Ares I-1 pad 39B to be modified

Flight Interational ^ | 02/06/07 | Rob Coppinger

[KevinDavis]

With only months between the Space Shuttle mission to service the Hubble Space Telescope and the first flight of NASA's Ares I crew launch vehicle, Kennedy Space Center is working to keep changes to launch complex 39B to a minimum so it can accommodate both vehicles.

During the Hubble repair flight, scheduled for September 2008, a second Shuttle will be on standby to launch a rescue mission from pad 39B. Seven months later, in 2009, the same complex is to launch the Ares I-1 demonstration flight.

As a result, changes to Shuttle launch complex 39B to accommodate the Ares I-1 are planned to be short term, as the final configuration for Ares I operational flights will be significantly different.

Short-term alterations focus on the 105m (347ft)-tall fixed service structure, which has three swing arms that link to the Shuttle. Changes for Ares I-1 could see the Shuttle external tank gaseous oxygen vent swing arm modified for Ares I interstage and upper-stage access.

[KevinDavis]

[claptrap]

Henceforth mention of NASA will conjure thoughts of the diaper clad mother of three driving non-stop to pepper
spray an fellow employee a compelling scenario difficult
to dismiss out of hand.

[jmcenanly]

Henceforth mention of NASA will conjure thoughts of the diaper clad mother of three driving non-stop to pepper spray an fellow employee a compelling scenario difficult to dismiss out of hand.

They may have to consult the Postal Service for advice on public relations.