Integration of Russian Segment Payloads on the ISS Using the Space Station Remote Manipulator System

摘要

There are presently three critical Russian supplied modules which must be integrated as part of the remaining International Space Station (ISS) assembly operations, They are the Mini Research Module 1 (MRM1) , Mini Research Module 2 (MRM2), and the Multipurpose Laboratory Module (MLM). These Russian payloads were originally designed to be docked via a Progress vehicle. Progress-aided berthing was not readily achievable in all desired docking positions, and in the case of the MRM1, delivery to Station would be via Shuttle, prompting the use of the Space Station Remote Manipulator (SSRMS) to support the relocation and berthing of some of the Russian payloads.While the proven track record of the SSRMS in ISS assembly makes it a natural solution to enable the docking of such payloads, there are still a number of challenges to overcome. Assembly approaches, operational power, interface protocols, and final procedures must be coordinated between multiple space agencies (NASA, RSA, CSA). Preliminary analyses have shown that the tight mission tolerances and active Russian Module berthing mechanism result in a situation with the potential to exceed SSRMS safety load limits, potentially damaging the SSRMS. This prompted a multilateral action to effectively identify and mitigate these concerns. An overriding objective is to resolve all concerns with no impact to Mobile Servicing System (MSS) flight software.The paper describes the mission evolution and analysis sequencing, along with the engineering efforts undertaken to assess and address mission risks. The key identified risks and the chosen mitigation strategies and engineering solutions are discussed.