Ready For Liftoff
NASA prepares to launch a new shuttle, putting it all on the line in an attempt to stay in space
On-vehicle cameras
New and modified cameras will provide a much better view of damage from debris or other causes during ascent. Cameras on the underbelly of the orbiter will help monitor external tank separation.
Insulation
Polyurethane-like foam, averaging an inch thick, prevents ice formation on the external tank.
Bolt catchers
Explosive bolts separate the SRBs from the external tank. Redesigned bolt catchers will help insure that no bolts fall loose.
Bipod ramp heaters
The fitting that connects the external tank to the orbiter now uses heaters instead of foam to prevent ice buildup.
Nose cap and chin panel
Flight experience has shown that debris could damage the RCC heat shielding here. The chin panel was modified.
Wing sensors on leading-edge panels
New sensors will detect damage to the shuttle's wings. Data from the sensors are transmitted to the crew and then to Earth. Each wing has 22 temperature sensors and 66 accelerometers to spot debris impacts.
Rudder speed brake
Gears subject to corrosion were refurbished and replaced.
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Underbelly cameras
External tank (ET)
ET observation camera
Bolt catcher
Forward skirt camera
Camera
Nose cap chin panel
Bipod ramp heaters
Heat-resistant tiles
Solid Rocket Booster (SRB)
Crew handheld camera
Orbiter-based cameras
Upgraded reinforced carbon carbon (RCC)
All Eyes on Liftoff
Launches will be photographed and videotaped by 107 ground and aircraft-based cameras.
The Cameras
2 Infrared
2 High-speed digital video
3 70 mm
19 High definition (HDTV)
20 National Television Standards Committee (NTSC)
29 35mm
32 16mm
Two aircraft will provide ascent and re-entry imagery.
There are 22 16mm cameras on the mobile launch platform and eight on the launch tower
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Launch tower
Mobile launch platform
Extending the Reach
A new 50-foot boom will enable the crew to inspect the orbiter in flight.
Inspection
Equipped with a camera and laser, the boom attaches to the end of the existing robotic arm. It will allow the crew to examine all critical areas of the shuttle--wing leading edge, belly, and nose cap--checking for damage to the shuttle's protective heat tiles and RCC shields.
Robotic arm
The arm has movable joints: a shoulder, elbow, and wrist.
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Boom with laser and camera
Robotic arm
Boom
Source: NASA
Graphic by Rod Little and Rob Cady-- USN&WR
Compiled by Philippe Moulier, Kevin Harris, Rod Little, and Charles W. Petit-- USN&WR
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