Just a simple question. Can any currently planned commercial vehicle (with one or more launches) plan and complete a Hubble repair mission? I am looking forward to JWST as the next person but giving up such a still relevant instrument seems terrible to me. Any clues?
There were rumors of a possible EVA and robotic arm capability for the Dream Chaser.
I finally managed to convert this file. Its from 2010, so some things are obsolete. As you can see (pp.15-24), SpaceX has given servicing missions some thought.
As mentioned earlier SNC has said they intend Dream Chaser be used for servicing too, but I've not seen any details. Has anyone else?To be honest I think Dragon probably has the upper hand here mainly due to the many options afforded by the trunk, but here are some wild speculations on DC as a servicing vehicle:+ The DC's rear tunnel seems about the right size for a 1 person air lock. By contrast, Dragon needs to be depressurized/repressurized entirely for EVA.+ As with Dragon, a robotic arm would be protected inside a canister on the upper DC surface. If the base of the arm was near the cockpit windows these would provide excellent visibility for grapple and support of the EVA crewmember. (The interior of the arm canister will need handles to allow EVA translation from the back of DC to the work site.)+ If the arm canister doesn't disrupt the aerodynamics too much the arm can be returned for re-use (unlike with Dragon.)So, basically the same as Dragon except you have crewmembers supporting the EVA inside a pressurized vehicle - as happens with ISS EVAs - rather than while in their own EVA gear.
Right, but with DC where would the new and old instruments go?
Quote from: Micahgtb on 05/05/2012 06:20 pmRight, but with DC where would the new and old instruments go? Found these SpaeDev pics in my image collection, downloaded from the NASA CC pages. Lor-es, but the idea comes through loud and clear.Source: http://www.nasa.gov/offices/c3po/partners/spacedev/index.html
A brace of SuperDraco's on either side would give it a kick in the gas, but that'll probably never happen.
I know - but it's hypergolic and in the thrust range to be an abort motor. What are the other options?
Quote from: docmordrid on 05/06/2012 06:40 amI know - but it's hypergolic and in the thrust range to be an abort motor. What are the other options? http://www.astronautix.com/fam/stoiquid.htm