NASA STS-117 FD04 Execute Package
The FD 3 MMT met to review the mission progress. There were only a few items of discussion which included a continuing review of the ascent data, imagery and inspection data, and the Port OMS Pod blanket. The team thanks you for the additional 400mm in- cabin imagery you provided today on the OMS Pod blanket.
Ascent Data Review:
The preliminary ascent data review indicates that ascent was very nominal. There were no SRB hold down post stud hangs indicated in the orbiter acceleration data. Additionally, the SSME, ET, SRB, and ascent trajectory data (alpha, beta, q-bar, altitude, and altitude rates), all indicate that powered flight was nominal with no issues.
Imagery/Debris Assessment Team:
The imagery and debris assessment teams continue to process the FD 2 inspection and FD 3 RPM photography data. The starboard RCC panels 3-10 have been cleared and the rest of the starboard wing, port wing, and nose cap continue to be processed but there are no concerns at this point for the Leading Edge Sub System. The details of these reviews will be presented at tomorrows FD 4 MMT. Additionally, the Wing Leading Edge data, Radar data and ascent imagery continue to be assessed but there are currently no new items of interest.
Port OMS POD Blanket:
The team continues to assess the blanket damage on the Port OMS Pod but have concluded that the torn blanket is the result of aerodynamic loads and not due to a debris impact. As a result there are no concerns with the integrity of the structure below the blanket. Past flight data is being assessed for OMS Pod damage and preliminary indications are that at least eleven flights have encountered tile/blanket damage. STS-41G was the worst with a 6.0 inch by 40.0 inch section of blanket missing in the same general location of the Pod as the torn blanket. Damage was noted post flight on two of the exposed graphite epoxy panels. Aero thermal analysis continues for the cavity under the torn blanket based on the LDRI, RMS, and handheld imagery. Preliminary results indicate that there may be increased heating in the exposed cavity due to the raised blanket corner. Since this could result in localized damage to the graphite epoxy panel, the MMT tasked the EVA community provide options to fold down the raised edge if required. More of the aero thermal analysis results as well as potential EVA options to secure the edge of the blanket will be a topic of discussion at tomorrows MMT.
