Congress Pushes for More Money, Science, at NASA

Texans in Congress try to boost NASA budget, Houston Chronicle

"In the Senate, Kay Bailey Hutchison, R-Texas, a member of the powerful Appropriations Committee, said she was asking colleagues to add at least $1 billion to the NASA budget. Hutchison said she wants to add one more shuttle flight in order to ferry the $1.5 billion Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer to the international space station to study the energy-producing possibilities of cosmic rays. "We're not giving NASA the priority it should have," said Hutchison, a member of the Senate Republican leadership. "It should remain the premier agency for innovation and research."

This May Be A First For The Yankees But --

Yanks Plan First Pitch from Space, NY Post

"The Yankees today announced that NASA astronaut Garrett Reisman will throw out the ceremonial first pitch from the International Space Station prior to Wednesday's game vs. the Boston Red Sox. It will be the first ceremonial first pitch ever thrown from space in Yankee Stadium history."

Editor's note: This is not exactly the first time that this sort of thing has happened in space...

STS-73: "Crew took time out from Spacelab work to tape ceremonial first pitch for Game Five of baseball World Series, marking first time the thrower was not actually in the ballpark for the pitch."

Image: "STS073-E-5135 (26 October 1995) --- Baseball caps from the two 1995 World Series representative franchises float near the cabin windows of the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Columbia, with the Earth in the background."

Image: "STS073-E-5137 (26 October 1995) --- Baseballs from the American and National Leagues float near the cabin windows of the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Columbia, with Earth in the background."

"Expedition 5 Science Officer Astronaut Peggy Whitson presents the 2002 World Series Baseball to Space Center Houston.  Event takes placed at Space Center Houston. The baseball was the first pitch for the 2002 World Series, when Peggy Whitson threw the ball to Expedition 5 Commander on board the International Space Station. Selected photo of this event were published in the Space News Roundup, Volume 42, Number 5 May 2003.  Views include: Whitson presents baseball, a video screen showing the baseball pitch performed on the Space Station can be seen behind Whitson. [click on image to enlarge]

Shuttle/Orion Transition Job Cut Impacts

Hill Concerned With NASA Workforce Projection, Aviation Week

"Sobering new NASA estimates that cancellation of the space shuttle in 2010 could cost up to 9,000 aerospace contractor jobs nationwide -- 6,400 of them here at KSC -- are refocusing Congressional pressure on the White House for additional funds to accelerate development of the Ares/Orion shuttle replacement vehicles."

External Tanks: Familiar Sights Soon To Disappear

Reader note: "For those of us NASA folks who will never see this, this is really cool. I'm looking at these pictures from two views - technology and job loss."

Today's Video: The Twang "When the main engines start, something interesting (and dynamic) happens to the shuttle stack...it bends." (video below)

Mikulski Tries Again To Help Pay For Shuttle Costs

Mikulski Renews Pledge to Increase NASA’s Budget, Fight for $1 Billion Repayment for Columbia Costs

"The 2009 CJS spending bill is Senator Mikulski's third attempt to gain approval of her $1 billion NASA amendment. In 1987, Congress allocated $2.7 billion in the aftermath of the Challenger tragedy to pay for a replacement shuttle. In the aftermath of the Columbia tragedy, however, NASA was not given any additional funding to repair the remaining shuttles. The amendment will pay back the costs of returning the Shuttle to flight and restore cuts to science, aeronautics and exploration programs that were cut in order to pay for the return to flight."

Shuttle Job Cuts: Its About Time Florida Took Notice

Our position: With end of shuttle program, Space Coast needs aggressive new plan, editorial, Orlando Sentinel

"It's been clear for some time that Florida's Space Coast would lose a lot of good jobs when NASA retires the space shuttle. But that didn't take away the sting of this week's report from the space agency showing how bad the losses would be."

Editor's note: Waiting until the last minute to act on this wasn't the smartest move on Florida's part - when options are limited. It's not like this has been a secret for the past 4 years and that there was any outcome other than massive job loss - no matter how small the gap between Shuttle and Orion was.

Yes, The Party Is Indeed Over at KSC

NASA Shuttle to Constellation Workforce Transition Strategy Report

"Background: NASA's workforce surveys have indicated that communication is the key to managing the workforce during transition. NASA and its prime contractors are engaged in a robust communications effort at all levels to ensure that the workforce is kept informed of current programs and future plans. The Agency is utilizing many tools and media options to make this possible, and the effectiveness of these tools is continually evaluated in both surveys and by monitoring various media metrics."

2007 NASA Culture Survey Report, Page 4

1b. I receive timely communication from my Center's senior management. 55 44 55 45 53 44 66 59 54 55 65

1c. I receive timely communications from the Agency's senior management. 42 32 31 37 36 40 49 49 34 46 60

Weldon Amendment Forces NASA to Reveal Massive Layoffs

"In today's "Workforce Transition Strategy Initial Report," NASA estimated that there will be at least 6,400 jobs eliminated between FY 08 and FY 2011 at Kennedy Space Center alone. Of those 6,400 layoffs, NASA forecasted that 4,800 will come all in one year - 2011. These numbers could grow if problems arise with the Constellation program due to technological or funding issues."

NASA News Conference With Mike Griffin: Exploration Systems Architecture Study (Transcript), 19 September 2005

"GRIFFIN ... It provides an orderly transition of the space shuttle workforce. We estimate that we can use about 85 percent of the facilities that are in play today for the space shuttle."

NASA: Shuttle retirement may cost 2,300 jobs in Houston, Houston Chronicle

Shuttle Retirement May Bring Loss of 8,600 Jobs, NASA Says, NY Times
Massive Job Cuts in Space Program Likely, AP
80% of KSC contractors could lose jobs after shuttle program ends, Orlando Sentinel
NASA: Michoud has cloudy employment future, AP
NASA will eliminate 6,400 jobs by 2011, Tampa Bay's 10
Shuttle Retirement Could Cost Thousands Of Jobs, Central Florida News 13
Job Losses Expected When Shuttle Retires, WESH

The Party Is Over at KSC

NASA: Up To 6,400 Job Losses at KSC When Shuttle Retires, Orlando Sentinel

"In the bleakest employment forecast for Kennedy Space Center yet, a NASA report due out on Tuesday estimates that as many as 6,400 contractors could lose their jobs at KSC by 2011 right after the space shuttle is retired. With no rockets to launch, the KSC workforce, whose primary mission is to prepare NASA spacecraft for liftoff, is expected to go from 8,000 contract jobs today to between 1,600 and 2,300 in 2011."

NASA To Hold News Briefing on the Space Shuttle to Constellation Workforce Transition Report

"NASA will hold a teleconference at 2 p.m. EDT, Tuesday, April 1, to discuss a report to Congress on the agency's workforce strategy while transitioning from the Space Shuttle Program to the Constellation Program.

The briefing participants are:
- Bill Gerstenmaier, associate administrator, Space Operations Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters, Washington
- Rick Gilbrech, associate administrator, Exploration Systems Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters"

Interesting Interior Quicktime VR of Space Shuttle

Space Shuttle Interior, Panoscan

"These images were captured last in September 2001 for training purposes. The images were captured inside the high fidelity training mock up at the Johnson Space Center in Houston Texas. This mock up features the later "glass" cockpit design that was used in the Columbia. To view these images you will need QuickTime 7."

Endeavour Is Home

Space Shuttle Endeavour Lands at Kennedy Space Center

"With Commander Dominic Gorie and Pilot Gregory H. Johnson at the controls, space shuttle Endeavour glided to a picture perfect landing at Kennedy Space Center, Fla. The STS-123 crew began its mission March 11 and arrived at the International Space Station March 12. The astronauts delivered the Japanese Logistics Module - Pressurized Section (JLP), the first pressurized component of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory to the station. The crew of Endeavour also delivered the final element of the station's Mobile Servicing System, the Canadian-built Dextre, also known as the Special Purpose Dextrous Manipulator."

What Happened to Kermit The Space Frog?

Editor's note: It would seem this image (S123E00737B) of a specially outfitted Kermit the Frog aboard the ISS appeared - and then disappeared - from the NASA Human Spaceflight website. Larger image.

What gives? Does NASA PAO have something against frogs?

Home Stretch for Endeavour's Crew

NASA's Space Shuttle Endeavour to Land Wednesday

"The space shuttle Endeavour crew is expected to complete its 16-day flight to the International Space Station with a landing at NASA's Kennedy Space Center on Wednesday, March 26. The STS-123 mission began March 11 and delivered the first segment of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, known as Dextre. The flight also brought a new crew member to the station and will return an astronaut who has spent nearly seven weeks aboard the complex."

Yet Another New NASA Acronym

NASA STS-123 Execute Package FD07

"We've been thinking hard about wear and tear on EMU gloves, and you'll be glad to know we have a prototype solution in the works. It's called the Mmod Resistant Handling Aid for Normal Dexterity (MR HAND). Here is one of our technicians modeling MR HAND."

Which One Of You Kids Left Your iPod On The Dashboard?

iPod sighted Inside Space Shuttle Endeavour by Someone Inside the International Space Station

"If you look into the window of Space Shuttle Endeavour, as viewed in this photograph taken yesterday from inside the International Space Station, you will see that someone left their iPod on near the co-pilot's window. This is not the first time that an iPod has been photographed in space, but it is the first time that one has been photographed inside one space vehicle - by someone inside another space vehicle."

Endeavour Docks With ISS

Space Shuttle Endeavour Docks Successfully to the International Space Station

"Space shuttle Endeavour docked successfully to the International Space Station at 11:49 p.m. EDT. About an hour before docking, STS-123 Commander Dominic Gorie and Pilot Gregory H. Johnson guided the shuttle through a back-flip maneuver, giving the Expedition 16 crew the opportunity to take pictures of the orbiter's protective heat-resistant tiles. These photos will be sent to engineers on Earth for analysis."

Additional ISS and Shuttle news

Today's Video: STS-123 Launch with Chest Thumping Sound

Editor's note: Check out Matt Reyes' STS-123 launch video at the OnOrbit STS-123 Video channel (below). Make certain to pump up the volume once the shuttle clears the pad.

Check out the OnOrbit STS-123 Video channel

Foam Strike?

Shuttle prepares to deliver Japanese lab to space station, LA Times via Boston Globe

"NASA safety officials were reviewing video and photographs of the launch, but it appeared there was only one significant incident of insulating foam coming off the giant fuel tank that the shuttle is strapped to like a bull-rider. The chunk of foam came off at about 83 seconds into the launch, when atmospheric forces are near their maximum. Any foam coming off the tank then would be accelerated to potentially damaging speeds."

STS-123 - We Have Liftoff

NASA STS-123 Report #01 Tuesday, March 11, 2008 3:00 a.m. CDT

"Space shuttle Endeavour delivered an early sunrise to the Florida coast this morning, lifting off at 1:28 a.m. CDT from the Kennedy Space Center to begin a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. Aboard the shuttle are Commander Dominic Gorie, Pilot Gregory H. Johnson and Mission Specialists Robert Behnken, Mike Foreman, Rick Linnehan, Garrett Reisman and Takao Doi, a Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut."

NASA Launch Blog

More Shuttle and ISS news

Mitt and Ann Hold Hands at Pad 39A

NASA FOIA Images: Mitt Romney Tours SSPF-Pad 39A at KSC on 21 January 2008

NASA caption: "Images taken of the Mitt Romney tour at KSC are not, in any way, intended to reflect the endorsement of any candidate by NASA. These images were taken during a tour that is typically provided to other VIP's. NASA has not authorized the use of these images for campaign purposes and has obtained a commitment from the Romney campaign NOT to use these images for campaign purposes. These images are being released in response to FOIA requests."

Editor's note: Click to enlarge image. Isn't it a little odd that most people who are seen in this location are required to wear bunny suits and caps - and yet politicians and their spouses are not? [see comments below as KSC folks correct my assumptions regarding bunny suits - but not about the special access granted to Romney]. Let's see how NASA answers my FOIA request as to what constitutes a "VIP" and what the process is for evaluating and approving (or denying) requests for these personal tours and photo ops - conducted at taxpayer expense.

Kerry Blows Opportunity at KSC, 2004 post

Comments? Send them to nasawatch@spaceref.com. Your comments thus far:

They're not that unusual. When I visited, the people working inside the orbiter were in "bunny suits", but so long as you stayed outside, it wasn't a requirement. This was a few years ago, but I don't think the rules have changed much. This wasn't a formal NASA tour, so no PAO cameras or minders, but we were informed what the rules were.

Looking Across The Looming Gap

NASA Wary of Relying on Russia, Washington Post

"Griffin has testified that while the waiver is essential, it is "unseemly, simply unseemly, for the United States -- the world's leading power and leading space power -- to be reduced to purchasing services like this. It affects, in my view, how we are seen in the world, and not for the better." NASA's budget calls for spending $2.6 billion for transportation to the space station between fiscal 2009 and 2013. As it stands now, much of that would go to the Russians."

NASA Human Spaceflight Management Changes

Editor's note: John Shannon is being named the new Shuttle Program Manager. Wayne Hale will be joing Bill Gerstenmaier's Space Operations staff.

NASA Internal Memo From Wayne Hale to the Space Shuttle Team

"In the last few days the agency has asked me to take on an urgent and important job which will be very important for our long range intentions to succeed in these bigger goals of returning to the moon and then sending people on to explore Mars and the rest of the solar system."

NASA Selects New Deputy Associate Administrator of Strategic Partnerships and Space Shuttle Program Manager

"In his new position, he will work in Houston as a senior NASA official in the Space Operations Mission Directorate, providing strategic leadership to foster cooperative partnerships that help achieve NASA goals, build alliances across the public and private sectors and improve U.S. competitiveness and economic growth."

Atlantis Returns To Earth

Space Shuttle Atlantis Lands at NASA Kennedy Space Center

"With Commander Steve Frick and Pilot Alan Poindexter at the controls, space shuttle Atlantis descended to a smooth landing at Kennedy Space Center, Fla. The STS-122 crew began its mission Feb. 7 and arrived at the station Feb. 9. Crew members added the European Space Agency's (ESA) Columbus laboratory to the station, increasing the orbital outpost's scientific capabilities. They also delivered a new crew member to the ISS and replaced an expended Nitrogen Tank Assembly on the station's P1 Truss."

Additional ISS/Shuttle information

Shuttle Update

Space Shuttle Atlantis Departs ISS

"Space Shuttle Atlantis undocked from the International Space Station at 4:24 a.m. EST today, ending its almost-nine-day stay at the orbital outpost."

NASA's Space Shuttle Atlantis Set to Land Wednesday

"The space shuttle Atlantis crew is expected to complete a 13-day mission to the International Space Station with a landing at NASA's Kennedy Space Center on Wednesday, Feb. 20."

Space Shuttle Endeavour Arrives at Launch Pad, Countdown Test Set

"After safely reaching its launch pad Monday at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the space shuttle Endeavour now awaits its next major milestone for the upcoming STS-123 mission. A full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test, is scheduled to take place at Kennedy from Feb. 23 to 25."

Former Boeing Engineer Accused Of Spying for China

Former Boeing Engineer Charged with Economic Espionage in Theft of Space Shuttle Secrets for China, DOJ

"A former Boeing engineer was arrested this morning after being indicted last week on charges of economic espionage and acting as an unregistered foreign agent of the People's Republic of China (PRC), for whom the engineer stole Boeing trade secrets related to several aerospace programs, including the Space Shuttle."

Indictment, DOJ

Did China spy on NASA?, Orlando Sentinel

EVA Delayed For Medical Issues - But No One Is Sick, Says NASA

Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Space -- NOT, Free Space

"If Britney Spears wants some privacy, I have a suggestion for her: get NASA to fly her to the space station. The space agency so vehemently protects the privacy of astronauts that even if they have to postpone a spacewalk, which costs something like a bazillion dollars a minute, because someone is sick, they won't talk about it. Even if the spacewalker, who has been training for more than a year, is sidelined, and a backup has to take his place, they won't talk about it. And even if the mission then has to be extended to make up for the extra day, they won't talk about it."

Meet the Press (funny photo), Free Space

"Reporters prepare for Sunday's news briefing with NASA officials at the Johnson Space Center."

Atlantis Docks With ISS and Delivers Columbus

Space Shuttle Atlantis Docks with the International Space Station

Space Station and Space Shuttle Crews Work to Install Columbus Lab Module

Space Shuttle Atlantis and the STS-122 crew arrived at the International Space Station at 12:17 p.m., delivering the European Space Agency's Columbus laboratory and a new crew member to the orbital outpost.

Additional ISS and Space Shuttle News

STS-122 On Its Way

Atlantis Launches Carrying the STS-122 Crew

"Cheers and shouts can be heard throughout the space center as Atlantis, carrying the STS-122 crew and Columbus Laboratory, roars off the launch pad into the mid-afternoon sky to begin the 24th mission to the International Space Station. NASA astronaut Steve Frick commands a crew of six, including Pilot Alan Poindexter and Mission Specialists Leland Melvin, Rex Walheim, Stanley Love and the European Space Agency's Hans Schlegel and Leopold Eyharts. This is the first spaceflight for Poindexter, Love and Melvin."

Bad weather threatens shuttle launch, AP

"Even NASA's normally emotion-free boss, Michael Griffin, was enthusiastic. He said he was sure Atlantis' fuel gauges would continue to work properly and predicted no further problems with the system."

More ISS/Shuttle news

Here Come The Shuttle Job Cuts

Kennedy Space Center could face job cuts in Bush's NASA budget proposal, Orlando Sentinel

"NASA expects to shed as many as 1,000 workers from its space-shuttle program in 2009 -- including an unspecified number at Kennedy Space Center -- as part of a $17.6 billion budget outlined Monday by the White House."

[Exploration Capabilities] Space Operations Employment Summary

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Identification code 80-0115-0-1-252      2007 actual   2008 est.   2009 est.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Direct:

1001  Civilian full-time equivalent 

        employment......................       5,748       5,791       3,540

    Reimbursable:

2001  Civilian full-time equivalent 

        employment......................          52          11          11

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Page 11

- Shuttle retirement and transition planning continues, however, the specific requirements and budget estimates for Shuttle retirement after FY 2010 are too immature to be incorporated.

Page 12 - Space Shuttle Retirement and Transition to Constellation

- Preserving the skilled Shuttle workforce necessary to fly through retirement, especially as vendors complete their final deliveries, and transitioning key elements of the highly-skilled engineering and technician workforce to support the new Exploration systems

- Fully understanding Space Shuttle retirement costs, including the disposition of Shuttle facilities and equipment. Congressional authorization for Agency-wide Enhanced Use Leases starting in January 2009 will help defray NASA costs.

- Supporting the International Space Station following the retirement of the Space Shuttle, especially purchasing crew and cargo transport services.

- NASA is preparing a package of legislative provisions to help in the transition from the Space Shuttle to the new Constellation Systems.

Another Launch Date for STS-122

NASA tentatively plans Feb. 7 launch for Atlantis -- if repairs pan out, Orlando Sentinel

"NASA on Thursday set a tentative launch date of Feb. 7 for Atlantis' long-awaited mission to deliver a European laboratory module to the international space station. The delay -- almost exactly two months after the originally scheduled Dec. 6 launch -- gives NASA extra time to fix faulty fuel-cutoff sensors in Atlantis' giant orange external fuel tank."

Sensationalist Headlines at USA Today

Shuttle delays endanger space station, USA Today

"Like many home-improvement projects on Earth, NASA's most ambitious building effort in space languishes half-done. Now new delays, combined with the space shuttle's looming retirement, are raising worries about whether it can be finished at all."

Editor's note: What a bad choice of words for a headline. A headline contains the words you first see and is supposed to represent the gist of an article. In this case the headline is misleading - to say the least. There is no "danger" (i.e. as being "endangered") to the space station if this mission is delayed. The crew are quite safe. Nor is the station "endangered" if a number of shuttle flights with space station parts never get launched. No one is going to cancel it. The space station will stay in orbit and work just fine - without being "endangered" - with whatever parts are launched - just as it is doing right now.

Shuttle Battles In Space

. . .And Races Into Space, The Wall Street Journal Asia

"At a minimum, Washington should delay the planned 2010 retirement of the Space Shuttle until a new space plane can replace it, as a way to retain a deterring potential military capability. China's unwillingness to comment on its military space plans, coupled with the Shenlong space plane, confirms its larger aversion to military transparency. The U.S. and its allies have little choice but to develop the capabilities to defend their interests and assets in space."

STS-122 Update

NASA Announces Teleconference About Next Shuttle Mission

"NASA will host a media teleconference with Space Shuttle Program Manager Wayne Hale at 5 p.m. EST, Thursday, Jan. 3, to discuss the status of ongoing work to prepare shuttle Atlantis for its launch to the International Space Station."

Editor's note: John Shannon said that today's PRCB looked at possible launch dates. Went over mods to feed through connector. Connector sent to MSFC for testing. Sensor ready for cryostat testing unit. Hope to replicate December launch attempt and tanking test. That should take 2 weeks starting next Monday. Reviewed mod to external plug. Will solder pins on feed through connector. This should solve problems based on Atlas Centaur experience by inhibiting movement inside of connector. Expect new connectors installed on ET 125 before next wednesday. If we learn something new through testing then that will need to be tested.

Work to reinstall foam and ablator - will take until 27 Jan. Need to see how long foam needs to cure until 2-7 Feb. 24 Jan is the earliest launch day that Shannon needs to proctect. As we go through next week we will see what we need to do. No way can we go an earlier than 24 Jan. "It is a stretch that we'd make the 24th. The weather would have to cooperate and we'd have to have no testing glitches. It is more likely that we'd be ready to go in the 2-7 Feb time frame ... We really did not pick a launch date today."

Subtle Hints About Shuttle Fleet Ops Extension?

NASA Awards Contract for Space Shuttle Robotics Support, NASA JSC

"The cost plus no fee contract will provide support for activities related to both the Space Shuttle Program and International Space Station Program. The contract includes a base period from Jan. 1, 2008, to Sept. 30, 2010, followed by two one-year extension options."

Editor's note: Hmmm ... if the Shuttle fleet is supposed to be retired in 2010, why is there any need for "two one-year extension options" for hardware that is only used on the Space Shuttle?

Editor's update: According to PAO's Michael Curie "The two option years are for space station, not shuttle, robotics." OK. Then perhaps the title of the press release should have been "NASA Awards Contract for Space Shuttle and Space Station Robotics Support" and the lead paragraph changed to something like "for support of hardware and software associated with the Space Shuttle Remote Manipulator System robotic arm, inspection boom assembly and robotic work station and for International Space Station robotic hardware and software". Otherwise the release, as written, seems to focus only on shuttle-based hardware - since it is the only hardware that is specifically mentioned.

STS-122 Launch Date TBD

Editor note: NASA held a teleconference today with Wayne Hale with regard to repairs needed for STS-122. According to Wayne Hale "We have no launch date to talk about today".

Hale said that NASA would attempt to do all required repairs to Atlantis' External Tank on the launch pad. Hale expressed confidence that the repairs could be done in this fashion. However, if that is not possible, then a roll back to the VAB might be needed.

Extending The Shuttle - While Bashing Russia

HR 4837 Spacefaring Priorities for America's Continued Exploration Act (Full Text)

"a) Use of Space Shuttle for Access to Space- NASA shall fly at least 2 Space Shuttle missions per year for crew transport, instead of Russian crew and cargo services, for the period of 2010 through 2015, or until Orion is operational. There are authorized to be appropriated to NASA such sums as may be necessary, in addition to amounts otherwise authorized, to carry out this subsection, including for the production of more external tanks as may be needed."

Editor's note: Rep. Weldon is exorcising some non-space demons at the same time that he is trying to prolong shuttle operations. This legislation also includes a large amount of Russia-bashing - much of it gratuitous - much more than is needed to make the simple point (agreed to by many) that the U.S. should not be reliant upon Russia (or any other country) to fly American astronauts. i.e. "Despite United States objections, Russia sold billions of dollars worth of weapons to the regime of Hugo Chavez in 2006. Such meddling is a possible violation of the Monroe Doctrine and a throwback to the Cold War era."

Reaction To Weldon's Shuttle/Orion Proposal

Our position: Bringing the next space ship on line faster is the best solution, editorial, Orlando Sentinel

"Congressman Dave Weldon is right to be concerned about the looming gap between the space shuttle's retirement in 2010 and the launch of NASA's next manned vehicle in 2015 or later. But he's also right that his plan to fill the gap isn't very likely to pass. Actually, it has about a daisy's chance on the moon."

Shuttle Update

NASA Tanking Test Completed For Space Shuttle Atlantis

"After Tuesday's test of Atlantis' external fuel tank, NASA's Space Shuttle Program Manager Wayne Hale said he was pleased with the data captured from the special equipment wired into the tank's sensor system. Speaking from NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, Hale said with the information gleaned from the test "sets us on the right path to correct this problem so we can return this important safety system to operational capability so we can fly again."

Weldon Shuttle Extension Update

U.S. urged to keep space shuttle flying past 2010, Reuters

"[Weldon's] proposal, which would cost about $10 billion, would have the shuttles make six or seven additional flights between 2010 and 2013 and speed up development of the Orion ships to be ready by then. A second proposal would keep the shuttles flying until 2015 and leave Orion's schedule alone."

Weldon's Push To Extend Shuttle's Life Expands

Rep. Dave Weldon to Announce S.P.A.C.E. Act

"Rep. Weldon is announcing new legislation that would propose additional Space Shuttle flights through the "gap" in which America will not otherwise have access to space. This legislation will also provide additional resources for the Constellation project, and will have a positive effect on our national security as well as the local economy."

Text of Conference Amendment by Rep. Dave Weldon to Force NASA to Ensure That Space Shuttle Can Continue to Fly Beyond 2010

STS-122 Launch Slipped Again

NASA Targets Space Shuttle Atlantis Launch On Jan. 10"The workforce has stepped up to and met every challenge this year," said Wayne Hale, Space Shuttle Program manager at NASA's Johnson Space Center. "Moving the next launch attempt of Atlantis to Jan. 10 will allow as many people as possible to have time with family and friends at the time of year when it means the most. A lot has been asked of them this year and a lot will be asked of them in 2008."

Email Volleys and ECO Sensors

Internal NASA Emails Reveal Atlantis Safety Debate, Aviation Week

"Internal NASA emails from the director of Shuttle Safety at the Johnson Space Center and the Shuttle Program Manager show how they struggled with the potential risk to astronauts' lives in assessing how to proceed with the launch of Atlantis in the wake of engine cutoff (ECO) sensor malfunctions. Aviation Week & Space Technology obtained exclusive copies of these emails, which are reproduced largely in full here on AviationWeek.com to retain the context intended by their authors."

Wayne Hale Is Not Done Yet

NASA Internal Memo From Wayne Hale: "Not done yet"

"... So I've decided: I'm in it for the long run. I don't intend to leave before the last wheel stop. There is plenty enough excitement and fulfillment to outweigh the biggest bonus or the fanciest office. There will be time for the future when it comes. Because we're not finished yet. I hope you are in it with me."

Let's Fly The Shuttle Forever

Text of Conference Amendment by Rep. Dave Weldon to Force NASA to Ensure That Space Shuttle Can Continue to Fly Beyond 2010

"(a) The National Aeronautics and Space Administration shall take all actions necessary in fiscal year 2008, including renegotiating necessary prime contracts and subcontracts and ensuring that they do not expire, in order to ensure the option of operating the Space Shuttle beyond the currently planned Shuttle end-of-operations date in 2010. These actions shall be accomplished using existing funds made available by this or any other Act, and shall include -- "

Lawmakers want shuttle's life extended despite dangers, Orlando Sentinel

"Despite the objections of senior NASA officials and Columbia disaster investigators, key members of Congress are pushing hard to extend the life of America's aging space-shuttle fleet beyond 2010, potentially risking astronaut lives as well as the agency's program to return to the moon."

STS-122 Delayed Until January

NASA Postpones Shuttle Atlantis Launch Until January, NASA

"The launch of space shuttle Atlantis has been rescheduled for no earlier than Jan. 2, 2008. The postponement will give engineers time to evaluate false readings from the engine cutoff sensor system that measures liquid hydrogen in the external tank. Of the four engine cutoff sensors, ECO sensor number three gave false readings during Sunday's launch attempt. The sensor system is one of several that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shut down if fuel runs unexpectedly low."

No Shuttle Attempt On Saturday

Editor's note: NASA Watch has learned that there will not be a launch attempt on Saturday. The next launch attempt will be made on Sunday.

NASA Shuttle Information

SpaceRef Shuttle/ISS Information

No, Those Are Not Cracks

Editor's note: NASA PAO statement regarding STS-122 preparations:

"The post Mission Management Team meeting news conference has been pushed back to no earlier than 7:30 p.m. EST.

Reporters have been inquiring about a report from NASAspaceflight.com that stated: 'An 8 inch crack has been observed on one of the LOX Feedline brackets. Photographs are being taken at the pad, with evaluations to take place over the coming hours.'

It is not a crack. During a routine pad inspection, teams identified scuff marks on the LOX Feedline brackets. These scuff marks are within the allowable limits and there no issues."

Remembering a Runner

Dedication of the Willie McCool Memorial Marker at the United States Naval Academy, David Schuman, SpaceRef

"Amidst the regular burden of work, some may appreciate this short description of an emotional ceremony I attended this past Sunday at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. It was not widely reported in the media but held a very special significance for NASA employees, in particular for those who happen to be runners. I'm a runner and, while there have been many times when I've been tempted to break down on a racecourse, this was a special time."

Griffin on Shuttle and ISS

Testimony by NASA Administrator Mike Griffin: The Space Program after The Shuttle is retired

"Retirement of the Space Shuttle is on schedule for 2010 and critical to future Exploration plans. As we approach this date, we are hopeful that we can complete the ten remaining Space Station assembly flights, the servicing mission to the Hubble Space Telescope, and the two contingency Shuttle missions to the ISS within this timeframe. If it becomes clear that we will not complete the flight manifest by 2010, NASA will evaluate options and make adjustments consistent with not flying any flights beyond 2010. Continuing to fly the Shuttle beyond 2010 does not enhance U.S. human spaceflight capability, but rather delays the time until a new capability exists and increases the total life cycle cost to bring the new capability on line."

Senate Shuttle Hearing Today

Senate Hearing: Issues Facing the U.S. Space Program after Retirement of the Space Shuttle

10:00 AM - Live webcast

Editor's note: With regard to returning the shuttle and relying upon Russia for Soyuz flights to the ISS, Mike Griffin just said "I think it is unseemly in the extreme for the United States to depend on another country for access to space. I did not get us into this postion but I am trying to get us out of it."

Life After The Shuttle

Senate Hearing: Issues Facing the U.S. Space Program after Retirement of the Space Shuttle

"The Subcommittee hearing will address issues related to the retirement of the Space Shuttle, its remaining missions, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) plans to compensate should they not fulfill all mission requirements on schedule, and other issues facing NASA when the Space Shuttle is retired."

Thoughts on Parazynski's High Wire Act

Another voice: NASA's 'wow' factor, editorial, Houston Chronicle

"Even by past, lofty standards, the shuttle mission that ended Wednesday with the return of Discovery and its seven-member crew took the "wow" factor to new heights."

NASA "Party" Expenses

NASA'S Luxury, At Your Expense, CBS

"And most of the honorees? They're not NASA employees. They're from Boeing and other billion-dollar contractors that aren't picking up the tab. Bryan O'Connor is a NASA spokesman. What does he say to the criticism that these events are frivolous or extravagant? "I think what I would do is ask the people who we have honored to give me an idea if they think this thing was reasonable, if they felt they were honored properly," he said. [CBS News correspondent Sharyl] Attkisson said: "I wouldn't ask the honorees, I would ask the people who pay for it: taxpayers."

NASA Knows How To Party Slashdot

Editor's note: Gee, I wonder what could be done if NASA had CBS News Anchor Katie Couric's $60 million 5 year salary package to spend on things like this?

Discovery Is Home

Space Shuttle Discovery Lands at Kennedy Space Center

"STS-120 Commander Pam Melroy and Pilot George Zamka fired Space Shuttle Discovery’s jets at 11:59 a.m. EST to begin the descent to Kennedy Space Center, Fla. Discovery touched down at Kennedy at 1:01 p.m. ending its mission to the International Space Station. Discovery arrived at the station on Oct. 25 with the seven STS-120 astronauts quickly beginning joint operations with the ISS."

Stunning ISS Photos

Space Shuttle Discovery's Stunning Departure Photos of the International Space Station

"Backdropped by a colorful Earth, the International Space Station is seen from Space Shuttle Discovery as the two spacecraft begin their relative separation. Earlier the STS-120 and Expedition 16 crews concluded 11 days of cooperative work onboard the shuttle and station. Undocking of the two spacecraft occurred at 4:32 a.m. (CST) on Nov. 5, 2007."

Discovery Starts The Trip Home

Space Shuttle Discovery Leaves Newly Configured International Space Station

Discovery undocked from the International Space Station at 5:32 a.m. today. The shuttle and station crews ended joint operations when the hatches closed at 3:03 p.m. EST Sunday. STS-120’s stay at the station began Oct. 25 and featured four spacewalks to continue the on-orbit construction of the station. Discovery also carried the Harmony Node 2 module and a new crew member, Daniel Tani, to the station.

NASA STS-120 Report #27 2:45 a.m. CST Monday, Nov. 5, 2007
NASA STS-120 Execute Package FD 13
NASA ISS On-Orbit Status 4 November 2007

Additional ISS/Shuttle News

I Hope Mr. Bill Doesn't Get "Executed" By The Shuttle Crew

NASA STS-120 Execute Package FD 13

"It was absolutely a tremendous day! The entire team was awed by the outstanding work that you performed to make EVA 4 a great success. The extended team, both on-orbit and on the ground, deserves congratulations and it is a good day to be a part of the extended NASA family."

Editor's note: I am guessing that the Mission Control folks may be a little on the young side when it comes to SNL alumni. I am not certain that putting Mr. Bill in a document called an "Execute Package" is a wise PR move ...

USA Strike Ends

NASA workers' strike ends with contract, Orlando Sentinel

"The nearly five-month strike of about 500 workers involved in space-shuttle launch operations at Kennedy Space Center ended today with ratification of a new contract, according to a news release from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Local 2061. The workers include machinists, electrical technicians, crane operators and people who drive the giant crawler that gets the shuttle to the launch pad."

STS-120 On-Orbit

NASA's Shuttle Discovery Begins Mission to the Space Station

"The space shuttle Discovery and its seven-member crew lifted off Tuesday, Oct. 23, from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 11:38 a.m. EDT to continue construction of the International Space Station. During the 14-day mission, designated STS-120, Discovery's crew will continue construction of the space station with the installation of the Harmony connecting module, also known as Node 2. The crew, led by Commander Pam Melroy, will conduct five spacewalks during the mission, four by shuttle crew members and one by the station's Expedition 16 crew."

Nailbiting at the New York Times

An Arduous, Risky Mission, editorial, NY Times

"After vigorous debate at an all-day review, however, NASA’s top managers concluded that the risk was acceptable. Should the panels’ defects worsen during flight, the astronauts could attempt a repair in space or board the space station to await rescue by another shuttle. The astronauts, who were fully informed of the debate, endorsed the decision to launch. We’ll keep our fingers crossed that these judgments prove right. Another shuttle catastrophe would not only cost the lives of astronauts, it would also probably end the shuttle program and greatly delay completion of the space station."

STS-120 Preps Continue

NASA counting down to Tuesday's shuttle launch, SpaceflightNow

"NASA's shuttle launch team started Discovery's countdown today for a launch attempt Tuesday on what many consider the most challenging space station assembly mission yet attempted. Forecasters are predicting a 60 percent chance of good weather. The countdown began on time at 2 p.m. NASA Test Director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson said earlier today there were no technical issues of any significance at launch pad 39A."

More ISS and Shuttle News

STS-120 Go for 23 October

NASA Gives "Go" for Space Shuttle Launch on Oct. 23

"NASA senior managers Tuesday completed a detailed review of space shuttle Discovery's readiness for flight and selected Oct. 23 as the official launch date.

Commander Pam Melroy and her six crewmates are scheduled to lift off at 11:38 a.m. EDT on the STS-120 mission to the International Space Station."

TPS Issues With Discovery

NASA Studies Problem With Shuttle Wings, AP

"NASA spokesman Allard Beutel said the outer coating on three of the wing panels shows degradation, an issue that the NASA Engineering and Safety Center has been reviewing for the past several months. The safety center recommended Wednesday that the three panels be replaced before Discovery flies. But the shuttle program is leaning toward leaving them alone, for now, and proceeding with the launch based on data from other engineers, Beutel said."

The Gap Looms

Thousands Of NASA Jobs In Jeopardy, Channel 13

"In just three years, NASA plans to shut down its manned spaceflight operations until the new constellation program comes on-line around 2014. That could put 4,000 jobs at the Kennedy Space Center in jeopardy. Indirectly, 15,000 jobs could be lost, thanks to a slump in the Brevard County economy."

All Aboard the Shuttle Launch Junket

NASA JSC solicitation: Hotel and Conference Facilities for Space Flight Awareness Program STS-122 Event

"This notice is being issued as a Request for Quotations (RFQ) for Hotel and Conference/Banquet Facilities for the Space Flight Awareness (SFA) Program STS-122 Event. NASA's Space Flight Awareness Launch Honoree Award is our most prestigious recognition and honors those employees who contribute to ensuring astronaut safety and mission success. The award is presented to approximately 300 NASA civil servants, NASA contractors and international space agency employees. These employees are rewarded with a visit to the Kennedy Space Center as NASA VIPs. The honorees have the opportunity to view a shuttle launch, attend a reception/dinner in their honor, and meet with top NASA, industry and international space agency officials as well as members of the Astronaut Corps."

Editor's note: If NASA and its employees really wanted to relay the importance and experience of space travel - imagine what impact could be generated on America's educational system if you invited 300 teachers - or 300 students - to a launch - at Government expense. I am very familiar with how awardees are selected at NASA having once been a NASA employee myself. While many honorees have indeed worked very hard to get an award, it is usually a matter of managers looking around to see who hasn't been to a launch yet (or for a while). These shuttle launches are a dwindling commodity - one that will be followed by "The Gap" where no humans leave Earth from American soil. As such, NASA should use these remaining opportunities wisely - for maximum effect and value.

Reader note: Without SFA we would have no path to award great employee performance at this level. SFA is a very unique program and management has worked hard to focus events on employees and not parties and trinkets. While I cannot make apologies for the whole of NASA, I know that SOMD has sponsored folks like our video and pennant winners to launches. SOMD is also sponsoring the Node naming contest winner as well. Employee recognition is critical during this transition timeframe. Some of us would rather do more recognition. Many folks believe just as you have portrayed - it is a frivolous party expense. I have seen management fight to save it from budget cuts while keeping the focus on the employee. This is a consistent theme of the entire NASA-Industry advisory board. One of the reasons for the busses particularly is that fact that we have to house folks in Orlando. The cruise business has killed us in Cocoa Beach.

Regarding "All Aboard the Shuttle Launch Junket", I have been a NASA contractor for eight years, and in that time have not witnessed a launch or landing. Prior to this, I worked for a University researcher flying biotechnology experiments on the Shuttle middeck and witnessed six Shuttle launches and a landing. I would love to see another launch - I always cry at launches because they are beyond amazing...there are PEOPLE on that thing! But I work with just as many people who have never seen a launch at all, and I never miss the opportunity to tell them to go if they get the chance.

I'm all for students and teachers getting special invites to things like this, but its worth remembering that the incredible power of watching something launch that you had ANY hand in whatsoever reminds you with crystal clarity why you do what you do - put up with irritated managers, run tests and simulations, argue with people about the right way to do things, review documentation and make recommendations for best practices. Those aren't exciting, but they make that launch possible. When you get reminded of that, it makes it a little easier to the rest of it, day in and day out, and remember that even those of us who don't go into space can take pride in the fact that someone does.

Thanks for a great site.

The Space Flight Awareness Program may be good for the spaceflight folks and the NASA centers where those activities take place. The "rest of us" in Science, Aeronautics, etc., do not have anything similar and have to jump through flaming hoops to legally use appropriated funds for events that do not come anywhere close to the lavish spreads put on in the SFA program. This adversely affects the morale of everyone else. Employees should be recognized, but on a level playing field. The playing field should be leveled in such a way that fewer tax dollars are spent. If you are familiar with SFA, then you know the sums that are involved. The money could be put to much better use elsewhere, including, as you suggest, inviting students and educators to launches and other events.

In Front - Or Behind - Discovery?

Editor's note: It would seem that these good folks at KSC are a little confused as to which end is which on a space shuttle. Click on the image and you will see why ...

There's A Lot Of Truth In This

Houston, we have an image problem, Orange County Register

"Today most of us don't give much thought to the space shuttle - viewing it as just one of many multibillion-dollar government expenditures offering unknown benefits to the taxpayers. Yet not too long ago the space shuttle was widely considered one of NASA's most remarkable advances, rivaling in popularity other Space Age innovations like the zero gravity toilet and Tang."

Editor's note: If NASA could deal with the perceptions in this article alone, it could shift - and perhaps disipate - a lot of public malaise about space exploration.  This guy is (I'll bet, deep inside) itching to be wowed again.

Management Changes at USA

Richard Covey to Succeed McCulley as USA President and CEO

"Richard O. Covey has been named to succeed Michael J. McCulley as President and Chief Executive Officer of United Space Alliance, effective September 28, 2007. McCulley has announced his retirement following a distinguished career spanning 38 years as a Naval aviator, NASA astronaut and a highly respected space industry executive. Daniel C. Brandenstein of Lockheed Martin Mission Services has been named to replace Covey as USA's Chief Operating Officer."

Post Landing Opinions

The Space Shuttle Hobbles Onward, editorial, NY Times

"NASA will now look for quick fixes to reduce debris-shedding in the next few flights while it pursues a longer-term solution. But it has become increasingly clear that the shuttle’s design, which puts a huge external fuel tank insulated with foam above a fragile spacecraft, is fundamentally flawed. This problem won’t be solved until the shuttles are replaced with a new vehicle."

Orbital and Post-Landing Images of Tile Damage

Larger View - different angle

Endeavour Is Home

Space Shuttle Endeavour Lands at Kennedy Space Center

"Space Shuttle Endeavour touched down at Kennedy at 12:32 p.m., ending its mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour returned home two weeks after it launched from the Florida space port. Endeavour arrived at the station on Aug. 10 with the seven STS-118 astronauts quickly beginning joint operations with the Expedition 15 crew."

Watch NASA TV

More ISS and Shuttle News

Do Your Own Tile Inspection

Use Microsoft Photosynth To Examine Shuttle Endeavour's Tiles, Microsoft

"Prior to docking at the international space station the Space Shuttle Endeavour did a complete somersault enabling astronauts in the International Space Station to photograph the shuttle's bottom-side. The photos were then sent back to NASA for analysis. The Space Administration has been kind enough to share those images with Microsoft Live Labs. We have taken the photos and created a "synth" so people around the world can take part in the NASA experience."

Changing Mindsets

Caution Over Shuttle Shows Shift at NASA, NY Times

"Confronted with the same kind of problem that doomed the space shuttle Columbia, NASA officials, chastened by years of criticism and upheaval in the agency, took a markedly different approach during the current mission of the Endeavour, calling on an array of new tools and procedures to analyze and respond to the problem."

Endeavour Begins To Head Home

Endeavour Undocks from Space Station

"Space Shuttle Endeavour undocked from the International Space Station at 7:56 a.m. EDT today, ending an almost nine-day stay at the orbital outpost for the STS-118 crew. Undocking was moved up a day in preparation for landing on Tuesday. The earlier landing opportunity was selected in the event Hurricane Dean threatens the Houston area. It allows an opportunity for the shuttle to land before Mission Control, Houston, would be shut down in preparation for a storm. Mission managers are continuing to monitor the situation and assess their options."

More ISS and Shuttle News

On CNN Again

Editor's note: I was on CNN International at around 12:15 pm EDT today. Same topic as yesterday - tile repair.

Shuttle/ISS Crew Press Event

Shuttle Endeavour, Space Station Crew News Conference

"The 10 astronauts and cosmonauts aboard the space shuttle Endeavour and the International Space Station will participate in a news conference at 12:34 p.m. CDT on Friday, Aug. 17. Date:  Aug. 16, 2007"

Watch NASA TV

Editor's note: Looks like I will be on CNN Domestic/CNN International at around 12:30 pm EDT today - just before the press conference.

No Tile Repair for Endeavour

NASA decides no shuttle repairs needed, Endeavour safe to fly home with gouged belly, AP

"NASA decided Thursday that no repairs are needed for a deep gouge in Endeavour's belly and the space shuttle is safe to fly home. Mission Control notified the seven shuttle astronauts of the decision right before they went to sleep, putting an end to a week of engineering analyses and anxious uncertainty — both in orbit and on Earth. "Please pass along our thanks for all the hard work," radioed Endeavour's commander, Scott Kelly. Mission Control replied, "It's great we finally have a decision and we can press forward."

Damned if You Do; Damned if You Don't

Editorial: NASA needs better glue, editorial, Waco Tribune

"Now, shuttle Endeavour is in space with a damaged heat shield due to another piece of foam that came loose during launch. NASA has had plenty of warnings. It must fix this dangerous problem."

NASA right to emphasize safety, editorial, Newsday

"Let's hope - and pray - that NASA has made the right call and that the crew remains safe during re-entry, which is scheduled for next week. Let's also hope that, as long as there is a manned space program, NASA continues to improve its record on safety."

NASA nears decision on shuttle fix, AP

"Officials have to balance those fears with the risk that astronauts wearing 300-pound spacesuits and carrying 150 pounds of tools could bang into the shuttle and cause more damage as they try to fix the gouge. Putting the wrong amount of the caulk-like repair goo into the gash or failing to put it in exactly the right spot could make the problem worse, Shannon said."

Costly redesign only cure for shuttle's debris woes, USA Today

"Shannon has said he is "cautiously optimistic" that the gouge does not need to be fixed. It poses no risk to the crew, he has said, but could lead to structural damage on the shuttle."

Long Time Between Lessons

Astronaut Teaches in Space, and Lesson Is Bittersweet, NY Times

"Barbara R. Morgan got back to teaching yesterday. The students were in Idaho; she was in space, orbiting aboard the International Space Station. Students at the Discovery Center of Idaho questioning astronauts on the International Space Station on Tuesday. One of the astronauts, Barbara R. Morgan, had been a teacher in Idaho. The lesson was just over 20 minutes, but it was supposed to make up for more than 20 years, and it had a bittersweet air for those who knew the history."

Testing The The Decision Process

Will NASA's Reforms Fix Endeavour?, Time

"Dr. Jonathon Clark, husband of astronaut Laurel Clark who lost her life aboard the Columbia, says the agency can't afford to make anything less than a well-thought-out decision. "This is the kind of rock and a hard place scenario that you're in," Clark told TIME. "Realistically, I think NASA's going to do the right thing. And the right thing may not necessarily result in a good outcome but they really are trying to do their best. The world is hanging on to what's going to happen here."

The Morning Moron on WTKK radio

NASA And Its Hang Ups, Michael Graham WTKK

Editor's note: You know, I thought I had encountered just about every sort of vapid idiot in the media until I had the pleasure of being ambushed on Michael Graham's talk show Tuesday morning as he giggled about astronauts dying on Space Shuttles. Then again this is not the first time this twit has said things like this on the air - check this link. His producer Eric had called me half a dozen times to get me on the show before I finally said yes. Now I see why Eric did not tell me exactly what the specific topic would be nor the means whereby Graham would address it. Given what Graham said about NASA's "death machine" I tried to imagine Graham facing someone who rode into space - risking their life - for Graham and every other American. Then, to my surprise this guy has the nerve to post this:

"If Mr. Cowing finds my questions difficult to answer, he should hope not to face any from the families of the 14 dead astronauts."

Well guess what, you pathetic moron, I will be doing EXACTLY THAT Wednesday morning at 9:00 am in Alexandria, Virginia as an invited guest at the Challenger Center for Space Science Education. This is why I will be there.

Editor's earlier note: I just did a morning commute interview with Michael Graham on WTKK radio in Boston. The producer simply said that they wanted to talk about the shuttle. When I got on air Graham staged an ambush and kept hammering away at me saying things like "the space shuttle is the most efficient killing vehicle in use today" etc. and laughing and chuckling all the while as he tried to get me to agree that it as a "horrible mistake and should be replaced". When I told him "guess what, it is being retired" he was silent for a moment and then switched back to his astronaut killing rant. I then suggested that he just interview himself since he had already made his mind up on the topic. He continued to be obnoxious, so I hung up. No one is ever going to change this twit's mind.

I have done hundreds of radio interviews like this and have never hung up during one. This guy wins the a--hole of the day award from NASA Watch. Anyone who chuckles while talking about astronaut deaths - or anyone's death - has a few loose screws.

STS-120 Delay?

NASA May Delay Next Shuttle Flight, Aviation Week & Space Technology

"NASA is pondering whether the next space shuttle mission in October should be delayed for modifications to thwart a new external tank (ET) debris threat, following the discovery of a serious tile divot on Endeavour. The STS-118 crew conducted a focused inspection of the belly tile damage Aug. 12 using laser imaging sensors on the Orbiter Boom Sensor System (OBSS). The key area of concern is a damaged area extending 3.48 x 2.31 inches and spanning two tiles."

Tile Damage Update

Image

Inspection shows gash though tiles, NASA analyzing options, AP

"The unevenly shaped gouge-which straddles two side-by-side thermal tiles and the corner of a third-is 3 1/2 inches long and just over 2 inches wide. Sunday's inspection showed that the damage goes all the way through the 1-inch-thick tiles, exposing the felt material sandwiched between the tiles and the shuttle's aluminum frame."

Sneakernet is Use Aboard ISS

NASA STS-118 Execute Package FD04

"MSG 026 (15-0902) - EXECUTE PACKAGE SNEAKERNET FROM ISS SSCS

The following procedure should be followed on MCC "Go" to perform a sneakernet transfer of execute package messages from the ISS SSCs to the Shuttle PGSCs. During the docked timeframe, the Shuttle Ku coverage is very limited in the hours before crew wakeup due to ISS blockage. The Shuttle OCA OFFICER will uplink the Shuttle execute package to a Shuttle PCMCIA card (inserted into an ISS SSC) and you (shuttle crew) will move the PCMCIA card to a Shuttle PGSC in the morning and run a batch file to copy the execute package files to their standard location on the KFX PGSC."

Familiar Wake Up Song

Endeavour Undergoes Heat Shield Inspection

"The crew of the space shuttle Endeavour was awakened for its first full day in orbit at 8:37 a.m. EDT by the song "Where My Heart Will Take Me," performed by Russell Watson. It was played for Mission Specialist Rick Mastracchio."

Editor's note: You may find this song to be somewhat familiar. This is not the first time it has been played either.

STS-118 Mission Underway

Space Shuttle Endeavour Launched on STS-118 Mission

"Cheers and shouts can be heard throughout the Space Center as Endeavour, carrying the STS-118 crew, roars off the launch pad into the late afternoon sky to begin the 22nd mission to the International Space Station. "

Watch NASA TV
Additional ISS and Space Shuttle News

A New Standard of Excellence Has Been Set

Microsoft And NASA Team Up For 3-D Space Shuttle Tour, Wired

NASA, Microsoft Launch Collaboration With Immersive Photography, NASA

Groundbreaking Digital Experience for Endeavour Shuttle Launch. Microsoft Live Labs

"For the first time, people around the world can view 3-D images of the space shuttle Endeavour and surrounding buildings at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida before it launches into space, through a collaboration between Microsoft Corp. and NASA. Microsoft(R) Live Labs and NASA developed the environments using hundreds of photographs and a photo-imaging technology called Photosynth(TM). Photosynth uses hundreds of standard digital camera images to construct a 3-D view of an environment that can be navigated and explored in a highly intuitive manner."

Editor's note: You are out of luck, Mac users. According to this site: "The Photosynth technology preview runs only on Windows XP SP2 and Windows Vista.". I have seen this software demonstrated with my own eyes (on a PC) and it is jaw dropping.

Guess What New Cameras Astronauts Will Be Using

NASA JSC Solicitation: Digital Cameras and Digital Peripherals

"NASA/JSC has a requirement for multiple digital cameras and camera peripherals. The digital cameras and all camera peripherals must be manufactured from the same lot. NASA has a requirement for 48 Nikon D2XS SLR Digital Cameras. The cameras must be lubricated with Braycote lubricating grease which is approved for spaceflight during the manufacturing process. Attempts to compete similar efforts have been unsuccessful due to the camera equipment having to be manufactured from the same lot and items requiring Braycote lubricant grease having to be lubricated during the manufacturing and assembly process."

Editor's note: This Expedition 15 photo should give you an idea of what camera gear they already have on orbit.

STS-118 Delayed by 24 Hours

NASA's Space Shuttle Mission Postponed by 24 Hours

"The launch of space shuttle Endeavour on mission STS-118 has been postponed 24 hours to allow the shuttle processing team additional time to complete routine work before liftoff. The new launch is targeted for Wednesday, Aug. 8, at 6:36 p.m. EDT. The additional day will provide time to complete the processing and allow the countdown to begin at 8 p.m. Sunday. Despite the delay, the STS-118 crew will still arrive at Kennedy Space Center, Fla., at 5 p.m. EDT Friday. NASA TV will have live coverage of the arrival. On launch day, live coverage starts at 8:30 a.m."

Leaky Shuttle

NASA Probing Space Shuttle Cabin Leak, AP

"A week before Endeavour's planned liftoff, NASA was analyzing a cabin leak in the space shuttle Tuesday. The leak was detected over the weekend. NASA thought it fixed the problem by tightening a loose bolt, but testing Monday night confirmed air was still escaping from the crew cabin, said NASA spokeswoman Tracy Young. Engineers have yet to pinpoint the leak, which could require so much work that NASA might not be able to launch Endeavour on Aug. 7."