Thermal Protection System (TPS) assessment and integrated photographic analysis was conducted for Shuttle Mission STS-50. Debris inspections of the flight elements and launch pad were performed before and after launch. Ice/frost conditions on the external tank were assessed by the use of computer programs, nomographs, and infrared scanner data during cryogenic loading of the vehicle followed by on-pad visual inspection. High speed photography was analyzed after launch to identify ice/debris sources and evaluate potential vehicle damage and/or in-flight anomalies. The debris/ice/TPS conditions and integrated photographic analysis of Shuttle Mission STS-50, and the resulting effect on the Space Shuttle Program are documented.
Debris/Ice/TPS Assessment and Integrated Photographic Analysis for Shuttle Mission STS-50
1992
148 pages
Report
Keine Angabe
Englisch
Space Launch Vehicles & Support Equipment , Damage assessment , Debris , External tanks , Ice formation , Space shuttles , Spacecraft launching , High speed photography , Inspection , Photographs , Thermal protection , Computer programs , Cryogenics , Infrared scanners , Nomographs , Space transportation system flights