NOTE: Yesterday, workers completed installation of Discovery's three main engines. Functional tests of the orbiter's global positioning system are also complete. Drag chute sensor instrumentation modification is in progress. Auxiliary power unit leak and functional checks are under way and installation of the integrated vehicle health monitoring system for the orbiter's main propulsion system continues. Engine heat shield fastener modifications continue as well. The rest of this week, workers will perform ammonia servicing and install the orbiter's transfer tunnel.
STS-96 SCHEDULED OPERATIONAL MILESTONES (dates are target only):
NOTE: Columbia is jacked and leveled in VAB high bay 2 undergoing system observation during a temporary storage period. Columbia will remain in the VAB until mid-April, when Shuttle Discovery rolls out of OPF bay 1. Columbia will then be transferred to OPF bay 1 to complete STS-93's orbiter pre-launch preparations.
NOTE: Installation of Endeavour's three auxiliary power units (APU) concludes today when technicians install APU No. 2. Valve modifications on freon coolant loop No. 1 continue to go well. Next week, fuel cells No. 1 and No. 2 are being replaced and preparations to replace the left-hand orbital maneuvering system engine are ongoing.
NOTE: Work on Atlantis' tactical air and navigation system (TACAN) is nearing completion and today technicians begin work with a powered orbiter. Atlantis' orbital maneuvering and reaction control systems are undergoing drain line modifications.
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