Well, I just arrived from Denver where we were applying the STA-54 in the test article at Lockheed's Materials Testing Lab. We encountered a couple hiccups during the test, but were able to bring it back so we can do some further testing in JSC's arcjet facility. I took a couple pictures of the robotic chamber, but forgot my camera USB adapter, so I'll upload the pictures tomorrow.
However, it's been made public that the Mission Management Team has decided to fly back with the repair in the as-is condition based on all the results of the models, tests in the arcjet, and various analyses.
Since this decision was made, Team 4 is no longer on alert for repair methods. I get to go home tomorrow and return to KSC and continue to help with getting Atlantis ready for an October roll over.
...and I finished my final today!! yey! 1 and a 1/2 classes left! :)
I started this blog to document the actions I am taking in trying to become an astronaut. It's my ultimate goal, my dream. Every week or so I post a new update to recap the week or add interesting pictures. I hope you enjoy the site and remember to follow your dreams no matter what others may think of them.
About Damaris
- Damaris Sarria Toepel
- Somerville, MA, United States
- Welcome to my blog! I grew up in California and later attended Texas A&M University to earn a Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering. I also hold a Master's degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. I previously worked at Kennedy Space Center for Boeing on the Space Shuttle Orbiter's Thermal Protection System. I transitioned to an engineering position with the MIT Lincoln Laboratory in Lexington, MA. I applied for the 2009 astronaut candidate program, but unfortunately did not get a call back. I applied again in early 2011 so fingers crossed! I currently am working on continuing my advanced education, involvement with space advocacy, and continuing to do all that I love in life!
Site Visitors
4 comments:
I understand the MMT rationale for not exposing the crew and the shuttle to unnecessary space walks and repairs, but wouldn't it still be prudent to apply this STA-54 so that a live test of its properties could be determined in a real environmental situation? What if the next time there is a bigger chunk missing? Wouldn't this live experience help to provide valuable data for potential future use?
I just stumbled upon your blog toda,y and I think it's fascinating. I look forward to following your progress as you chase your dream.
Also, there's a song that came to mind when I read your blog. It's called "A Day in Space" by a British band called "Ballboy." You can read the lyrics here:
http://www.lyricstime.com/ballboy-a-day-in-space-lyrics.html
Classes left before the thesis or are you in one of the programs that skips that step?
I am half way done with one class I am taking right and The next class will be my research. :)
Post a Comment