Post by Chicago Astronomer - Astro Joe on Aug 2, 2004 23:43:12 GMT -6
Suit Claims Bad Bolts Doomed Columbia
This from Space.com, states that it was faulty bolts that caused the tragedy, and not the foam insulation...
CAPE CANAVERAL -- A Delaware company is suing a competing NASA contractor, alleging defective bolts -- not foam -- doomed shuttle Columbia.
Hi-Shear Technology Corp., which made the booster-rocket connecting bolts for shuttles before Columbia's final launch last year, last week sued the company that replaced it, Pacific Scientific Energetic Materials Co.
Hi-Shear Technology Corp., which made the booster-rocket connecting bolts for shuttles before Columbia's final launch last year, last week sued the company that replaced it, Pacific Scientific Energetic Materials Co.
More here: www.space.com/news/columbia_lawsuit_040731.html
Bolts are harder than foam, and may explain the wing damage better than just insulating foam coming loose.