With such large masses, and the switch off of attitude control, I'd imagine
getting the whole assembly back into stability would be the best thing to do
before opening any hatches, as the stresses on the joint may have some kind
of detrimental effect. Also, presumably, some kind of equalisation of
pressures is required.

Brian

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Brian Gaff....Note, this account does not accept Bcc: email.
graphics are great, but the blind can't hear them
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"Katipo" wrote in message
...

"Lee Jay" wrote in message
ups.com...
Katipo wrote:
Something I have always wondered...

Why is it, that after a shuttle docks with the space station, it takes
nearly two hours for them to get around to opening the hatches?

Because they'd prefer to *verify* a good mechanical and pressure seal
to prevent themselves and/or all of their air from accidentally being
blown into space.

Seems like a good idea to me.

Lee Jay


Well I figured it would be kind of stupid to open the hatch before you
confirmed that the seal is good. However I'm surprised it takes so long.

Katipo