KSC-95EC-0768 - Woodpecker damage to STS-70 External Tank  


The power and persistence of Nature is demonstrated anew on man-made,
space age technology. At Launch Pad 39B, Flicker Woodpeckers
apparently decided to test the suitability of the Space Shuttle
Discovery's external tank for a future home. Their "survey" resulted
in about 71 holes ranging in size from 1/2 to 4 inches (1.27-10 cm.)
in diameter in the tank's thermal protection foam insulation. Managers
are assessing the damage and will determine what repairs need to be
made. Discovery was slated for a liftoff on June 8 on Mission STS-70. 



 
                                               5/31/95