America's Space Shuttle: Main Propulsion System (SSME) NASA Astronaut Training Manual

This unique and historic document provides extraordinary detail about the Space Shuttle's Main Propulsion System, including the Space Shuttle Main Engines. The official NASA astronaut training manuals comprised a major part of the formal flight crew training process, and were used by flight controllers as well. These internal NASA manuals were produced by the Mission Operations Directorate (Space Flight Training Division branch) at NASA's Johnson Space Center. The manuals and workbooks are extremely detailed and comprehensive, and are designed for self-study. A full listing of all acronyms and abbreviations used in the text is included. They provide a superb way to learn about Shuttle systems, hardware, and operational procedures. Special emphasis on crew interaction with the displays, controls, and hardware is included.

This manual covers the vital Main Propulsion System (MPS) and the Space Shuttle Main Engines (SSMEs) which power the Orbiter at liftoff. Topics include:

System Description (stages of engine combustion, hydraulically actuated valves, importance of net positive suction pressure at MEC0, command and data paths between each engine controller and associated EIU, propellant management system, helium system); Controls and Displays; System Operations (prelaunch, drain back hold time, required crew inputs during powered flight, SSME throttle down, LO2 and LH2 dumps, controller interface, importance of setting the MECO confirmed flag, controller power off, explanation of MPS-related Flight Data File procedures and rationale); Systems Malfunctions (which MPS mals cause the red and amber-colored engine status lights on panel F7 to illuminate, stuck throttle cases require manual shutdown, redline limits, requirement to check with MCC for low LH2 ullage pressure); Differences in the BFS.