john f. kennedy space center brevard county, florida - Environmental ...

positioned. The lower level of the work stand provides access to the SSME output nozzle, while
the upper level services the engine’s systems. The avionics control room for these stands sits in
the eastern are of the facility, to the west of the Drying Room.
The resource boundary extends from the outer footprint of the Orbiter Processing Facility High
Bay 3, approximately 10 feet, which includes all necessary components historically required for
its functions.
SIGNIFICANCE: The OPF-3 is considered eligible for listing in the NRHP in the context of
the U.S. Space Shuttle Program (1969-2010) under Criteria A in the area of Space Exploration
and under Criterion C in the area of Engineering. Because it has achieved significance within the
past 50 years, Criteria Consideration G applies. In addition to its individual eligibility, the OPF-3
is considered a contributing resource in the Orbiter Processing Historic District. The period of
significance for the OPF-3 is from 1987, the date of its completed construction, through 2010, the
designated end of the Space Shuttle Program. The Space Shuttle Program is the longest running
American space program to date. Unlike the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo programs, the
emphasis was on cost effectiveness and reusability, as well as the construction of a space station.
The OPF-3 is significant as the first of only two structures designed and built exclusively for
orbiter pre-flight and post-landing processing, and each orbiter was processed for its first
operational flight in this facility; the SSMEPF is a one of a kind facility designed specifically for
the Space Shuttle’s main engines. Under Criterion C, the OPF-3, which was constructed
specifically for the Space Shuttle Program, contains a large high bay, designed for the size of the
orbiter. The high bay has a platform system specifically designed around the shape of the orbiter.
This system contains stationary platforms set at various levels, which provide access to the major
areas of the orbiter. Each level is also fitted with moveable platforms for access to specific
components. In addition, a clean room environment is provided around the payload bay, when
the doors are open. Learning from the OPF, the high bay was designed for the easier flow of the
GSE. The OPF-3 also contains the SSMEPF. This facility was designed specifically to process
the Space Shuttle’s main engines. Like the orbiter high bay, it contains platforms that fit around
the engine, providing access to the main components. This uniquely designed equipment, rather
than the building’s exterior shell, provides the basis for the OPF-3’s eligibility under Criterion C.
The OPF-3 is of exceptional importance to the Space Shuttle Program, and because it is less than
50 years in age, Criteria Consideration G applies.
INTEGRITY: The OPF-3 maintains integrity of location, design, setting, materials,
workmanship, feeling and association.