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

Space Shuttle Program Historic Properties 6-33
NASA Kennedy Space Center
Program (1969-2010) under Criterion A in the area of Space Exploration as one of only
two structures built exclusively for Shuttle Orbiter pre-flight and post-landing processing.
It is also significant under Criterion C in the area of Engineering, as it clearly embodies
the distinctive characteristics of its type and method of construction. Its internal
components, such as the work platforms, were specifically designed around the shape of
the orbiter and placed at heights compatible with the orbiter’s access points. The
SSMEPF is also a one-of-a-kind facility designed specifically for the Shuttle’s main
engines. Because it has achieved exceptional 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 OPF-3
maintains integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and
association.
6.2.17 Thermal Protection System Facility (TPSF) (8BR1994)
Photo 6.22. Thermal Protection System Facility, south and east elevations.
(Source: Archaeological Consultants, Inc., 2007)
The TPSF, constructed in 1988, is located to the east of Kennedy Parkway, at the
northwest corner of the intersection of the orbiter towway and Utility Road, across from
the OPF in the VAB Area of KSC. The facility is used for the manufacture and repair of
the Space Shuttle’s thermal protection and thermal control systems, which include tiles,
gap fillers, insulation blankets, coatings, and adhesives. Each unique tile undergoes a
process which takes it from raw materials through finished product; the gap fillers and
blankets are assembled from pre-made fabrics. Following their manufacture, TPS
products are delivered to the OPS for installation on the orbiter.
The one- and two-story building, with an approximate total area of 44,000 ft 2 , features
exterior walls of corrugated metal and interiors finished with drywall. The building rests
on a poured concrete slab foundation and is topped by a flat, built-up roof. The first floor
contains the tile production areas. The tile machine shop fabricates billets of tile at
varying densities, depending on their placement on the orbiter. There is also a room that
October 2007
Archaeological Consultants, Inc.