Title:
Design and Operation of Micro-Gravity Dynamics and Controls Laboratories
Design and Operation of Micro-Gravity Dynamics and Controls Laboratories
Author(s)
Saenz-Otero, Alvar
Miller, David W.
Miller, David W.
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Abstract
The cost and complexity of maturing spacecraft dynamics and controls technology
increases dramatically as the developer needs to demonstrate functionality in the space
environment. Due to the high cost and infrequent opportunities to exercise such
technology in space, dedicated free-flyers are developed which integrate a number of
high risk technologies. As the budget expands and real or perceived risk is recognized,
schedules extend and technologies are reduced or removed. Pushing advanced
technology to its limits in an operational environment is fundamentally at odds with the
risk-intolerant environment of space, leading to high costs and delayed testing. The MIT
Space Systems Laboratory has taken an alternative approach by developing a family of
dynamics and controls laboratories that have operated on Shuttle, Mir, and ISS. By
designing the laboratories to not ensure safety through software design, as well as
operating within the interior of these vehicles, the risk-tolerant and technically aggressive
nature of a terrestrial laboratory has been emulated in the long duration micro-gravity of
space. This paper will present the various laboratory design features that have led to the
low cost of this technology maturation approach: including modularity; platforming;
virtual presence; and facilitation of the iterative research process.
Sponsor
AIAA Space Systems Technical Committee ; AIAA Space Transportation Systems Technical Committee ; Space Technology Advanced Research Center
Date Issued
2005-11-10
Extent
405221 bytes
383946 bytes
1905 bytes
405221 bytes
383946 bytes
383946 bytes
1905 bytes
405221 bytes
383946 bytes
Resource Type
Text
Resource Subtype
Presentation