scope:

Abstract:

In August of 2003, a NASA Standard Initiator (NSI) test program was started. Four NSIs were modified to induce ejection, or in other words, a system failure in the test chamber. Three items were tested and the test was declared over. The fourth altered NSI was returned to the explosive magazine to support possible future testing. In April 2005, a Pressure Verification Test was started with NSIs to verify the pressure in the test articles to support Return to Flight. The first article selected was the altered NSI left over from the previous test. When fired, it was ejected from the chamber and caused the damage.