NASA Space Shuttle Processing Status 25 Jun 2004

Discovery (OV-103)

In the Obiter Processing Facility, Discovery continues its scheduled power-down period for its Return to Flight mission, STS-114, to the International Space Station. The Return to Flight modifications, including the orbiter boom sensor system wiring and preparations for installation of the wing leading edge sensors are progressing on schedule.

The Forward Reaction Control System, which provides the thrust for attitude (rotational) maneuvers (pitch, yaw and roll) and for small velocity changes along the orbiter axis (translation maneuvers), was installed Wednesday.

Atlantis (OV-104)

Technicians are processing Atlantis in the Orbiter Processing Facility in support of its future mission. The four-month power-down period continues so that workers can perform Return to Flight modifications, as well as structural and baseline wire inspections. Following the modification period, Atlantis is scheduled to be powered-up on Oct. 1.

Installation of the left-hand carrier panels, the Thermal Protection System panels that attach the Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panels to the wing leading edge, is underway. On the right-hand side, all of the 22 panels and T-seals, the C-shaped seals that fit between each panel, are assembled and ready for installation.

Endeavour (OV-105)

Space Shuttle Endeavour is in its Orbiter Major Modification period, which began last December. Electrical modifications continue in the crew module. Wire inspections are ongoing in the Environmental Control and Life Support System bay.

Bead blasting of Endeavour’s body flap area, right-hand wing leading edge and dome heat shield area continues. Bead blasting is a process using a pressurized pneumatic gun containing silica carbide, plastic pellets or glass beads to remove primer, paint and corrosion from orbiter vehicle surfaces.

Flex hose inspections in the Environmental Control and Life Support System also are underway.