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To: george76
This risk was completely avoidable.

They knew they had a helium leak before launch, but misplaced priorities had an entire team ignore the problem.

The helium provides the pressure to move the propellant to the thrusters that control on orbit and re-entry maneuvers.

Once the leak starts it doesn't stop until the helium supply is depleted, assuming there are no cut-off valves upstream of the leak.

To resolve the problem in space assumes you have access to replace or intercept the helium supply system and you'll need plenty of it because the leak is not repairable in space. So you'll need enough helium to account for the leak rate and the still conduct a safe return.

Good luck determining the leak rate.

29 posted on 08/22/2024 3:22:59 PM PDT by G Larry (Its RACIST to impose slave wages on LEGAL immigrants and minorities by importing cheap ILLEGAL labor)
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To: G Larry

I suspect they’re going to have to disconnect it, and check it into the ocean. But I just read today that it can’t undock without a crew on board. They disabled that functionality and are attempting to reinstate it in orbit.

With their luck I would hate to Trust automatically undocking


32 posted on 08/22/2024 3:25:50 PM PDT by Mr. K (No consequence of repealing Obamacare is worse than Obamacare)
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