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July 20, 2005
Fix or replace?
While "fix or replace" refers primarily of the Shuttle's troublesome fuel sensor, the title could easily refer to the Shuttle itself. Like an old automobile, there comes a point of diminishing returns for repairs. We are rapidly approaching this point with the Shuttle, if not past it. My engineering friends are stymied about why NASA doesn't just "pull out the box," replace it, and bench test it later. My guess is that there are no spares--another logistical problem that will soon become critical.
[Shameless Plug:] One division of the company I work for (Radian Inc) is MILPARTS, an organization that reengineers parts when the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) no longer exists. Maybe I should give them a call. Of course, for all I know, NASA has called them already. Gosh knows I've tried to drag my company, kicking and screaming, into the space age. Maybe now would be a good time to start.
Posted by bart_leahy at July 20, 2005 06:53 AM
