STS-124 ( 1J ) Mission Thread

[bobble_bob]

Anyone know the time of the conference today? <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> </div>

 

[MeteorWayne]

<p><BR/>Replying to:<BR/><DIV CLASS='Discussion_PostQuote'>Anyone know the time of the conference today? <br />Posted by bobble_bob</DIV><br /><br />I haven't seen anything yet.</p><p>It will be after the FRR, so the time isn't really fixed. Any updates, I'll post it.</p> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> <p><font color="#000080"><em><font color="#000000">But the Krell forgot one thing John. Monsters. Monsters from the Id.</font></em> </font></p><p><font color="#000080">I really, really, really, really miss the "first unread post" function</font><font color="#000080"> </font></p> </div>

 

[bobble_bob]

Cheers MW. I will leave Nasatv streaming so hopefully wont miss it <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> </div>

 

[MeteorWayne]

Replying to:<BR/><DIV CLASS='Discussion_PostQuote'>Cheers MW. I will leave Nasatv streaming so hopefully wont miss it <br />Posted by bobble_bob</DIV><br /><br />News Conference is next up on NASA TV <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> <p><font color="#000080"><em><font color="#000000">But the Krell forgot one thing John. Monsters. Monsters from the Id.</font></em> </font></p><p><font color="#000080">I really, really, really, really miss the "first unread post" function</font><font color="#000080"> </font></p> </div>

 

[bobble_bob]

Cheers <img src="http://sitelife.space.com/ver1.0/content/scripts/tinymce/plugins/emotions/images/smiley-smile.gif" border="0" alt="Smile" title="Smile" /> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> </div>

 

[MeteorWayne]

<p><br />Scribblenotes:</p><p>&nbsp;This is the final ET config, the same as will fly on STS-125. Geat opportunity to examine the progress. Good lighting.</p><p>It is assumed, since the ET was built the same as the STS-125 one, it's a good analog.</p><p>Has been a very good ET, arrived in great condition and many days were saved by it's great condition</p><p>Launch 5:02 PM EDT May 31 (2102 UTC May 31)</p><p>Very challenging mission, include SARJ inspection and test repair. Bill G suggested looking at arm operations in press kit.</p><p>10th flight since Columbia, 10 to go. & required ISS, 1 Hubble, 2 other ISS missions.</p><p>Next week is full review of STS-125 (Hubble) and STS 126, next ISS flight. They are "scheduled" for 10/8 and 11/10.</p><p>KSC will get a full 4 day Holiday weekend, and pick up pre launch activities on Tuesday. Hooray for shuttle_guy!!!!!</p><p>Soyuz issue:</p><p>Bill visited Russia, got update on where their investigation is. Don't want to press, rather have them do it right.</p><p>Since emergency use of Soyuz is 1/124 chance in 6 months, no need to worry; it might be possible to replace the current unit (in fact IIRC, it gets replaced every 6 months, used or not) so no need to adjust schedule.</p><p>Power at ISS is OK thru mission 15A.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Wayne</p> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> <p><font color="#000080"><em><font color="#000000">But the Krell forgot one thing John. Monsters. Monsters from the Id.</font></em> </font></p><p><font color="#000080">I really, really, really, really miss the "first unread post" function</font><font color="#000080"> </font></p> </div>

 

[montmein69]

<p><BR/>Replying to:<BR/><DIV CLASS='Discussion_PostQuote'>Scribblenotes: Very challenging mission, include SARJ inspection and test repair. <br /> Posted by MeteorWayne</DIV></p><p>Any idea of what will be done on the SARJ.</p><p>Could the complete repair be made by the crew (3) between STS 124 and next Shuttle mission to ISS (STS 126) ?</p><p>Or does it need a bigger crew (3 + visitors of STS 126) ?&nbsp;</p> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> </div>

 

[MeteorWayne]

<p><BR/>Replying to:<BR/><DIV CLASS='Discussion_PostQuote'>Any idea of what will be done on the SARJ.Could the complete repair be made by the crew (3) between STS 124 and next Shuttle mission to ISS (STS 126) ?Or does it need a bigger crew (3 + visitors) ?&nbsp; <br />Posted by montmein69</DIV><br /><br />I believe it's not a full repair, rather a test repair. </p><p>IIRC, the intend to clean and lubricate part of the raceway. I assume that they will then reinspect it at a later time after some rotatation has been done to see how much material tracks onto the cleaned area.</p><p>It's not "THE" repair, rather more troubleshooting. They have a few more missions before the power reuction becomes an issue that requires action.</p><p>MW</p><p>&nbsp;</p> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> <p><font color="#000080"><em><font color="#000000">But the Krell forgot one thing John. Monsters. Monsters from the Id.</font></em> </font></p><p><font color="#000080">I really, really, really, really miss the "first unread post" function</font><font color="#000080"> </font></p> </div>

 

[erioladastra]

Replying to:<BR/><DIV CLASS='Discussion_PostQuote'>I believe it's not a full repair, rather a test repair. IIRC, the intend to clean and lubricate part of the raceway. I assume that they will then reinspect it at a later time after some rotatation has been done to see how much material tracks onto the cleaned area.It's not "THE" repair, rather more troubleshooting. They have a few more missions before the power reuction becomes an issue that requires action.MW&nbsp; <br />Posted by MeteorWayne</DIV><br /><br />Yep, mostly testing - to see if we can determine if the famous mark is a bump or a divot.&nbsp; We will see if we can scrap it off.&nbsp; One way is bad and one way (divot) is structurally very bad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

 

[scottb50]

<p><BR/>Replying to:<BR/><DIV CLASS='Discussion_PostQuote'>That is not a good idea. The turbofans&nbsp;could not carry their own weight plus their fuel, Their control systems&nbsp;and their&nbsp;structure once they flame out at high altitude.&nbsp; <br /> Posted by shuttle_guy</DIV></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>They would carry their own weight at liftoff and to roughly 50,000 feet, then, as you say they are dead weight. Being available for approach and landing does lower the risk considerably though.&nbsp;</p> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> </div>

 

[claerwen]

<p>This doesn't have anything to do with the mission, sorry.</p><p>But this will be my first launch in person ... and I am seriously stoked (provided it goes off as planned on the 31st - I don't have a backup).&nbsp; Being a member of the Apollo generation, I've waited for this for a long time.<br /></p>

 

[shuttle_guy]

<p><BR/>Replying to:<BR/><DIV CLASS='Discussion_PostQuote'>Any idea of what will be done on the SARJ.Could the complete repair be made by the crew (3) between STS 124 and next Shuttle mission to ISS (STS 126) ?Or does it need a bigger crew (3 + visitors of STS 126) ?&nbsp; <br />Posted by montmein69</DIV></p><p>They are not doing a SARJ&nbsp;repair on this mission, they are trying different techniques to clean the contamination from the SARJ. If one works the repair will be performed on a future mission.</p> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> </div>

 

[shuttle_guy]

<p><BR/>Replying to:<BR/><DIV CLASS='Discussion_PostQuote'>&nbsp;They would carry their own weight at liftoff and to roughly 50,000 feet, then, as you say they are dead weight. Being available for approach and landing does lower the risk considerably though.&nbsp; <br />Posted by scottb50</DIV></p><p>Yes, dead weight for about 7 min. of the 8 1/2 ascent ! &nbsp;That is a big performance impact not worth the very small advantage they might be for a landing. There is no need to carry turbofans. <br /></p> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> </div>

 

[shuttle_guy]

<p><BR/>Replying to:<BR/><DIV CLASS='Discussion_PostQuote'>This doesn't have anything to do with the mission, sorry.But this will be my first launch in person ... and I am seriously stoked (provided it goes off as planned on the 31st - I don't have a backup).&nbsp; Being a member of the Apollo generation, I've waited for this for a long time. <br />Posted by claerwen</DIV></p><p>The vehicle is ready for the launch attempt on the 31st............however we are now into the daily afternoon thunderstorm season.........Too bad you can not stay for later launch attempts.</p> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> </div>

 

[scottb50]

<p>There is no need to carry turbofans....</p><p>Before we can safely carry passengers we have to be able to manuever as well as be able to go to alternate locations or correct for a poorly flown approach. By the time the engines shut down the weight of the vehicle would be greatly reduced, true they would be dead weight for the rest of the launch, but they would be used for approach and landing.</p><p>The Shuttle has done a marvelous job, but in everyday operation a glider doesn't make a lot of sense from a safety point.&nbsp;</p> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> </div>

 

[halman]

<p>Contemplating everything that must be done before launching the shuttle is mind boggling to me.&nbsp; So many systems have to be checked, so many variables have to be correct.&nbsp; I take off my hat to the launch crew, including shuttle-guy, and hope that they all have a pleasant three-day weekend off, a rarity in launch history, if I am not mistaken.&nbsp; It saddens me to think that we have finally reached a reliable state of operation with the shuttle just as we are preparing to retire the system.&nbsp; (Given that the foam problem had to be solved before a state of reliable operation could be achieved.)</p><p>I would dearly love to see a horizontal take-off, two-stage to orbit system developed, so that utter perfection is not a prerequisite of success in a launch.&nbsp; In the meantime, three cheers for the crew at the Cape! </p> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> The secret to peace of mind is a short attention span. </div>

 

[shuttle_guy]

<p><BR/>Replying to:<BR/><DIV CLASS='Discussion_PostQuote'>.&nbsp; In the meantime, three cheers for the crew at the Cape! <br />Posted by halman</DIV></p><p>Everything is going smoothly. Today we are pressurizing the Main Propulsion System and the on orbit attitude and orbital control system pneumatic bottles. This is a pad clrar operation due to the added hazard.</p> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> </div>

 

[MeteorWayne]

Replying to:<BR/><DIV CLASS='Discussion_PostQuote'>Everything is going smoothly. Today we are pressurizing the Main Propulsion System and the on orbit attitude and orbital control system pneumatic bottles. This is a pad clrar operation due to the added hazard. <br />Posted by shuttle_guy</DIV><br /><br />Bump for Countdown Status Briefing 10 AM EDT tomorrow on NASA TV <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> <p><font color="#000080"><em><font color="#000000">But the Krell forgot one thing John. Monsters. Monsters from the Id.</font></em> </font></p><p><font color="#000080">I really, really, really, really miss the "first unread post" function</font><font color="#000080"> </font></p> </div>

 

[MeteorWayne]

Replying to:<BR/><DIV CLASS='Discussion_PostQuote'>Bump for Countdown Status Briefing 10 AM EDT tomorrow on NASA TV <br />Posted by MeteorWayne</DIV><br /><br />Underway now <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> <p><font color="#000080"><em><font color="#000000">But the Krell forgot one thing John. Monsters. Monsters from the Id.</font></em> </font></p><p><font color="#000080">I really, really, really, really miss the "first unread post" function</font><font color="#000080"> </font></p> </div>

 

[MeteorWayne]

<p><BR/>Replying to:<BR/><DIV CLASS='Discussion_PostQuote'>Underway now <br />Posted by MeteorWayne</DIV><br /><br />Scribblenotes:<br />Very low key. All is going smoothly, no issues except for minor changes for toilet repair parts. The pump, etc is flying from Russia, will arrive Orlando (in diplomatic pouch) ~ 8:30 PM, KSC 10 PM, installed in mid deck 3rd shift tomorrow early AM.<br />About 35 pounds. 1 1/2 ft x8" 8" Removed to make room (rather weight) are biocide materials for coolant loop, spare part for O2 generator, and some torque wrenches, None are needed for at least 6 months.</p><p>One more experiment to be installed Friday evening, a vaccine experiment. Good for 2 days after being installed, then has to be refurbed.</p><p>Launch window opens 4:57 PM Saturday, launch ~5:02 PM EDT.</p><p>If delayed, window moves up 23 minutes a day, with opportunities through the end of the month.</p><p>Weather looks very good for this time of year; easterly flow will cause sea breeze TRW's to move inland with subsidence behind.</p><p>20% chance no-go for Saturday and Sunday, 30% Monday.<br />Conus landing sites are Good Day 1 and 2, edwards will have too much wind Monday</p><p>At least 1 good TAL site each day</p><p>That's about it. Call to stations 2:30 PM EDT this afternoon, countdown starts at 3PM.</p><p>MW</p> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> <p><font color="#000080"><em><font color="#000000">But the Krell forgot one thing John. Monsters. Monsters from the Id.</font></em> </font></p><p><font color="#000080">I really, really, really, really miss the "first unread post" function</font><font color="#000080"> </font></p> </div>

 

[earth_bound_misfit]

<p>I just read on cnn that the STS-124 now has to take up some spare parts in an atempt to fix ISS's broken thunderbox. </p><p>Question is, if it can not be repaired, can the STS toilet support everyone on orbit for the duration?&nbsp;</p> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> <p> </p><p> </p><p>----------------------------------------------------------------- </p><p>Wanna see this site looking like the old SDC uplink?</p><p>Go here to see how: <strong>SDC Eye saver </strong>  </p> </div>

 

[MeteorWayne]

<p>Launch Readiness News Conf scheduled in about 20 min at 11 AM EDT </p> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> <p><font color="#000080"><em><font color="#000000">But the Krell forgot one thing John. Monsters. Monsters from the Id.</font></em> </font></p><p><font color="#000080">I really, really, really, really miss the "first unread post" function</font><font color="#000080"> </font></p> </div>

 

[MeteorWayne]

Replying to:<BR/><DIV CLASS='Discussion_PostQuote'>Launch Readiness News Conf scheduled in about 20 min at 11 AM EDT <br />Posted by MeteorWayne</DIV><br /><br />News Conference has started <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> <p><font color="#000080"><em><font color="#000000">But the Krell forgot one thing John. Monsters. Monsters from the Id.</font></em> </font></p><p><font color="#000080">I really, really, really, really miss the "first unread post" function</font><font color="#000080"> </font></p> </div>

 

[MeteorWayne]

<p>STS 124 Pre Launch News Conference Scribblenotes:</p><p>No outstanding issues, Vehicle, Crew, Wx and Team all ready. ISS Mgmt team meeting was Tuesday, all go from them.</p><p>Pad is cleared, about to start loading onboard LOX and H.<br />About 240 lbs of O2 will be boiled off on Friday? to meet weight limit after full load.<br />Rumors of LOX shortage... We are assured we have plenty for 4 launch attempts in 5 days.<br />ET loading should start ~ 7:30 AM Saturday AM.<br />Launch still scheduled for 5:02 PM EDT.</p><p>Wx still good, 20% no-go Saturday, up to 30% Sunday, 40% Monday.</p><p>Question about remaining shuttle flights.<br />7 are required to finish station, 1 for Hubble, 2 to bring up large spare parts afterward. Some are so large there's no&nbsp; way to get them there other than the Shuttle. (It really is quite a truck-MW)</p><p>Soyuz Investigation question- Had meeting this morning. No conclusions yet, 18 branches remain on fault tree including electrical, mechanical, and pyro. Large test in mid June should help resolve issue.</p><p>Kibo, Main module this trip, still ancillary items for upcoming ISS launch (2A)<br />Total cost of Modules 2,500 billion yen<br />Kibo also includes Japanese comm system (ICS) which is real high bandwidth, will be activated after 2A mission.</p><p>Toity Notes.<br />Part received, processed and loaded on board 3:30 AM. <br />One item being offloaded to make weight that I missed yesterday was a hydrogen detector that looks at the output of the US<br />oxygen generator to make sure there's not hydrogen in there. That would be bad . They have a lifetime of about 180 days, and it was just changed out. There are currently no plans to use the US O2 generator anyway at this time.<br />Toilet history. Russians believe this pump is the problem, so high confidence this will fix, currently scheduled for June 4, but would not be surprised if it is done sooner. Contingencies available. Currently toity is working, but requires 10 minute 2 man action after every 3 urine deposits, so is really a a pain.</p><p>Original pump worked for many years. 2 spares that had been on orbit for quite a while both failed within a day or two after install. Current replacement pump being sent up is from a different lot, and has been tested to the best of the Russians ability.</p><p>Finally, SARJ plan.<br />Intention is to put lightweight oil on ring, then scrape to remove high spots where debris has pancaked onto ring. This will reduce vibration; vibration shortens fatigue lifetime of rotating structure.<br />Reinstall Trundle bearing 5, which was removed for inspection.<br />&nbsp;Wipe surface with a mitt, like used to wash your car.</p><p>Still no root cause, so they are going to baby this ring to save the other one until root cause is found or it breaks irretrievably.<br />Power OK for next few missions.</p><p>They may lube next ISS mission, but have to be sure not to create more problems.</p><p>That's about all I can read for now</p><p>Wayne</p> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> <p><font color="#000080"><em><font color="#000000">But the Krell forgot one thing John. Monsters. Monsters from the Id.</font></em> </font></p><p><font color="#000080">I really, really, really, really miss the "first unread post" function</font><font color="#000080"> </font></p> </div>

 

[thor06]

<p><BR/>Replying to:<BR/><DIV CLASS='Discussion_PostQuote'>STS 124 Pre Launch News Conference Scribblenotes:<br /> Posted by MeteorWayne</DIV></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Great info, thanks Wayne.&nbsp; I missed the briefing today.</p><p>The issue with the SARJ scares me.&nbsp; This phrase in paticular " breaks irretrievably" puts a lump in my throat.</p><p>Am I right that this could limit crew size?&nbsp; I don't think I'm the only one who has really been looking forward to 6+ on the station. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>side note: I seriously did a "spit take" when I read "thunder box".&nbsp; Haven't heard that one before...lol. Thanks earth_bound_misfit </p> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> <p> </p><p> <font color="#0000ff">                           www.watchnasatv.com</font></p><p>                          ONE PERCENT FOR NASA! </p> </div>