Space Shuttle to be Outfitted with New Sensors

Norman at Davis writes "Space.com is reporting on new "sensors designed to pinpoint potential damage from falling debris or other objects [which] will be installed into the wings of NASA's remaining shuttle fleet...." Unfortunately, the sensors won't be too sophisticated, MSNBC reports that 'the extent of damage would still have to be determined by an inspection by astronauts in orbit, using an extension boom equipped with cameras and lasers.' Apparently NASA is in the process of developing three techniques which will allow astronauts to spacewalk and repair holes up to fourteen inches in diameter. Finally... the Australian Broadcasting Corporation is also running an article on the topic, stating that "not only will computers provide state-of-the-art imaging, but Defence Department satellites will supplement inspections made by the shuttle astronauts themselves and photographs taken from the International Space Station." 'NASA's efforts to improve its ability to detect whether the shuttle has been struck during flight have evolved remarkably since Columbia's January launch, when engineers watched loops of film sent to Miami for development and projected against a wall by a noisy old projector.' Hopefully this new technology will prevent another Columbia-like disaster, as a space shuttle replacement is looking less likely by the day."

Comments

Bush can't have it both ways...

[Kevin Burtch]

"...as a space shuttle replacement is looking less likely by the day."

So are we going back to the moon (and to Mars) or are we going to keep NASA's budget a nearly incalculable fraction of the defense department's?

It is plainly obvious to me the reason that Bush suddenly wants to get back to the moon (and eventually Mars): Commerce, big-business, the only thing he's interested in.

I'm afraid this will end up starting a war with China over who owns the moon and Mars. After all, we've abandoned the moon (31 years ago), so it's open for claim.