Space Shuttle Countdown:

Landing to Launch

Part 3: Lesson Helps

The Orbiter Processes

Contents OPF The Orbiter Processes Payloads Tiles Teachers & Parents Students Workshop STO: Landing to Launch

There are three major processes conducted in the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF): Safety Procedure Operations, Postflight Services and Pre-flight Payload Operations. As soon as the Orbiter arrives at the OPF, it will go through the Safety Procedure Operations, which includes removing residual fuels and explosive ordnance items. Then the Orbiter is ready for the next process - the Postflight Service Processes. Postflight Services include removing the Orbiter's previous mission payloads, main engine, vehicle inspection and testing. Tiles, which are installed on the surface of the Orbiter to protect the Orbiter from extreme temperatures, will be replaced and repaired during this stage. Pre-flight Payload Operations are sometimes called the checkout processes. Payloads for the next flight, which are rolled to the OPF in a canister, will be installed into the Orbiter's payload bay. The final operation called for is payload door closure. The Orbiter will then be ready for transferring to the VAB. Top