[sarex] STS-121 UPDATE-3JULY 2006

[Arthur Rowe <azrowe80@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

SUBMITTED BY AR THUR N1ORC - AMSAT A/C #31468


*Status Update *
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
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