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.

Outlines

00:00

🚀 Shuttle Preparation and Crew Arrival

The script details the quiet morning leading up to the launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis at Vehicle Assembly Building. The weather is favorable with a 70% chance of good conditions at liftoff. The shuttle is ready on pad 39a, and the final inspection team has completed their checks. The crew, including Commander Ken Ham, is seen boarding the shuttle amidst cheering crowds. The astronauts are assisted with their launch and entry suits and proceed to the pad in an Astro Van, escorted by NASA security. The crew's ingress into the shuttle is described, with a focus on the commander being the first to board.

05:03

👨‍🚀 Crew Boarding and Pre-Launch Countdown

This paragraph describes the process of the crew boarding Atlantis for the STS-132 mission. The crew members are assisted into their seats, and the commander is the first to be seated in the cockpit. The rest of the crew, including Mission Specialist #3 Steve Bowen, Pilot Tony Antonelli, and others, are also accounted for as they board the shuttle. The importance of the mission, which is the final flight for Atlantis, is highlighted. The pre-launch checklist is underway, with the crew confirming readiness and the ground team giving the go-ahead for launch. The launch sequence is initiated, with the main engines starting and Atlantis beginning its ascent.

10:48

🔥 Main Engine Ignition and Ascent

The script narrates the thrilling moment of main engine ignition and the subsequent ascent of Atlantis. The main engines are throttled down to 72% of their rated thrust as the shuttle passes through the area of maximum dynamic pressure. The engines then throttle back up to full power, and Atlantis accelerates to an altitude of 19 miles and a speed of 2,500 miles per hour. The twin solid rocket boosters burn out and separate from the orbiter, marking a successful stage of the launch. The shuttle's speed and altitude are continuously updated, showcasing the rapid progress of the mission.

15:55

🌌 Solid Rocket Booster Separation and Orbit Insertion

Following the booster separation, the onboard guidance system stabilizes the shuttle, and Atlantis continues its journey into space. The shuttle reaches speeds of 3,700 miles per hour and an altitude of 47 miles. The external tank is still visible from a camera, emphasizing the scale of the mission. The shuttle is confirmed to be in a single-engine OPS 3 status, indicating a successful main engine cutoff (MECO). The crew prepares for the plus x burn maneuver, which is performed by Commander Ken Ham, and the preliminary OMS 2 TIG is set. The external tank separates from Atlantis, and the crew captures video footage for ground analysis.

20:56

🎬 Post-Separation and Mission Acknowledgement

The final paragraph captures the moment after the external tank separation, with the crew taking photos and video of the tank as it drifts away. This footage is crucial for ground teams to assess the condition of the foam on the tank. The crew expresses their awe at the speed and power of the shuttle, with comments on achieving 'ludicrous speed.' The paragraph concludes with a note of appreciation for the mission control and launch control teams, and a correction to the launch date, which was incorrectly stated in the script as 2010.

Keywords

💡Tanking

Tanking in the context of space missions refers to the process of fueling the spacecraft. It is a critical operation that must be carefully monitored for any issues. In the script, 'tanking' is mentioned as being quiet, indicating a smooth fueling process without any complications, setting the stage for a successful launch.

💡Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB)

The Vehicle Assembly Building is a structure at the Kennedy Space Center where spacecraft are assembled before being transported to the launch pad. It is a key part of the launch process, as mentioned in the script, where the shuttle is put together and then rolled out to the launch pad, signifying the beginning of the final stages of preparation for liftoff.

💡Shuttle Pad

A shuttle pad is the location where the space shuttle is positioned for launch. In the script, Pad 39A is specifically mentioned as the site where Shuttle Atlantis is waiting for takeoff. The shuttle pad is an integral part of the launch infrastructure, providing the final platform for the spacecraft before it ascends into space.

💡Final Inspection Team

The final inspection team is responsible for conducting a thorough check of the spacecraft and the launch pad to ensure everything is in order before launch. In the script, their completion of the inspection and departure from the pad indicate that all is clear for the shuttle's launch, which is a crucial step in the pre-launch checklist.

💡Astro Van

The Astro Van is the vehicle that transports astronauts from the Launch and Landing Facility to the launch pad. In the script, the arrival of the Astro Van at the pad and the astronauts' subsequent actions, such as boarding the elevator and preparing to enter the shuttle, are key moments that bring the crew closer to the launch, highlighting the ceremonial and practical aspects of the process.

💡Launch and Entry Suit

The launch and entry suit, also known as an A-suit, is a specialized garment worn by astronauts to protect them during the launch and re-entry phases of a space mission. In the script, various crew members are assisted with their suits, emphasizing the importance of safety and the meticulous preparation required for space travel.

💡Main Engine Start

The main engine start is a pivotal moment in a space shuttle launch, marking the ignition of the shuttle's primary propulsion system. The script describes the countdown leading to this event, with the engines being throttled down and then back up to full throttle, illustrating the dynamic and carefully controlled nature of the launch sequence.

💡Booster Separation

Booster separation is the point in a launch when the solid rocket boosters, which provide additional thrust during the initial phase of the launch, are jettisoned from the shuttle. The script confirms booster separation, indicating a successful and on-schedule progression of the launch, which is a critical juncture in the mission.

💡Orbital Maneuvering System (OMS)

The Orbital Maneuvering System is a set of thrusters used for making adjustments to the spacecraft's trajectory while in orbit. In the script, the mention of OMS 1 not being required and the preliminary OMS 2 TIG (time of ignition) being set signifies that the initial phase of the launch was executed flawlessly, allowing the mission to proceed as planned.

💡MECO

MECO stands for Main Engine Cutoff, which is the moment when the shuttle's main engines shut down after they have completed their burn phase. The script describes the confirmation of MECO and the subsequent separation from the external fuel tank, marking the transition from the ascent phase to the beginning of the mission's orbital operations.

💡External Tank

The external tank is a component of the space shuttle system that holds the liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen propellants. It is jettisoned after the main engines cutoff, as mentioned in the script. The tank's separation is a visual testament to the shuttle's transition into orbit, and its controlled disintegration upon re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere is a safety measure to prevent damage to the environment.

Highlights

The shuttle Atlantis is prepared for launch at pad 39a, with favorable weather conditions at 70% for liftoff.

Final inspection team and close out crew have entered the pad, indicating the completion of pre-launch checks.

The crew departs the LMC (Launch Mission Control) and heads towards the pad, cheered on by the crowd.

Astronauts board Atlantis, with Commander Ken Ham being the first to enter the cockpit.

The astronauts are assisted with their launch and entry suits, ensuring proper fit and safety.

The crew is ready for ingress into the orbiter, with a moment to admire Atlantis before proceeding.

The Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) is highlighted as the place where the shuttle is assembled before rollout.

The Astro Van arrives at the pad, escorted by a NASA security van, a customary procedure.

The crew pauses to take a look at Atlantis before boarding, showcasing the astronauts' anticipation.

The crew is seated and ready for launch, with the commander and pilot boarding last.

The countdown proceeds with T-minus three hours, holding with 1 hour 2 minutes 50 seconds remaining in the built-in hold.

The launch director gives the go-ahead for the Orbiter Access Arm to retract, signaling the final stages of preparation.

Atlantis is given the go for main engine start, marking the ignition of the shuttle's engines.

Liftoff of space shuttle Atlantis is confirmed, with Houston taking control and the shuttle in a 'heads down' position.

The main engines are throttled down to 72% of rated thrust as Atlantis passes through maximum dynamic pressure.

Booster separation is confirmed, and the onboard guidance system corrects any dispersions introduced.

Atlantis reaches an altitude of 19 miles and a speed of 2,500 miles per hour, showcasing its rapid ascent.

The crew achieves 'ludicrous speed,' emphasizing the incredible velocity of the shuttle during ascent.

Main Engine Cutoff (MECO) is confirmed, and Atlantis separates from the external fuel tank, preparing for orbit.

The crew captures video of the external tank as it drifts away, providing ground teams with data on foam integrity.

Transcripts

this has been a very quiet morning for tanking, no issues that the team's working

weather is set at, currently at 70% chances of having good conditions at

liftoff time

This is the Vehicle Assembly Building, that is where the shuttle gets put together

and then it rolls out, a couple of miles, out to where the shuttle pad is

That's pad 39a... shuttle Atlantis is on there, is on there, waiting to take off

final inspection team and close out crew have entered the pad. *copy that*

final inspection team is complete and we'll be rolling back to AB11

Did we get everything? *Yes sir*

Inspection complete, we are departing the pad

copy departing the pad, and just head up Tom, flight crew has...

are in the process of departing the LMC at this time, you guys might make it

without having to pull over but I'll need you to be advised that they are in route to the pad

and here comes our STS-132 Atlantis crew

*cheering from crowd*

so with that, the Astro Van now will proceed on out to Pad 39a

there they go, and they'll be escorted out to the pad by a NASA security van, as is customary, behind them

the inspection team is on the way back from the pad in their vehicles, I don't think think the two will pass, but it will be close

the landing aids at the shuttle landing

facility are about to be activated should a return to a landing site be necessary this afternoon

The Astro Van now arriving arriving at the pad and going up the

incline the ramp, on the way up to the pad's surface

the crew compartment reports that they are ready for the astronauts' ingress

The crew may pause for a moment to take a look at Atlantis before they head up the elevator

and that's exactly what they're doing

that shot there, looking up the side of the flame trench

to the crew on the pad surface

and we're at t-minus three hours and holding with an hour two minutes 50

seconds remaining in his built-in hold

here are the astronauts now, getting off the elevator

ready to cross the orbiter access arm

and our commander Ken Ham

being assisted with his launch and entry suit

prior to boarding Atlantis to be our first crew member aboard today

here we see our Commander being seated in the cockpit

and Mission Specialist #3, Steve Bowen, being assisted with

his launch an entry suit

Steve Bowen now confirmed to be aboard Atlantis at this time

Tony Antonelli, our pilot, will be boarding next

Piers Sellers, is Mission Specialist #4

ready for his entry into the crew compartment

next to board, is Mission Specialist #1, aboard Atlantis on STS-132.

Yes, so we're three hours from launch, just a little under, and so some of these guys have already

been sitting on their back for a little while.

I guess when you can't turn your head, can't move around, a mirror is not a bad thing to have

and Mike Good, who you'll hear called "Bueno" on the loops during the mission

that crew has actually been working with these guys all through training

they are assigned, kind of, to the crew when the crew is assigned, and they show up at all the

training events where they're suited and kind of go through the whole

choreography every single time, make sure the suits are fitting just right

Mike Good coming into view in the MS 2 seat, and Chris Cassidy will start working on him here shortly

yes with the exception of the commander

and pilot and MS2, most of the guys are up and moving around very very quickly

and actually the guys down in the mid-deck will be getting out of the

A-suits (Ascent suits), pretty quickly after getting an eight-and-a-half minute ride to orbit

you can see the hatch there with Atlantis written down the side

SRO? SRO is go, you have range clear to launch...

and CDR? (CDR is Commander)

(CDR) Atlantis is Go

and NTD Launch Director you're clear to launch Atlantis

Copy that Launch Director

Go for Orbiter Access Arm retract.

Atlantis crew, our team has worked

hard and it's with great pride that we send the first "Last Crew" on Atlantis to

the International Space Station with the mini research module to be installed

t-minus two minutes and counting.

Atlantis, close and lock your visors and initiate O2

OTC, that is "in work"

the ground launch sequencer will hand off to

Atlantis' onboard flight computer, 15 seconds from now

firing chain is armed, sound suppression water system activated

t-minus 13, 12, 11,

10, 9, 8, go for main engine start, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1

lift off, of space shuttle Atlantis

Houston, Atlantis is in the roll

roger roll Atlantis

Houston is now controlling

Atlantis is in a 'heads down' position, on course for a

51.6 degree 136 by 36 statute mile orbit

you can hear the roar!

the three main engines on Atlantis have now been throttled down to 72% of rated thrust

As the orbiter prepares to pass through the area of

maximum dynamic pressure on the vehicle in the lower atmosphere

there you get the arc (as the vehicle builds lateral speed)

engines now beginning to throttle back up

Atlantis, you are GO at throttle up

Copy, GO at throttle up

all three engines looking really good back at full throttle now

at liftoff, the fully fueled shuttle, boosters and external tank weighed four and a half

million pounds, has now burned half of that lift-off weight in propellent

Atlantis is already 19 miles in altitude,

downrange from the Kennedy Space Center 20 miles, traveling 2,500 miles per hour

coming up on staging the point at which the twin solid rocket boosters burn out

and separate from the orbiter

booster separation confirmed

the onboard guidance system has done its job of settling out any of the

dispersions that have been introduced at the booster separation

Atlantis is traveling 3,700 miles per hour, at an altitude of 47 miles

this view from a camera on the external tank looking down the length of the orbiter

you can still see that little dot, wow!

Still there, that is wild you can still, if you know where to look

you can still see that dot going.

Atlantis, you are single-engine OPS 3

Copy, Single Engine OPS 3.

That roll the heads-up provides a good satellite communications link to with Atlantis

continuing its travel into space

you are press to MECO and single-engine Zaragoza 104.

Copy, press to MECO and single engine Zaragosa 104.

Scorch, I got the roll! *Lucky dog!*

Atlantis copies, nominal shutdown, go for the plus x, go for the pitch.

Still going

*splashing water echo sounds*

Atlantis is now travelling 13,000 miles per hour

580 miles away from the Kennedy Space Center at an altitude of 340,000 feet

Atlantis can reach orbit on one engine now, should two fail, however all three are

still in good shape. Atlantis is traveling 15,500 miles per hour

approaching eight minutes into the flight, downrange 740 miles

at an altitude of 64 miles

plasma? oh! are they burning out, MECO?

main engine cutoff confirmed, standing by for separation from the external fuel tank

There they go!

they're separating

Atlantis now flying away from the external tank, after separation

plus x burn maneuver being performed by a Commander Ken Ham

nominal MECO, OMS 1 not required, preliminary OMS 2 TIG will be 37:30

Wow! look at at that!

awesome

welcome back to space for you, and your veteran crew

Copy, 37:30

it's good to be back Scorch, as you know, and OMS 1 is not required!

as is typical with all Space Shuttle missions, the crew rapidly gets out their handheld camera and takes

them still and motion video of the external tank as it drifts away from the shuttle

this gives the ground teams an idea of

exactly how the foam on the external tank faired, to make sure that all of it

stayed in its proper position

if you look down, with these binoculars, at one spot on the ground

*yes* We are going absolutely ludicrous speed

ludicrous speed! we have achieved ludicrous speed

Distortion speed, if you were down there in an airplane you would be a cinder! This is ridiculous how fast we're going!

you can see some of the the cryogenics from

inside that tank still venting as the tank separated from space shuttle Atlantis

that tank also has what are known as tumble jets installed on it, that

enable the tank to basically flip end over end, to ensure that it actually breaks up as

expected as it goes back down into the Earth's atmosphere and disintegrates

and wow, what a ride, I was really digging, like, no master cautions that was a cool thing

yeah... not a one, nothing! We appreciate all the folks working the

ball bearings down in that MCC and LCC get us off the pad!

Incorrect Date of Launch, was 2010