Use of Imagery and Other Sensors for Decision Making during STS-114
- Paper number
IAC-05-D2.2.03
- Author
Mr. Paul D. Maley, United Space Alliance, United States
- Year
2005
- Abstract
Following the destructive reentry of Space Shuttle Columbia in February 2003, NASA undertook a major effort to assess the root causes. The Columbia Accident Investigation Board determined that a debris strike on the wing leading edge of the Shuttle shortly after liftoff was the principal reason for causing a structural weakness that led to superheated gases entering the orbiter and resulting in its ultimate fragmentation. The board recommended development of a plan to mitigate any future accidents as a result of ascent debris strikes. This includes the ability to assess damage from a suite of ground, vehicle and airborne systems as well as an astronaut using EVA devices. It extends the mitigation to include on orbit repair. The first integrated test of these modifications occurred on STS-114. We describe methodology used during the first Return to Flight mission in order to assess ascent integrity. In addition, on-orbit inspection processes and repair measures are reviewed with application to a safe reentry. This includes discussion of ground assets and mission control center thought processes that impact the decision for reentry.
- Abstract document