Systems Engineering Seminar

Lessons for Constellation from HST:
Adapting Human Spaceflight Vehicles to Achieve Multiple Goals in Space

Presented by:
Harley Thronson,
Associate Director for Advanced Concepts and Planning
Science and Exploration Directorate, NASA GSFC

February 5, 2008, 1:00 p.m.
Building 3 Auditorium

Abstract:
Lessons for Constellation from HST:
Adapting Human Spaceflight Vehicles to Achieve Multiple Goals in Space

Not long after the development of major elements of the Apollo program in the mid-1960's, engineers, managers, and scientists began to explore how those elements might be adapted to achieve additional priority national goals in space. Perhaps the best-known of these activities was the Apollo Applications Program, which in 1965 designed a modified lunar module that would permit astronaut-tended solar and astronomical observations in low Earth orbit. Although never flown, many of the concepts evolved into Skylab, humanity's first space station. It was also arguably the most successful early demonstration of using astronauts and augmented human spaceflight hardware to achieve major goals in space that were not originally considered. Similarly almost a decade later, engineers and scientists who recognized possibilities of the Space Shuttle advocated for additional capabilities not originally intended for the mission. In turn, these early initiatives eventually made possible missions such as HST servicing, which probably remains the most publicly appealing and scientifically productive application of astronauts.

In this presentation, I will summarize these early efforts to extend the application of human spaceflight vehicles and the lessons that might be drawn for current elements of the Constellation program. I will discuss some of the concepts that have been proposed to use Ares launch vehicles and the Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle to accomplish major national science goals in space in addition to replacing the Space Shuttle and returning humans to the lunar surface.

Biographies:

Dr. Thronson’s responsibilities include identification, assessment, and advocacy for advanced human/robotic programs at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in coordination with other NASA Centers and industry.