[neuron2]

If foam had corrupted the skin of the craft early in flight, sensors would have failed well before re-entry.

Please elaborate upon and cite your authority for this assertion. Thank you.

[dtel]

Well, let's see.
We're gonna run 17,00 MPH through outer space.
Maybe if you have ever stuck your hand out the window at 60+ MPH, you will notice the wind wantss to rip it off.
The same effect works in space.
If the wing was corrupted by the foam, it would have come apart during the sixteen days they were in space.
Was NASa concerned about foam damage?
Yes, indeed.
They admitted right away they were trying to bring it home as SAFELY as possible.
Did the foam pierce the skin?
Not by the evidence found so far.