Author Topic: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)  (Read 49457 times)

Online DaveS

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #60 on: 04/28/2017 09:20 pm »
THE SSRMS is removing/replacing something on the ISS feed.  An RPC?
Is the SPDM grappled by the SSRMS? The RPCMs can only be R&R'ed by the SPDM or an EV. Alone the SSRMS is useless for R&R tasks.
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Online DaveS

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #61 on: 04/28/2017 09:25 pm »
Looking at the feed myself, it's an RPCM R&R that is in work. The view is from the SPDM looking at the alignment target of the RPCM.
"For Sardines, space is no problem!"
-1996 Astronaut class slogan

"We're rolling in the wrong direction but for the right reasons"
-USA engineer about the rollback of Discovery prior to the STS-114 Return To Flight mission

Offline robertross

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #62 on: 04/28/2017 10:58 pm »
Looking at the feed myself, it's an RPCM R&R that is in work. The view is from the SPDM looking at the alignment target of the RPCM.

Per L2:

swapping out "RPCM S11A_C with S14B-G"

Offline jacqmans

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #63 on: 05/01/2017 09:53 am »

ISS Daily Summary Report – 4/27/2017

Posted on April 27, 2017 at 4:00 pm by HQ.
 

Fluid Shifts Baseline Imaging:  The 49S and 50S crewmembers continued this week’s Fluid Shifts baseline imagery activities. With one crew member performing as an operator, ultrasound imaging was taken of arterial and venous measures at various body locations. Additional data from the Cerebral and Cochlear Fluid Pressure (CCFP), Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), a Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emission (DPOAE) test, ESA’s Cardiolab (CDL) Holter Arterial Blood Pressure Device, and Intraocular Pressure (IOP) was collected as well. Fluid Shifts is a joint NASA-Russian experiment that investigates the causes for severe and lasting physical changes to astronaut’s eyes. Because the headward fluid shift is a hypothesized contributor to these changes, reversing this fluid shift with a lower body negative pressure device is investigated as a possible intervention. Results from this study may help to develop preventative measures against lasting changes in vision and eye damage.

Everywear Investigation: A 49S crew member completed a sleep questionnaire as part of his Flight Day (FD)140 sleep assessment session.  The crew also removed a biometric patch they were wearing and transferred the data from it.  Everywear makes use of wearable sensors connected to a iPad tablet computer which is wirelessly synchronized with computers on the ground. This system seeks to demonstrate the benefits of extensive physiology data collection for both science and medical followup purposes.

Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Preparations: The crew utilized Dynamic Onboard Ubiquitous Graphics (DOUG) Software to review the translation paths during the EXPRESS Pallet Controller Assembly (ExPCA) EVA currently scheduled for May 12.

ISS Reboost: Early this morning the ISS completed a reboost using the Service Module main engines. The reboost was to set up planned conditions for 49S landing on June 2 and 67P launch on June 14. Burn duration was 30 seconds.

Cygnus Cargo Operations: The crew has completed ~25.5 hours of cargo transfer. Approximately 12 hours of transfer time remains.

Cycle Ergometer with Vibration Isolation and Stabilization (CEVIS) Status: The crew replaced the CEVIS Ergometer as a result of the crew reporting  a grinding noise. Ground teams reviewed video and audio and isolated the noise to a stepper motor in the CEVIS Ergometer. The crew will exercise on the CEVIS to veriify functionality and absence of noise.

Mobile Servicing System (MSS) Operations: Yesterday evening, Robotics Ground Controllers walked the Space Station Robotic Manipulator System (SSRMS) from Node 2 to Mobile Base System (MBS) Power Data Grapple Fixture 1 (PDGF1).  They then maneuvered the SSRMS to unstow the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator (SPDM) from MBS PDGF2 and completed the Mobile Servicing System (MSS) setup for the Remote Power Control Module (RPCM) S11A-C swap with RPCM S14B-G scheduled for tomorrow, April 28th.
Jacques :-)

Offline jacqmans

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #64 on: 05/02/2017 06:58 am »
ISS Daily Summary Report – 4/28/2017

Posted on April 28, 2017 at 4:00 pm by HQ.
 
NanoRacks External Platform (NREP) Installation:  The JEM (Japanese Experiment Module) Remote Manipulator System (JEMRMS) transferred and installed the NREP to the JEM External Facility (JEM-EF).  The Slide Table was returned to the JEM Airlock (JEMAL) and the crew pressurized and vented the Airlock in preparation for future JEMAL activities.  NREP represents the first external commercial research capability for testing in support of scientific investigations, sensors, and electronic components in space.

Genes in Space 2 Hardware Assembly and Checkout:  The crew assembled and checked out Genes in Space hardware in preparation for upcoming experiment sessions. The investigation is based on the winning student proposal from the second Genes in Space competition. It tests whether the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) can be used to study deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) alterations aboard the ISS.  Spaceflight causes many changes to the human body, including alterations in DNA and a weakened immune system.  Understanding whether these two processes are linked is important for safeguarding crew health but DNA technology that can track these changes is relatively untested in space.

Everywear Investigation: A 49S crewmember set up and performed pulse wave monitoring of their carotid and radial arteries for the Everywear investigation using a tonometer and an Everywear application.  Everywear is capable of aggregating data from different tools. It makes use of wearable sensors connected to an iPad tablet computer which is wirelessly synchronized with computers on the ground. This system seeks to demonstrate the benefits of extensive physiology data collection for both science and medical follow-up purposes.

Bigelow Expandable Activity Module (BEAM) Shield Installation:  The crew ingressed the BEAM and installed a Radiation Environment Monitor (REM) shield onto the REM sensor. This shield is a 1.1 mm thick component produced by the 3D printer on the ISS.  BEAM is an experimental expandable module attached to the ISS.  Expandable habitats greatly decrease the amount of transport volume required for future space missions. These “expandables” weigh less and take up less room on a rocket than a traditional module while allowing additional space for living and working. They also provide protection from solar and cosmic radiation, space debris, and other contaminants. Crews traveling to the moon, Mars, asteroids, or other destinations could possibly use them as habitable structures.

NanoRacks Module-55 Installation:  Today a crewmember installed the NanoRacks Module 55 on the front of NanoRacks Platform-1 in the JEM but the unit failed to power up nominally.  Troubleshooting by the crew did not resolve the issue so the sample was returned to cold stowage while ground experts investigate.

Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Preparations: In preparation for the EXPRESS Pallet Controller Assembly (ExPCA) EVA currently scheduled for May 12, the crew utilized Dynamic Onboard Ubiquitous Graphics (DOUG) Software to review the translation paths that will be used. They also performed a procedures review including detailed timeline, cuff checklist, tool config and planned getaheads. These activities were followed by a conference with ground teams to address any questions or concerns.
Jacques :-)

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #65 on: 05/02/2017 02:26 pm »
ISS Daily Summary Report – 5/01/2017

Posted on May 1, 2017 at 4:00 pm by HQ.
 
OsteoOmics Investigation:  In preparation for OsteoOmic investigation activities planned this week, the crew configured OsteoOmics hardware and the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG), reviewed procedures, conferred with ground experts and completed an OsteoOmics practice session.  Samples were retrieved from Minus Eighty Laboratory Freezer for ISS (MELFI) and General Laboratory Active Cryogenic ISS Experiment Refrigerator (GLACIER) for the investigation and temporarily stowed them for tomorrow’s operations.  Crewmembers experience bone loss in orbit due to lack of gravity acting on their bones. OsteoOmics investigates the molecular mechanisms that dictate this bone loss by examining osteoblasts, which form bone, and osteoclasts, which dissolve bone.  Improved understanding of these mechanisms could lead to more effective countermeasures to prevent bone loss during space missions and in a wide range of disorders on Earth. This may lead to better preventative care or therapeutic treatments for people suffering bone loss as a result of bone diseases like osteopenia and osteoporosis, or for patients on prolonged bed rest.

Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) Airlock (JEMAL) Operations:  In preparation for the deploy of NanoRack Cubesat Deployer (NRCSD) #11 satellites planned for May 15, the crew opened the inner hatch of the JEMAL, extended the airlock Slide Table (ST) into the JEM Pressurized Module (JPM), mounted the Small Fine Arm Attachment Mechanism (SAM) and Multi-Purpose Experiment Platform (MPEP) facilities to the ST and returned the table into the JEMAL.

Human Research Program (HRP) Collections and Operations: A 50S crewmember collected Flight Day (FD) 15 blood and urine samples yesterday and today for Biochem Profile, Repository, and Marrow investigations and air samples for Marrow.
•The Biochem Profile experiment tests blood and urine samples obtained from astronauts before, during and after spaceflight.  Specific proteins and chemicals in the samples are used as biomarkers, or indicators of health. Post-flight analysis yields a database of samples and test results, which scientists can use to study the effects of spaceflight on the body.
•Repository is a storage bank that is used to maintain biological specimens over extended periods of time under controlled conditions. This archive of biosamples will be used as a resource for future spaceflight related research.
•The Marrow investigation identifies the effect of microgravity on bone marrow.  It is believed that microgravity, like long-duration bed rest on Earth, has a negative effect on the bone marrow and the blood cells that are produced in the bone marrow.

SkinSuit Investigation:  Over the weekend the crew performed two days of Skinsuit activities. With assistance from a crewmember acting as operator they took measurements after donning the suit in the morning and again before doffing in the afternoon. The Skinsuit is a tailor-made overall with a bi-directional weave specially designed to counteract the lack of gravity by squeezing the body from the shoulders to the feet, with a force similar to that felt on Earth. The subjects perform an evaluation of the efficacy of the Skinsuit in reducing or preventing lower back pain and preventing spine elongation. They measure the gravitational load provided by Skinsuit and evaluate operational considerations, in particular hygiene, microbiology, comfort, thermoregulation, donning and doffing, impingement and range of motion. Results from this investigation will be used to prepare for long duration missions.

Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Preparations: The EVA crew completed the following in preparation for the EXPRESS Pallet Controller Assembly (ExPCA) EVA currently planned for May 12.
•Unstowed hardware from the Airlock not needed for the EVA and prepared the Airlock to support EVA operations.
•Reviewed a briefing package including hardware overview/tool config, detailed timeline, and expected Caution and Warnings.

Compound Specific Analyzer-Combustion (CSA-CP) Checkout: The crew changed the batteries in 2 newly resupplied CSA-CP units and updated internal clock settings. The units will remain deactivated with new batteries for at least 24 hours for sensors to re-establish bias voltages.

Mobile Service System (MSS) Operations: Last Friday night, Robotics Ground Controllers powered up the MSS and used the Space Station Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS) and Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator (SPDM) Arm 2 to extract the S11A-C Remote Power Control Module (RPCM).  They temporarily stowed this RPCM in the S14B-H empty slot.  Next, controllers extracted the S14B-G RPCM and installed it in the in S11A-C slot.  Finally the RPCM in the S14B-H slot (old S11A-C) was extracted and installed in the S14B-G slot and the MSS was configured for park.

Cygnus Cargo Operations Status: The crew completed Message #2 over the weekend. Teams are working to complete Message #3 but at present, there are no cargo operations planned for this week.
Jacques :-)

Offline jacqmans

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #66 on: 05/03/2017 02:20 pm »
ISS Daily Summary Report – 5/02/2017

Posted on May 2, 2017 at 4:00 pm by HQ.

OsteoOmics:  The crew thawed a BioCell and injected it into growth media in the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG). After all six BioCells are processed they are put in BioCell Habitat 1 which is placed in the Space Automated Bioproduct Lab (SABL).  Beginning with the media injection, subsequent BioCell operations are performed inside the MSG.  Later in the day the crew removed a media kit from a Microgravity Experiment Research Locker / INcubator (MERLIN) and inserted it into an ambient Cargo Transfer Bag for the next day’s operations. This is the first of four weeks of OsteoOmics operations. A different BioCell Habitat, each containing six BioCells in media, is used each week. Crewmembers experience bone loss in orbit, stemming from the lack of gravity acting on their bones. OsteoOmics investigates the molecular mechanisms that dictate this bone loss by examining osteoblasts which form bone, and osteoclasts, which dissolve bone. Improved understanding of these mechanisms could lead to more effective countermeasures to prevent bone loss during space missions and in a wide range of disorders on Earth. This may lead to better preventative care or therapeutic treatments for people suffering bone loss as a result of bone diseases like osteopenia and osteoporosis, or for patients on prolonged bed rest.

Fluidics:  The crew assembled Fluidics hardware and installed and configured it on seat-tracks in the Columbus module. They then started the first science run. Following completion of that run the crew replaced fluid tanks and performed the second run.  Fluidics is a fluid mechanics experiment with two main objectives:  a Slosh Study to investigate fluid behavior under microgravity during satellite maneuvers, and a Wave Turbulence Study to investigate the impact of capillary effect on wave turbulence without being masked by the effect of gravity.  Two tanks with different filling rations (50% and 75%) for Slosh and one tank with water for Wave Turbulence are used.

Radiation Dosimetry Inside ISS-Neutron (RaDI-N) Retrieval:  The crew retrieved all 8 of the Space Bubble Detectors that were deployed last week in the Node 2 module for the RaDI-N experiment and handed them over to the Russian crewmember to be processed in the Bubble Reader. This Canadian Space Agency (CSA) RaDI-N investigation measures neutron radiation levels while onboard the ISS.  Bubble detectors are used as neutron monitors designed to only detect neutrons and ignore all other radiation.

Dose Tracker: The crew completed a weekly medication tracking entry in the Dose Tracker application that runs on an iPad.  Dose Tracker documents the medication usage of crewmembers before and during their missions by capturing data regarding medication use during spaceflight, including side effect qualities, frequencies and severities. The investigation is expected to provide anecdotal evidence of medication effectiveness during flight and any unusual side effects experienced. It is also expected that specific, near-real-time questioning about symptom relief and side effects will provide the data required to establish whether spaceflight-associated alterations in pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics is occurring during missions.

Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Preparations: In preparation for the EXPRESS Pallet Controller Assembly  (ExPCA) EVA currently planned for May 12, the crew configured computers to record Extravehicular Mobility Units (EMUs) 3006 and 3008 operating data which ground teams will use for detailed analysis of the suits’ function. The crew also performed loop scrubs on the EMUs and filled the empty Liquid Cooling Venting Garments (LCVGs) with water which will provide cooling for the crew members during the EVA.

Mobile Servicing System (MSS) Operations: Yesterday evening Robotics Ground Controllers powered up the MSS and maneuvered the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator (SPDM) Body and Arm 2 as required to stow Robot Micro Conical Tool #2 (RMCT2) in the SPDM Tool Holder Assembly (THA).  They then configured the SPDM for the start of the Main Bus Switching Unit #2 (MBSU2) R&R and maneuvered the Space Station Robotic Manipulator System (SSRMS) into position to perform a survey of MBSU2 using SPDM and SSRMS cameras. Finally, Controllers maneuvered the SSRMS to the start position for the MBSU2 R&R which is scheduled on May 4.
Jacques :-)

Offline Space Pete

Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #67 on: 05/03/2017 05:38 pm »
Finally, Controllers maneuvered the SSRMS to the start position for the MBSU2 R&R which is scheduled on May 4.

Wow, this moved fast then!

First ever MBSU R&R via EVR!
« Last Edit: 05/03/2017 05:43 pm by Space Pete »
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Offline jacqmans

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #68 on: 05/04/2017 12:20 pm »
Jacques :-)

Online DaveS

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #69 on: 05/04/2017 05:15 pm »
Some EVA discussions currently talking place between MCC-H and Peggy Whitson. Currently talking about about EVA tool configs. No joy in catching any of the MBSU R&R work though.  Currently the feed is from a camera looking at the LCA on the US Lab.
"For Sardines, space is no problem!"
-1996 Astronaut class slogan

"We're rolling in the wrong direction but for the right reasons"
-USA engineer about the rollback of Discovery prior to the STS-114 Return To Flight mission

Offline jacqmans

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #70 on: 05/05/2017 06:14 am »

ISS Daily Summary Report – 5/03/2017

Posted on May 3, 2017 at 4:00 pm by HQ.
 

OsteoOmics:  The crew thawed BioCells and injected them into growth media inside the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG). After all six BioCells are processed were placed into BioCell Habitat 2 which is then placed in the Space Automated Bioproduct Lab (SABL).  Later in the day the crew removed a media kit from a Microgravity Experiment Research Locker / INcubator (MERLIN) and inserted it into an ambient Cargo Transfer Bag for the next day’s operations. This is the first of four weeks of OsteoOmics operations.  Crewmembers experience bone loss in orbit, stemming from the lack of gravity acting on their bones. OsteoOmics investigates the molecular mechanisms that dictate this bone loss by examining osteoblasts, which form bone, and osteoclasts, which dissolve bone.  Improved understanding of these mechanisms could lead to more effective countermeasures to prevent bone loss during space missions and in a wide range of disorders on Earth. This may lead to better preventative care or therapeutic treatments for people suffering bone loss as a result of bone diseases like osteopenia and osteoporosis, or for patients on prolonged bed rest.

Fluidics:  The crew replaced fluid tanks and performed the third and final Fluidics run today.  Following completion of the run the crew deinstalled the Fluidics hardware from the seat-tracks in the Columbus module. Fluidics is a fluid mechanics experiment with two main objectives:  a Slosh Study to investigate fluid behavior under microgravity during satellite maneuvers, and a Wave Turbulence Study to investigate the impact of capillary effect on wave turbulence without being masked by the effect of gravity.  Two tanks with different filling rations (50% and 75%) for Slosh and one tank with water for Wave Turbulence are used. 

Sprint Ultrasound 2 Operations:  The crew set up a camera and video, configured Ultrasound 2, placed reference marks on the calf and thigh of right leg, donned Sprint (Integrated Resistance and Aerobic Training Study) thigh and calf guides, and performed thigh and calf scans with guidance from the Sprint ground team. Ultrasound scans are used to evaluate spaceflight-induced changes in the muscle volume. The Sprint investigation evaluates the use of high intensity, low volume exercise training to minimize loss of muscle, bone, and cardiovascular function in ISS crewmembers during long-duration missions.

Meteor Hard Drive Swap: The crew changed out the Meteor hard drive located in the Window Observational Research Facility (WORF). The Meteor payload is a visible spectroscopy instrument with the primary purpose of observing meteors in Earth orbit. Meteor uses image analysis to provide information on the physical and chemical properties of the meteoroid dust, such as size, density, and chemical composition. Since the parent comets or asteroids for most of the meteor showers are identified, the study of the meteoroid dust on orbit provides information about the parent comets and asteroids.

On-Board Training (OBT) ISS Emergency Hardware: The 49S crew completed this regularly scheduled training to re-familiarize themselves with locations of equipment and positions of valves used in emergencies. During training, the crew will consult with specialists at Mission Control Center (MCC)-Houston, MCC-Moscow, Columbus Control Center and Space Station Integrated Promotion Center (SSIPC).

External Thermal Control System (ETCS) Non-propulsive Vent:  Ground controllers performed a planned ETCS Loop B Radiator Beam Valve Module (RBVM) P1-3-2 vent.  The ammonia vent was performed in an effort to isolate a slow leak suspected on ETCS Loop B.
Jacques :-)

Online DaveS

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #71 on: 05/05/2017 08:58 pm »
MBSU R&R is now in work by the Robotics team. Fram what I can tell, Dextre has successfully grappled the old MBSU. Currently it is not moving.
"For Sardines, space is no problem!"
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"We're rolling in the wrong direction but for the right reasons"
-USA engineer about the rollback of Discovery prior to the STS-114 Return To Flight mission

Online DaveS

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #72 on: 05/05/2017 11:23 pm »
MBSU R&R now in the final phase with the installation of the replacement MBSU taking place right now.
"For Sardines, space is no problem!"
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"We're rolling in the wrong direction but for the right reasons"
-USA engineer about the rollback of Discovery prior to the STS-114 Return To Flight mission

Online DaveS

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #73 on: 05/06/2017 12:20 am »
The new MBSU has been successfully installed and the SSRMS with Dextre is being backed away from it right now.
"For Sardines, space is no problem!"
-1996 Astronaut class slogan

"We're rolling in the wrong direction but for the right reasons"
-USA engineer about the rollback of Discovery prior to the STS-114 Return To Flight mission

Offline jacqmans

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #74 on: 05/06/2017 02:33 pm »
ISS Daily Summary Report – 5/04/2017

Posted on May 4, 2017 at 4:00 pm by HQ.
 
OsteoOmics: The crew thawed BioCells and injected them into growth media inside the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG). After six BioCells were processed they were placed into BioCell Habitat 3, which was then placed in the Space Automated Bioproduct Lab (SABL).  Later in the day the crew removed a media kit from a Microgravity Experiment Research Locker / INcubator (MERLIN) and inserted it into a Cargo Transfer Bag at ambient temperature for the next day’s operations. This is the first of four weeks of OsteoOmics operations.  Crewmembers experience bone loss in orbit, stemming from the lack of gravity acting on their bones. OsteoOmics investigates the molecular mechanisms that dictate this bone loss by examining osteoblasts, which form bone, and osteoclasts, which dissolve bone.  Improved understanding of these mechanisms could lead to more effective countermeasures to prevent bone loss during space missions and in a wide range of disorders on Earth. This may lead to better preventative care or therapeutic treatments for people suffering bone loss as a result of bone diseases like osteopenia and osteoporosis, or for patients on prolonged bed rest.

Genes in Space: The crew completed a session of the Genes in Space 2 Experiment. They retrieved a sample from a General Laboratory Active Cryogenic ISS Experiment Refrigerator (GLACIER) and inserted it into the miniature Polymerase Chain Reaction (miniPCR) system for processing. The investigation is based on the winning student proposal from the second Genes in Space competition. It tests whether the polymerase chain reaction can be used to study deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) alterations on board the ISS. Spaceflight causes many changes to the human body, including alterations in DNA and a weakened immune system. Understanding whether these two processes are linked is important for safeguarding crew health, but DNA technology that can track these changes is relatively untested in space.

At Home In Space Questionnaire: The crew completed an At Home in Space questionnaire this morning. This Canadian Space Agency (CSA) experiment assesses culture, values, and psychosocial adaptation of astronauts to a space environment shared by multinational crews on long-duration missions. It is hypothesized that astronauts develop a shared space culture that is an adaptive strategy for handling cultural differences and they deal with the isolated confined environment of the spacecraft by creating a home in space. At Home In Space uses a questionnaire to investigate individual and culturally related differences, family functioning, values, coping with stress, and post-experience growth.

Main Bus Switching Unit (MBSU)2 Remove & Replace (R&R Preparations:
•Contingency Jumper Installation: In preparation for tomorrow’s planned activities the crew successfully installed the Lab Secondary Power Distribution Assembly (SPDA) Jumper to power the LA2B power bus and the Lab Truss Contingency Jumper (LTCJ) ) to power the power bus.  This is in preparation for the unpowering of the LA2B and S02B Direct Current to Direct Current Converter Units (DDCUs) during the R&R. LA2B power bus has been successfully powered through the SPDA jumper.  External Thermal Controls System (ETCS) Cooling Loop B was shut down for the installation of the LTCJ.  The S02B power bus has been successfully powered through the LTCJ and Loop B was successfully repowered.  All heat exchangers have been integrated and internal cooling is back to a nominal configuration.
•Mobile Servicing System (MSS) Operations:  Robotics Ground Controllers maneuvered the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator (SPDM) Body and Arm 2 as required to transfer the Main Bus Switching Unit (MBSU) Flight Releasable Attachment Mechanism (FRAM) on External Stowage Platform (ESP) 2 to the Enhanced ORU Temporary Platform (EOTP) side 2. Once complete, ROBO will break torque on the MBSU H1 and H2 bolts before standing down for the day.

Cycle Ergometer with Vibration Isolation and Stabilization (CEVIS) Experiencing Excessive Resistance: Today the crew reported that CEVIS loading was excessively high during use.  They reported that loads felt higher in the warmup mode, at settings above zero the load felt like 200, and when crew stopped spinning the petal continues to rotate inside box and felt off center like a side to side vibration. CEVIS is currently no-go for use while teams convene this afternoon to discuss a forward plan.
Jacques :-)

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #75 on: 05/06/2017 05:37 pm »


Quote
ISS Robots Replace Critical Power Switching Box Outside Space Station

Spaceflight101
Published on 6 May 2017Details/Background: http://spaceflight101.com/expedition-51/iss-robots-begin-critical-mbsu-replacement/

Time lapse video of the International Space Station's robots working May 4 through 6 to replace a partially failed Main Bus Switching Unit on the Station's S0 truss segment - a critical power distribution hub that conditions two of eight power channels available on ISS.

Main Bus Switching Unit #2 (MBSU 2) exhibited a Loss Of Communications (LOC) failure on April 25, 2017 - no longer sending status telemetry and unable to be commanded from the ground, but still passing power to downstream uses. A similar fault occurred on MBSU #1 in 2011 and was believed to be radiation-related damage to the unit's Switchgear Controller Assembly. MBSU #1 was replaced in 2012 by spacewalking astronauts, but through growing confidence in the Station's robots, it was decided to have Dextre attempt the MBSU replacement.

Prerequisites for the replacement were completed on May 4 and included the reconfiguration of the Station's power system to allow MBSU #2 to be powered off without affecting any critical systems. The two-armed Dextre, riding on the end of the 18-meter long Canadarm2, picked up the spare MBSU from External Stowage Platform 2 (ESP-2) on Thursday and stowed in on its Enhanced ORU Temporary Platform (EOTP) side 2.

Starting Friday afternoon (UTC), Dextre began the actual replacement work, releasing the H1 secondary bolt from MBSU #2 before removing the 99-Kilogram unit by releasing the H2 primary bolt. Dextre then used its other arm to remove the spare from its Flight Releasable Attachment System (FRAM) on the EOTP before moving in position to install the spare. Guide rails helped with placing the spare unit, automatically connecting blind-mate electrical and data interfaces on the back of the MBSU. Two bolts were driven to secure the MBSU followed by dealing with the failed unit - first placing it into the empty FRAM on the EOTP and then moving it to a stowage location on ESP-2.

Mission Controllers confirmed good health of the MBSU early on Saturday and began restoring the normal ISS power architecture, informing the crew that all would be back to normal by the end of the day.

The video plays at 45x real speed, use YouTube's Speed Controls to further speed it up or slow it down. Views that appear pink in color are due to a faulty camera on the Station's Mobile Servicing System.

Offline jacqmans

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #76 on: 05/09/2017 09:27 am »

ISS Daily Summary Report – 5/05/2017

Posted on May 5, 2017 at 4:00 pm by HQ.
 

Main Bus Switching Unit (MBSU)2 Robotic Remove & Replace (R&R): Last night, Robotics ground teams completed the extraction of the spare MBSU Flight Releasable Attachment Mechanism (FRAM) from External Stowage Platform 2 (ESP-2) and successfully relocated it on the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator (SPDM) Enhanced ORU Temporary Platform (EOTP).  Then, the SPDM was used to unfasten the secondary H1 bolts and to break torque on the primary H2 bolts on both, the new spare and the failed unit.  Ground teams are currently executing steps to remove the failed MBSU from the S0 truss and install the spare.  Power up of the new MBSU is expected to occur tomorrow morning, followed by the powerdown and power up of the Direct Current Converter Units (DDCU) S02B to remove the Lab Truss Contingency Jumper (LTCJ) and return the external loads to their nominal configuration.  The removal of the Lab Secondary Power Distribution Assembly (SPDA) jumper and associated DDCU LA2B powerdown is planned for Monday..

OsteoOmics:  The crew thawed BioCells and injected them into growth media inside the Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG). After six BioCells are processed they are placed into BioCell Habitat 4, which is then placed in the Space Automated Bioproduct Lab (SABL).  Later in the day  crewm removed a media kit from a Microgravity Experiment Research Locker / INcubator (MERLIN) and inserted it into a Cargo Transfer Bag at ambient temperature for the next day’s operations. This completes the first of four weeks of OsteoOmics operations.  Crewmembers experience bone loss in orbit, stemming from the lack of gravity acting on their bones. OsteoOmics investigates the molecular mechanisms that dictate this bone loss by examining osteoblasts, which form bone, and osteoclasts, which dissolve bone.  Improved understanding of these mechanisms could lead to more effective countermeasures to prevent bone loss during space missions and in a wide range of disorders on Earth. This may lead to better preventative care or therapeutic treatments for people suffering bone loss as a result of bone diseases like osteopenia and osteoporosis, or for patients on prolonged bed rest.

Genes in Space 2: The crew completed a session of the Genes in Space 2 experiment. They retrieved a sample from a General Laboratory Active Cryogenic ISS Experiment Refrigerator (GLACIER) and inserted it into the miniature Polymerase Chain Reaction (miniPCR) system for processing. The Genes in Space 2 investigation is based on the winning student proposal from the second Genes in Space competition. It tests whether the polymerase chain reaction can be used to study deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) alterations on board the ISS.  Spaceflight causes many changes to the human body, including alterations in DNA and a weakened immune system.  Understanding whether these two processes are linked is important for safeguarding crew health, but DNA technology that can track these changes is relatively untested in space.

Sarcolab-3: The crew set up hardware for next week’s third and final joint-NASA-ESA-Russia Sarcolab experiment with a 49S crewmember. They deployed and configured the Muscle Atrophy Research & Exercise System (MARES) in the Columbus module. Myotendinous and Neuromuscular Adaptation to Long-term Spaceflight (Sarcolab) investigates the adaptation and deterioration of the soleus (calf muscle) where it joins the Achilles tendon, which links it to the heel and carries loads from the entire body.  Muscle fiber samples are taken from crew members before and after flight, and analyzed for changes in structural and chemical properties. MRI and ultrasound tests and electrode stimulation are conducted to help assess muscle and tendon changes caused by microgravity exposure.

Cycle Ergometer with Vibration Isolation and Stabilization (CEVIS) Status:  Yesterday the crew reported a high loading problem with CEVIS. Overnight, the crew and ground teams performed troubleshooting and isolated the issue to a faulty control panel. The control panel was replaced and CEVIS is now go for unrestricted crew use.
Jacques :-)

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #77 on: 05/09/2017 01:00 pm »
May 08, 2017
MEDIA ADVISORY M17-050

MIT to Participate in Live Q&A with International Space Station
 
 
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) students will participate in a live question-and-answer session with an alumnus astronaut aboard the International Space Station on Wednesday, May 10. NASA astronaut Jack Fischer, who received his master’s in aerospace engineering from MIT in 1998, will take questions from the students via video at 12:40 p.m. EDT. The session will air live on NASA Television and the agency’s website.

Fischer is a part of the Expedition 51/52 crew that launched to the International Space Station in April.

The session is sponsored by the MIT Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics. MIT alumni have been represented in the astronaut ranks since the earliest days of the space program. Four of the astronauts who walked on the moon held degrees from MIT. The video call offers a real-time opportunity for aspiring young aerospace engineers to pose questions about living, working and researching in space to an alumnus who is doing just that.

Linking students directly to astronauts aboard the space station provides unique, authentic experiences designed to enhance student learning, performance and interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). This in-flight education downlink is an integral component of NASA Education’s STEM on Station activity, which provides a variety of space station-related resources and opportunities to students and educators.

For NASA TV streaming video, schedule and downlink information, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/nasatv

For more information, videos and lesson plans highlighting research on the International Space Station, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/stemonstation
Jacques :-)

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #78 on: 05/09/2017 03:10 pm »

ISS Daily Summary Report – 5/08/2017

Posted on May 8, 2017 at 4:00 pm by HQ.
 

Main Bus Switching Unit (MBSU) 2 Remove & Replace (R&R):  Friday evening and into Saturday, Robotics Ground Controllers maneuvered the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator (SPDM) Arms and successfully removed the failed MBSU 2 and replaced it with a spare. The failed MBSU was then installed onto External Stowage Platform (ESP)-2.  After a successful power up and checkout of the new MBSU 2, on Sunday the crew removed the Lab Secondary Power Distribution Assembly (SPDA) Jumper and the Lab Truss Contingency Jumper (LTCJ).  The jumpers had been in place since last Thursday to ensure that power was maintained to downstream loads during the R&R.  Ground Teams have since brought all ISS Systems back to their nominal power configuration. 

Sarcolab-3:  Last Friday the crew configured the Muscle Atrophy Research & Exercise System (MARES) in the Columbus module. Today the crew began the third of three two-day operations of joint-NASA-ESA-Russia Sarcolab experiment. The subject will ingress MARES followed by the operator performing ultrasound measurements of the right calf muscle with remote guidance and direction assistance from ground specialists. The subject will then don Percutaneus Electrical Muscle Stimulator (PEMS) for electrical stimulation at rest and during voluntary muscle contraction, and Electromyography (EMG) electrodes to measure calf muscle and tendon response at the ankle (calf muscle insertion).  Myotendinous and Neuromuscular Adaptation to Long-term Spaceflight (Sarcolab) investigates the adaptation and deterioration of the soleus (calf muscle) where it joins the Achilles tendon which links it to the heel and carries loads from the entire body.  Muscle fiber samples are taken from crew members before and after flight and analyzed for changes in structural and chemical properties. MRI and ultrasound tests and electrode stimulation are conducted to help assess muscle and tendon changes caused by microgravity exposure.

OsteoOmics: The crew began the second of four weeks of planned OsteoOmics operations by changing BioCell media in BioCell Habitat 1. The media in the other four habitats will be changed this week. Crewmembers experience bone loss in orbit stemming from the lack of gravity acting on their bones. OsteoOmics investigates the molecular mechanisms that dictate this bone loss by examining osteoblasts which form bone, and osteoclasts, which dissolve bone. Improved understanding of these mechanisms could lead to more effective countermeasures to prevent bone loss during space missions and in a wide range of disorders on Earth. This may lead to better preventative care or therapeutic treatments for people suffering bone loss as a result of bone diseases like osteopenia and osteoporosis, or for patients on prolonged bed rest.

Light Microscopy Module (LMM) Biophysics 3: The crew configured the LMM for the Biophysics science runs in the Fluids Integrated Rack (FIR). The Advanced Colloids Experiment-Temperature-1 (ACE-T-1) Module and the LMM Control Base was removed from the FIR, the LMM objective lenses were configured and the LMM Petri Base was installed. Investigators will use the results from LMM Biophysics 3 to examine the movement of single protein molecules in microgravity. By studying the crystals of a higher quality that can be grown in microgravity, scientists will be able to better understand their structure and how they work.

Lighting Effects Meter Reading: The crew set up and configured the Light Meter hardware and took readings in the US Lab and the JEM Pressurized Module (JPM).  Both modules use the legacy General Luminaire Assembly (GLA). The Lighting Effects experiment hopes to better quantify and qualify how lighting can effect habitability of spacecraft. The light bulbs on the ISS are being replaced with a new system designed for improved crew health and wellness. The Lighting Effects investigation studies the impact of the change from fluorescent light bulbs to solid-state light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with adjustable intensity and color and aims to determine if the new lights can improve crew circadian rhythms, sleep, and cognitive performance. Results from this investigation also have major implications for people on Earth who use electric lights.

Dose Tracker:  The crew completed a weekly medication tracking entry in the Dose Tracker application.  Dose Tracker documents the medication usage of crewmembers before and during their missions by capturing data regarding medication use during spaceflight, including side effect qualities, frequencies and severities. The investigation is expected to provide anecdotal evidence of medication effectiveness during flight and any unusual side effects experienced.

Fine Motor Skills (FMS): The crew completed a series of interactive tasks during a FMS session today. The FMS investigation studies how the fine motor skills are effected by long-term microgravity exposure, different phases of microgravity adaptation, and sensorimotor recovery after returning to Earth gravity. The goal of the investigation is to determine how fine motor performance in microgravity trends/varies over the duration of a six-month and year-long space mission; how fine motor performance on orbit compare with that of a closely matched participant on Earth; and how performance trends/varies before and after gravitational transitions, including periods of early flight adaptation and very early/near immediate post-flight periods.

Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Preparations: In preparation for Friday’s planned EXPRESS Pallet Controller Assembly (ExPCA) EVA, the crew configured cameras to be used during the EVA. They also configured required tools and hardware and reviewd a video briefing package followed by a Robotics On-board Training session.

Emergency On-Board Training (OBT) Simulator Review: The 49S crew performed this review covering US and Russian Segment fire scenarios as well as depressurization and ammonia emergency scenarios.
Jacques :-)

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Re: Expedition-51 thread (April - June 2017)
« Reply #79 on: 05/10/2017 03:30 pm »

ISS Daily Summary Report – 5/09/2017

Posted on May 9, 2017 at 4:00 pm by HQ.
 

OsteoOmics: The crew changed BioCell media in BioCell Habitat 2. The media in the other four habitats will be changed this week. This is the second of four weeks of OsteoOmics operations. Crewmembers experience bone loss in orbit, stemming from the lack of gravity acting on their bones. OsteoOmics investigates the molecular mechanisms that dictate this bone loss by examining osteoblasts, which form bone, and osteoclasts, which dissolve bone.  Improved understanding of these mechanisms could lead to more effective countermeasures to prevent bone loss during space missions and in a wide range of disorders on Earth. This may lead to better preventative care or therapeutic treatments for people suffering bone loss as a result of bone diseases like osteopenia and osteoporosis, or for patients on prolonged bed rest.

Veg-03: The crew harvested leaves from Chinese Cabbage growing in the Veggie facility and inserted samples into Minus Eighty Degree Celsius Laboratory Freezer for ISS (MELFI). The remainder of the plants were left to grow.  The goal of Veg-03 is to further demonstrate the proof of concept for the Veggie plant growth chamber and planting pillows. Future long-duration missions into the solar system will require a fresh food supply to supplement crew diets, which entails growing crops in space. Previous investigations focused on improving productivity in controlled environments but the limited quarters of the space shuttle and ISS made it difficult to conduct large-scale crop production tests. Veg-03 expands on previous validation tests of the Veggie hardware to grow cabbage, lettuce and other fresh vegetables. Tests determine which types of microorganisms are present in space-grown cabbage, providing baseline data for future crop-growing efforts. Behavioral health surveys assess the impact of growing plants on crew morale and mood.

Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Preparations: The crew completed the following in preparation for the EXPRESS Pallet Controller Assembly (ExPCA) EVA currently planned for this Friday, May 12.
•Prepared the Equipment Lock, Extravehicular Mobility Units (EMUs) and ancillary hardware to support suit donning.
•Installed/replaced Metal Oxide (METOX) Lithium Hydroxide (LiOH) canisters and batteries in EMU 3006 and 3008.
•Performed EMU pressurized fit verification to ensure proper fit and feel prior to the EVA.
•Performed a procedures review covering reminders, emergency briefing and helpful tips. Following the review, the crew completed a conference with ground teams to address any questions or concerns.

Orbital ATK (OA)-7 Cargo Operations:  Yesterday afternoon, the crew continued transferring Cygnus cargo to ISS. Approximately 3 hours of transfer operations remain to be completed. Cygnus is currently scheduled to unberth from ISS on July 16th.
Jacques :-)

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