Lessons Learned on Payload Delivery for STS-88:

VORTEX payload being lowered in canister at KSC for STS-88

GSFC safety officer will inspect all components to make sure they comply with the safety data package during integration at KSC. The safety officer will make a checklist from SDP to determine if the payload will pass inspection. The safety officer will make sure that there are the correct number of bolts in the payload, the correct type of bolts holding components down, loctite and or conathane is used to seal down bolts as specified in SDP, no cracked or damaged components, no extra components than what is called out in the SDP.

Even sealed components will be opened for inspection, even the battery box, so don't seal anything until after the inspection at KSC.

Include all ground support equipment in your PAR that may possibly be used and procedures for using that equipment because no equipment will be allowed on KSC property that wasn't specified.

The outer diameter of the upper ring of the shipment canister is exactly 19.75" while the canister below is 20", so payloads built to a 19.75" diameter have to lower the canister onto the payload instead of dropping the payload into the canister. NASA is trying to open the upper ring of the shipment canister so this is not a problem in the future.

Clean room facilities are provided to work on the payload.

Site only has digital phone lines. You will need to make provisions in advance if you want to use an analog modem connection.

Security passes are issued so that you may work on your payload at all hours.

No heavy lifting can be done on site without a safety officer present.

Battery Box will be pressured checked once it is sealed.

Canister will be pressure checked once it is sealed.

VORTEX team members preparing payload at KSC for STS-88