The modified external tank being readied for the planned Aug. 28 launch of shuttle Atlantis sustained minor damage this week when a work platform came into contact with it.Designated ET-118, the tank is undergoing receiving inspections and modification work in a checkout cell in the Kennedy Space Center Vehicle Assembly Building.
The work platform dinged the so-called intertank region that separates the liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen tanks within the vessel. An indentation that is four inches long, 1.5 inches wide and 0.375 inches deep was noted and will be repaired by processing crews.
NASA officials say the repair work will have no impact on the Aug. 28 target launch date. The tank also will be ready to launch Aug. 21 if Discovery sustains severe damage on its upcoming test flight and Atlantis is pressed into service for a rescue mission.
Image note: Click to enlarge this NASA image of ET-118 in the High Bay Two East checkout cell inside the VAB. Photo Credit: Veteran KSC photographer George Shelton.
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