STS-116: Space Shuttle Discovery

This recording documents the launch coverage for STS-116, with liftoff occurring at 8:47 PM. The countdown window began at T-minus 45 minutes and included a built-in hold at T-minus 20 minutes. Key ascent milestones discussed include solid rocket booster separation, main engine cutoff, and external tank separation, with the call for 'negative return' indicating the shuttle's altitude and speed were sufficient to continue to orbit. Notably, this mission is the first nighttime shuttle launch in over four years.

This recording documents the launch coverage for STS-116, with the countdown window starting at T-minus 45 minutes and including a built-in hold at T-minus 20 minutes. The launch was ultimately scrubbed at T-minus 5 minutes due to weather conditions, specifically a thick cloud mass and low ceiling that violated launch criteria. Key discussions included the assessment of a small piece of ice on the external tank, which was deemed not a flight safety violation.

This press conference during the terminal countdown demonstration test features Commander Mark Polanski introducing the STS-116 crew, including first-time flyer Suni Williams and European Space Agency astronaut Christa Fuglesang. Key discussions include the complexities of the upcoming assembly mission, the significance of the first night launch in years, and the crew's confidence in their training despite a compressed schedule. Notably, the crew emphasizes their readiness for potential contingencies during EVA tasks.

This recording captures the launch coverage for STS-116, with liftoff scheduled for 8:47 PM and a countdown window extending for 5 minutes. Key ascent milestones discussed include the roll program, solid rocket booster separation, and main engine cutoff. Notably, the crew, led by Commander Mark Polanski, successfully walked out to the launch pad on schedule despite earlier delays in tanking operations, which began nearly two hours late.

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This recording captures STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during the initial hours post-launch, specifically focusing on the activation of the Space Hab module and the robotic arm checkout led by first-time space flyer Nick Patrick. At approximately 4 hours and 32 minutes into the mission, the crew successfully troubleshoots an issue with the robotic arm's auto grappling mechanism, confirming it operates in manual mode. The commentary also notes the scheduled crew sleep period beginning at 1:47 AM Central Time.

This recording features the landing of Space Shuttle Discovery on Runway 15 at Kennedy Space Center at 5:32 PM, concluding STS-116. Notable moments include Commander Mark Polanski's smooth touchdown after a complex mission involving four EVAs and the successful deployment of the atmospheric Neutral Density Experiment at 12:23 PM Central Time. The crew expresses gratitude to the ground teams and reflects on the mission's achievements, marking a significant milestone in the assembly of the International Space Station.

STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during EVA 4 highlights astronauts Bob Curbeam and Krister Fugelsang as they conduct a solar array retraction task atop the P6 truss. At approximately 40 minutes into the spacewalk, Curbeam surpasses 39 hours of total spacewalk time, moving into 12th place all-time for spacewalk duration. The commentary details the successful retrieval of a portable foot restraint and the inspection of guide wires and grommets, addressing a grommet issue that required a gentle shake to free it.

STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary highlights the completion of a significant cryogenic configuration task led by Commander Mark Polanski, occurring just before the crew's sleep period. At approximately 6:30 PM Central Time, the team successfully manages the pre-sleep cryo configuration, ensuring all systems are set for the night. The commentary also notes the successful completion of physical exercises and the ongoing transfer of cargo to the International Space Station, with a focus on the efficient collaboration between the crew and ground teams.

This STS-116 mission status briefing, held on December 19, 2006, features discussions led by Tony Socaci and Kirk Shireman regarding the successful undocking from the ISS and the completion of major transfer activities. Notably, the briefing highlights the upcoming deployment of the RAFT and MEPSI satellites, scheduled for the following day, and emphasizes the importance of the late inspection of the shuttle's thermal protection system, with a 24-hour turnaround expected for data analysis.

This STS-116 mission status briefing, held on December 20, 2006, features Phil Engelof discussing the successful docked mission and the ongoing late inspection activities for the shuttle. Notably, the briefing confirms the scheduled deployment of the MEPSI satellite at 6:19 PM and the RAFT satellite at 7:58 PM Central Time. Engelof also addresses the complexities of landing site selection, emphasizing the preference for Kennedy Space Center while considering weather conditions at all three potential sites.

This recording documents the landing preparations for Space Shuttle Discovery, targeting Runway 15 at Kennedy Space Center. Notable moments include Chief Astronaut Steve Lindsey conducting weather reconnaissance in a T38 aircraft and later in a shuttle training aircraft, evaluating conditions for landing. The crew receives updates on weather conditions, with a focus on cloud cover and winds, as they prepare for the deorbit burn scheduled for 1:49 PM Central Time, leading to landing at 2:56 PM Central Time.

This STS-116 preflight briefing, held on November 6, 2006, features Wayne Hale discussing the unprecedented advancement of the launch date by a week, a rare occurrence in shuttle history. Kirk Shireman highlights the ongoing research aboard the ISS, including the Tropy experiment on seeds in microgravity and the successful relocation of the Soyuz vehicle. Notably, the briefing addresses the critical design review for the ice frost ramp redesign aimed at reducing foam debris.

This recording captures STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during the nose cap survey, approximately 1 hour and 54 minutes into the spacewalk. The crew, led by Bill Offiline, successfully completes the survey of the nose cap using the Orbiter Boom and Sensor System, with the task taking close to an hour. Notably, the extravehicular mobility unit (EMU) checkouts are confirmed complete, ensuring the suits are ready for upcoming spacewalks, and the installation of the centerline camera in the orbiter docking system is reported by Christopher Fugelsang.

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This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during a significant power reconfiguration task, where astronauts Bob Curbeam and Krister Fugelsang work on electrical connections in the Rat's Nest area. At approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes into the spacewalk, the crew successfully completes the power connection task, a critical milestone for the mission. The commentary also highlights the coordination between the crew and ground control, emphasizing the importance of synchronized operations during the complex tasks.

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This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during the undocking of Discovery from the International Space Station, occurring at 4:10 PM Central Time. The commentary highlights the successful completion of leak checks prior to undocking, which lasted 7 days and 19 hours, and the planned two separation burns initiated by Commander Mark Polanski. Notably, the crew includes Thomas Ryder, who is returning after 167 days in space, and the commentary confirms tracking of two objects lost during previous spacewalks, ensuring no recontact issues.

This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during the final activities before the crew's sleep period, approximately 3 hours and 3 minutes prior. The commentary highlights the successful installation of the P5 truss by astronauts Beamer and Krister, with assistance from the robotic arm operated by Joanie and Sunny. Notably, the EVA lasted 6 hours and 36 minutes, exceeding the planned timeline, and included the removal of the photovoltaic radiator grapple fixture. Additionally, the crew prepares for the upcoming solar array retraction scheduled for the following day.

This recording captures STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during the flight control systems checkout, occurring shortly after 9:30 AM. Commander Mark Polanski and pilot Bill O'Fallein lead the activation of auxiliary power unit number three, enabling the checkout of the orbiter's flight control surfaces and reaction control system thruster jets. Notably, the RCS hot fire test is completed by 10:40 AM, confirming the orbiter's readiness for reentry and landing opportunities. The commentary also highlights the upcoming deployment of the Atmospheric Neutral Density Experiment at 12:19 PM.

This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during preparations for the second spacewalk, scheduled to begin at 2:12 PM Central Time. Notably, the crew, including astronauts Robert Curbeam and Christopher Fugelsang, will conduct power reconfigurations on the International Space Station, with power down activities starting at 11:22 AM. The commentary also discusses the potential for a fourth EVA, emphasizing the need for crew input on timing and content.

This STS-116 mission status briefing, held on December 21, 2006, features Norm Knight and John Shannon discussing the successful late inspection results that cleared Discovery for entry, confirming the thermal protection system's integrity. The briefing outlines the deorbit preparations scheduled for 9:48 PM Central Time, targeting a landing at Kennedy Space Center at approximately 2:51 AM. Notably, the team emphasizes the weather concerns affecting landing site selection, with Northrop currently forecasted as the most viable option.

This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during the first spacewalk, where astronauts Bob Curbeam and Krister Fugelsang successfully install the P5 truss element to the International Space Station. At approximately 3 hours and 58 minutes into the spacewalk, the crew completes the installation, adding 4,000 pounds to the station's mass. The commentary also highlights the coordination with ground control, including a recommendation for the crew to sleep in shielded areas due to potential solar flare activity.

This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during the docking of Discovery with the International Space Station, occurring at 4:12 PM Central Time. The commentary highlights the successful capture of Discovery, marking its seventh visit to the ISS, and the opening of the hatch at 5:54 PM, which initiated joint operations. Notably, the crew includes first-time flyers Joan Higginbotham and Nicholas Patrick, who support the installation of the P5 truss segment.

This recording captures the landing of Space Shuttle Discovery on Runway 15 at Kennedy Space Center at 5:32 PM, concluding its 13-day mission. Notable moments include Commander Mark Polanski's smooth touchdown after a complex mission involving multiple EVAs and the successful deployment of the atmospheric Neutral Density Experiment. The crew expresses pride in their achievements, marking the 64th landing at Kennedy Space Center in the Shuttle program's history.

This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during the farewell ceremonies as Discovery undocks from the International Space Station. Notably, Thomas Reiter bids farewell after six months aboard the ISS, while the crew welcomes Sunita Williams to Discovery. The commentary highlights the successful completion of the undocking at 4:10 PM Central Time, with Discovery flying a half lap around the station before departing, showcasing the newly installed P5 truss spacer.

This STS-116 mission status briefing, held on December 15, 2006, features Kirk Shireman discussing the challenges faced with the solar array retraction, including attempts to induce motion through maneuvers like the 'wiggle.' The briefing highlights the successful charging of the thermal loop A with ammonia for the first time and outlines preparations for EVA3, which includes a potential 'get ahead' task to inspect the solar arrays. The team emphasizes the importance of learning from the current issues to inform future operations.

This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during the activation of the Space Hab module and the robotic arm checkout, led by first-time space flyer Nick Patrick. At approximately 5 hours and 40 minutes into the mission, the crew identifies a minor issue with the robotic arm's automated commanding, requiring additional manual steps for ungrappling. Commander Mark Polanski provides updates on the crew's progress as they prepare for their first night in space, with sleep scheduled for 1:47 AM Central Time.

This STS-116 countdown status briefing, held L minus 1 day before launch, features Jeff Spalding discussing the completion of engine software loads and the successful loading of cryo tanks. Notably, the briefing addresses an issue with Tyvek covers on thrusters that required replacement and highlights a 60% chance of weather prohibiting launch due to low cloud ceilings. The launch window is confirmed to open at 9:30 PM, with a target time of 9:35 PM.

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This recording documents the crew arrival for STS-116, occurring L-4 days before launch. Notable moments include the arrival of the final T-38 carrying Commander Mark Polanski and Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham, who is the second former Kennedy Space Center employee to fly aboard the Space Shuttle. The countdown for launch is set to begin at 11 PM at the T-minus 43 hour mark, with liftoff scheduled for 9:35 PM on December 7. The crew expressed excitement about the upcoming mission and the challenges ahead.

This recording captures STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during the second spacewalk, which began at 1:41 PM and concluded at 6:41 PM Central Time, totaling five hours. Astronauts Robert Curbeam and Krister Fugelsang successfully completed critical power reconfigurations for the International Space Station, transitioning to a permanent power system. Notably, the ground control team powered up the main bus switching units at 3:43 PM, marking a significant milestone in the mission's objectives.

This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during the third spacewalk, which begins at 1:25 PM Central Time. Notably, this EVA marks the first spacewalk for astronaut Suni Williams, while Bob Curbeam performs his sixth. At approximately 3:18 PM, the crew receives confirmation that no further work is required on the main bus switching units, indicating successful power reconfiguration for the station.

This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during EVA 4, highlighting the efforts of astronauts Bob Curbeam and Krister Fugelsang as they address a grommet issue on the solar array. At approximately 2 hours and 34 minutes into the spacewalk, Curbeam successfully executes a gentle shake to free a stuck grommet, which is confirmed by ground control. The commentary also details the coordination between the crew and ground teams as they navigate multiple retraction attempts of the solar arrays, culminating in a final retract at 5 hours into the spacewalk.

This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during the first spacewalk, which officially began at 2:31 PM Central Time. Astronauts Bob Curbeam and Krister Fugelsang perform egress procedures, with Curbeam experiencing a dislodged hand controller for his SAFER unit just as he exits the airlock. The commentary highlights their preparation for the removal of launch locks on the P5 truss element, a critical step in the installation process.

This recording captures the launch coverage for STS-116, with the countdown window beginning at T-minus 45 minutes and including a built-in hold at T-minus 20 minutes. Key ascent milestones discussed include the roll program, solid rocket booster separation, and main engine cutoff. Notably, the launch was scrubbed at T-minus 5 minutes due to weather conditions, specifically a thick cloud mass and low ceiling that violated launch criteria.

This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during the first EVA, where astronauts Bob Curbeam and Krister Fugelsang successfully install the P5 truss element to the International Space Station. At approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes into the spacewalk, the grounding strap installation is completed, marking a significant milestone. The commentary highlights the meticulous torque checks and the removal of soft capture pins, ensuring the P5 is securely attached.

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This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during EVA 3, approximately 2 hours and 16 minutes into the spacewalk. Astronauts Suni Williams and Bob Curbeam successfully activate the external thermal control system, confirming the cooling of new equipment on the station. The commentary highlights the installation of debris shield panels, with Williams maneuvered on the robotic arm to assist Curbeam in unlatching the hold down structure for the panels. Notably, the crew completes the task ahead of schedule, with a planned duration of 6 hours and 10 minutes.

This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during EVA 2, focusing on the power reconfiguration tasks performed by astronauts Bob Curbeam and Krister Fugelsang. At approximately 51 minutes into the spacewalk, Curbeam successfully completes the installation of a bypass jumper for the main bus switching unit, while Fugelsang removes circuit interrupt devices no longer needed. The commentary also notes the successful reestablishment of power to critical systems, marking a significant milestone in the mission.

This recording captures STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during EVA 4, where astronauts Robert Curbeam and Krister Fugelsang successfully retract the solar array wings, completing this task at approximately 5:53 PM Central Time. The commentary highlights Curbeam's achievement of surpassing 45 hours of cumulative spacewalk time, placing him fifth all-time for EVA duration. Additionally, the crew addresses a guide wire issue, ensuring it is clear before latching the blanket boxes, concluding the spacewalk at 7:38 PM Central Time.

This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during the approach and docking of Discovery with the International Space Station, occurring at 4:12 PM Central Time. Commander Mark Polanski leads the final approach, initiating the rotational pitch maneuver, which allows the ISS crew to capture approximately 300 photographs of Discovery's thermal protection system. The commentary highlights the successful completion of the docking sequence, marking Discovery's seventh visit to the ISS.

This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during the third spacewalk, where astronauts Robert Curbeam and Sunita Williams troubleshoot issues with the P6 solar array wing. At approximately 4 hours and 42 minutes into the EVA, the crew successfully installs a grapple bar on the Quest airlock and proceeds to inspect the solar array, identifying grommet issues that hinder proper folding. The commentary highlights Williams' first spacewalk and the coordination with ground control to resolve the anomalies.

This STS-116 mission status briefing, held on December 16, 2006, features John Curry discussing the successful execution of two EVAs, highlighting the flawless power and thermal reconfigurations. Notably, the crew completed a 7-hour and 31-minute EVA, which included a shake test on the solar array, retracting six additional bays, leaving 11 remaining. The decision to conduct a fourth EVA was made to ensure the solar array retraction is completed, emphasizing the mission's tight schedule and critical objectives.

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This recording features STS-116 on-orbit mission commentary during the first spacewalk, approximately 5 hours and 36 minutes into the EVA. Astronauts Robert Curbeam and Christopher Fugelsang successfully replace a failed camera on the S1 truss segment, marking Fugelsang's first spacewalk. The commentary highlights the coordination between the crew and Mission Control, including discussions about camera alignment and the completion of several get-ahead tasks.

This STS-116 mission status briefing features Wayne Hale discussing the unprecedented advancement of the launch date by a week, a notable achievement in shuttle history. Kirk Shireman highlights the ongoing research aboard the ISS, including the Tropy experiment on seeds in microgravity. Additionally, the briefing addresses the complexities of the upcoming EVA, including the unique golf shot experiment planned for the spacewalk, which involves a specially designed lightweight golf ball.

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