Testing at the Pad
August 3, 2005
The Rotating Service Structure is rolled back from around Space Shuttle Discovery at Launch Pad 39B for a propellant-loading test of Discovery's External Tank (ET) on April 14. During a tanking test, the tank is filled to launch levels with ultra-cold hydrogen and oxygen propellants, known as "cryogenics." The test is designed to evaluate how the tank, orbiter, Solid Rocket Boosters and ground systems are performing under full "cryo-load."
Topics:
Technology Internet, Space Shuttle program, Human spaceflight, Manned spacecraft, ground systems, STS-117, Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39, Rocket, Apollo program, Space Shuttle, Space Shuttle external tank, Rocket-powered aircraft
