Preparing EMU for Space Station.
In today's fiscally constrained environment, it can be expected that systems designed for one space program will increasingly be used to support other programs. The example of the U.S. extravehicular mobility unit (EMU), designed for use with the Space Shuttle, and now part of the baseline for the International Space Station (ISS) program, illustrates the adaption process. Certifying the Shuttle's EMU for use aboard ISS requires addressing three fundamental issues: Identifying new ISS requirements to be imposed on the EMU. Extending Shuttle's EMU on-orbit service interval to meet ISS's longer missions. Certifying Shuttle's EMU to meet new environments unique to ISS. Upon completion of the certification process, Shuttle's EMU will meet all requirements for supporting both the Shuttle and ISS program. This paper discusses the processes for addressing these issues and progress to date in achieving resolution.
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Hamilton Standard Division of United Technologies Corporation, Windsor Locks, CT 06006-1010, USA.
D004867:Equipment Design; D006804:Ergonomics; D018478:Extravehicular Activity; D008021:Life Support Systems / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000592:standards; D013026:Space Flight / Q000191:economics / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000592:standards; D019442:Space Suits; D018531:Spacecraft / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000592:standards; D014481:United States; D018557:United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration