SHUTTLE PROCESSING STATUS REPORT: S04-15

The Space Shuttle fleet is housed and processed at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center (KSC), Fla. The order the Space Shuttles are listed in this report does not necessarily reflect the chronological order of future missions.

Discovery (OV-103)

In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF), Discovery continues its month-long power-down period for its Return to Flight mission, STS-114, to the International Space Station. Return to Flight modifications are underway, including the orbiter boom sensor system wiring and preparations for installation of the wing leading edge sensors. The External Tank separation camera cable harness is due to arrive at KSC this week.

Other work continues, including Orbital Maneuvering System (OMS) pod thruster X-rays. And one flex hose remains to be installed in Discovery’s Environmental Control and Life Support System bay. Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel installation is 50 percent complete on the right-hand side and 90 percent complete on the left-hand side.

Atlantis (OV-104)

In the OPF, Atlantis’ four-month power-down period is underway in support of Return to Flight modifications, as well as structural and baseline wire inspections.

Nose cap Thermal Protection System blanket installation continues, with the nose cap scheduled to be installed on the vehicle as soon as next week. Body Flap actuator inspection and the majority of the external flex hose inspections are complete.

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.

The left-hand No. 3 radiator has been installed, with the No. 2 radiator scheduled for installation this week. Tile bonds on the External Tank door and aft flex hose inspections continue.

Previous Space Shuttle processing status reports are available on the Internet at:

http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/status/status.htm