Fergie's Tech Blog

NASA: Shuttle Team Working Foam Issue

During a routine inspection overnight after the draining of the external fuel tank, a crack was discovered in the foam near a bracket that holds the liquid oxygen feedline in place. This piece of foam has been estimated to be 0.0057 pounds. It is believed that the rain experienced during yesterday's launch attempt caused water to run down the feedline and form ice near the top of the strut next to the feedline bracket. As the tank warmed and expanded, the ice that formed most likely pinched the foam on the top of the strut, causing a crack and eventual loss of the small piece of foam.

At a Mission Management Team meeting this morning, a decision was made to continue analyzing available data before making a final decision regarding tomorrow's launch attempt. The question is whether there needs to be a hands-on inspection of the area around the foam crack before launch.

The Mission Management Team will meet again at 6:30 p.m. EDT to hear the results of the analysis and make a decision on whether we will attempt to launch tomorrow or Wednesday. Currently, there is a 60 percent of favorable launch weather for tomorrow and a 40 percent chance of favorable weather for Wednesday.

posted by Fergie @ 7/03/2006 02:44:00 PM