The concept of a small Spacelab experiment propulsion platform to accomodate small free-flying shuttle payloads is considered. The orbit maneuvering propulsion system of the platform would economically utilize a monopropellant hydrazine system, while the eight attitude control thrusters of the fully three-axis stabilized system would use cold gas. The energy supply and telemetry/telecommand systems for the platform would be carried onboard, but due to the broad applicability of the design the energy for each payload cannot be provided by the platform. The platform could remain completely stabilized for a longer time in space, execute orbit maneuvers, and then return under its own power to the shuttle. Lightweight construction for the platform as well as highly energetic propulsion systems are unnecessary due to the relatively small specific shuttle costs. Thus it is possible to manufacture the platform cheaply, and more frequent utilization for the many free-flying shuttle experiments of the 80 s will be possible.
Feasibility Study of a Spacelab Experimental Platform (Seap)
1978
460 pages
Report
No indication
English