Post by Chicago Astronomer - Astro Joe on Aug 8, 2006 0:17:18 GMT -6
Skylab Restoration Project
In 1968 NASA ordered two identical flight qualified space stations (Skylab) built along with 3 full scale training mockups. One flight version, the 1st US Space Station was flown in 1973 and
orbited the Earth until 1979; the second flight element is now on display at the National Air and Space Museum. One full scale mockup, used by astronauts and engineers at MSFC during the
3 crewed Skylab missions (73-74) was on display for many years at the US Space and Rocket Center (USRC) located in Huntsville Alabama. Several years ago the Skylab exhibit was moved
outside. The original temporary weather coverings have failed and Skylab has suffered the effects of rain, sun, wind, plants, dust/dirt, mold, animals and vandals. Right now the Skylab artifact is nearing a point of no return.
To save Skylab the Alabama/Mississippi section of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) started the Skylab Restoration Project (SRP). AIAA is seeking volunteers
to help save this unique part the US Space Program. If you’re interested in volunteering for SRP please send an email to microgravityguy@yahoo.com. Our 1st effort will be to stabilize the
situation and remove (save) as much historic material as possible. Each volunteer will be given a US Space and Rocket Center Volunteer badge.
More here:
saveskylab.org/
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I remember Skylab from my youth. It's a shame that NASA is letting these training mock-ups rot and deteriorate. It shouldn't have fall on private citizens to save space relics. Wake up NASA!...
