Space/Science — HabitableZone

Space/Science » in reply to Space suits still need work.

Were Grissom, White and Chaffee set up to change response measures ?

With this article that I posted it is strange that such a high profile researcher as E. M. Roth did not mention this tragedy of the Apollo program. I do not have a date for publication, but it must have been after January 27,1967.
The investigation pointed out the shody work procedures (wrench left behind in one of the electronic compartments) the number of re-engineering requisitions that took place. The result, bad placement of wiring harnesses and glycol fluid lines.
Three major factors a glycol leak and vapourization, frayed wires, and the thin plastic strands of Velcro (ever burned steel wool?).
The astronauts did note there was a strange smell in the module before the last shutdown.
Uncanny how Roth cites problems in TABLE II of the article and warns caution.

There were warnings!

During the investigation of the fire a letter came to light that had been sent in early October 1966 by Hillard W. Paige, the vice President and General Manager of the missile and space division at General Electric. The letter had been sent to Joe Shea, the Apollo Program Manager, and it expressed the concerns felt by Paige towards the 100% oxygen atmosphere. He had said that it was unwise to be influenced by the success of the 100% oxygen environment for Mercury and Gemini. He added that "The first fire in a spacecraft may well be fatal."

Regards,

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