International Systems Integration on the International Space Station
- Paper number
IAC-07-B3.1.01
- Author
Mr. William Gerstenmaier, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), United States
- Coauthor
Mr. Ronald Ticker, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)/Headquarters, United States
- Year
2007
- Abstract
Over the next few months, the International Space Station (ISS), and human spaceflight in general, will undergo momentous change. The European Columbus and Japanese Kibo Laboratories will be added to the station joining US and Russian elements already on orbit. Columbus and Kibo Control Centers will soon be joining control centers in the US and Russia in coordinating ISS operations and research. The Canadian Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator (SPDM) will be performing extra vehicular activities that previously only astronauts on EVA could do, but remotely and with increased safety. This paper will address the integration of these international elements and operations into the ISS, both from hardware and human perspectives. Lessons learned during the engineering design and development of the hardware and software, as well as partnership development on the national and individual levels can be applied to the future of space exploration. Interoperability of on-orbit systems and ground control centers and their human operators from Europe, Japan, Canada, Russia and the U.S. pose significant and unique challenges. Coordination of logistical support and transportation of crews and cargo is also a major challenge, a challenge being addressed in part through the introduction of new capabilities such as the launch of Jules Vernes Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) and opening of the ATV control center. As we venture out into the cosmos and inhabit the moon and other planets, it’s the lessons learned on ISS, humanity’s orbiting outpost that is pioneering the complex systems and interactions making these journeys possible.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-07-B3.1.01.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.