May 12, 2009
atlantis is fine
I've read all of the reports, and the reports of the reports, and as far as I can tell Atlantis is just fine.
The small, superficial pits in the ceramic thermal tiles where the right wing joins the body of the craft are nothing to worry about. The pits are probably the result of some insulating foam that broke off from the fuel tank during the launch and just barely grazed the right wing.
The tiles on this part of the craft are some of the thickest and most secure. Atlantis is in great shape and the Hubble repair mission should go forward without any craft safety issues.
reactions, thoughts, comments, etc.
Posted by: Ferdinand | May 12, 2009 9:41 PM
Coincidentally, one of the most serious incidents of tile damage happened back on STS-27, which was also Atlantis. Yesterday's damage pales in comparison... Big yawn.
Posted by: Justin Dolske | May 12, 2009 10:44 PM
This NASA update brought to you by Baghdad Bob.
Posted by: Grey Hodge | May 15, 2009 12:28 AM
Maybe change the topic title to "space shuttle Atlantis" is fine.