Prep Work for Discovery Ferry Flight Continues
Processing and preparation of the Space Shuttle Discovery for its ferry flight back to Florida are well under way at NASA’s Dryden Flight Research Center in California. Processing managers are aiming for Discovery to be ready to begin its cross-country ferry flight on the back of a modified Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft by Friday morning, although weather or technical issues could push that date back.
United Space Alliance technicians removed the flow control valves, repressurized and inerted the fuel cells and completed inspections of Discovery’s thermal protection tile and blankets during work Monday.
Tuesday’s primary tasks involve the all-day process of draining of residual fuels, oxidizers and other hazardous chemicals from Discovery's orbital maneuvering system, a process that requires all technicians working near or on the shuttle to wear protective suits and respiratory equipment. Installation of the aerodynamic tailcone should occur on Thursday, and mating of Discovery to the modified 747 is scheduled for Thursday night.The final schedule for Discovery’s departure from Edwards Air Force Base will be determined at a Flight Readiness Review, currently slated for Thursday afternoon. If departure occurs Friday morning, the 747-shuttle combo could arrive at the Kennedy Space Center as early as late Saturday.
STS-128 Souvenirs
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