More pictures are available at CAIB
Another freeper noted that the orientation of the insulation/ice object changes the impact force based upon the surface area of the impact. The individual made the observation that if the object had impacted "edge" on, the damage would be greater than if the object impacted flatly on the leading edge.
The white plume seen in this frame may be partly composed of silica particles from pulverized tiles. Given the substantial size of the plume when compared to the relatively small size of the object, one wonders if the plume size is actually the density and size one would expect from an insulation approximately 2 feet in diameter.
Once it is established that ET insulation alone can not create the plume seen (via the colorimetric test), it should be possible to create a second test scenario. A mixture of ice and ET insulation can be created to mimic estimated launch conditions. That mixture should be fired at the test article and the plume colorimetrics studied.
The resulting data could be compared to the photographic evidence and permit the composition of the plume to be evaluated in a scientific manner.
It is my contention that if one compares the plume from a 2' piece of ET insulation to the plume in the photo: 1. The photo has a plume with greater white tones 2. The photo has a plume in greater size than expected. 3. The differences in size of plume and tone are accounted for by silica pulverized by the impact.
Knowing hindsight is always 20/20, I welcome discussion and criticism. This posting is meant to contribute to the scientific process and only suggests one scientific method to approach the accident investigation.
Thanks... God bless and rest the crew of STS-107 and 51-L.
BTTT
I wonder if I could afford to get some of these tiles for my roof...to replace those lousy asphalt shingles!