarded Silver

Snoopys. Wong, who works in the Payload Management and Operations Directorate, was

cited for her efforts to interest women and minorities in engineering and space through

the KSC mentor program. Williams, a Sanior Quality Engineer, was cited for work in

resolution of complex quality issues concerning Shuttle hardware processing. [Scott,

STAR-ADVOCATE. Dec. 9, 1992.]

December g: _ AT EDWARDS.-.I.EAi_

Discovenj landed this afternoon at Edwards Air Force Base (CA)at 3:43 EST; shortly

alterward ground crews detected seepage of nitmgan tetroxide propellant. The leak kept

the crew Inside the Orbiter for more than two hours. Capcom Kermelh S. Reightler Jr.,

himself an astronaut, said to the crew from Houston, "One thing is for sum, you will not

get to walk around and kick the tires alter you egress. Mission Commander David M.

Walker replied, "It is a big disappointment if we have to wear the helmets and don't get

to use the slide." The fumes of toxic gas were dispersed by a large fan and the

astronauts ieft the vehicle in the usual manner - a portable staircase. Discovery's mission

was the eighth and last of 1992. Kennedy Space Center Director P,obe_ L Crippen said,

"We ended up having about as successful a year as I can have possibly wished for back

a year ago when I first showed up at KSC as center director. This mission just kind of

topped it off. Of course, we have to get [Discovery] home from Edwards, but we know

how to take care of that._ The next Shuttle mission is Endeavour's STS 54 flight which

is tentatively scheduled to launch from KSC on January 13, 1993. [Banke and Haivorson,

FLORIDA T01_Ay, pp. 1A-2A, Dec. 10, 1992; 'Discovery's Return," THE ORLAN[)0

SENTINEL p. A-1 and on A-4, Dec. 9, 1992.]

DecemCx_ 10:

Business executives and elected officials throughout Brevard County Will be briefed on

current KSC programs and plans, then space center's economic impact on the area, and

the status of Space Station Freedom. The briefing is set to begin at 9:00 a.m., December

15, 1992, inthe Galaxy Theater at Spaceport USA. Center Director Robert L Crippenwill
providethegroupwitha reviewofKSC's1992activitiesandan overview of near-term

plans and how they relate to Brevard Count=. Cdppen wil!respond to questions following

his remarks. Space Station Project Manager _ Kenn_ Space Center John R. Lyon will

brief attendees on the overall progress of the Space Station Freedom program and its

impact on the local area. [Notice to Editors/News Directqrs. KSCRelease No. 170-92.

Dec. 10, 1992.]

g ICSC: MCDONNELL DOUGLAS EXTENDED

Kennedy Space Center has awarded McDonnell Douglas Space Systems Co. (Kennedy

Space Center Division) a three-year extension of its ecdstingcontract for payload ground

operations service_ valued at approximately $561.4 miBoR The extension, effective

January 1, 1993, through Decarnber 31, 1995, bdngs the cumulative value of the contract

to $1.2 billion. This is the second extension of the payload ground operations contract

awarded to McDonnell Douglas in January 1987. Under the cost-plus-award-fee

extension, McDonnell Douglas will continue to provide ground support, test and

Integration for payload operations at Kennedy Space Center. rRelease: C92-21. Dec. 10,

1992; "McDonnell Douglas Wins NASA Extension," FLORIDA TODAY. Dec. 12, 199?-]

g ..R_CEMENT OF FAULTY

NASA is replacing engine sensors which were produced in the same group as the ones

which failed in two of the last three Shuttle missions, according to Boyce Mix who is

Deputy Manager of the Space Shuttle Main Engine pcogram at Marshall Space Flight

Center (Huntsville, AI.). "Both of these [sensor failures] were of a particular lot number."

When faulty readings are sent to the engine computer, the Information is Ignored. "We

think that the pump is more reliable than the sensor," added Mix. [Date, TH E ORLANDO

SENTINEL. p. A-4, Dec. 11,199_]

Dececrd_r 11: _1_ 54: ENDIEAVOUR AT LC 3_

Pre-launch hypergolic propellant loads into Endeavour have been completed at LC 39B;

the TDRS/Orbiter integration verification test of the _ 54 payload is finished and the

pad is open again for normal work activities as of 10 p.m. last night. Work in progress:

secudng heaters for the Orbital Maneuvering system and reaction control system for

powerdown this weekend; preparations for the upcoming terminal countdown

demonstration test and for auxiliary power unit leak checks. Scheduled activities:

terminal countdown demonstration test next week; crew arrival and PAO session at LC

39B; opening of payload bay doors; launch readiness review; flight readinass review;

"rDRS/1US end-to-end test; IUS flight readiness checks. [KSC Soace Shuttle Status

Reoort. De= 11, 1992.]

g BSCOVB:IY: LEAK DELA_J3 RERIRN TO I¢SC

Discovery remains in the mate-demate device at the Dryden Right Research Center

following its landing at 3:43 p.m. EST, December 9. The vehicle has been jacked and

leveled and operations are continuing to prepare it for ferry flight beginning December 15.

Discovery is slated for a two-day cross-country flight atop the modified 747 Shuttle Carder

Aircraft. ff weather allows, arrival is targeted for mid-afternoon December 16, 1992.

[Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, Dec. 8, 1992; Banke, FLORIDA TODAY_ Dec. 11, 1992; Date,

THE ORLANDO SENTINEL, P. A-18, Dec. 10, 1992; KSC Space Shuttle Status Report,

Dec. 11, 1997_]

248

i
g COLUMBIA: IN OPF BAY ;2

Processing activities for Columbia's STS 55 mission continue unabated in Orbiter

Processing Facility Bay 2. Upcoming operations include: orbital maneuvering system

functional tests; freon coolant loop servicing and tests; hydraulic system operations;

landing gear functional tests; and aerosurface functional checks. Rollover to the VAB is

targeted for early February. Work on the Solid Rocket Boosters is also continuing in the

Vehicle Assembly Building with the right forward segment being meted today. Next week,

work will commerce to demate the left forward center segment; the segment has failed

two low--re leak checks in _ past week, though the leaks are believed attributable

to faulty ground support equtpmenL However, managers have decided to destack the

left forward center segment to confirm this theory. This unplanned operation is expected

to have no impact on the launch of _ 55, however, it will slip the extemal tank mating

into early 199_. [KSC Space Sh.utl_leStatue Report. Dec, 11, 1992.]

December 12: I¢=C;, I_RW WEB( ON TAP

Endeevour's five person crew arrive at Kennedy Space Center December 14 to take part

In a terminal countdown demonstration test for STS 54. 'It's essentially a dress rehearsal

for launch,' said KSC spokesman Bruce Btckingham Discovery, meanwhile, is being

readied for its fern/flight home to KSC from Califomi¢ ardv_ of the Orbiter and the

Shuttle Carder Aircraft is expected to be noon, December 16. The Air Force is launching

a Delta rocket at Cape Canaveral on the 16th, as well. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p.

3A, Dec.13, 1992.]

December 14." 81_ 54:ENDEAVOUR'8 _ FLOW

Technicians continue processing Endeavour for its January 1993 launch on the _ 54

mission. Work in progress today: Orbiter power is on through December 23; TORS/IUS

payload end-to-end communicatiorB test; degve_ of liquid oxygen to Launch Complex

39B; Orbiter/external tank quick disconnect purges; preparations for terminal countdown

demonstration test (TCDT); astronaut arrival for TCDT; astronaut M113 orientation and

driver training; astronaut fit check of launch/re-entry suits. Scheduled activities: start of

TCDT December 15; astronaut pad safety training;, TCDT T-O at 11 a.m. December 16;

TDRS/IUS launch simulation exercise; KSC launch.readiness review (I.RR) and main

engine flight readiness test December 17; flight readiness review (FRR) December 22.

[SPACI_ SHUTrl, E STATUS REPORT, Dec. 14, 1992.]

rl DISCOVERY PREPARI_ FOR FERRYING

At NASA's Dryden Flight Research Facility at Edwards Air Force Base (CA), the ferry flight

tall cone is being attached to Discovery. The Orbiter will be mated to the 747 Shuttle

Carder Aircralttonight. Departure from Edwards is set for local sunrise December 15 with

the arrival at KSC scheduled for noon December 16. Weather is marginal in east Texas

and Louisiana which could extend the ferry flight. [SPACEi SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT.

Dec. 14, 1992_]

g CRF OFFICIAL OPENING

Kennedy Space Center's newest building, the Canister Rotation Facility, will be officially

open after a ceremonial dbbon-cutting on Wednesday, December 16 at 1 p.m. KSC

Director Robert L Cdppen; John T. Cortway, Director of Payload Management and

. , 248
Operations;andGeorgeFaenza,Vice-President/General Manager,McDonnellDouglas

SpaceSystemsCompany,areamongthespeakersat theevent. Designedto provide

spaceforrotatingthecanistercontainingShuttle payloads, the 7,200 square-foot facility

features a 100-ton bridge crane, support stands and access platforms. Located in KSC's

Industrial Area, the building is 60 ft. by 120 ft. by 141 ft. Ivey's Construction (Merritt

Island, FI.) designed and built this facility under contract with NASA for $5,985,000. [Note

to Editors/News Directors. KSC Release No. !71-92. Dec. 14, 1992.]

Decemb_ 15: STS 54: ENDEAVOUR AT PAD

At Launch Complex 39B, workers have completed an end-to-end communications test of

the "I'DRS/lUS payload for Endeavour's STS S4 mission next month. A DXS compatibility

test has concluded, as welL Uquid oxygen has been delivered to the pad and

Orbiter/external tank quick disconnect purges are now finished. Completed astronaut

training Includes: M113 (pad escape vehicle) odentatk_ and driver training and fit checks

of launch/re-entry suits. Work in progress: terminal countdown demonstration test;

astronaut Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) flights; astronaut pad B emergency egress

training; astronaut inspection of TDRS/IUS payload in bay; delivery of liquid hydrogen to

pad storage spheres; preparation of Orbiter hydraulics for flight readiness test; calibration

of inertial measurement units; solid rocket booster flight battery Installation and crew

cabin and aft compartment cleaning. Scheduled. work: completion of TCDT; TDRS/IUS

launch simulation exercise; SRB parachute camera installation; beginning of IUS flight

reac_ess checks; KSC launch readiness review (LRR); main engine flight readiness test;

installation of ILlS flight batteries and flight readiness review (FRR) set for December 22.

[SPACE SHU'i'I'LE STATUS REPORT. Dec. 15, 19_..]

n BSCCWEm':FERm"FUGHI"PVe 

At Dryden's Flight Research Facility (Edwards Air Force Base, CA), mating Discovery to

the 747 Shuttle Carder Aircraft is under way. Difl'culty retracting the Orbiter's landing

gear has delayed departure undl no earlier than 1 p.m. PSI'. If departure occurs today,

the destination will be Blggs Army Air F,_cl (El Paso, TX) for an overnight stop.

Regardless, weather continues to be poor in east Texas and Louisiana which likely will

extend the ferry flight. The arrival of Discovery at KSC is expected to occur on

approximately Friday. rSPACE SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, Dec. 15, 1992.]

g STS 55: BOQSTER STACKING ACTMTY

STS 55 solid rocket booster stacking activity: In the Vehicle Assembly Building, the left

forward center segment was destacked yesterday and a new set of seals is being

installed today. Restacking is being scheduled for December 17. While the mating of the

external tank to the solid rocket booster stack has been reschaduled to occur after the

Christmas holidays, there continues to be no STS 55 rollout or launch date impact.

[SPACESHU'I'I'LE STATUS REPORT, Dec. 15, 1992.]

Deoamber 16: PRESS TO SEE SPACELAB D-2

Spacelab D-2, pdmary payload of STS 55 and the second of two flights dedicated to

Germany, will be displayed for the news media on Friday, December 18. KSC Payload

Processing Manager Russ I.unnen and D-2 Deputy Mission Manager for the German

Aerospace Research Establishment (DLR) I-lermann _ will respond to questions.

On January 7, Spacelab-D is slated to be transferred from the Operations & Checkout

V

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i
Building High Bay to the Orbiter Processing Facility for Installation inside Columbia's

cargo bay. STS 55 is scheduled for a February 1993 launch with a seven person crew

including two German Payload Specialists. Dudng the nine-day flight, some 90

experiments will be conducted in the areas of astronomy, biology, materials sciences,

medicine and space technology. Spacelab D-1 was flown aboard Challenger on STS 61A

in 1985. [K$C Rek_ase No. 172-92. Dec. 16, 1992_]

n _ PAD PREPARATIONS FOR g8 LAUNCH

The terminal countdown demorBtxaUon test for _ 54 has been completed as has the

TDFIS/IU8 simulation. The STS 54 crew finished its emergency egress training and

Inspection ofthe mission's prkne cargo: I"DRS/IU8. Liquid hydrogen has been delivered

to the LC39B storage spheres and pad crews have conducted an Orbiter/external tank

cavity purge leak check and prepared Orbiter hydraulics for the upcoming flight readiness

test. The solid rocket booster flight batteries have been installed. Work in progress:

flight madinass test of main engines and flight controls; IUS flight readiness checks;

calibration of inertial measurement units; crew cabin and aft compartment cleaning; SRB

parachute camera installation; avionics bay closeouts and calibration of inertial

measurement units. Scheduled work includes: TACAN testing; KSC launch readiness

review [December 17]; aft main engine compartment confidence test; installation of IUS

flight batteries and the December 22 flight readiness review. [SPACE SHLrTI"LE STATUS

REPORT. Dec. 16, 1992; Halvoreon, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, Dec. 16, 1992; Halvorson,

FLORIDA TODAYI p. 5A, Dec. 17, 1992.]

g _ FI.IGHT CONnNUES

Discovery atop the 747 Shut1_ Carder Airctalt landed at Kelly Air Force Base (San

Antonio, TX) last night at 8:14 p.m. EST. Departure is planned for tomorrow with a likely

overnight stop in Mississippi and arrival at I_C on December 18. Weather conditions are

unacceptable in East Texas and Louisiana for continuing the ferry flight today, fSPACE

SHUl"FLE STATUS REPORT. Dec. 18, 1992; "Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 5A, Dec. 16,

1992.]

December 17." 0B,TALAUNCH K)BABI.ETONICeCr

The weather forecast for tonight would allow for an 80% favorable chance for launching

the Air Force's Delta II carrying a NAVSTAR satellite. Technical difficulties scrubbed last

night's attempt at one minute before liftoff. The launch window for tonight's attempt is

between 5:08 and 5:36 p.m. [Haivorson, FI,ORIDA TODAY, p. 5A, Dec. 17, 1992;

Haivorson, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 5A, Dec. 18, 1992.]

n S'I_ 54: _ FIEADINE_ TEST OONE

At Launch Comple_ 39B, technicians processing Endeavour for itsSTS 54 mission next

month have completed the flight readiness test of the Orbiter's main engines and flight

controls. The SRB parachute camera has been installed and the TCDT and the "i'DRS/IUS

countdown simulations have been completed as well. Work in progress: IUS flight

readiness checks; calibration of inertial measurement units; crew cabin and aft

compartment cleaning; avionics bay closeout; TACAN testing and KSC launch readiness

review. Scheduled tasks: aft main engine compartment confidence test; aft main engine

compartment closeouts; installation of IUS flight battedas and the flight readiness review

on December 22. [SPACE SHUI"rl.E STATUS REPORT, Dec. 17, 1992.]

251
g DBCOVERY FERRY FIJGHT; THI_ SAGA CONTINUES

Discovery is scheduled to depart Kelly Air Force Base (San Antonio, TX) atop its Shuttle

Carder Aircraft and head for Mississippi's Columbus Air Force Base. There will be an

overnight stop due to poor weather conditions in the Florida panhandle. The ferry flight

is expected to complete its joumey at Kennedy Space Center tomorrow. [SPACE

SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT. Dec. 17, 1992.]

D SRB AcnvITY

In the Vehicle Assembly Building, the left booster being processed for the S'I'S 55 mission

has passed its initial leak checks, with the second set of tests underway today.

Troubleshooting continues on the right booster and a deciskm is expected later today on

whether it will be necessary to destack the right forward segment. Officials have not yet

deduced the reason for the leaks in the boosters. [SPACE SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT,

Dec. 17, 1992.]

December 18: STS 54: DXS INTERIM SERVICING

At Launch Complex 39B, technicians have concluded their intedm servicing of

Endeavour's DXS (Diffuse X-Ray Spectrometer) payload for the STS 54 mission.

Calibrations of the Inertial Measurement Unit have been concluded. The flight readiness

test is complete as is the KSC launch readiness review. Work in progress: IUS flight

readiness checks; IU8 range safety hold tim check; IIJ8 flight battery installation; aft main

engine compartment confidence test and cleaning; crew cabin and aft compartment

cleaning; avionice bay closeouts and testing of Orbiter television cameras. Scheduled

work: Orbiter/external tank cavity purge revedflcation; ordnance Installation; flight

readiness review;, preparations for holiday work _ and facility outages; closing

of payload bay doors for the holidays. [SPACE SHUTTLE WEEKLY STATUS SUMMARY,

Dec. 18, 1992.]

g STSS¢ CoUJMB "SPROCESSe FLOW

D

In OPF Bay 2, technicians working on Columbia for its upcoming STS 55 mission have

completed fmon coolant loop rework and Orbiter structural inspections. In process

currently: forward reaction control system electrical connections; freon closed-loop

coolant system checkout;, main engine mechanical and electrical connections; main

landing gear hydraulic system troubleshooting and tile repair. Scheduled tasks:

installation of Spacelab-D2 tunnel adapter next week and configuration of the payload bay

for Spacelab and its Spacelab tunnel. [SPACE SHUTTLE WEEKLY STATUS SUMMARY,

Dec. 18, 1992.]

FEFIFIYFl.l_-ff & b"FACIQNG FEPOI_

Discovery is enroute to Eglin Air Force Base in the Flodda panhandle to refuel the Shuttle

Carder Aircraft. ffthe weather ts acceptable to continue the ferrying, the Orbiter should

arrive at Kennedy Space Center at about 2:30 p.m. Tests appear to show that the

problem with the right solid rocket booster (STS 55) is likely associated with ground

support equipment. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 5A, Dec. 18, 1992; SPACE

SHU3TLE WEEKLY STATUS SUMMARY, Dec. 18, 1992.]
g DELTA LAUNCHES ,_ICCESSFUI I Y

A Delta 2 rocket, whose launch was delayed twice before, lifted off Launch Complex 17B

at 5:16 p.m.; the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station launch had been delayed 12 minutes

because of 'a minor glitch with range safety equipment." Press spokesman for the Air

Force's 45th Space Wing Major Gadan PenJglni said, "It was a real great way to cap

1992." The mission was the 17th in a sedes of 24 planned launches of Navstar, a global

positioning satellite. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY. pp. 1A-2A, Dec. 19, 1992_]

g 1lEST EQUIPMENT BLAMED FOR LEAK

Test equipment has been blamed for a leak of a booster O-ring seal; the seal will not be

replaced, according to NASA's George Diet. A final leak check for the Columbia booster

will be made early tomorrow. Columbia's S'P3 55 mission is set for February 1993.

[Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY. p. 2A, Dec. 19, 1992.]

Oeo bw m: SINS4; ACTMn 

!

At Launch Complex 39B, technicians preparing Endeavour for its third Shuttle mission

have completed: IUS flight readiness checks; retesting of the lUS range safety hold-fire

circuit; calibration of Inertial measurement units; crew cabin and aft compartment

cleaning; avionics bay closeouts; alt rnaln engine compartment confidence test. Work in

progress: IUS ordnance installation; lUS flight battery Installation; Space Shuttle vehicle

ordnance Installation; aft compartment oloseouts; preparations for holiday work

suspension. Work scheduled: flight readiness review; closing of payload bay doors for

the holidays; powedng down the Space Shuttle vehicle for the holidays. [SPACE

SHLrl"rLE STATUS REPORT. Dec. 21, 1992.]

g DISCOVERY MAKES _ TO KSC

Discovery, atop the 747 Shuttle Carder Aimra_ arrived at KSC at 2:41 p.m. EST on Friday

[Dec. 18, 1992]. It was demated from the 747 and ardved at OPF Bay 3 at 7:25 a.m.

December 19. The Orbiter has been jacked and leveled. The forward reaction control

system (FRCS) has been removed and is to be transported to the Hypergol Maintenance

Facility (HMF) today. Also In work today is the removal of the ferry flight tall cone. The

payload bay doors are being opened for the removal of the airborne support equipment

which will be followed by troubleshooting of ODERACS. [Halvorson, FLORIDA TODAY,

pp. 1A-2A, Dec. 19, 1992; SPACI_ SHLFrTLI_ STATUS REPORT. Dec. 21, 1992_]

g SRB STACKING

In the Vehicle Assembly Building, STS 55 solid rocket booster stacking and leak checks

of the left and right boosters was successfully completed December 19. Joint closeouts

are in work. Mating the external tank is scheduled to occur when work resumes alter the

Christmas holidays. [SPACE SHUTI'LE STATUS REPORT. Dec. 21, 1992.]

December 22: 54 LAUNCH: JANUARY 13

NASA managers today set January 13th as the official launch date for the first Shuttle

mission of 1993. The flight, designated STS 54, has two prtmary objectives: the

deployment of the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite ('rDRS-F) and gathering astronomical

observations of invisible X-ray Spectrometer (DXS) PAYLOAD. A space walk (EVA) to

253
evaluatetrainingmethodsandgainadditionalEVAexpedancewillalsooccurduringthe

mission.ThelaunchwindowforJanuary13thopensat 8:25a.m.ESTandextendsfor

2 1/2hours. Themissiondurationis plannedfor 6 days. Landingis scheduled for

January 19th at Kennedy Space Center, FL Commanding the STS 54 mission will be

HoCasper who will be making his 2nd flight. Donald R. McMon_ making his 2nd

flight will serve as Pilot. The three Mission Specialists for Endeavour's third mission are:

Mado Runco Jr., making his 2nd flight; _ J. Hart_ making his 2rid flight and

Susan J. Helms, making her first flight. [Banke, FLORIDA TODAY, p. 1A, Dec. 23, 1992;

NOTE TO EDITORS. Dec. 22, 1992.]

g 81'854: lUS _ IIl_/u, l=n

Technicians at Launch Complex 3gB have Installed both the IUS ordnance and that of the

Space Shuttle Endeavour. They have also installed the IU8 flight battery. The IUS flight

readiness checks and aft main engine compartment confidence tests have also been

completed. Work in progress today: flight readiness review (FRR); aft main engine

compartment closeouts; closing of payload bay doors for the holidays at 2 p.m.; power

off the Orbiter for the holidays and preparations for holiday work suspension and holiday

outages. Technicians will continue aft main engine compartment closeouts and securing

LC 39B for the holidays. [SPACE SHLrl"I'LE STATUS R_PORT, Dec. 22, 1992.]

g MCAUUFFE BFHDC-,E:LOOSE BOTTS _ UP TRAFFIC

A DOT inspector discovered loose bolts on the north span of the Christa McAuliffe Bridge

today and the repairs which followed closed the southbound lane of traffic from the

Kennedy Space Center. North and south-bmmd lanes were _ during the delay;

'they weren=ttoo happy," said bridgetender Joyce Wimom "People probably think, _Nhat

a stupid time to work on this bridge,' but we had no choice in the matter - we didn't want

to take any chances.' [Martinet FLORIDA TOI_AY, p. 2B, Dec. 23, 1992.]

December 23: 54: VEHICLE HOLIDAY CI,QS_!G$

!1

After yesterday's flight readiness review, technicians at Launch Complex 39B have closed

Endeavour's payload bay doors and sealed the craw cabin for the holidays. They

conducted a crew cabin leak check and turned the Orbiter's power off. Today, workers

are completing aft main engine compartment closeouts and making preparations for

holiday work suspensions and holiday outages. Work scheduled: Pad B securing and

walkdown for the holidays and Launch Complex 39 facility and annual preventative

maintenance. [SPACE SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT, Dec. 23, 1992.]

NASA: CONmACnNG¢=0/¢S

NASA Administrator Dankl 8. Gloidintoday announced that the agency has exceeded its

1992 goal of awarding 6,7 percent of the total value of the agency's prime and

subcontracts to small disadvantaged businesses. Over $865 milrlon was awarded to

minority organizatk:ms, representing 7.2 percent of the total $12 billion awarded during

the last fiscal year. In 1990, NASA developed a plan to meet a goal of awarding 8

percent of the total to small disadvantaged businesses (SDBs) by the end of fiscal year

1994. 'This represents a major step forward to meeting and, hopefully, exceeding our

1994 goal in 1993,' said Goldin. 'We are continuing the momentum by recently setting

aside appropriate procurements for SDBs, Including woman-owned firms, and we are

developing an awards program for technical small businesses, I have directed top NASA

officials to take steps to substantively increase SDB subcontracting in our top 100

V

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254 v
contracts. Also, I have made reaching our 8 percent goal a part of the performance

evaluations of NASA's associate and assistant administrators and center directors."

[NASA Release: 92-231, Dec. 23, 1992.]

g MINORrI'Y BUSINESS COMM_ ESTABLISHED

NASA Administrator Daniel S. Goldin today announced the names of the Chairman and

23 members selected to serve on the newly-formed NASA Minority Business Resource

Adviso_ Committee. The committee, comprised of members of the business community,

will help NASA Identify more small, disadvantaged and women-owned firms which

potentially could do business with the space agency. NASA has a goal of awarding 8

percent of its contracts to small disadvantaged businesses (SDBs) by the end of fiscal

year 1994. 'This committee will help to disprove the notion that there are no high-tech

small and disadvantaged businesses. We knowthay're out there, and we'll find them and

nurture them because we want to work with firms that have the desire to reach for the

Amedcan dream," Goldin said in his announcement remarks. [NA$/_ Release: 92-230,

Dec. 23, 1992_]

December24: ENDEAVOURPROCESSINGSUMMARY

Endeavour is at Launch Complex 3913being prepared for its January 13, STS 54 mission.

Work completed prior to the holidays: closure and securing of the crew cabin access

hatch; closing the payload bay doom; Installation of the aft compartment flight doors and

powedng off the Orbiter. Work scheduled: resumption of the aft main engine

compartment closeouts; loadingofmass rnemon/units;Installation of EVA spacasuits;

InetallatJonof flight crew equipment in the crew module; ordnance connections and stray

voltage checks; hypergollc tank pressurization; external tank purges; IUS countdown

test/guidance system cali_ and ailgnment; TDRS battery charging and DXS interim

servicing.[SPAC_ SHUTTLE WEEKLY STATUS SUMMARY. Dec. 24, 1992.]

g DISCOVERY: TNL CONE REMOVED

DLscovery, which is now in OPF Bay 3, has been safed and the hypergolic residual

daservicing is complete; the ferry flight tail cone has also been removed. In the OPF,

technicians have: removed the forward reaction control system; opened the Orbiter's

payload bay doors; removed the USAF airborne support system; Orbiter/ODERACS

Interface troubleshooting is finished and ODERACS has been removed. Orbiter

turnaround activities have been scheduled as has the reconfiguration of the payload bay

to receive the ATLAS-2 spacecraft. [SPACE SHtJI"rl,E WEEKLY STATUS SUMMARY, Dec.

24, 1992.]

n COLUMBIA: GAS BENMB IN_FAM.ED

Columbia is undergoing processing for its STS 55 mission which is highlighted by the

actMtias of Spaoalab-D2. Work completed: forward reaction control system

installation/connects/checkout; OMS pod leak and functional checks; hydraulic system

servicing/leak and functional checks; drag chute installation; GAS (Get Away Specialist)

beams installed; Spacelab tunnel adapter installation; main landing gear functional test;

freon closed-loop coolant system leak checks; main engine mechanical and electrical

connections; freon coolant loop rework. Work scheduled: resumption of standard repair

work, payload bay cleaning and freon coolant loop functional tests; installation of
SpacelabtunnelandtheSpacelab-D2laboratorymodule.[SPACE SHUI"TI.E WEEKLY

STA'rU..SSUMMARY, Dec. 24, 1997-] ...........

I)ecember 26: SR 3 WIDENING TO RE-START

"We feel we have 12 months of work left," said Hennj M'_ Brevard County's Road

and Bridge Division Director. Minneboo referred to the as yet unfinished widening of

State Road 3. Kennedy Space Center finished its portion of the widening project on the

north end of the road over a year ago. In October of 1991, Bravard County stopped

working because the county had failed to obtain the required rights of way to complete

the work. Not only will SR 3 be completed by January 1994, according to Mlnneboo, but

other Improvements will be made: opening the Barge Canal bridge earlier to permit canal

traffic to pass before rush hour;,synchronlzlng traffic lights on SR 3, SR 528 and the Sea

Ray boat plant;, reducing the number of school bus routes north of the bddge and

staggering work schedules of some Sea Ray employees to lessen congestion. The

project was originally estimated to cost $9.4 million; it has already passed the $17_5

million mark due to the delays and disruptions which have already occurred. A northbound bridge will begin construction in July 1994. Prior to that, McAuliffe Bridge will be

altered to accommodate two lanes of south-bound traffic. [Reitz, FLORIDA TO.DAY, p. I B,

Dec. 27, 1992.]

Decembor 28: BASE OPERATION8 CONTRACT EXTENDED

NASA has extended the current Kennedy Space Center Base Operations Contract held

by EG&G Rodd_ Inc., through February 28, 1993. The contract extension also includes

four additional 1-month options. The approximate amount of the basic 2-month pedod

is $32.9 million dollars; the four 1-month options are co_ valued at $64.4 million.

This contract extenaion is for interim support services durb_ the period of time required

to resolve protests of the contract's follow-on competitive award to Lockheed Space

Operations Co. [NASA Release: _C92-23. Dec. 28, 1992; Banke, (FLORIDA TODAY, p.

10C, Dec. 29, 1992; Date, THE ORLANDO SENTINEL Dec. 5, 1997_]

December 31: SNOOP_ AWARDED

Astronaut _ S. Baker has presented Silver Snoopy Awards to Rockwell Intemational

employees Kidlh Pope and William I.ester. Both recipients are residents of T_usville, FL

['Silver Snoopys Awarded,' FLORIDA TODAY, p. 9E, Jan. 3, 1993.]

V
INDEX

Abrahamson, James ........................................................... 50

Adams, Michael J. (X-15 Pilot) ................................................. 14, 27

Adams, Mike (Captain, USAF) ............................................. 58, 87, 124

Administrators, NASA

Table ................................................................. 51

Advanced Solid Rocket Motor Program

Dean, Wesley ........................................................... 71

Ake, Jeffrey .................................................................. 28

Akers, Thomas D..................................................... 39, 77, 84, 167

Aldrich, Arnold ................................................. . ............ 243

Aldridge, Edward C. "Pete' . ................................................. 50, 237

Allen, Andrew M........................................ 114, 116, 136, 148, 150-151,233

Allen, Bob .................................................................. 109

Allison, Gary ................................................................ 211

Altmann, Giselle ............................................................. 185

Amatore, Don ................................................................ 170

Ambassador (Shuttle Replica) .................................................... 43

AMF (Astronauts Memorial Foundation) ............................................ 223

Andreas, Karen (Brevard County Commissioner, District 2) .............................. 136

Applied Meteorology Unit (Cape Canaveral Air Force Station) ........................... .. 89

Appointments

SEE: Goldin, Daniel S.

Bolden, Charles F........................................................ 85

Broedling, Dr. Laurie A.................................................... 99

Pelledn, Chades J. Jr.................................................. 85-86

Apt, Jay ..................................................... 158, 165, 178, 183, 185

APU (Auxiliary Power Unit) ....................................................... 39

APU Catch Bottles ............................................................ 164

Armstrong, Nell ............................................................... 62

Artsebarsky, Anatoly (Cosmonaut) ................................................ 164

Asbestos ................................................................... 152

ASRM (Advanced Solid Rocket Motor) ......................................... 238, 245

Assembly and Refurbishment Facility (ARF) ................................... ... 43, 230

Astronauts Memorial

Space Education ....................................................... 223

Space Mirror ........................................................... 14

Atlantis

ATLAS-1 ....................................................... , ...... 49

Ferry Flights ........................................................... 209

Get Away Specials ....................................................... 91

Hot Firing .............................................................. 47

Landings ...................................................... 66, 153, 156

Launch Readiness Review ................................................ 130

Main Engines .............................................. 78, 88, 90, 92, 181

Mating ............................................................... 110

Modifications ........................................ 129, 164, 169-171, 179-183

185-188, 190, 192, 195, 198, 200-202, 207-208, 213

Rollout ........................................................... 105, 109

Rollover; STS 46 ....................................................... 103

Spacesuits ............................................................ 141
SSBUV ................................................................ 71

STS 45 .................................................... 50, 56-58, 66, 70

Aft Compartment ................................................. 148

Landing ........................................................ 155

Launch ......................................................... 59

STS 46 .................................... 82-86, 90-93, 95, 96, 98-101,104-107

111,115-117, 119-121,123-128, 130-132

134-138, 140-146, 148-149, 155

Launch Schedule ................................................. 131

Electronics Assembly .............................................. 145

Landings ................................................... 156-157

Launch ........................................................ 153

Post-Flight Processing .............................. 159-161,164, 168, 176

Rollout ......................................................... 113

Rollover ........................................................ 104

TSS, EURECA ........................................... 136, 148, 151

Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test ........................... 104, 115

Tests ............................................ 81,113, 125, 135, 177

Atlantis/SCA

Ferry Flights ........................................................... 207

ATLAS (Atmospheric Laboratory for Applications and Science) ......................... 37, 49

Atlas Rocket ................................... 28-29, 44, 46, 54, 102, 106, 121,129, 130

Destruction in Flight ..................................................... 166

General Dynamics ................................................... 96, 100

Intelsat Spacecraft .................................................. 100, 105

Launch Schedule .................................... ................... 118

Launches ........................................................... 95, 96

Tests ................................................................ 100

Weather ...................................................... 122., 163, 164

Auxiliary Power Units ........................................................ 45, 54

Awards

Frank G. Brewer Trophy ................................................... 61

Manned Space Flight Honoree ............................................. 191

United Technologies USBI ................................................ 245

Ayers, Laura ................................................................ 163

Bacchus, Jim .......................................................... 8, 126, 129

Badenelli, Sigdd ............................................................... 94

Baker, Bryan ................................................................ 185

Baker, Ellen S. (Astronaut) .................................. 101,108, 110, 121-122, 256

Baker, Michael A. ................................................ 196, 199, 204, 214

Bantle, Jeff ................................................................. 225

Barry, Edward Jr. (Lt. General, Air Force Space Command) .............................. 34

Base Operations Contract

EG&G Florida, Inc.... ............................................ 154, 244-245

Lockheed Space Operations Co................................. 154, 235, 244-245

Protests ....... ... .................................................... 245

Baumann, David .............................................................. 167

Beggs, James M......................................................... 40, 51, 64

Benedict, Howard ...... . .; ..................................................... 34

Berryman, Mina Wright ......................................................... 116

Biedenharn, John ......................................................... 162, 236

Bihner, William ................................................................ 18

258
Bivings, Bill .................................................................. 12

Blaha, John E................................................................ 222

Bluford, Guion S.................................................. 203, 220, 237, 241

BOC (Base Operations Contract) ......................................... 154, 223, 235

Bolden, Charles F........................................ 37, 42, 49, 55, 58, 80, 85, 223

Bondar, Roberta L .................................................. 3, 4, 6, 12-14, 17

Boneberger, Joyce ............................................................ 235

Bowersox, Kenneth D........................................... 101,108, 110, 121-124

Bracher, Terri .......................................................... 27. 34, 163

Bradley, Andrew ............................................................. 245

Brandenstein, Daniel C................................................. 39, 67, 76, 84

Brandt David ................................................................. 87

Branscome, Darrell ................................................... 159, 174, 228

Brevard County

State Road 3 Widening Project .......................................... 55, 136

Brezhnev, Leonid ............................................................. 118

Briscoe, Lee .................................................................. 59

Broedling, Laura A. (DR) ............................................ 99, 108, 210, 217

Brown Chris (DR) ............................................................. 190

Brown Curtis L Jr. ......................................... 158, 165, 171, 178, 183-184

Brown George ............................................................... 126

Brown Jan ................................................................. 239

Brown Ralph ................................................................ 172

Brown Robert ................................................................ 34

Brown S. W. "Buz' . ............................................................ 34

Buchanan, Paul (OR) ........................................................... 26

Bush, Donald G. (NASA Procurement) ............................................. 231

Bush, George (President of the United States) .................................. 16, 50, 62

118, 142-143, 152, 193

Business Expo '92

KSC; Small/Disadvantaged Business ........................................ 227

Butler, J. P.................................................................. 166

Cabana, Robert D................................................. 203, 220, 237, 241

Caliva, Robert ............................................................... 102

Campbell, Tom .............................................................. 211

Canaveral National Seashore

SEE: Playalinda Beach ................................................... 52

CANEX (Canadian Experiment) .................................................. 171

Canister Rotation Facility

Dedication; December 16, 1992 ............................................ 249

Capers, Rachel .............................................................. 153

Carpenter, Scott ............................................................... 87

Carter, Manley 'Sonny', ................................................ 13, 14, 27, 87

Casper, John H .............................................................. 254

Casper, Judy ................................................................ 223

Cates, Grant ................................................................. 29

CElT (Crew Equipment Interface Test) ........................................ 23, 25, 38

Center for Space Education

Groundbreaking .......................................................... 223, 246

Chaffee, Roger ............................................................... 246

J

259
ChallengerAccident......................................................... 20, 42

O-rings .............................................................. 192

Truly, Richard H......................................................... 31

Chang-Diaz, Franklin A.......................................... 114, 116, 136, 148, 151

Chiao, Leroy (DR) ............................................................. 220

Chilton, Kevin P.......................................................... 39, 77, 84

Christensen, Gale ............................................................. 34

Chrome Electric lnc, (Titusville, FL)

Contracts and Contractors ................................................. 48

Church, Robert .............................................................. 245

Clark, Arthur ............................................................ 162, 236

Clean Access Platform (CAP) ..................................................... 21

Clifford, Michael R. U............................................... 203, 220, 237, 241

Closed Ecological Life Support System (CELSS) ...................................... 56

Codd, Jim ................................................................ 95-96

Coen, Gary ................................................................. 188

Cohen, Aaron .................................................... 36, 186, 210, 217

Collins, Michael .............................................................. 201

Columbia .................................... 1, 2, 8-9, 11, 15, 17, 19-20, 22-25, 27, 29-30

33, 35-36, 38-39, 45-50, 52-58, 60-63, 65, 67-77

79-88, 90-101, 10,3-107, 110-111

STS 55; Rollover ....................................................... 249

CANEX .............................................................. 171

Changeouts ........................................................... 205

Crew Equipment Interface Test ................................... 90, 93, 148, 170

EDO (Extended Duration Orbiter) ................................. 52-58, 60-65, 67

External Tank; STS 52 ................................................... 105

Flight Readiness Review ........................................... 106, 108-109

Hypergolic Propellants ................................................... 115

LAGEOS Mission ....................................................... 175

Lambda-Point Experiment (LPE) ............................................ 216

Landing; STS 50 ....................................................... 130

Launch Schedule; STS 50 ................................................ 123

Main Engines .............................................. 194, 196, 203, 206

Orbital Maneuvering System Pods ........................................... 47

Ordnance Installation .................................................... 208

Propellants ............................................................ 137

Rollout, STS 10,3-104 50 ....................................................

RoUover, STS 50 ................................................... 100-101

Rotating Service Structure ................................................ 106

Shuttle Interface Test ................................................ 103-104

Spacelab Tunnel Adapter ............................................... 78-80

Spacesuits ............................................................ 118

STS 50 ............................................. 49-55, 56-58, 60-62, 68-81

84-86, 90-93, 95, 97-101,103-108, 110, 114

116-118, 120-125, 130, 132-135, 137-138

138, 141,146, 149

Flight Readiness Review ............................................ 112

Landings. .................................................. 133-134

Launch ........................................................ 125

Post-Flight Processing ..................................... 144, 146, 148

260
Spacesuits ...................................................... 119

Umbilicals ...................................................... 107

STS 52

Albino Rats ..................................................... 216

Astronauts ...................................................... 199

Brakes ..................................................... 161,225

Countdown ..................................................... 213

Crosswinds ..................................................... 216

Drag Chute ..................................................... 232

Flight Readiness Review ............................................ 202

Fog ........................................................... 223

LAGEOS ............................................... 160, 175, 177

Landings ................................................... 221,224

Launches ................................................... 195, 217

LPE (Lambda-Point Experiment) ...................................... 216

Main Engines ..................................... 168, 169, 194, 201,202

Ordnance .................................................. 208, 214

Pad Damage .................................................... 218

Propellants ...................................................... 205

RMS (Remote Manipulator System) .................... 170, 179-180, 183, 208

TACANS ....................................................... 184

Tests ...................................................... 208, 212

USMP-1 (United States Microgravity Payload) ............................ 216

STS 55

Boosters ....................................................... 250

Drag Chute ................................................. 224, 240

Leaks .......................................................... 253

Spacelab D-2 ................................................ 250, 255

SRB Stacking .................................................... 253

Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCD'r) .............. 99, 106, 108, 113

Tests ................................... 6, 21, 95, 159, 170, 197, 202, 206

Tires ........................................................... 81

United States Microgravity Laboratory-1 ......................... 71,197, 216

Waste Containment System (WCS) ................................. 88, 109

Weather ................................................ 132, 214, 223

Communications Distribution and Switching Center (CDSC) .................. 43

Compton Gamma Ray Observer ...................................... 86

Computers

Personal Computer Acquisition Contract Program ......................... 150

Procurement .................................................. 186, 193, 219

Consolidation of Management ................................................... 109

Construction

Advanced Solid Rocket Motors (ASRM) ...................................... 238

Widening of State Road 3 ................................................ 256

Continuous Improvement ......................................................... 99

SEE ALSO: Broedling, Laurie A.

Contracts and Contractors ................................... 11, 42, 48, 93, 97, 109, 110

BAMSI ........................................................... 154, 245

Base Operations Contract (BOC) ........................ 154, 223, 225, 235, 244, 266

CaI-Star Co., Inc. ('l-_usville, FL) ............................................ 138

Canister Rotation Facility ............................................. 249-250

Chrome Electric Inc. _usville, FL) ........................................... 48
Computers ........................................................ 239, 150

Dan Rice Construction Co., Inc. (Holly Hill, FL) ................................. 139

Foley Material Handling Co., Inc............................................ 169

General Dynamics .................................................. 166-167

George M. Low Trophy ................................................... 217

Goldin, Daniel S............................. 152, 173, 186, 191,193, 201,254, 255

Haskell Company (Jacksonville, FL) ......................................... 146

Hughes Aircraft Co ............................................... 163-164, 166

Hurricane Andrew ........................................... 167-168, 170-172

I-Net, Inc. (Bethesda, MD) ............................................ 167-168

International Steel Industries Inc. (Orlando, FL) .............................. 93, 109

Jacobson Engineering .................................................. 154

Johnson Controls World Services, Inc........................................ 154

Lockheed Space Operations Co.................................... 137, 154, 157

Low Trophy finalists ..................................................... 210

LSOC (Lockheed Space Operations Co.) ..................................... 235

McDonnell Douglas Space Systems Co.................... 175, 182, 184, 207, 225, 235

Military Construction Co. (MI, FL) ....................................... 198, 242

Minority Business Resource ............................................... 255

Network Systems Solutions (Denver, CO) ........... ........................... 42

Oneida Construction Co. (Mims, FL) ......................................... 139

Orbital Sciences Corp .................................................... 163

Payload Ground Operations Services .................................... 225, 248

Quality Award; Rockwell .................................................. 196

Railroad Track Construction Corp. (St. Augustine, FL) ............................. 11

Rocketdyne ........................................................... 136

Shuttle Processing Contract (SPC) .......................................... 137

Small, Disadvantaged Businesses .......................................... 147

Speegle Construction, Inc. (Cocoa, FL) ...................................... 236

Star Base Development Co. (Mims, FL) ........................................ 97

Subcontracting ........................................................ 173

Watson Paving, Inc. (Cocoa, FL) ............................................ 110

Conway, John T.............................................................. 249

Cooper, Gordon ............................................................... 83

Corrigan, Grace (Mother of Christa McAuliffe, STS 51-L) ................................ 246

Cosmic Background Explorer (COBE) .............................................. 86

Cosmonauts ..................................................... 118, 164, 204-205

Covert, Eugene E. (DR) ........................................................ 228

Crane Investigation

Crippen, Robert L ...................................................... 162

Investigation Board Members .......................................... 235-236

Report ............................................................... 162

Space Station Processing Facility (SSPF) ..................................... 169

Vehicle Assembly Building ................................................ 162

Crew Equipment Interface Test (CELT) ........................................ 25, 36, 37

Crew Transport Vehicle (CTV) ............................................... 156, 189

Crippen, Robert L. (Kennedy Space Center Director)

1, 4-5, 8, 17, 31, 33-34, 51, 64, 78, 88, 126, 134, 146

154, 188, 1911 193, 224, 246

Speech, Business Executives .............................................. 247

Cunningham, Glenn ........................................................... 155

Dailey, Brian ................................................................. 143

262

V

V
Dailey, John R................................................................ 225

Davis, N. Jan ............................................... 4, 158, 165, 178, 183, 197

Dean, Wesley ......................................................... 71,235, 245

Deane, Michael .............................................................. 153

Debus, Kurt H. (DR) .......................................................... 1, 39

Defense Satellite Communication System ............................................ 27

SEE ALSO: Atlas 2 Rocket

Delta Program

Cable Television Satellite ................................................. 176

EUVE (Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer) ......................................... 96, 107-108

Geotail ................................................................ 97

Launches ............................................ 83, 89, 107, 167, 207, 253

Navstar Globai Positioning Satellite ............................ 70, 183, 237-238, 251

Satcom C-4 ............................................. . ......... 159, 175

Scrubs ............................................................... 229

DeLucas, Lawrence ............................................ 101, 108, 11O, 121,122

DeSantis, James ......................................................... 223, 246

Diaz, Alphonso ............................................................... 131

Discovery ................................... 1, 6-17, 20-22, 25, 29-30, 32-33, 35-36, 38-39

45-46, 48-50, 53-55, 57-58, 60, 62-65, 67-79

81-86, 88, 90-92, 9496, 98-99, 101-107, 192

Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) #3 .............................. _.............. 181

Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIl') ....................................... 176

Computers ........................................................ 221,239

Drag Chute ........................................................... 185

Freon Coolant Loop ........................................... 55, 57, 111,120

Hot Firing ...................................................... _.. .... 234

Inspections ........................................................... 118

Interface Verification Test (IVT) ............................................. 234

Main Engines .......................................................... 151

Modifications .................................... 57, 85, 88, 90, 92, 160, 169, 198

Orbital Maneuvering System (OMS) .............................. 168, 196-198, 200

Rotating Service Structure (RSS) ........................................... 229

STS 47 .............................................................. 112

STS 53 ......................................... 50, 58, 92, 98, 99, 107, 112-113

119-120, 125, 13,3-135

142, 177, 179, 181,193-194. 196

200-203, 206, 213, 219-222, 224, 226-227, 229, 231-234

236-237, 239-244, 247

APUs (Auxiliary Power Units) ........................................ 195

Closeouts ...................................................... 224

Computers ...................................................... 221

Countdown ..................................................... 241

Crew Training ................................................... 231

Crosswinds ..................................................... 232

Dryden Flight Research Center ....................................... 248

Electrical Connections ......................................... 226, 240

Ferry Flights ................................................. 249-253

Flight Readiness Reviews (FRR) ...................................... 236

Ground Support Equipment ....................................... 240-241

Landings ................................... . ............... 244, 247

Launch Readiness Review .......................................... 233

_ 263
MainEngines................................................ 149, 150

Mating ..................................................... 226, 227

Ordnance .............................................. 234, 237, 239

Pad Validations .................................................. 231

Payload ........................................................ 237

Rollout ..................................................... 225, 229

Rollover ........................................................ 225

Tests .................. 60, 63, 105, 109, 111,177, 179, 202, 213, 219, 233, 247

Weather .................................................... 241,247

Dozier, Ellen ................................................................. 167

Dryden Flight Research Center

STS 53 ...................................... 22, 25, 30, 100, 110, 130, 221,248

Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS) .................................... 130

Diffuse X-Ray Spectrometer (DXS) ............................................ 232, 252

STS 54 .............................................................. 253

Dubay, James ........................................................... 235, 245

Duffy, Brian ......................................................... 37, 49, 55, 58

Dunbar, Bonnie J.............................................. 101,108, 110, 121,122

Eatman, Ronald ....... . .... .............................................. 162, 236

Eberle, Laura ...,.._,.. ;....,. .... ............................................ 160

EDO (Extended Duration Orbiter)

Columbia .............................................................. 48

Edwards Air Force Base (CA)

Landings ........................................................ 37, 90, 91

EG&G Florida, Inc.

Base Operations Contract (BOC) ................................... 223, 235, 245

Ellegood, Edward. ............................................................ 166

Emergency Egress ................................................... 37, 43, 73, 199

Emergency Mission Control Center .......................................... 93

Employment

SEE ALSO: Jobs

Base Operations Contract ............................................ 223, 244

Civil Service Reductions in Force ........................................... 145

Lockheed Space Operations Co. (LSOC) ................................. 106, 196

Night Shift ............................................................ 114

Endeavour ................................. 1, 2, 5, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19-23, 26, 28, 30, 33, 36,

38, 39, 41, 45-47, 50, 52-54, 57, 66, 68-75, 77,

78, 83, 111,216

STS 47 .............................................................. 120

STS 49 ............................................................ 49, 67

Chin Pane! ............................................................ 200

Cranes ............................................................... 163

Crew Arrival ......................................................... 78, 84

Crew Equipment Interface Test ............................................. 148

Ferry Flights ........................................... 94-97, 100-101,103-104

Flight Readiness Firing ................................................. 65-69

Flight Readiness Review ............................................... 76, 177

Flight Readiness Test ..................................................... 58

Forward Reaction Control System ...................................... 111-113

Ground Operations ..................................................... 189

Hubble Space Telescope .......................................... 86, 161,182

Inspections ............................... . ........................... 119

264
Landings ....................................................... 93, 94, 110

Launch Readiness Review .................................... 130, 132, 150, 168

Main Engines .............................................. 142, 144, 173, 222

Mating ........................................................... 163, 164

Orbiter-Naming Program .................................................. 81

Payload Bay Doors, SIS 49 ........................................... 116-117

Payloads ............................................................. 250

Propellants .......................................................... 63, 67

SEE ALSO: Hypergolic Fuel(s)

Quayle, J. Danforth (Vice President of the United States) .............. 143, 152, 184-185

Retrieval Ships ...................................................... 90, 125

Solid Rocket Boosters .................................................... 91

Spacelab ......................... 98, 103, 125-126, 129, 142, 146, 154, 157, 178, 200

Spacesuits ................................................. 77, 119, 181,255

STS 47 ................................... 2, 104-107, 112, 113, 117-118, 122-124

125-134, 137, 138, 140-142, 144, 146, 148, 154-155, 157

158, 160, 161,164-165, 168-170, 173, 175

177-184, 186, 188, 191,195, 197, 200

Astronauts ............................................................ 158

Crew Arrival ..................................................... 163

Drag Chute ..................................................... 141

Flight Readiness Review ............................................ 179

Heat Shields .................................................... 154

Landings ................................................... 188, 191

Launch ........................................................ 185

Leaks .......................................................... 180

Mating ......................................................... 170

Post-Flight Processing ................................. 192, 195, 203, 207

Roliout ..................................................... 165, 168

Solid Rocket Boosters ........................................ 176 & 186

Spacesuits .................................................. 181,255

Spacelab-J ................................... 130-135, 161, 169, 197, 202

Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) ..................... 170, 177

Tests .......................................................... 168

STS 49 ............................... 51, 55, 60-62, 71, 77, 78, 80, 81, 83, 84, 86,

91, 94, 105, 187

Launch ......................................................... 87

STS 53 .............................................................. 172

STS 54 ............................................... 189, 213, 215, 218, 232

Crew Arrival ..................................................... 249

DXS (Diffuse X-Ray Spectrometer) .................................... 252

Flight Readiness Test .............................................. 251

Ground Support Equipment (GSE) .................................... 244

Launch Schedule ................................................. 253

Mating ......................................................... 240

Ordnance ...................................................... 254

Pad Validations .................................................. 245

Payloads ....................................................... 227

Processing .............................................. 238, 253, 255

Rollout ......................................................... 244

265
TCDT(TerminalCountdownDemonstrationTest) ................. 168, 177, 251

Tests .................................................. 238, 249, 250

TACAN .............................................................. 207

Tail Cone .......................................................... 104,207

Tests ................................ 56, 63, 115, 137, 141,151,158, 160, 171,175

Drag Chute ..................................................... 182

Galley ......................................................... 149

Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) ..................................... 207

Waste Containment System ........................................... 109, 222

Environment .............................................................. 21,230

EPCOT Center

Closed Environment Life Support System (CELSS) .............................. 190

Eshleman, James ............................................................. 167

Estess, Roy S................................................................. 36

European Carder ......................................................... 130, 136

STS 46 .......................................................... 130, 134

European Space Agency , ..................................................... 3, 39

SEE: Spacehab

Evans, Dave..... _;.. , . .. ,-. .................................................. 163

Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO)

Columbia ........................................................... 55, 61

EDO .................. .................................... 46-47, 52-54, 58

Extended Duration Orbiter Pallet

STS 50 .............................................................. 113

Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer (EUVE) ................................................ 96

Faenza, George ......................................................... 182, 250

Faga, Martin ................................................................. 143

Fairey, Chris .............................................................. 17, 35

Farrell, Jerry ............................................................... 53, 54

Favier, Jean-Jacques (DR) ...................................................... 214

Ferry Flight

STS 49 ............................................................... 94

Fettman, Martin J.............................................................. 221

Fiber-Optic Cabling ......................................................... 42-43

Fire

Operations & Checkout Building ............................................ 120

Fisk, Lennard A. (DR) ............................................. 14. 16, 41, 211,221

Fletcher, James C. (DR) ...................................................... 51, 85

Flight Readiness Firing ....................................................... 65, 66

Florida Economy ,_............................................................ 224

Wuensch, Larry ........................................................ 230

Florida Inland Navigation District .................................................. 74

Fluegal, Kari ................................................................. 182

Foale, Michael C ................................................... 37, 40, 49, 55, 58

Forward Reaction Control System (FRCS) ....................................... 64, 108

Frank G. Brewer Trophy

National Aeronautics Association ............................................ 61

Freedom Star (SRB Retrieval Ship) .......................................... 16, 61,125

Frimout, Dirk ........................................................ 37, 49, 55, 58

Frosch, Robert (DR) ............................................................ 51

Flight Readiness Review (FRR) ............................................... 112, 236

Gagadn, Yuri .............................................................. 36, 205

266

V

V
Galaxy 5 Communications Satellite

Atlas Rocket ............................................................ 53

Hughes Communications Inc............................................... 54

Gallo, Pat ................................................................... 40

Garlepy, Christopher ........................................................... 54

Gemar, Charles D. 'Sam' . ..................................................... 187

General Dynamics

Atlas Rocket ............................................................ 46

Geomagnetic Tail Laboratory

Collaborative Solar-Terrestrial Research Program ................................ 97

George M. Low Trophy

Finalists ........................................................... 88, 210

Geotail Spacecraft

Delta Rocket .......................................................... 145

Ghanele, John ................................................................ 54

Gibson, Robert L "Hoot'. ...................... 158, 165, 171,178, 183-185, 187, 191,197, 232

Glenn, John ............................................................... 36, 87

Glenn, Malcolm .............................................................. 236

Glennan, T. Keith .............................................................. 51

Global Positioning System Satellite ................................................. 35

Goldin, Daniel S ................... 50-51, 60, 62, 64-65, 80, 85, 87-88, 90, 97-99, 108, 113, 116

119. 122-123, 132, 140, 142, 146, 173, 186, 191,193, 201,204

215, 228, 231,237, 254-155

Aeronautics ........................................................... 212

Appointments ...................................................... 225, 226

Efficiency .......................................................... 90, 152

Industry Appreciation '92 ................................................. 191

Logo (Meatball) ......................................................... 98

Management Changes ............................................... 210, 231

National Contract Management Assn......................................... 146

Privatization ........................................................... 122

Procurement .................................................. 146, 186, 231

Russian Space Program .................................................. 143

Safety ........................................................... 113, 119

Small Business ................................................ 139, 173, 193

Space Station Program .................................................. 152

Subcontracting .................................................... 173, 254

World Class Awards ..................................................... 140

Young, John .......................................................... 201

Gore, AI (Vice President of the United States) ......................................... 62

Grabe, Ronald ........................................................ 3, 4, 6, 12-14

Gregory, Frederick .......................................................... 24, 80

Grey, Jerry .................................................................. 122

Griffin, Michael ......................................................... . ...... 34

GRILLE Spectrometer .................................................... 27, 28, 174

SEE ALSO: Atlantis

Grissom, Betty ............................................................... . 83

Grissom, Virgil "Gus; ........................................................ 83, 201

Ground Support Equipment (GSE) ................................................ 241

Kneel-Down Transporters (KDTs) ..................... .. .......... .......... 245

Guthrie, Joe ................................................................. 101

Halse, Fred .................................................................. 19

_-J 267
Hall, Beth ................................................................... 154

Ham, Linda .................................................................. 93

Harbaugh, Gregory J.......................................................... 254

Harrington, Jim ......................................................... 111,192

Harrison, Ed .................................................................. 8

Hartsfield, James ............................................................ 185

Haugevik, Andrew ............................................................ 167

Hausman, William ............................................................ 153

Hawley, Steven A.(DR) ...................................................... 34, 220

Heflin, Milt ............................. ., ....... ............................ 247

Helling, Dean ................................................................. 28

Helman, Alan ......................................................... 14, 223, 246

Helms, Susan J.............................................................. 254

Hieb, Richard J...................... ........................... 39, 77, 84, 215, 220

Hight, Ron .................................................................. 222

Hilmers, David C ....................................................... 3, 4, 6, 12-14

HMF (Hypergolic Maintenance Facility) ............................................. 192

Hoffman, Jeffrey A.............................................. 113, 116, 136, 148, 151

Holloway, Lyle ........................................................... 4, 40, 89

Holloway, Paul F.............................................................. 231

Honeycutt, Jay .................................................. 26, 47, 88, 146, 172

Howell, Jim ..... .... _..... ....... ,.., ........................................ 157

Hubble Space Telescope (HS'r) ................................................... 86

Extravehicular Activity (EVA) ............................................... 161

Hudkins, Keith ................................................................ 69

Human Space Flight Agreement

Agreements ........................................................... 204

Krikalev, Sergei K. ...................................................... 204

Huntress, Wesley ......................................................... 163, 212

Hurricane Andrew

Mars Observer ......................................................... 171

Relief Effort ....................................................... 172, 178

Salvation Army ......................................................... 172

STS 53 Launch Delay .................................................... 167

Hydrolasing ............................................................ 63, 65, 91

IMAX Camera (STS 46) ., ................................................... 95, 159

Indonesian Communications Satellite

Delta Rocket ... ........................................................ 92

Integrated Production Control System

Smith, Reid ........................................................... 102

International Telecommunications Satellite (INTELSAT) ................................ 2, 7

Atlas Rocket ............................................................ 95

Launch ............................................................... 94

STS 49 ............................................................... 77

International Microgravity Laboratory

Japanese ............................................................. 214

IRIS/LAGEOS Payloads (STS 52) ................................................. 214

Isabel, Jack .................................................................. 46

Ivins, Marsha S................................................ 114, 116, 136, 148, 151

IVT (Interface Verification Test) ................................................... 234

Jarvis, Gregory ............................................................... 246

Jemison, Mae C .................................................. 158, 165, 178, 163

268

V

V
Jernigan, Tamara

E................................................ 196, 199, 204, 214

Johnson Space Center (Houston, TX) ............................................... 36

Jobs (Employment) ..................................................... 5, 26-27, 88

Jones, F. C. "Sonny". ........................................................... 21

Jones, Marvin ............................................................... 101

Jones, Sara ................................................................. 153

Jorgensen, Jerry ......................................................... .... 154

Katz, Michael ................................................................. 48

KDT (Kneel-Down Transporter) ............................................... 245-246

Keams, David ................................................................ 50

Keller, SamuelW.............................................................. 132

Russian Programs ...................................................... 212

Kelley, David ............................................................ 162, 236

Kelly Air Force Base (San Antonio, "IX) .............................................. 94

Kerwin, Mary ................................................................ 211

King, DavidA................................................................ 111

Kinnan, Mike ................................................................. 11

Kinney, Frank ................................................................ 162

Kiine, Chuck ................................................................ 207

Kioesel, Kevin ............................................................... 167

Knighton, Cora ............................................................... 153

Kohrs, Richard ..................................................... 34, 76, 211,243

Koptev, Yuri ............................................................. 143, 204

Kraft, Thomas ................................................................ 24

Kress, Marry ................................................................. 211

Krikalev, Sergei K. ........................................................ 164, 204

KSC Council

Business Opportunities .................................................. 227

Kumerfield, Jack ............................................................... 24

Kurscheid, Hermann ........................................................... 250

Kurt H. Debus Award ........................................................... 39

SEE: McCartney, Forrest S.

LaChance, William "Tom' ........................................................ 88

LaCoy, James ............................................................... 153

LAGEOS

Laser Geodynamic Satellite ........................................... 175, 197

Landings ................................................................. 65-66

SEE ALSO: Goldin, Daniel S.

Automatic Landing System ................................................ 203

STS 49 ............................................................... 93

STS 50 .............................................................. 132

STS S2; Brakes ........................................................ 225

STS 53 .............................................................. 206

Weather .............................................................. 221

Launch Complex 36A

Atlas2 Rocket ........................................................ 28-29

Launch Complex 40

Cape Canaveral Air Force Station ............................................ 48

Dedication ........................................................ 132-131

Launch Control Center (LCC) ................................................. 42, 198

Launch Processing System (LPS) ................................................. 145

269
LaunchReadinessReview

STS49 ............................................................... 73

Launches

Atlas Rocket ............................................................. 95

Delta Rocket ..................................................... 88, 89, 92

STS 46; Atlantis ........................................................ 153

STS 49 ............................................................... 87

8TS 52 .............................................................. 217

Leaks ...................................................................... 253

Lee, DeidreA............................................................. 80, 186

Lee, MarkC............................................ 4, 158, 165, 167, 178, 183, 197

Leestma, DavidC..................................................... 37, 49, 55, 58

Lenoir, William ............................................................. 64, 80

Leonhard, Stephen ........................................................... 185

Lester, William ............................................................... 256

Levitt, Jeff .................................................................. 182

Lewis, Tom .................................................................. 81

Liberty Star (SRB Retrieval Ship) .................................................. 61

Lichtenberg, Byron .................................................... 37, 49, 55, 58

Livingstone, Bill ........................................................... 97, 108

Uoyd, Russell., .............................................................. 162

Lockheed Space Operations Co.

Modifications ........................................................... 34

Logsdon, John ................................................................ 30

Loveli, James ................................................................ 246

Low, G. David ................................................................ 64

Lucid, ShannonW ............................................................. 222

Lunnen, Russ ................................................................ 250

Lyon, JohnR................................................................ 248

M-113 Escape Vehicle .......................................................... 40

Mackey, Skip ................................................................ 183

Maclean, Stephen ................................................. 196. 199, 204. 214

Mahoney, WilliamG........................................................... 159

Main Engines

Cracks ............................................................... 202

Sensor Replacements ................................................... 248

Malerba, Franco .., ............................................ 114, 116, 136, 148, 151

Malfunction Laboratory ......................................................... 236

SEE ALSO: Cranes

Mannix, Jack ................................................................ 212

Mansur, John ................................................................. 39

Madow, Frank ................................................................ 35

Mars '94 Agreement ........................................................... 204

Mars Observer Spacecraft ................................................. :. 135, 163

Contamination .............................................. 171,180, 193-194

Hurricane Andrew .................................................. 167, 170

Launch Complex 40 ..................................................... 131

Tests ................................................................ 165

Titan Rocket ............................................... 129, 171,180, 195

Transfer Orbit Stage ............................................. 155, 163, 165

Matsunaga, Spark ............................................................. 16

McArthur, William S. Jr. .......................................................

L __ V

270
McAuliffe,Christa.......................................................... 60, 246

McCartney, Forrest S............................................ 1, 39, 40, 64, 65, 114

McCauley, Anne ............................................................ 24, 88

McClure, James ............................................................... 97

McCulley, Michael ............................................................. 49

McDonnell Douglas

PGOC (Payload Ground Operations Contract) ................................. 248

McMonagte, Donald R.......................................................... 254

McNally, Allison ............................................................... 80

Meade, Carl J................................................. 101,108, 110, 121,122

Meatball ................................................................. 98, 116

SEE ALSO: Goldin, Daniel S.

Medical Operations 26

SEE: Buchanan, Paul (DR)

Meeks, Howard .......................................................... 162, 236

Meguiar, George .............................................................. 43

Melnick, Bruce E......................................................... 39, 77, 84

Merbold, Ulf .......................................................... 3, 4, 6, 12-14

Mercury Astronauts ............................................................ 83

Meteorologists

45th Weather Squadron ................................................... 58

Military Construction Corp. (MI, FL)

Bridges .............................................................. 242

Million, John ................................................................. 233

Minneboo, Henry .......................................................... 55, 256

Minority Business Resources

Goldin, Daniel S........................................................ 147

Mir Space Station ............................................................. 142

SEE: Yeltsin, Boris N.

Joint Agreements, 1987 .................................................. 143

Shuttle Docking Maneuver; 1994 ........................................... 118

Mk, Boyce .................................................................. 248

Modular Auxiliary Data System (MADS) .............................................. 13

Mohri, Mamoru ................................................ 138, 158, 165, 178, 183

Moorehead, Robert ........................................................... 221

Moorman, Thomas Jr........................................................... 34

Morgan, Barbara .............................................................. 60

Morrell, Jimmey ............................................................... 34

Moyer, Randy ............................................................ 25, 106

MSBLS (Microwave Scanning Beam Landing System) .................................. 168

Muchow, Herbert .............................................................. 54

Mukai, Chiaki (DR) ........................................................ 214, 220

Murrah, Bascom ........................................................... 24, 225

Myers, James ............................................................ 162, 236

Nagel, Steven R.............................................................. 125

NASA Administrators ........................................................... 65

Fletcher, James C........................................................ 85

Goldin, Daniel S............................................... 62, 64, 80, 108

Paine, Thomas O........................................................ 85

Webb, James E....................................................... 63, 85

NASA Logo ................................................................. 116

SEE ALSO: Meatball

"_-J 271
NASA-BrevardUnks Academic Skills w/'rechnology

Brevard County Schools .................................................. 152

NASA-BLAST .......................................................... 152

NASA/Contractors Conference

Ninth Annual .......................................................... 210

Navstar Global Positioning Satellite ............................................ 108, 131

Nelson, Bill ................................................................. 4, 87

Network Systems Solutions (Denver, CO) ............................................ 42

Newland, Kathy ............................................................... 88

Newman, James H........................................ 28, 40, 54, 102, 108, 167, 182

Nicholson, Leonard S................................... 14, 67, 86, 87, 109, 112, 123, 216

Nicollier, Claude ............................................... 114, 116, 136, 148, 151

Nixon, Richard M. (Former President of the United States) .............................. 118

O'Connor, Bryan D........................................ ..................... 80

O'Connor, Ed ................................................................ 167

O-rings

V-2 Filler ............................................................. 194

OMBUU (SEE: Orbiter Midbody Umbilical Unit) ...................................... 132

OMS (Orbital Maneuvering System) ......................................... 125

Open House ................................................................ 230

Operations and Checkout Building (0 & C Building) ................................... 120

Oppliger, Gerald ......................................................... 140, 235

Orbital Maneuvering System (OMS) ................................................ 46

Ordnance

STS 45 ............................................................... 48

Oswald, Stephen S..................................................... 3, 4, 6, 12-14

Ovington, Patricia ............................................................. 245

Ozone-Monitoring Project

Brevard County ........................................................ 162

Page, George ................................................................ 39

Paine, Thomas 0 ........................................................ 30, 51, 85

Parker, James ............................................................... 154

Parmet, Norman ................................................................ 1

Parrish, Alan J. ................................................................ 40

Paster, Robert ............................................................... 136

Patrick Air Force Base, FL

45th Space Wing ....................................................... 183

Payload Ground Handling Mechanism .............................................. 21

Payload Processing

1993 ................................................................ 230

Pearson, Jeremiah W. !il ..................................... 80, 111,151,159, 174, 229

Pechon, Christina ............................................................. 167

Pellerin, Charles J. Jr. (DR) ................................................. 85-86, 225

Penn, Alexandra (DR) .......................................................... 153

Perugini, Garian .............................................. 118, 121,130, 229, 253

Peterson, Pete ............................................................... 212

PGOC (Payload Ground Operations Contract) ....................................... 248

Phillips, Lou ................................................................. 178

Phillips, Pepper .............................................................. 117

PHSF (Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility) ........................................ 135

Pioneer Venus Spacecraft ....................................................... 207

Piotrowski, William ............................................................ 195

272

W
Pittner, Dan ................................................................. 233

Plant Biology (CELSS) ...................................................... 56, 190

Playalinda Beach ('i3tusville,FL) ............................................... 51,214

Beach Closings .......................................................... 214, 240

Pope, Keith ................................................................. 256

Potatoes (CELSS) .......................................................... 56, 67

Power Reactant & Storage Distribution System ..................................... 75, 77

Prahl, Joe .................................................................. 108

Presidential Rank Award ......................................................... 40

SEE: McCartney, Sieck, Parrish

Pdselac, Ed ................................................................. 241

Processing Control Center (PCC) .................................................. 42

Dedication ........................................................ 145, 154

Proferes, John ................................................................ 54

Pruden, John ................................................................ 154

Pugh, James ................................................................ 153

Purdy, Steve ................................................................. 29

Quayle, J. Danforth ................................................ 62, 152, 184, 185

Railroad Track Construction Corp. (St. Augustine, FL) ................................... 11

SEE ALSO: Contracts and Contractors

Readdy, William F...................................................... 3, 4, 6, 12-14

Reck, Gregory ............................................................ 34, 212

Redding, Eric F............................................................ 58, 122

Reightler, Kenneth S. Jr. ................................................... 133, 247

Reports

Augustine Report ....................................................... 211

Paine Commission Report ................................................ 211

Rogers Commission Report ............................................... 211

Retrieval Ships ................................................................ 87

Rhome, Robert ............................................................... 204

Richards, Richard N..................................... 101, 108, 110, 121-123, 125, 134

Richie, Wayne .................................................... , .......... 215

RMS (Remote Manipulating System) ............................................... 170

Roach, David ........................................................... 74

Roads/Brevard County, FL ...................................................... 136

Robert E. Gross Award ......................................................... 48

SEE: Katz, Michael

Robinson, Janice ............................................................. 153

Robotics ................................................................... 166

Rose, James ................................................................. 34

Rosen, Cecil ................................................................ 212

Rossi, Celeste ...................................................... , ......... 153

RSS (Rotating Service Structure) ................................................. 229

Ruiz, Reuben ................................................................ 217

Runco, Mario Jr.............................................................. 254

Russia

Agreements ........................................................... 142

Joint Agreement, 1987 ................................................... 143

Russian Space Agency .................................................. 204

Rust/Corrosion

Protective Coatings, KSC ....................................................... 230

Sacco, AI ................................................................... 108

_'J 273
Sasseen, Ted ................................................................. 88

Satellite Rescue/Repair

Covert, Eugene E....................................................... 228

SCAPE

Self-Contained Atmospheric Protective Ensemble ............................... 189

Scheer, Julian ................................................................ 63

Scherer, Lee .................................................................. 1

Schindler, William R............................................................ 18

Schirra, Walter ............................................................. 83, 88

Schuerger, Andrew (DR) ....................................................... 190

Schuiling, Roelof ............................................................. 215

Schwartz, Barbara ............................................................ 123

Searfoss, Richard A............................................................ 222

Secrist, Mark ................................................................ 175

Seddon, Margaret Rhea ........................................................ 222

See, Elliot Jr................................................................. 246

Senatobia Middle School

(Senatobia, Mississippi) ................................................... 81

Shaw, Brewster H. Jr......................................... 34, 109, 112, 125, 153, 218

Shaw, Charles 'Chuck' ..................................................... 148, 149

Shepard, Alan ................................................................ 63

Shepherd, William M ............................................... 197, 199, 204, 214

Shriver, Loren J............................................ 114, 116, 136, 148, 150, 151

Shuttle Carder Aircraft .......................................................... 97

Sieck, Robert B..................... 15, 26, 40, 58, 66, 67, 88, 94, 114, 124, 125, 169, 184, 185

Silt Storage

Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) ...................................... 222

Silver Snoopy Award ............................................ 88, 102, 167, 247, 256

Boneberger, Joyce ...................................................... 235

Levitt, Jeff ............................................................ 182

Pittner, Dan ........................................................... 233

Smith, Reid ........................................................... 108

Sizemore, Ken ................................................................ 97

Slayton, Deke ................................................................. 83

SLS-2

Spacelab Life Sciences Mission ............................................ 221

Smith, Jackie E........................................................... 162, 235

Smith, Reid ............................................................. 102, 108

Smith, Richard G................................................................ 1

Snyder, Glenn ....................................................... 126, 129, 160

Snyder, Robert (DR)

IML-2; Japanese ........................................................ 215

Sofge, AI ................................................................. 58, 93

Sokolowski, Robert ............................................................ 215

Solid, Leroy D................................................................ 196

Space Congress, 29th .......................................................... 76

Crippen, Robert L (Keynote) ............................................... 33

Space Life Sciences Training Program

Students .............................................................. 78

Space Policy Advisory Board .................................................... 237

Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) ................................................ 72

Landings ............................................................. 156

274

V

V
Space Station Program

Brevard County Employment .............................................. 196

Congress ......................................................... 193, 211

Experiment Integration ................................................... 221

Goldin, Daniel S........................................................ 211

Grant Awards .......................................................... 204

Management Changes ................................................... 243

Microgravity Science/Applications ........................................... 204

President Bush & Vice President Quayle ...................................... 152

Topping Off Ceremony Set ................................................. 65

Spacelab ................................................................. 39, 64

Spaceport Florida

Launches .................................................... 165-166 & 167

Spaceport USA

Ambassador ........................................................... 43

SPC (Shuttle Processing Contract) ............................................ 105, 137

Spradlin, Bill .................................................................. 39

SRB Retrieval Ships ........................................................ 61,125

Stadd, Courtney .............................................................. 212

Stafford, Thomas ............................................................. 228

Stamps

Galaxy Theatre, Spaceport USA ............................................ 101

State Road 3

Widening Project ....................................................... 136

Staubus, Cal ............................................................ 172, 179

Steinrock, Todd .............................................................. 236

Stevens, Mike ............................................................... 172

Stiding, Frank ............................................................ 121, 131

STS 42 .................................................. 1-4, 6, 11-14, 16, 17, 20, 22

STS 44 ................................................................... 7, 37

STS 45 ................................... 3, 5, 9, 10, 12, 15, 16, 19-22, 25, 28, 29, 35, 37,

38, 40, 42, 43, 45, 46, 48, 53, 66

Atlantis ................................................ 50, 52, 55, 57, 59, 62

Bolden, Charles F........................................................ 42

Scrub ................................................................ 58

STS 46 ........................................................... 77, 111

Computers ............................................ , ..... , .... 143 & 150

Crew Arrival ................................................... 115, 150, 167

Landings ........................................................ 156 & 157

Main Engines; Controllers ................................................ 150

Safety ............................................................... 113

Spacesuits ............................................................ 144

TSS and Eureca ........................................................ 137

STS 47 ................................................................ 4

Crew Arrival ...................................................... 165 & 168

Endeavour; Spacelab-J .................................................. 129

Hydrolasing; SRBs ...................................................... 187

Inspections ........................................................... 120

Launch Countdown ................................................. 182-183

Spacelab-J ..................................... 129-134, 137, 140-142, 160, 169, 182, 192
STS 49

STS 50

Endeavour ...................................... 27, 28, 38, 51, 55, 57, 70, 71, 73

Flight Readiness Firing .................................................... 62

Columbia .................................................. 49, 50, 54, 72, 77

Crew Arrival ....................................................... 108, 122

Extended Duration Orbiter ............................................. 56, 116

Solid Rocket Boosters ............................................... 120, 138

TCDT ............................................................ 110, 112

STS 52

Astronauts ............................................................ 200

Flight Readiness Review .................................................. 203

LAGEOS ............................................................. 175

SRB Segments; Crane Accident ............................................ 162

STS 53 ........... , ............................................. 4, 48, 54, 92, 107

Beach Closing ......................................................... 240

Crew Arrival ........................................................... 242

Department of Defense ............................... 111, 118, 142, 181, 182, 220

Discovery .................................................................... 58

Edwards Air Force Base, CA .............................................. 247

Emergency Egress; Crew ................................................. 231

Ground Support Equipment .......................................... 240 & 241

Solid Rocket Boosters ............................................... 193, 206

STS 54 ...................................................................... 4

External Tank/Boosters .................................................. 226

Payloads ......................................................... 226, 230

"i'DRS ................................................. 215, 216, 218, 222, 226

Tests ................................................. 218, 21g, 220, 232, 241

STS 55 . :... :; _.... ......................................................... 228

Spacelab D-2. ..................................................... 228, 233

SRB Processing 252

STS 61C

Nelson, Bill (D-Melbourne, FL) .............................................. 87

STS 65

IML-2; Specialists Named ......................................... 214, 215, 220

Students .................................................................... 81

Sullivan, Kathryn D.................................................... 37, 49, 55, 58

Summerfield, Burr ............................................................ 152

Sunstrand Corp............................................................... 39

TACAN Installations ............................................................ 33

Tallman, Kenneth I_ (Lt. Gen., USAF Ret.) ............................................ 61

Tallulah Falls School

(Tallulah Falls, GA) ....................................................... 81

Talone, John 'Tip' Jr................................................ 41, 53, 93-94, 192

Tamasi, Gabor ............................................................... 166

Teacher-in-Space

Morgan, Barbara ........................................................ 61

Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) ............................... 4, 108, 110

Endeavour ....................................................... 35, 71, 72

Terminology

•Crewed' to replace "Manned' . ............................................ 122

V

276
Tests....................................................................... 49

Crew Equipment Interface Test .............................................. 88

End-to-End Test ......................................................... 57

Flight Readiness Test;STS 45 ............................................... 52

Helium Signature Leak Test ................................................ 55

STS 52 .............................................................. 208

Tethered Satellite System

Bolt Obstruction ........................................................ 228

Investigation ................................................... 159, 174, 215

STS 46; Atlantis .......................................................... 174, 228

Thagard, Norman E.................................................. 3, 4, 6, 12-14, 17

Thomas, Donald/_ (DR) ....................................................... 220

Thomas, Ralph C ............................................................. 225

Thornton, Kathryn C ...................................................... 39, 77, 84

Thuot, Pierre ........................................................... 39, 77, 84

"rilford,Shelby

Earth/Planetary Science .................................................. 211

Titan III Rocket

Mars Observer Spacecraft .............................. 41,122, 129, 135, 163, 195

Launch Complex 40 .................................... 129, 131,135, 155, 165#

T_ov, Gherman S.............................................................. 36

"l-_ov,Vladimir G.............................................................. 204

TOS (Transfer Orbit Stage) ........................................... 135, 155, 165, 195

Total Quality Management ........................................................ 99

Towles, James ........................................................... 146, 238

Trinh, Eugene ................................................ 101, 108, 110, 121,122

Trujillo, Tony ................................................................ 100

Truly, Richard H ........................... 14, 16, 30-32, 36, 40, 42, 50, 51, 59, 60, 65,80, 90

TSS (Tethered Satellite System) ...................................... 130, 132, 134, 136

STS 46 .............................................................. 130

Uhran, Mark ................................................................. 221

United States Micmgravity Laboratory

STS 50 ........................................................... 30, 141

University Florida

College of Medicine ...................................................... 32

Upton, Lanny ................................................................ 215

USML ...................................................................... 74

Utsman, Thomas ............................................ . .............. 111,128

Van Hoften, James "Ox" ......................................................... 48

Varnes, Mitch ....................................................... 6, 32, 167, 180

Vaughan, Allen ............................................................... 101

Veach, Charles Lacy .............................................. 196, 199, 204, 214

Vehicle Assembly Building Repeater (VABR) .......................................... 42

Vertical Processing Facility (VPF) ................................................. 198

Visitors

Japanese Students ..................................................... 160

Voss, James S................................................... 203, 220, 237, 241

Walk.Throughs ............................................................... 105

Lockheed Space Operations Co............................................ 105

Walker, David M....................................... 203, 220, 232, 237, 241,242, 247

Warren, Cheryl ............................................................... 153

Warren, Ken .............................................................. 29, 104
WaterSprayBoiler

Columbia............................................................. 160

Watson, Ann ................................................................ 227

Weather ............................................................. 96, 163, 175

Delta Rocket ...................................................... 104, 251

Ferry Flights ........................................................... 101

STS 46 .............................................................. 150

STS 50 .............................................................. 121

STS 52 .............................................................. 217

STS 53 .......................................................... 241,247

Webb, James E.......................................................... 51, 62. 85

Weber, Phil ................................................................. 193

Weiler, Ed .................................................................. 161

Weitz, Paul J.................................................................. 36

Welds ..................................................................... 196

X-rays ............................................................... 194

Wells, David ................................................................. 167

Wetherbee, James D ................................ 196, 199, 200, 204, 214, 217, 218, 232

Wetlands

Wildlife Refuge ......................................................... 222

Wheeler, Raymond ............................................................. 56

White House Report

Shuttle Program ........................................................ 237

White, Ed ................................................................... 246

Williams, Donald ............................................................. 162

Williams, Edward ............................................................. 247

Williams, John ....................................................... 105, 196, 235

Williams, Tom ............................................................ 131, 176

Wilson, Deborah Ann .......................................................... 153

Wilson, Pete (Governor of California) ............................................... 97

Winkler, Marty . .................................................... -........... 42

Winters, Joyce ............................................................... 254

Wisner, Frank ................................................................ 204

Wolf, David A. ............................................................ 88, 222

Wong, Sharon ............................................................... 247

Woodworth, Warren .......................................................... 191

World Class Contract Performance

Lockheed Space Operations Co............................................ 140

Wuensch, Larry .... .......................................................... 230

X-15 Aircraft .................................................................. 14

SEE ALSO: Adams, Michael J.7

Yeltsin, Boris N.

President, Russian Federation ......................................... 118, 142

Russian Space Program .................................................. 143

Young, Dick .............................................................. 81,229

Young, John ................................................................ 201

Space Congressional Medal of Honor ....................................... 201

278
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