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Thanks J!!!! Well, I didn't have access to any way to record it. And I have 3 VCR's (2 of them duals), and a TV tuner/virtual VCR on my computer. It's just another historical event that will probably live in my memory. There might be some commemorative video available though.

However, the science that will be coming back from there for the next 4 years, will be an ongoing reminder.

I have bunches of original calculations, computer runs and memos in my cube that I pulled and looked at yesterday. They are all for the fuel tank and its internals. The worst environment for the tank was, believe it or not, PROOF pressure testing on the ground and then during its ride launch aboard a Titan IV in 1997. After that, it was all cake for the tank.

There is a SUPER benefit from the mission success, and that is that all the strength analysis I did on the tank can be used as known correct procedures to the point that the predictions of it's flight worthiness were proven out.

The worst environment for the tank was, believe it or not, PROOF pressure testing on the ground and then during its ride launch aboard a Titan IV in 1997.

Lessee... Do I believe that proof pressure testing (250%?) in an oxidizing atmosphere under one gee or being kicked upstairs under umpteen gees through an oxidizing atmosphere is tougher than coasting through flat space? Um. No. You are correct about the toughest conditions.

BTW, did you guys put a slow spin on it to alleviate thermal stresses? I know they are tiny, but they build up.

Just a science junkie asking questions. ;>) Congrats again.

BTW, what would a cook know about thermal stresses on thin-walled pressure vessels? Harumph. Ignore me... 8>)

/john