Space tools and support equipment - Current technology and future requirements

Abstract

Space tools and supporting equipment developed for past and current missions are summarized, along with projected tool and powered maneuvering aid requirements for future earth orbital missions. These tools, designed for functions such as general maintenance, replacement and repair, are reviewed and classified according to their intended application. A synopsis of the Skylab on-orbit maintenance requirements is presented, and the tools necessary for accomplishing the maintenance functions are listed. The proposed missions for future Earth Orbital Systems are summarized, and the potential functions (e.g., Remove/Replace, Cargo Transfer, etc.) are outlined. The current tool and support technology status is compared with future requirements for crew equipment to determine if these future requirements can be adequately satisfied. Of particular interest is a discussion of the augmentation of the astronaut with teleoperators (remote manipulator systems).