Shuttle Atlantis STS-132 - Amazing Shuttle Launch Experience

Summary

The script details the final preparations and launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-132, highlighting the Vehicle Assembly Building, the crew's journey to Pad 39A, and their ascent into space. The astronauts' ingress, liftoff, and the thrilling acceleration to orbit are vividly described, culminating in the successful main engine cutoff and separation from the external tank. The narrative captures the excitement and precision of a shuttle launch, with the crew achieving 'ludicrous speed' on their way to the International Space Station.

Takeaways

• 🚀 The script describes the preparation and launch of a space shuttle mission, specifically the Atlantis on STS-132.
• 🌟 The Vehicle Assembly Building is where the shuttle is assembled before being transported to the launch pad.
• 🔍 Final inspection teams and close out crews perform thorough checks before the launch.
• 🌐 Pad 39A is the launch site for the shuttle Atlantis, where the crew prepares for liftoff.
• 👨‍🚀 The crew, including Commander Ken Ham and Mission Specialist Steve Bowen, undergoes a detailed boarding process.
• 🛠️ The astronauts wear launch and entry suits for protection, and the crew is assisted in donning these suits.
• 🔥 The main engines of the shuttle are throttled down to 72% of rated thrust as it passes through maximum dynamic pressure.
• 🚀 The shuttle Atlantis lifts off, with Houston taking control and the crew assuming a 'heads down' position.
• 🔄 Booster separation is confirmed, and the onboard guidance system corrects any dispersions introduced during separation.
• 🌌 After main engine cutoff (MECO), Atlantis separates from the external fuel tank and performs a plus x burn maneuver.
• 📸 The crew captures video of the external tank as it drifts away, providing ground teams with information on the foam insulation.

Q & A

What is the Vehicle Assembly Building and its role in the script?

The Vehicle Assembly Building is where the space shuttle is assembled before it is rolled out to the launch pad. In the script, it is mentioned as the starting point for the shuttle Atlantis before its journey to the launch pad.

What is the significance of Pad 39A in the context of the script?

Pad 39A is the launch pad where the shuttle Atlantis is located, waiting for takeoff. It is the final destination of the shuttle's journey from the Vehicle Assembly Building.

What does the term 'final inspection team' refer to in the script?

The final inspection team is a group of professionals who perform the last checks on the shuttle and the pad before the launch. They ensure that everything is in order and safe for the launch to proceed.

What is the role of the 'Astro Van' in the script?

The Astro Van is the vehicle that transports the astronauts from the Launch Mission Control to the launch pad. It is escorted by a NASA security van as per the standard procedure.

What is the significance of the 'elevator' and 'orbiter access arm' mentioned in the script?

The elevator and orbiter access arm are parts of the infrastructure at the launch pad that help the astronauts reach the crew compartment of the shuttle. The astronauts use the elevator to ascend to the pad's surface and then cross the orbiter access arm to board the shuttle.

Who is Ken Ham in the context of the script?

Ken Ham is the commander of the mission, and he is the first crew member to board the shuttle Atlantis, as mentioned in the script.

What does 'SRO' stand for and its importance in the script?

SRO stands for 'Satisfactory Range of Operations'. It indicates that the shuttle is clear to launch and that the range is ready for the shuttle to proceed with the launch.

What is the purpose of the 'sound suppression water system' mentioned in the script?

The sound suppression water system is activated to reduce the noise and vibration caused by the shuttle's engines during liftoff, protecting both the vehicle and the launch pad infrastructure.

What does 'MECO' stand for and when does it occur in the script?

MECO stands for 'Main Engine Cutoff'. It is a critical moment in the launch sequence when the shuttle's main engines are shut down, and it occurs after the shuttle has gained sufficient altitude and speed to continue its journey to orbit.

What is the significance of the 'external fuel tank' in the script?

The external fuel tank is a crucial component of the shuttle system that holds the fuel for the main engines. After the main engines shut down, the external tank is separated from the shuttle to reduce weight and is later observed by the crew for any signs of damage or foam shedding.

What is the meaning of 'OMS 1 not required' in the context of the script?

OMS 1 refers to the first Orbital Maneuvering System burn, which is used for adjusting the shuttle's orbit. In the script, it is stated as 'not required' because the shuttle has achieved the desired orbit without the need for this burn.