You still didn't answer the question. Since they already HAVE cameras on the shuttle at liftoff, how do YOU suggest that they decide within 25 minutes?
So many superificial posters. 25 minutes is loads of time to review tape of the lift-off and see the damage - IF you appoint someone to do this. Gosh - even NFL referees manage to review tape in 2 minutes.
IF you review the tape the next day, you won't find the damage quick enough to abort the mission.
IF you don't look at the wing, you won't be able to prevent a disaster on reentry.
Do you guys see a trend here? NASA is assuming perfect missions and skipping simple, (cheap even) steps that a prudent man would take. So far, I see 2 strikes...