NOTE: Shuttle managers decided Sunday to cut short the STS-83 mission because of a problem with fuel cell No. 2. Since launch, the fuel cell displayed evidence of internal voltage degradation. Though 2 of the 3 fuel cells on Columbia are in working order, flight rules require that all three be functioning well to continue a mission. KSC is the primary landing site for Tuesday, April 8.
The solid rocket boosters were returned to Hangar AF on Sunday evening and preliminary inspections show no evidence of nozzle erosion.
Landing Opportunities at KSC Runway 33: (Rev. 63) Deorbit Burn 1:31 p.m. EDT Landing 2:33 p.m. EDT (Rev. 64) Deorbit burn 3:06 p.m. EDT Landing 4:09 p.m. EDT Landing Opportunities at EAFB Runway 22: (Rev. 64) Deorbit Burn 2:58 p.m. EDT Landing 4:00 p.m. EDT (Rev. 65) Deorbit Burn 4:37 p.m. EDT Landing 5:36 p.m. EDT
NOTE: Installation of thruster seals into Atlantis' forward reaction control system (FRCS) and internal verification tests are complete. Leak checks on the orbiter docking system seals are complete.
Midbody close-outs are in work and leak checks on the crew module hatch are complete. Managers are considering removal and replacement of fuel cell No. 3, in light of the fuel cell problems on Columbia.
STS-84 SCHEDULED OPERATIONAL MILESTONES (dates are target only):
NOTE: Inspections and X-rays of Discovery's thruster seals are complete. The FRCS is scheduled for delivery to OPF bay 2 on Thursday. Testing of fuel cell No. 2 is complete.
STS-85 SCHEDULED OPERATIONAL MILESTONES (dates are target only):
NOTE ON ENDEAVOUR: The orbiter Endeavour is in OPF Bay 1 and system inspections continue. The payload bay doors are scheduled to be closed tonight. Preparations to move Endeavour to the VAB temporarily, to make room for Columbia, are in work. Endeavour is scheduled to move at about noon tomorrow.
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