A Series of Unforeseen Events: The Space Shuttle Mission Evolution Flexibility
Author(s)
Lafleur, Jarret M.
Advisor(s)
Editor(s)
Collections
Supplementary to:
Permanent Link
Abstract
A common objective in the design of a new space system is that of flexibility, or the
capability to easily modify that system in the future in response to a changing environment
or changing requirements. The focus of this paper is a case study of the U.S. Space Shuttle
to glean some insight into fundamental characteristics of flexibility in human space systems
and how this may be applied to future systems. Data is presented on the evolution of
mission requirements over time for 120 missions performed by the Space Shuttle over a
period of approximately 27 years. Distinct trends in the time domain - as well causes of
these trends - are identified, and early manifest plans from 1982 serve as a confirmation that
these trends were not originally anticipated. Eight examples are then presented of
engineering modifications that allowed the Shuttle to adapt and accommodate these
requirement changes. Conclusions are drawn on the nature of flexibility as experienced by
the Space Shuttle. Finally, remaining questions are posed regarding how flexibility is
considered in the initial stages of design for space systems.
Sponsor
Date
2008-09
Extent
Resource Type
Text
Resource Subtype
Paper
Rights Statement
Unless otherwise noted, all materials are protected under U.S. Copyright Law and all rights are reserved