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On top of the launch pedestal at Complex 34 |
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We are on top of the launch pedestal at Complex 34. The torus ring and its
water nozzles are seen encircling the exhaust hole (temporarily covered by a
metal grating). Rising around the pedestal, outside the perimeter of the torus
ring, are the support/hold-down arms. There are a total of eight such arms: four
for support (the vehicle rested atop them prior to launch) and four hold-down
arms which both supported and restrained the vehicle until the engines were
operating at power.
Visible in the distance (directly west of us) is the
service structure. To its left is the blockhouse. Even further left is the
high-pressure gas facility, which stored pressurized nitrogen and helium.
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