Author: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Publisher: Createspace Independent Publishing Platform

Published: 2018-08-16

Total Pages: 34

ISBN-13: 9781725616103

A design concept for the construction of a permanent manned space station is developed and discussed. The main considerations examined in developing the design concept are: (1) the support structure of the station be stiff enough to preclude the need for an elaborate on-orbit system to control structural response, (2) the station support structure and solar power system be compatible with existing technology, and (3) the station be capable of growing in a systematic modular fashion. The concept is developed around the assembly of truss platforms by pressure-suited astronauts operating in extravehicular activity (EVA), assisted by a machine (Assembly and Transport Vehicle, ATV) to position the astronauts at joint locations where they latch truss members in place. The ATV is a mobile platform that is attached to and moves on the station support structure using pegs attached to each truss joint. The operation of the ATV is described and a number of conceptual configurations for potential space stations are developed. Mikulas, M. M., Jr. and Bush, H. G. and Wallsom, R. E. and Dorsey, J. T. and Rhodes, M. D. Langley Research Center NASA-TM-85762, NAS 1.15:85762 RTOP 506-53-43-01...