In Orbiter Processing Facility-1, a thermal protection system technician inspects the area on shuttle Atlantis' underside before a heat shield tile is installed. The tiles are part of the Orbiter Thermal Protection System that protected the shuttle against temperatures as high as 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit during the descent for landing.
In Orbiter Processing Facility-1, a thermal protection system technician inspects the area on shuttle Atlantis’ underside before a heat shield tile is installed. The tiles are part of the Orbiter Thermal Protection System that protected the shuttle against temperatures as high as 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit during the descent for landing.
Image credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller
Feb. 17, 2011