STS-127 Launch HD | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Endeavor successfully launches, fulfilling Japan's hope for a space laboratory.

Key Insights

• 👾 Endeavor successfully fulfills Japan's hope for the Kibo space laboratory.
• 🚀 The orbiter experiences maximum pressure during the launch.
• 🚒 All three main engines perform well throughout the launch.
• 🌱 The Endeavor can reach its planned orbit on one or two engines if necessary.
• 🤗 Cooling is provided by the flash evaporator system before opening the payload bay doors.
• 🎟️ The Endeavor's mission extends to the International Space Station.
• 🚀 The launch sequence involves various systems activation and verifications.

Transcript

t minus one minute and counting the ground launch sequencer will verify that the three main engines are ready to start the booster joint heaters are being deactivated at this time t-minus 50 seconds we're transferring to orbital internal power endeavor is now running off of its three on-board fuel cells coming up on a go for auto sequence start at ... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the purpose of the Endeavor launch?

The purpose of the Endeavor launch is to fulfill Japan's hope for a space laboratory called Kibo.

Q: How fast does the Endeavor travel during the launch?

The Endeavor reaches speeds of up to 4,000 miles per hour during the launch.

Q: How many engines does the Endeavor have, and are they performing well?

The Endeavor has three main engines, and all three engines are performing well during the launch.

Q: Can the Endeavor reach its planned orbit with only two engines functioning?

Yes, the Endeavor can reach its planned orbit even if one engine fails, as it is capable of flying on two engines.

Q: How does the Endeavor manage cooling before opening the payload bay doors?

The flash evaporator system is activated to provide cooling before the payload bay doors of the Endeavor are opened in orbit.

Q: Is it possible for the Endeavor to abort landing and reach a lower orbit in case of engine failure?

Yes, the Endeavor can conduct a transatlantic abort landing on one engine if two engines fail or reach a lower orbit on two engines.

Q: What happens at the time of main engine cutoff and external tank separation?

At this point, the main engines are throttled down to maintain structural limits, and the external tank separates from the orbiter.

Q: What is the mission of the Endeavor after the successful launch?

The mission of the Endeavor and its STS-127 crew is to continue to the International Space Station.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Endeavor successfully launches, completing the Kibo and fulfilling Japan's hope for a space laboratory.

• The orbiter passes through areas of maximum pressure and reaches a speed of 4,000 miles per hour.

• All three main engines continue to perform well, enabling Endeavor to reach its planned orbit.