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Author
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Topic: LC14 Gantry Rail-Track question
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hlbjr
Member Posts: 481
From: Delray Beach Florida USA
Registered: Mar 2006
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posted 08-05-2006 11:14 AM
   
I've noticed the LC14 gantry(and some other early Atlas Mobile Launch Gantries) move back a short distance from the Atlas on one set of tracks, then seem to pause, and then move perpendicular to the east on a separate set of tracks. Is this true? Watching Spacecraft Films Mercury set I could actually see a raised set of rail wheels on the gantry which seem to have been retracted, while the gantry is moving to the east (perpendicular). Thanks for any insight in to this question.P.S.-I noticed LC13 seemed to have this arrangement early on but received a much bigger Mobile Launch Gantry which moved directly back (away) a much greater distance. [This message has been edited by hlbjr (edited August 07, 2006).] [This message has been edited by hlbjr (edited August 07, 2006).] |
Rick Boos
Member Posts: 851
From: Celina, Ohio
Registered: Feb 2000
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posted 08-06-2006 09:15 AM
Yes. When the gantry moved back it was positioned on a trasporter table which moved it towards the ocean. All of the early Atlas pads were that way. You are correct, Pad #13 changed after modifications in the early 60's.They got rid of the old A frame "flattop" gantry and replaced it with the larger newer style. The flame bucket configuration also changed to a dry bucket. |
hlbjr
Member Posts: 481
From: Delray Beach Florida USA
Registered: Mar 2006
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posted 08-07-2006 11:19 AM
Rick,
What is the difference in flame buckets? What is a "dry" bucket as opposed to another type? Harvey |
Rick Boos
Member Posts: 851
From: Celina, Ohio
Registered: Feb 2000
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posted 08-07-2006 09:08 PM
The inside of the dry bucket was coated with a fire resistant material, whereas the inside of a wet bucket was perforated and had water pumped into it. A good example (wet bucket) of this type can still be seen out at the ruins of Gemini Pad 19. On the side of the bucket you can still see the badly decayed water lines that led to the bucket. |
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