File:KSC-05-S-00056 (ksc 022805 htw lps).webm

English: The launch processing system at the Kennedy Space Center is used to interface with the orbiter vehicle. There is a system we have here at Kennedy Space Center called the Launch Processing System. This interfaces with the General Purpose Computers, or GPC’s, on board the orbiter. The whole time the orbiter is here we are using the Launch Processing System or LPS as we call it, to help test out the orbiter. We interface with those GPC’s. Particularly what is important is the interface that we have during the launch countdown. There does come a time during the launch countdown when the launch processing system here on the ground turns over complete control to the GPC’s so that they can control the flight. At anytime during the whole flight, the astronauts can intervene and take over most of the functions that the GPC’s are performing in one way or another. But when we’re here on the ground, the Launch Processing System is pretty much in control and interfacing with the GPC’s on board the orbiter. And that’s how the Launch Processing System works.