External tank cleared for shuttle launch
Posted: Thu, Jun 8, 2006, 7:42 AM ET (1142 GMT)
Shuttle managers officially declared the space shuttle's external tank ready for launch after a final evaluation of test data about changes to its design. The tank design had undergone wind tunnel and other tests after NASA decided to remove a troublesome ramp that was prone to shedding foam during flight. The protuberance air load (PAL) ramp was designed to shield pressurization lines and cable trays on the tank from aerodynamic stresses during flight, but wind tunnel tests showed that the lines and cables would withstand those stresses without the ramp. The decision brings the shuttle a step closer to a July 1 launch, although the launch could slip a day to ensure better lighting conditions for photography of the tank after it separates from the shuttle orbiter. A firm launch date will be announced on June 17, at the conclusion of a flight readiness review.
Shuttle managers officially declared the space shuttle's external tank ready for launch after a final evaluation of test data about changes to its design. The tank design had undergone wind tunnel and other tests after NASA decided to remove a troublesome ramp that was prone to shedding foam during flight. The protuberance air load (PAL) ramp was designed to shield pressurization lines and cable trays on the tank from aerodynamic stresses during flight, but wind tunnel tests showed that the lines and cables would withstand those stresses without the ramp. The decision brings the shuttle a step closer to a July 1 launch, although the launch could slip a day to ensure better lighting conditions for photography of the tank after it separates from the shuttle orbiter. A firm launch date will be announced on June 17, at the conclusion of a flight readiness review.
Related Links:
| <<previous article | next article>> |
|
news in brief
|
|
|
|
news links
|
|
Thursday, October 30
First UK phones to get satellite connectivity in signal blackspots announced
BBC — 7:12 am ET (1112 GMT) First UK mobile network to use Musk’s Starlink for rural coverage
The Independent — 7:11 am ET (1111 GMT) Colorado files suit against Trump administration to stop Space Command move to Alabama
AL.com — 7:10 am ET (1110 GMT) Colorado sues Trump Administration over Space Command move
Colorado Public Radio — 7:08 am ET (1108 GMT) Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser sues Trump administration over plans to move U.S. Space Command
CBS — 7:08 am ET (1108 GMT) |
