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), orbiter powered-system testing continues for Discovery’s Return to Flight mission, designated STS-114, to the International Space Station. Auxiliary Power Unit water servicing and leak check sample results are complete. The three Space Shuttle Main Engines were moved from the Main Engine Shop and installed on Discovery for flight. Engines were installed in positions No. 1 and 3 on Wednesday, with No. 2 completed on Thursday.
Engine installation was scheduled to begin on Monday, but was delayed due to an issue with the vehicle used to install the engines. During the installation of Space Shuttle Main Engine 2057 into engine position No. 1 on Discovery, the engine shifted to the right, allowing the low-pressure fuel duct on the engine to touch a Thermal Protection System tile on the right Orbiter Maneuvering System (OMS) pod. There was no damage to the engine or the OMS pod and the tile will be repaired in place. There is no impact to the milestone for Return to Flight.
Atlantis (OV-104)
Technicians continue to process Atlantis in the Orbiter Processing Facility for its mission to the International Space Station. The orbiter continues to remain in a power-down period to complete the final wiring for the Return to Flight modifications, including the new Orbiter Boom Sensor System, wing leading edge sensors and the External Tank separation camera.
Following the installation of all four Rudder Speed Brake actuators last week, technicians installed the panels and right-hand shafts, with the left-hand shafts being installed today.
Endeavour (OV-105)
Space Shuttle Endeavour is in its Orbiter Major Modification period, which began in December 2003. Electrical modifications continue in the crew module. Three-String Global Positioning System wire routing in the avionics bay and flight deck continues.
Following the removal of miniscule corrosion, the right-hand wing leading edge was painted and the left wing is scheduled for painting this weekend. The External Tank door installation is complete in preparation for rollover to the Vehicle Assembly Building next week, clearing the bay for a scheduled maintenance period.
Previous Space Shuttle processing status reports are available at:
http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/shuttleoperations/status/2004/index.html
For information about NASA’s Return to Flight efforts visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/returntoflight