Dec 18 1982
From The Space Library
NASA successfully completed a 30 second flight-readiness firing of the new higher power Space Shuttle main engines at KSC. The test was to verify flight readiness of the three new engines and demonstrate in a launch-day environment the proper integration of all elements before the STS-6 mission. The successful test was a major step in preparation for STS-6, scheduled for launch in January 1983. Pre- and post-test activities included personnel from KSC, JSC, and MSFC.
This was the second time in history for static-firing the primary propulsion system of a manned spacecraft on the launch pad. A similar test of Columbia's three main engines occurred February 20, 1981, before the first Shuttle launch. Challenger's more powerful engines, each generating 390,000 pound of thrust at sea level, had been fired individually at NSTL but were fired for the first time today in a flight configuration.
The most significant problem was a high level of gaseous hydrogen in the aft compartment. NASA said that so much work remained in the crew compartment that Rockwell employees at KSC were scheduled to work in that area over the holidays. (NASA Dly Acty Rpt, Dec 21/82; NASA Release 82-187; MSFC Release 82-111)
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