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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."
Is it so difficult to just do a spacewalk and a visual inspection?
Always going forward, 'cause we can't find reverse.
NASA made the mistake in the late 60's when they deceided on going with the shuttle instead of continuing development of the ELV's. The saturn V had NO failures during missions, and only 1 engine cutout (Apollo 13, 2nd stage). Heck, Apollo 12 was struck by lightning! The problem with the shuttle, as it flies now, is that it is too expensive, and it getting old. The "original" design of the shuttle was for a piggyback arrangement in which the shuttle was taken up to a high altitude by a "mother plane" and then launched from there and the engines would thrust it on into orbit. But, they found out it would be easier to use the solid rocket motors, and we all know what happened in 86.