Kim, I can think of a few possible reasons why the net idea was ruled out. Firstly, it's a 'band-aid' for a flawed insulation adhesive system- makes more sense to repair the original problem than tape-over it with an additional fixative. Secondly, it adds mass, which comes out of payload (just like the hundred new "up skirt" cameras). Thirdly, it adds drag, which is related to the added mass problem and also means longer engine runs. Fourthly, the mesh size would have to be miniscule otherwise you'll possibly be dealing with lots of smaller pieces of foam instead of a few large ones. Fifth, it must be able to handle the aerodynamic stress of launch & flight, otherwise bits of damaged net could be striking the shuttle-imagine long lines whipping around, repeatedly striking the structure, possibly fouling control surfaces, instead of just falling away instantly. Sixth, it hampers maintenance & servicing access to portions of the main tank and could possibly interfere with certain other mechanical operations of the shuttle or launch tower mechanisms. Although the fishnet stocking idea (with seam) has a certain visceral, visual appeal to the average male, perhaps a better everyday item to adapt in this instance would be a condom. It doesn't address all of the above concerns but the aerodynamics are better and the fit certainly is, too. --- Kim Hyatt <kimharch@cut.net> wrote:
I listened to some of NPR's "Science Friday" yesterday afternoon. One of the topics was the Space Shuttle and the foam insulation. Sorry, but I don't recall who the interviewee was - someone from NASA. One caller asked the same thing that Guy suggested - well, sort of. The caller asked if a net of some kind could be placed over the external tank, but he didn't mention fishnet stockings. Anyway, the interviewee said that NASA had actually considered a similar scenario, but he didn't say why it was ruled out. Maybe designers got nervous about all those new up-skirt cameras that were recently installed on the shuttle?
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