A New Recovery Process for Solid Rocket Boosters

Recovering the two solid rocket boosters (SRB) used to launch the shuttle has been done by divers in the past. Once the SRB separate from the Shuttle they fall back into the ocean, usually within a 150 mile radius of Jacksonville, Florida, divers are taken to the site of the SRB splashdown and would go to depths of up to 120 feet to begin their work. The first task would be to cut tangled parachute cords from the SRB. The next task is to insert the Diver Operated Plug (DOP) into the aft nozzle of the SRB. Once the plug is in place, air is pumped into the SRB forcing the water out. The booster them comes to the ocean surface and floats horizontally. It is then towed back to Hangar AF at Cape Canaveral Air Station for refurbishment.

The new process will use a one manned submarine called the Deepworker 2,000. The Deepworker 2000 is built by Nuytco Research Ltd., North Vancouver, British Columbia, is 8.25 feet long, 5.75 feet high and weighs 3,800 pounds. It can explore to depths of 2,000 feet and is equipped with a package of eight high-powered thrusters. The Deepworker 2000 will be evaluated during today's launch of STS 101.

DeepWorker 2000, will be deployed from Liberty Star once the right hand booster splashes down. The submarine will be evaluated on its ability to duplicate the job USA divers presently do at the recovery site. Using a manipulator arm, the submarine pilot will demonstrate capabilities to cut tangled parachute riser lines, if necessary, and attach a the Diver Operator Plug (DOP).

The test also will include evaluation of a new Enhanced Diver Operator Plug (EDOP) that features a motor powered locking mechanism that replaces the present manual system to enhance diver safety and reduce work load at depth. It also has been streamlined for easier handling underwater. NASA is always searching for better and safer ways to conduct shuttle operations.

If the evaluation is successful, the new method will be adopted and will greatly increase the safety of the recovery team by limiting their exposure to hazardous conditions. Everything looks great for today's launch at 4:15! Weather forecasters indicate a 90 percent chance of favorable weather at launch time today. The forecast calls for few clouds at 4,000 feet and broken clouds at 25,000 feet; visibility at 7 miles; winds out of the south at 12 gusting to 18 knots and temperature at 85 degrees F. Along with a slight chance of thunderstorms and thick clouds, officials will monitor wind conditions at the Shuttle Landing Facility.

I plan on meeting with many viewers of the launch today and publishing their thoughts and experiences for you in my next journal. Until then, enjoy the STS 101 launch!