Conference 7.286::space

284.0. "More Space Shuttle Delays" by VINO::DZIEDZIC () Thu Apr 23 1987 08:48

    Several announcements made lately seem to indicate the initial
    launch of the "re-designed and re-engineered" space shuttle is
    likely to slip behind the projected February 1988 date.  NASA
    is supposed to announce a new target date in the next few weeks.
    
    Part of the delay stems from the fact NASA is planning to do a
    wet countdown and a rlight readiness test firing of the main
    engines (not the SRBs).  However, other delays, less stressed
    by NASA, concern braking system work, review of Criticality 1
    items list, thermal protection system, and etc.  Internal NASA
    documents seem to suggest a delay until around September 1988.
    
    Additionally, the re-designed SRBs have not begun their test
    firing schedules.  Last I remember, the first full-scale test
    is supposed to occur sometime in May.
    
    

    According to NBC News, the date [which was 2/18/88] is slipping
    4-6 weeks.  This would put it March/April 1988.
    
    Sigh

    Every since the 2/18/88 date was announced, insiders have been saying
    that it was unrealistic, and even NASA called it only a "planning"
    date.  I suspect that March/April is also only a "planning" date
    gotten by taking the original date and adding on the known time
    for a wet countdown and test firing.  A more reasonable date is
    still fall 88, according to AWST.
    
    Burns