Replies to post #20093 on The Question and Answer Board (IHUB)

[excel]

Churak. The shuttle was completely gone over in 1999 according to a radio report I heard today. Computers as I understand it controls how they adapt to the severe heat with where they were at the that time.

Excel

Release the past; enjoy the present; Embarq the future!

[WillP]

Well, since you asked, although I hasten to add that I don't work in the field, it is my impression that the shuttles were designed and built to have a life of 100 missions. Presumably there is a good margin of error built in as well. At less than 30, that should not be a factor however.

[AKvetch]

Churak, from what I've read, the shuttles go through a complete rebuilding every 4 or 5 missions, and this one had the latest avionics. What is built to last for 100 missions is the air frame itself.

There are any number of things that could have gone wrong, including some of the heat tiles coming off, and the so called "zipper" effect at that speed. Given the complexity of the vehicles it is a wonder that more "accidents" have not already happened.

A tragic day for all.

AK