STS-126

[desktopsimmer]

Some interesting news on CNN

KU Antenna looks like it has a problem. I've heard that there is a manual workaround in progress. However if the KU-ant fails more, they swap to Star Tracker for getting to the ISS.

The thermal blanket might not be in a area on 'Major concern'. An RMS/OBSS inspection has been completed, results in next few hours.

And for more info here and here

Right it's 0230 GMT, I'm off to bed, been a long day for me

[JLM]

Check out this link, It might even help if you plan to make STS-126 a free mission addon.

http://www.nasa.gov/externalflash/STS126_flash/

[IceManHG]

I just heard on NASA TV that it was not a thermal blanket. It was either ice or an optical illusion.

BTW, who is the woman who does the commentary on NASA TV? She has the most soothing voice I have ever heard!

[spaceboy7441]

Today's highlights are
Docking, Rotate FE-2
– Rendezvous and Docking
– Downlink RPM photos
– Seat Liner swap
– OBSS Handoff to SRMS using SSRMS
So it's a big day. Hope all goes well I will try to keep this thread up to date.

[wolf68]

Thanks for the "realtime update" speceboy 
Just checked NASA TV and Endeavour crew just had their wake up call: it's gonna be a busy day 

[spaceboy7441]

They won't know the state of the KU radar until 150,000 feet (was it feet?) out.

24 minutes till TI burn.

Docking still scheduled for 5:04pm EST today.

[spaceboy7441]

Distance 1000 miles to Station.
Closing 138 miles per orbit.

Flight Day 3   
STS-126 Execute Package   
http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/290859main_EP_FD3.pdf

[spaceboy7441]

I meant to put NH Burn NOT TI Burn.

[spaceboy7441]

ODS ring extended

NH burn

Two good engines, good control.

"That was a good long burn, Endeavour. No trim required".

The NH burn added around Delta V of 125.9 fps

[spaceboy7441]

Enable Rendezvous Navigation in work. (Rndz CL Block 7A).

This puts Endeavours on board guidance computers into Rendezvous Navigation needed to support the upcoming rendezvous and docking.

[spaceboy7441]

Not a super video but it is the NC Burn.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_qqe7BxWY8

[spaceboy7441]

Target track setup should now be in work. This pre loads UNIVERSAL POINTING screens with the required data so the Shuttle can begin to track (point at) the ISS after the next burn.

[spaceboy7441]

Orbital convoy with Endeavour, ISS, Progress...

[spaceboy7441]

Just wanted to mention all info come from nasaspaceflight.com.

the Ku can provide data at greater ranges much than 135K, it's just that operationally the measurements aren't used until inside of 135K as the range measurements are corrupted beyond 142K. The 7K difference is to be conservative and ensure no bad data is processed in the nav system.
As well, the Ku can provide quality data down to 100 ft minimum. For ISS flights, the angle measurements become noisy at close ranges, but the range and range rate values are solid. Again, operationally, it's just easier to stop processing all measurements.

[spaceboy7441]

The ring extended.
You can see "sparkles" here, is it ice coming loose and floating away?