Re: Shuttle damaged during thunderstorm



Jeff Findley wrote:
Do hail divots increase foam shedding, and if so, would the areas impacted by hail produce foam shedding which could damage the shuttle's TPS?

I'd be worried about:
1.) The divots causing openings in the foam where water could get into it and freeze, leading to cracking due to ice expansion.
2.) The physical impact of the hail causing hairline cracks in the foam, weakening its attachment to the tank and leading to shedding during ascent.

Pat

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Relevant Pages

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