NASA - Memo 1

(The heading is left vague, because I am not 100% sure who to address is to and from.)

TO:                         NASA

FROM:                        Heidi Pak 

SUBJECT:            Avoiding Disasters

 

In regards to STS 51-L, more commonly known as the Challenger Shuttle, there is a dangerous design problem that can become fatal.

Solid Rocket Boosters (SRB) are relatively new technology to us, as opposed to liquid-fueled systems.  As the Challenger will be the first astronaut-manned mission using SRB, we cannot take any risks.

The problem we have run across lies in the O-rings.  At launch, the O-rings will lose its original shape due to the pressures.  However, it is in the nature of the O-rings to return to their original shapes.  After numerous tests, we have found that there are milliseconds in between this transformation of the O-rings, that determine system failure or success.

O-rings return to their original shapes quicker in warmer temperatures, as opposed to colder ones.  With our launch deadline set for January 28, the temperatures have very little chance of being above 50 degrees.  When dealing with extremely sensitive materials that determine success or failure in milliseconds, it is unethical to gamble with the seven astronauts' lives and the reputations of our three organizations.

I urge the managers to consider a launch date further into the year, when temperatures outside can be reliably predicted.  

As funding is tight and deadlines are crucial, a public statement must be released regarding the crucial need for more research into the technology behind the O-rings, as well as supporting statements as to why we are relying on SRB versus liquid-fueled systems.

Thank you for your attention and consideration.