Space & Astronomy/Space and Astronomy (October 1993).iso/mac/TEXT/DAILY_2/930721.DFC

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21-Jul-93 Daily File Collection
   These files were added or updated between 20-Jul-93 at 21:00:00 {Central}
                                         and 21-Jul-93 at 21:03:05.

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KSC SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT 7-21-93



        KENNEDY SPACE CENTER SPACE SHUTTLE STATUS REPORT
                    Wednesday, July 21, 1993

KSC Contact: Bruce Buckingham         407-867-2468 (fax [phone])


              MISSION: STS-51  ACTS-TOS/ORFEUS-SPAS
                      Launch minus 3 days


VEHICLE: Discovery/OV-103             ORBITAL ALTITUDE: 184 miles
LOCATION: Pad 39-B                    INCLINATION: 28.45 degrees
LAUNCH DATE: Saturday, July 24, 1993  CREW SIZE: 5
LAUNCH WINDOW: 9:27 - 10:21 a.m. (54 minutes)
EXPECTED KSC LANDING DATE/TIME: August 2/3, 1993
EXPECTED MISSION DURATION: 8 days/22 hours + 1 day (an additional
day on orbit may be granted if orbiter cryogenics and allow)

NOTE: Mission managers yesterday announced July 24 as the new launch date for
Space Shuttle Mission STS-51. The decision to go with July 24 follows the
completion of work to inspect and retest the problem circuit card in the
pyrotechnic initiator controller (PIC) which caused the launch scrub last
Saturday, July 17.  It is also a date the Air Force range safety community
support.

     For launch on July 24, the countdown clock will begin counting at T-11
hours at 7:07 p.m.  Friday, July 23.

     Weather for a launch attempt on Saturday is favorable with only a 10
percent chance of violating launch criteria.  The primary concern is a slight
chance for rain showers.

     The five members of the astronaut crew are scheduled to return to KSC this
afternoon at about 3:30 p.m.

     The crew for mission STS-51 include: Commander Frank Culbertson, Pilot
Bill Readdy, and Mission Specialists Jim Newman, Dan Bursch and Carl Walz.

IN WORK TODAY:
*  Extended launch scrub turnaround operations
*  Aft engine compartment closeouts
*  Trickle charge on ACTS batteries
*  Final payload bay closeouts

WORK SCHEDULED:
*  Aft confidence test (tonight)
*  Close payload bay doors for flight (tonight)
*  Load onboard cryogenic reactants (tomorrow)

WORK COMPLETED:
*  Purge of power reactant storage and distribution system
*  Ordnance installation and reconnect operations
*  Troubleshooting and replacement of the ground pyrotechnic
   initiator controller (PIC) circuit card
*  PIC resistance test


               SUMMARY OF HOLDS AND HOLD TIMES FOR STS-51



T-TIME ------- LENGTH OF HOLD ---- HOLD BEGINS ---- HOLD ENDS

T-11 hours --- 3 hrs., 40 mins. -- 3:27 pm Fri.----- 7:07 pm Fri.
T-6 hours ---- 1 hour ----------- 12:07 am Sat.----- 1:07 am Sat.
T-3 hours ---- 2 hours ----------- 4:07 am Sat.----- 6:07 am Sat.
T-20 minutes - 10 minutes -------- 8:47 am Sat.----- 8:57 am Sat.
T-9 minutes -- 10 minutes -------- 9:08 am Sat.----- 9:18 am Sat.




                      CREW FOR MISSION STS-51

Commander (CDR): Frank Culbertson
Pilot (PLT): Bill Readdy
Mission Specialist (MS1): Jim Newman
Mission Specialist (MS2): Dan Bursch
Mission Specialist (MS3): Carl Walz

           SUMMARY OF STS-51 LAUNCH DAY CREW ACTIVITIES

Saturday, July 24, 1993

4:17 a.m.      Wake up
4:47 a.m.      Breakfast
5:17 a.m.      Weather briefing (CDR, PLT, MS2)
5:17 a.m.      Don flight equipment (MS1, MS3)
5:27 a.m.      Don flight equipment (CDR, PLT, MS2)
5:57 a.m.      Depart for launch pad 39-B
6:27 a.m.      Arrive at white room and begin ingress
7:42 a.m.      Close crew hatch
9:27 a.m.      Launch


     Source:NASA Spacelink    Modem:205-895-0028  Internet:192.149.89.61
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DAILY NEWS/TV SKED 7-21-93

Daily News
Wednesday, July 21, 1993
Two Independence Square;
Washington, D.C.
Audio Service:202/358-3014


 % New launch date set for STS-51 mission;
 % NASA astronauts and managers at NABJ convention.

NASA officials set July 24 as the new launch date for Discovery's STS-51
mission.  The new launch date follows the completion of work to inspect and
retest the Pryo Initiator Controller unit on the launch pad.  The launch window
open at 9:27 a.m.  EDT and extends for 54 minutes.

Expected mission duration is 9 days with a planned landing at the Kennedy Space
Center.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

On July 22 NASA astronauts and senior managers will participate in a panel
discussion entitled " Black Stars in Space" during the 18th Annual Convention
of the National Association of Black Journalists in Houston.

Topics of discussion will focus on both the role of African-Americans in the
aerospace program and the importance of aeronautics, space and advanced
technology to African- Americans.

Participating in the symposium on the 22nd will be Astronaut Charles Bolden,
Deputy Associate Administrator for Human Resources and Education at HQ Robert
Brown, Astronaut Bernard Harris, former Astronaut Mae Jemison and Debra Jones,
Program Analyst in the New Initiatives Office at the Johnson Space Center.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *


Here's the broadcast schedule for Public Affairs events on NASA TV. Note that
all events and times may change without notice and that all times listed are
Eastern.



Wednesday, July 21, 1993

        noon            NASA Today featuring anchor Bob Tebo with stories on
            the STS-51 mission; HST double nucleus, Oshkosh Air
            Show.
    12:15 pm        Aeronautics & Space Report.
        12:30 pm        ATLAS: Close encounters with Earth.
          1:00 pm       Apollo 12: Pinpoint for Science.
          1:30 pm       Moon and Man,
          2:00 pm       Starfinder #5.
          2:30 pm       Examination of Life.
          3:00 pm       TQM #5.

Thursday, July 22, 1993

        noon            NASA Today bringing stories from around the agency and
            the space community.
        12:15 pm        The Night Sky with Dr. Rich Terrile.
        12:30 pm        Best of NASA Today:  Technology 2001.
          1:00 pm       TDRS, A New Legend.
          2:00 pm       Starfinder #6.
          2:30 pm       Life Elsewhere.
          3:00 pm       TQM #6.



NASA TV is carried on GE Satcom F2R, transponder 13, C-Band, 72 degrees West
Longitude, transponder frequency is 3960 MHz, audio subcarrier is 6.8 MHz,
polarization is vertical.
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7/20/93:  LAUNCH ADVISORY:  JULY 24 NEW DATE FOR STS-51 LAUNCH



Ed Campion
July 20, 1993
Headquarters, Washington, D.C.

Bruce Buckingham
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.


     NASA managers today set July 24 as the new launch date for Shuttle Mission
STS-51. The launch window on July 24 opens at 9:27 a.m.  EDT and extends for 54
minutes.

     The decision to go with July 24 as the new launch date follows the
completion of work to inspect and retest the Pyro Initiator Controller (PIC)
unit on the launch pad.  A problem with the unit caused the Kennedy Space
Center launch director to call a scrub during a launch attempt on July 17.

     "The July 24 date is the best date all around for the launch of Discovery
on the STS-51 mission" said Shuttle Director Tom Utsman. It gives enough time
for KSC technicians to complete work on the PIC unit, the payload community
time to service the STS-51 experiments and the entire launch team enough time
to put the Shuttle system back into launch configuration.  The July 24 date
also is one that the Air Force range safety community can support."

     Shuttle Mission STS-51 will see Discovery's five person crew deploy the
Advanced Communciations Technology Satellite which will give industry, academic
and government organizations an opportunity to investigate new ways of
communicating.  The crew will also deploy and retrieve the Orbiting and
Retrieveable Far and Extreme Ultraviolet Spectrometer (ORFEUS- SPAS).






7/01/93:  LAUNCH DATE SET FOR STS-51/DISCOVERY

Jim Cast
Headquarters, Washington, D.C.             July 1, 1993

Bruce Buckingham
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.


NOTE TO EDITORS:  N93-38

    Following today's STS-51 Flight Readiness Review at NASA's Kennedy
Space Center, Fla., mission managers targeted July 17 at 9:22 a.m.  EDT for
launch of the Space Shuttle Discovery on its 17th flight.

    Primary payload activity on the 9-day mission will include deployment
of an Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS), and deployment and
retrieval of the German- built ORFEUS-SPAS astrophysics free-flier.  A 6-hour
Extra Vehicular Activity, or space walk, will also be performed by two
astronauts.

    Commanding the STS-51 crew is Frank Culbertson who will be making his
second space flight.  Pilot Bill Readdy has also flown once in space.  Three
mission specialists, each flying for the first time, round out the 5-man crew:
Jim Newman, Dan Bursch and Carl Walz.

- end -
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LAUNCH DELAY INFORMATION / PRE-LAUNCH INFORMATION

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Understanding the Influence of Gravity
MARCH 1993

Office of Life and Microgravity Sciences and Applications
MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE AND APPLICATIONS DIVISION



WHAT IS MICROGRAVITY?

Zero-gravity or absolute weightlessness is virtually impossible to achieve,
particularly in the vicinity of a planetary body like Earth.  In fact, a Space
Shuttle orbiter escapes less than 10% of the gravity at Earth's surface (1g)
when in orbit.  One would have to travel more than six million kilometers from
our planet--seventeen times farther away than the Moon--to find a point where
Earth's gravitational pull is comparable to the reduced gravity environment
astronauts experience in Earth orbiting spacecraft--microgravity.
Microgravity is a result of the state of continuous free fall we think of as
orbital flight.

The prefix micro- is derived from the Greek word mikros, meaning "small."
Another common usage is in quantitative systems of measurement, such as the
metric system, where micro- means "one part in a million".  In space
science, orbiting spacecraft can very nearly provide a microgravity environment
that meets the criterion of the second definition.  However, the term is
generally used by NASA in a broader context to encompass a range of very low
acceleration-related forces likely to be experienced in orbit or that can very
briefly be created on Earth for experimental scientific research.

NASA's Office of Life and Microgravity Sciences and Applications (OLMSA) is
responsible for planning and executing the scientific research activities
associated with the Agency's goals.

ithin OLMSA, the Microgravity Science and Applications Division undertakes the
study of important physical, chemical and biological processes in a
microgravity environment.

A microgravity environment has unique characteristics that allow the
investigation of phenomena and processes that are difficult or impossible to
study on Earth. In microgravity, it becomes possible to isolate and control
gravity-related phenomena, and generally affords a degree of accuracy with most
measurements that cannot be obtained on Earth.

HISTORIC PERSPECTIVE

Initial research into the effects of microgravity began in the early years of
the space program, including space experiments conducted during the Apollo,
Skylab and Apollo-Soyus programs.

The Space Shuttle program enabled the development of microgravity research
instruments that could be flown, modified, and reflown, allowing scientists to
design experiments based on the results of previous investigations.

CONDUCTING THE PROGRAM

The challenge facing NASA's Microgravity Program is to conduct scientifically
exciting and productive research through the wisest possible use of space.
The Microgravity Science and Applications Division is responsible for guiding a
comprehensive research program, currently concentrating on four major areas:
biotechnology, combustion, fluid dynamics and transport phenomena, and
materials science.

The Division seeks out and coordinates an interdisciplinary science community
to conduct the research and to disseminate the results of its science program.
It also supports the science community's research through the development of
suitable experiment instruments and by choosing the space carrier most
suitable for its experiments.

The results of the investigations are used to challenge and validate
contemporary scientific theories, to identify and describe new physical
phenomena that can be uniquely explored in a microgravity environment, and to
engender the development of new theories as a result of unexpected or
unexplained discoveries--often the most exciting part of the research.

The experimental data are then made available to the scientific community as
published work and through participation in conferences, forums and workshops.
This process is essential to a major objective of the microgravity science and
applications program: to disseminate the results as quickly as possible and to
assist industry in understanding the potetial technological applications of
those results.

GROUND BASED RESEARCH

The microgravity research program is divided into two realms of experimental
work: experiments that are in a refinement stage (ground based) and
experiments that are considered ready and worthy of a space flight opportunity.

The ground-based program is intended to select and foster research for those
hypotheses that require reduced gravity for an ultimate experimental test.
Because the effects of gravity can be significantly reduced by freefall,
microgravity research uses freefall in a variety of ways to create and
investigate low gravity environments.  Ground facilities used to provide brief
periods of low gravity for experiments include: drop towers and tubes,
dedicated aircraft, and sounding rockets.

BIOTECHNOLOGY

NASA'S biotechnology program uses the microgravity environment to investigate
bioprocessing phenomena.  The program currently supports two major research
areas: crystal growth of biological macromolecules, and cell and molecular
science.

X-ray crystallography is a powerful technique used to understand the structure
and functional interactions of biologically important molecules, focusing in
particular on proteins and viruses.  Research indicates that crystals of these
materials grown in low gravity may yield substantially better structural
information than can be obtained from crystals grown on Earth.

COMBUSTION SCIENCE

The combustion research program focuses on understanding the important
processes of ignition, propagation, and extinction during combustion in low
gravity.  Research is directed at achieving fundamental knowledge of combustion
processes as well as addressing issues of fire safety in space.

Both ground-based and space experiments are being used to investigate ignition,
flame spreading, and flame extinction.  The physical characteristics of flame,
such as a flame's size and shape, along with the role of soot formation in
combustion, are part of this research.  Other investigations are studying air
flows as well as heat and mass transfer phenomena for materials like fuel
vapors, liquid pools, paper, and metal solids.

FLUID PHYSICS

The purpose of the microgravity fluids research program is to improve our
understanding of those aspects of fluid dynamics and transport phenomena whose
fundamental behavior is limited or affected by the presence of gravity.

For example, a low gravity environment results in greatly reduced
density-driven convection flows, allowing the study of other forms of
convection like flows driven by surface tension gradients or other interfacial
phenomena.

Understanding these phenomena can provide the basic scientific and practical
knowledge needed to design space systems that must rely on fluid processes.
Another important objective of the fluids program is to assist other
microgravity science disciplines, such as the materials and combustion
sciences, by contributing knowledge of those gravity-dependent fluid phenomena
that relate to and could affect the success of their programs.

MATERIALS SCIENCE

The materials science program uses the unique characteristics of the
microgravity space environment to study fundamental issues in materials
solidification and crystal growth.

Of particular interest is understanding the roles of buoyancy-driven
convection, sedimentation, and hydrostatic pressure in the processing of
electronic and photonic materials, metals, alloys, composites, glasses,
ceramics, and polymers.

Materials science research may lead to a better understanding of the processes
by which these materials are produced as well as their effects on the
properties of the materials.  One use of such knowledge might be to design
better process control strategies on Earth.  Microgravity experimentation may
eventually allow the production of limited sample quantities of high quality or
exhibiting unique properties for use as theoretical "benchmarks."

MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE IN SPACE

SPACE SHUTTLE MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE
Microgravity science experiments and research facilities can be taken into
space in a variety of ways to accomplish peer-reviewed scientific
investigations.  Crew-tended experiments can be flown in a Space Shuttle's
middeck or cargo bay.  Spacelab, a complex module that provides a life-support
environment for crew members, can be installed in the cargo bay as a fully
functional laboratory for research.  Automated experiments that don't require
tending can be mounted in the open space environment of a Space Shuttle's cargo
bay.

CREW TENDED SCIENCE: SPACE SHUTTLE MIDDECK AND SPACELAB
Middeck and Spacelab facilities allow scientists to interact with microgravity
experiments.  Scientists or payload specialists can work with the experiments
in flight, making it possible to observe unexpected phenomena and make
adjustments when problems arise.  Research carried out during NASA's first
United States Microgravity Laboratory mission (USML-1, July 1992) and five
joint microgravity and life sciences missions--Spacelab-1 (1983), Spacelab-3
(1985), the German-sponsored Spacelab-D1 (1985), the first flight of the
International Microgravity Laboratory (IML-1, 1992), and the first Japanese
mission (SL-J, 1992)--provided intriguing results in all four of the
microgravity science and applications disciplines.

Space Shuttle experiments can now be active for more than two weeks on orbiters
modified for extended-duration missions, a capability used for the first time
when Space Shuttle Columbia carried USML-1 into orbit for its "record book"
14-day mission.  Most of the experiments flown on USML-1 will be modified and
reflown with new investigations on the USML-2 mission scheduled for 1995.  In
1994 the second International Microgravity Laboratory, IML-2, a follow-on
mission to the highly successful IML-1 mission flown in January 1992, will give
U.S. investigators an opportunity to conduct micro-gravity research in
apparatus developed by other nations.  Intern ational cooperation also was an
important issue during the eight-day Spacelab-J flight in September 1992, a
joint microgravity and life sciences mission sponsored by Japan's National
Space Development Agency (NASDA).

GROUND TENDED SCIENCE: SPACE SHUTTLE CARGO BAY
Having flown USML-1 in July 1992, Columbia's cargo bay hosted yet another
important microgravity science payload in October. During the STS-52 mission,
international cooperation was again reflected in a mission manifest that
included the first flight of the United States Microgravity Payload (USMP-1).
USMP-1 was the first of a series of USMP payloads developed for exposed
installation in a cargo bay rather than within a life support environment
like that afforded in an orbiter's middeck or a Spacelab. The second USMP
mission will carry four major experiment facilities into orbit in 1994.

USMP was designed as a platform system for a community of automated
microgravity experiments that do not require "hands-on" operation or a life
support environment.  Moreover, such cargo bay payloads can be larger while
having fewer complications to contend with when drawing on orbiter systems
support.  Finally, automated experiments isolated in the cargo bay can be
conducted more safely because they do not require interaction or observation
by specialized crew members; USMP experiments, for example, can be monitored
and tended from the ground.

THE SPACE STATION AND FREE FLYERS
In the future, NASA will place a space station in orbit that will provide a
manned microgravity laboratory unrivaled by any on Earth or aboard Space
Shuttle. In addition, free flyers--unmanned spacecraft designed to serve as
orbiting research platforms for untended or ground-tended experiments--will
make very quiet and stable science environments possible.

Free flyers can accommodate experiments that are completely passive, requiring
no interactive operation or monitoring at all, or they can be robotically
monitored and operated from the ground.  The Commercial Experiment Transporter
(COMET), a small free flyer developed by Space Industries, Inc., will provide
weeks of exposure to microgravity for commercially-sponsored payloads.  The
European Retrievable Carrier (EURECA), placed in orbit (for later retrieval)
for the first time in August 1992, is another free flyer platform available for
microgravity research.

In the latter part of the 1990's, a NASA space station will support experiments
requiring long-duration exposure to microgravity.  The space station will
provide the resources and flexibility for greater numbers of experiments in
addition to affording longer periods of time in orbit.  Scientific experiments
and facilities flown on evolving series missions--like IML, USML, and
USMP--will provide experience with research operations and help with the
development of instrumentation and subsystems for the space station's
microgravity research facilities.

QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS DOCUMENT CAN BE DIRECTED TO:

Kathryn D. Scott
The Bionetics Corporation
250 E Street, SW
Suite 340
Washington, DC  20024
     Source:NASA Spacelink    Modem:205-895-0028  Internet:192.149.89.61
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ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

Office of Life and Microgravity Sciences and Applications
MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE AND APPLICATIONS DIVISION


PUBLISHED APRIL 1993

ATD: A PREREQUISITE FOR THE FUTURE

Experience with microgravity research in Earth orbit has shown that technology
limitations generally emerge during the definition of experiment techniques and
the design of associated hardware.  For the United States to maintain a
productive microgravity science program, therefore, an investment in technology
development is necessary as a prerequsite for future research.  NASA's
Microgravity Science and Applications Division (MSAD) has created an Advanced
Technology Development (ATD) program to address this need.

Focused and more broadly-based technology development programs are key elements
in this process.  To meet the more immediate require ments of a specific flight
program, focused development is employed to insure the availability of
technologies needed to satisfy the science objectives as well as the flight
application.  However, because this route may result in increased cost or
decreased science return if it becomes impractical to quickly develop the
needed technology, a longer-range, proactive approach is necessary to guarantee
the availability of mission-critical technologies for use during the flight
development phase of a project.

MSAD guides its ATD program with these needs in mind.  A division of the Office
of Life and Microgravity Sciences and Applications, MSAD conducts the ATD
program with the intent of providing more effective support for future
microgravity science investigations.

MICROGRAVITY TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

The availability of advanced techniques for conducting future microgravity
research relies upon the readiness of new, well founded technologies when they
are needed.  To ensure and sustain this development process, the Microgravity
Science and Application Division (MSAD) supports an ongoing Advanced Technology
Development (ATD) program.

The primary goals of the ATD program are to explore and develop technologies
that will:

* enhance the capability and quality of experimental hardware available to the
researcher;

* overcome technology-based constraints to microgravity science research
capabilities; and

* enable new types of scientific investigations.

To meet its goals, the ATD program provides the opportunity to conduct
state-of-the-art technology development to carry out the goals of NASA's
microgravity science and applications (MSA) program.

The ATD program funds technology development through the initial demonstration
of feasibility in order to verify that it is suitable for use in either
ground-based or flight programs.  The intent is to investigate and develop
high-risk microgravity research technologies prior to the time when they will
be needed on the critical development path for actual flight hardware.

Depending on the state of maturity, the ATD-developed technology may require
either direct transition to a specific ground-based or flight program or
further, more focused development to fit it to a program requirement.  Ideally,
however, the successful progress or completion of an ATD task will provide the
confidence needed to make the transition to a flight hardware application
technically feasible.

SCOPE OF PROJECTS

Historically, ATD projects have encompassed a broad range of technology
development activities.  The projects have, for example, funded the
development of diagnostic instrumentation and measurement techniques,
observational instrumentation and data recording methods, acceleration
characterization and control techniques, and advancements in methodologies
associated with hardware design technology.

PROFILE OF ATD PROJECTS

A synopsis of previous projects funded by the ATD program, followed by a
summary of objectives for current projects, provides a sense of the range of
technologies covered by the program.

PREVIOUS ATD PROJECTS

High Temperature Materials (MSFC).  A study was conducted to document material
properties to aid furnace designers in the selection of fabrication material
for high-temperature furnace facility component design.

Vibration Isolation Technology (LeRC).  A proof-of-concept design and analysis
demonstrated the capability to isolate microgravity-based test articles from
both residual g-jitter and higher frequency accelerations by providing a
predictable and reproducible low-gravity environment.

High Frame Rate, High Resolution Video (LeRC).  Improvements were made to the
current state-of-the-art in videography as applied to microgravity science
mission data acquisition.

Transparent Furnace Technology (LeRC).  Technology development was accomplished
that resulted in a demonstration of the ability to develop and build a working
transparent, multizone-controlled modular furnace system for use in materials
processing experiments.

Magnetic Furnace Technology (MSFC).  A containerless processing concept was
developed and demonstrated by using magnetic positional levitation to control a
test sample during a furnace melt process.

CURRENT ATD PROJECTS

Non-contact Temperature Measurement (LaRC).  A variety of non-contact
techniques are being developed to accurately sense small temperature changes
in high temperature furnace applications.  One potential use will be to provide
a better high temperature data acquisition capability for material processing
studies.

Laser Light Scattering (LeRC).  Sturdy, miniaturized Laser Light Scattering
instrumentation and operational software are being developed.  A possible
application is the sensing of nucleation and diffusion.

Microwave Furnace Development for Materials Processing (JPL).  Focused energy
from various microwave sources is being used to conduct material melt and
resolidification.  An entirely new approach to furnace processing techniques
may occur as a result of this novel melt technology.

Ultrasonic Monitoring of Interfaces in Directional Solidification (LaRC).  This
methodology makes possible the non-contact sensing and shape quantification of
the solid/liquid interface of crystal growth processes.  One application is to
afford real-time crystal growth monitoring, opening up the possibility of
real-time feedback control over the crystal growth process.

Stereo Imaging Velocimeter (LeRC).  This technology will allow the
three-dimensional flow velocity mapping of fluids to be accomplished through
the simultaneous mapping and tracking of multiple tracer particles whose
locations are determined from two camera images.  One use of this technology
involves multipoint particle tracking during convective flow studies.

Surface Light Scattering Instrument (LeRC).  This project will lead to the
development of an instrument capable of detecting fluid surface phenomena;
e.g., local temperatures and interface temperature gradients, surface tensions,
and volume viscosity.  General fluid interface studies will benefit from this
technology.

Multi-Color Holography (MSFC).  The development of a non-contact method of
determining, simultaneously, concentration and temperature variations in fluid
systems will benefit multi-variable research on fluid science experiments.  Two
parameters will be allowed to independently vary, with both able to be measured
through non-invasive means.  Benefits include this additional data acquisition
capability as well as the possibility for a reduction in the number of
experiment runs required.

Small, Stable, Rugged Microgravity Accelerometer (JPL).  The objective of this
program is to achieve miniaturization and calibration automation for a
high-resolution, high-sensitivity digital accelerometer design.  The
development is being achieved through the use of microelectronics fabrication
techniques.  This technology is expected to result in an improved capability
to characterize the low-gravity environment in which research is being
conducted.

Microgravity Combustion Diagnostics (LeRC).  This program is investigating a
variety of methods available to detect and quantify the combustion process.
Its primary focus is to advance the technologies associated with making
non-invasive measurements.

Multizone Transparent Furnace Control Algorithm Development (LeRC).
Multiple-input, multiple-output relationships for active closed -loop furnace
control for crystal growth processes are being established through this
program.  The technology will provide a capability to effect real-time control
over the crystal growth process rather than using the indirect techniques
currently employed.

STATE OF THE ART ASSESSMENTS

The ATD program also provides opportunities to fund state-of-the-art
assessments in specific technology areas.  As a result of such studies, novel
technological approaches have been proposed for follow-on ATD projects.  This
process has, for example, resulted in efficient adaptations of existing
non-microgravity hardware and methodologies to the MSA program.  Such
adaptations further the potential for quality experimentation and science
return.

ATD PROGRAM MANAGEMENT APPLICATION PROCESS

The MSAD Advanced Programs Branch is responsible for managing the ongoing ATD
Program. With review support provided by other Division offices, this branch
solicits and recommends funding for new ATD projects each year.

The solicitation of new ATD projects, is a two-step process.  First,
generalized concept papers are solicited from each NASA center involved in
microgravity research--e.g., Lewis Research Center (LeRC), Marshall Space
Flight Center (MSFC).  Within the scope of this phase of the ATD program, only
organizations within NASA may propose concepts.

Concurrently, an ATD Program Review Panel, is formed by the MSAD Director. This
panel is comprised of microgravity science representatives from each of the
NASA centers as well as MSAD science and program management representatives at
Headquarters. Two-page concept papers prepared for this process are reviewed
by the ATD panel, and those of sufficient technical merit and significance to
the microgravity science mission are selected as candidates for further
consideration.

Final selection proceeds with the submission and review of fully detailed ATD
proposals provided by individuals selected from the concept paper review
process.  These proposals are then prioritized, and final selections are made
based on relevance to the anticipated technology needs of the microgravity
science program, potential for success, and the potential to enable new types
of microgravity investigations to be conducted.

SCHEDULES/MILESTONES

Responsibility for the progress of ATD projects is assigned to a project
manager at the appropriate NASA center.  Significant technical milestones are
generally set by the project, but program advisors provide assistance to assure
that the milestones are focused on the goals of NASA's overall MSA program.

The ATD program manager at NASA Headquarters manages the schedule and technical
oversight necessary to maintain each project's relevance to the MSAD mission,
and also coordinates interproject communications.  In addition to the
milestones imposed by the project, various reviews are built into the ATD
program schedule.  For example, quarterly and yearly summary reports are
required, as is a mid-year progress briefing, and a reviewed final report must
be generated upon the completion of each project.  The ATD program is assessed
in the NASA Microgravity Science and Applications Program Annual Report
provided to the Congress. This report is available to the science community.

QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS DOCUMENT CAN BE DIRECTED TO:

Kathryn D. Scott
The Bionetics Corporation
250 E Street, SW
Suite 340
Washington, DC  20024
     Source:NASA Spacelink    Modem:205-895-0028  Internet:192.149.89.61
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NASA'S GRADUATE STUDENT RESEARCHERS PROGRAM
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES IN MICROGRAVITY 1993-1994

Office of Life and microgravity Sciences and Applications
MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE AND APPLICATIONS DIVISION


PUBLISHED MAY 1993

The National Aeronautics and SpaceAdministration (NASA) recognizes today's
investments in research will affect tomorrow's scientific and technological
capabilities.  To support promising students pursuing advanced degrees in
science and engineering, and to cultivate research ties to the academic
community, NASA initiated the Graduate Student Researchers Program (GSRP) in
1980.

The GSRP attempts to reach promising U.S. graduate students whose research
interests are compatible with NASA's programs in space science and aerospace
technology.  Each year, approximately 100 new awardees are selected based on
competitive evaluation of their academic qualifications, their proposed
research plan, and their planned use of NASA research facilities.

Approximately fifteen of the 100 new awardees each year are sponsored by the
NASA Headquarters Office of Life and Microgravity Sciences and Applications
(OLMSA), while the remaining awardees are distributed throughout the Office of
Space Science, the Office of Mission to Planet Earth, and the NASA field
centers.  Fellowships are awarded for research in the fields of astrophysics,
solar system exploration, space physics, Earth science, life sciences,
information systems, and microgravity science.  In addition to the 100
fellowships traditionally offered by the GSRP, OLMSA's Microgravity Science and
Applications Division (MSAD) plans to fund additional fellowships focusing on
microgravity science research.

Fellows sponsored by NASA Headquarters carry out research at their home
universities and attend a three day annual symposium at NASA Headquarters in
Washington, D.C. Fellows selected by NASA centers must spend a period of time
in residence at the center, taking advantage of the unique research facilities
of the installation and working with center personnel.  The projected use of
center expertise and facilities is an important factor, along with academic
qualifications and research plans, in the selection of the fellows.

These fellowships, for up to $22,000, are awarded for one year and are
renewable, based on satisfactory progress, for a total of three years.  The
applicant must be a U.S. citizen, enrolled as a full-time student at an
accredited U.S. college or university, and sponsored by the student's graduate
department chair or faculty advisor.  Applicants may apply at any time during
their graduate career or prior to receiving their baccalaureate degree.  An
individual who accepts this award may not concurrently receive other Federal
fellowships or traineeships.

Students from underrepresented minority groups who apply to this program may
also apply to the Underrepresented Minority Focus (UMF) component.  In
addition, the Graduate Student Fellowships in Global Change Research (GSGCR)
and the High PerformanceComputing and Communications fellowships have been
added to the Program to expand fellowship opportunities.  The 1993-1994 GSRP
Booklet contains application information for these programs.

NASA'S MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE AND APPLICATIONS PROGRAM

The GSRP supports research in several areas, one of which is microgravity
science.  MSAD guides a comprehensive microgravity science research program
that includes both ground-based and space flight experimentation, and
currently concentrates on four major areas: biotechnology, combustion, fluid
physics, and materials science.

The quality of the low gravity, or microgravity, environment depends upon the
mechanism used to create it.  Several freefall based mechanisms are used to
achieve microgravity.  They include drop tubes and towers, parabolic flying
airplanes, sounding rockets, and orbiting spacecraft.  Although airplanes,
drop facilities, and small rockets can be used to create a microgravity
environment, they all share a common problem; each provides only a few seconds
or minutes of low-g.  In spite of this limitation, much can be learned a bout
fluid dynamics and mixing, liquid-gas surface interactions, and crystallization
and macromolecular structure during a few moments in a microgravity
environment.

To conduct longer term experiments (days, weeks, months, and years), it is
necessary to travel into Earth orbit.  Having more time available for
experiments means that slower processes and more subtle effects can be
investigated.  Experiments lasting for two weeks are possible with the Space
Shuttle. When NASA's planned international Space Station Freedom is assembled
and ready for use, the time available for experiments will stretch to months.

Microgravity science research is conducted throughout the U.S. by Principle
Investigators (PIs) in industry, at universities, at NASA field centers, and
at other government agencies.  NASA field centers involved in microgravity
science research include:

MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER (MSFC)
Protein Crystal Growth, Materials Science, Fluid Physics

JOHNSON SPACE CENTER (JSC)
Cell Culturing

LANGLEY RESEARCH CENTER (LaRC)
Materials Science

LEWIS RESEARCH CENTER (LeRC)
Combustion Science, Fluid Physics

JET PROPULSION LABORATORY (JPL)
Fluid Physics, and Fundamental Science Low Temperature Research.

The 1993-1994 GSRP Booklet which has additional application information as well
as more detailed information on current research being conducted at NASA field
centers can be obtained by writing to NASA Headquarters. All applicants must
submit their proposal by February 1 of each year to the appropriate NASA
facility.  Students applying for fellowships at one of the NASA field centers
should contact the center directly.  The contact person for each of these
centers is listed below.  Students applying for fellowships sponsored by OLMSA,
or one of the other NASA Headquarters offices, should submit their proposals
to NASA Headquarters.

HEADQUARTERS PROPOSALS SHOULD BE SUBMITTED TO:
Graduate Student Researchers Program
Code SPM-20, NASA Headquarters
300 E Street, SW
Washington, DC  20546

FOR INQUIRIES OR TO OBTAIN THE GSRP BOOKLET, CALL OR WRITE:
Dolores Holland
Office of Life and Microgravity Sciences and Applications
Code U
NASA Headquarters
Washington, DC  20546
[phone]

NASA FIELD CENTER PROPOSALS SHOULD BE SUBMITTED TO THE PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR AT
THE APPROPRIATE CENTER:

JPL
Dr. Harry Ashkenas
[phone]

JSC
Dr. Stanley Goldstein
[phone]

LaRC
Mr. Edwin Prior
[phone]

LeRC
Dr. Francis Montegani
[phone]

MSFC
Dr. Frank Six
[phone]

QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS DOCUMENT CAN BE DIRECTED TO:

Kathryn D. Scott
The Bionetics Corporation
250 E Street, SW
Suite 340
Washington, DC  20024
     Source:NASA Spacelink    Modem:205-895-0028  Internet:192.149.89.61
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MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE AND APPLICATIONS DIVISION
1992 RETROSPECTIVE

For NASA's Microgravity Science and Applications Program, 1992 was a year of
unprecedented challenge and achievement.  NASA launched four Space Shuttle
missions to improve our fundamental understanding of the effect of gravity on a
variety of important physical, chemical and biological processes.  These
missions used the low gravity environment of space--microgravity--to probe
phenomena which are difficult or impossible to study in Earth's gravity.
NASA's Microgravity Science Program conducted more peer-reviewed, hands-on
U.S. microgravity science research in space in 1992 than performed cumulatively
in all prior years since Skylab (1974-75).

MICROGRAVITY RESEARCH IN SPACE

Three Space Shuttle missions used the Spacelab laboratory module to demonstrate
the potential of microgravity science research using the astronaut crew.
During the United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) -- the first Space
Shuttle mission dedicated to microgravity research, and the longest mission
to date -- crew members carried out experiments in all major microgravity
science research areas.  The International Microgravity Laboratory (IML)
mission featured cooperation, both between international partners, and between
the microgravity and life sciences.  Spacelab-J (SL-J) a reimbursable
mission with Japan, also explored topics in microgravity and life sciences
research.

Another Shuttle mission, the first United States Microgravity Payload (USMP),
made extensive use of telescience technology to carry out sophisticated
experiments in the exposed environment of the cargo bay.  During the mission,
scientists on the ground sent over 5,000 commands to their instruments in
orbit.

THE GROUND BASED RESEARCH PROGRAM

During 1992, NASA's Microgravity Science and Applications Program expanded its
funding of research at the nation's academic, industrial and government
institutions.  Four NASA Research Announcements, released in the fall of 1991,
resulted in a total of 490 proposals received and peer-reviewed in 1992 by
panels involving 129 independent discipline experts.  This level of activity
exceeded the cumulative science proposals received by NASA in response to
microgravity announcements of opportunity since 1976.  Research selected from
these solicitations will provide the base of theoretical and experimental
knowledge needed to develop new microgravity experiments for flight on the
Space Shuttle and the Space Station.

THE COMING YEAR

In the next year, scientists will continue to analyze data from microgravity
experiments flown in 1992.  NASA will sponsor a review of IML science results
April 6-9, 1993.  Reviews of the results from the USML, SL-J and USMP missions
will take place during the latter half of 1993.

The Microgravity Science and Applications Program will also continue
preparations for future microgravity research missions, including USMP-2 and
IML-2, scheduled for 1994, and USML-2, scheduled for 1995.

1992 SPACE SHUTTLE MISSIONS

STS-42/First International Microgravity Laboratory (IML-1)
JAN. 22-JAN. 30, 1992
Duration:  8 days
Cooperative microgravity/life sciences research mission with the European Space
Agency (ESA), the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), the French National Center for
Space Studies (CNES), the German Space Agency and the German Aerospace Research
Establishment (DARA/DLR), and the National Space Development Agency of Japan
(NASDA);

Eleven NASA-sponsored microgravity investigations:
Protein crystal growth
Crystal growth of electronic materials
Solidification of metal alloys
Fundamental fluid physics;
Extra mission day allowed collection of additional data.


STS-50/First United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1)
JUN. 25-JUL. 9, 1992
Duration:  14 days
First Space Shuttle mission dedicated to microgravity research;
Thirty-one microgravity investigations:
Fluid dynamics
Protein crystal growth
Crystal growth of electronic materials
Combustion science
Technology demonstration;
Successful operation of four new major facilities for microgravity research;
Longest Space Shuttle mission to date--14 days.


STS-47/Japanese Spacelab (SL-J)
SEP.12-SEP. 20, 1992
Duration:  8 days
Cooperative microgravity/life sciences research mission with the National Space
    Development Agency of Japan (NASDA);
4 U.S. microgravity investigations:
Protein crystal growth
Acceleration measurements
Fluid dynamics
Combustion research;
Extra mission day allowed collection of additional data.


STS-52/First United States Microgravity Payload (USMP-1)
OCT. 22-NOV. 1, 1992
Duration:  9 days
Research in the cargo bay to carry out experiments not requiring tending by
astronaut crew; Extensive use of telescience technology to optimize mission
science return; NASA investigation to study fundamental aspects of fluid
behavior collected three times as much data as planned; Cooperative
investigation  with the French National Center for Space Studies (CNES) to
study behavior of metals and semiconductors during solidification from
a molten state collected three times as much data as planned.




QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS DOCUMENT CAN BE DIRECTED TO:

Kathryn D. Scott
The Bionetics Corporation
250 E Street, SW
Suite 340
Washington, DC  20024
     Source:NASA Spacelink    Modem:205-895-0028  Internet:192.149.89.61
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United States Microgravity Laboratory-USML-1
JUNE, 1992    (Pre-Launch Information)

Office of Space Science and Applications
MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE AND APPLICATIONS DIVISION


USML-1 MICROGRAVITY RESEARCH

The first United States Microgravity Laboratory mission is the first of a
series of Space Shuttle Spacelab missions fully dedicated to microgravity
research, conceived to help establish a program with the long-term continuity
needed to build United States preeminence in microgravity science and
technology.  USML-1 incorporates eight experiment facilities in four major
areas: biotechnology , combustion science, fluid physics and transport
phenomena, and materials science.

The primary mission objectives include: Using the space environment to address
important science and technical questions;

Enabling cooperation between government, industry and academia as an evolving
partnership to explore and develop the potential of the space environment;

Offering United States scientific and commercial communities access to the
sophisticated research capabilities of the Spacelab;

Building a base of experience for the Space Station.

For its twelfth flight, a refurbished Space Shuttle Columbia will debut the
program's Extended Duration Orbiter pallet, a system that provides additional
consumables to enable the orbiter to remain in orbit for up to sixteen days.
Extended missions like USML-1 allow investigators to perform complex
experiments or multiple iterations of experiments that require more time.

MICROGRAVITY

Zero-gravity or absolute weightlessness is virtually impossible to achieve,
particularly in the vicinity of a planetary body like Earth.  An orbiting
Space Shuttle has escaped less than 10% of the gravity at Earth's surface (1g).
Only at a distance of more than six million kilometers from Earth--seventeen
times farther away than the Moon--does our planet's gravitational pull weaken
to a force that is comparable to the low gravity environment astronauts
experience in orbit -- microgravity.

NASA's Office of Space Science and Applications (OSSA) is responsible for
planning and executing the scientific research activities associated with the
Agency's goals.  Within OSSA, the Microgravity Science and Applications
Division undertakes the study of important physical, chemical and biological
processes in a microgravity environment.

USML-1 SCIENCE PREVIEW

The first United States Microgravity Laboratory is also the first Spacelab
mission dedicated entirely to microgravity science.  A number of aspects are
unique to such a mission.

First, as was the case with the first International Microgravity Laboratory
Spacelab mission in January, 1992, Space Shuttle Columbia will be oriented in
a "gravity gradient" attitude -- tail down toward Earth. This is the most
stable orientation for a Space Shuttle orbiter, requiring less attitude
control activity that can produce acceleration disturbances as a potential
problem for microgravity experiments.

Other measures will be taken aboard Columbia to minimize activities that might
similarly disturb experiments.  The two USML-1 Payload Specialists are
experienced microgravity researchers, bringing important knowledge of both the
environment and its importance for the experiments into space.  The extended
duration orbiter pallet provides additional consumables so that Columbia can
remain in orbit for up to sixteen days if the 13-day mission (depending on
launch and recovery schedule changes) needs to be extended.

Thirteen science investigations will be conducted in eight facilities during
the USML-1 mission.  The investigations are representative of all four
Microgravity Science and Applications science disciplines: biotechnology,
combustion science, fluid physics and transport phenomena, and materials
science.

The Glovebox facility will carry and accommodate sixteen small-scale
experiments.  Glovebox experiments are intended to complement or enhance the
results from the USML science investigations, and to provide additional
information for the design and development of future microgravity experiments.

In addition, the extended duration orbiter medical program will provide
information about the effect of long-duration exposure to microgravity on
humans.  This program is designed to develop medical countermeasures for Space
Shuttle missions of ten days or longer.  By closely observing and monitoring
crew members during and following the extended duration USML-1 mission, the
program hopes to identify potential health problems, develop preventative and
therapeutic procedures, and establish research priorities to address the
problems.

The information collected will add to the overall knowledge base needed to
support future long-duration missions on the Space Shuttle and on the Space
Station.  Finally, two sensitive accelerometer systems will measure and
record the disturbances to the microgravity environment caused by residual
gravitational accelerations, atmospheric drag, orbiter thruster firings, and
crew activity.  The information produced by these systems will be used by
USML-1 investigators following the flight to improve their understanding of the
effects of these small accelerations on experiments.

SPACELAB

USML-1 uses Spacelab, a reusable modular laboratory developed by the European
Space Agency (ESA).  Spacelab is a cylindrical structu redesigned for
installation in a Space Shuttle cargo bay, and it's flexible design permits the
configuration of interchangeable elements best suited to each mission's needs.
These Spacelab facilities can then be uniquely equipped for specific research
requirements.

Spacelab measures 23 feet (7 meter) long and 16 feet (5 meters) in diameter --
about the size of a small bus.  The crew moves between the Spacelab and the
Space Shuttle's crew cabin through an eight-foot tunnel.  The laboratory
affords the same "shirt sleeve" life support environment as is produced in the
orbiter itself, providing the work areas, instrument racks and support services
needed to conduct a wide variety of experiments and research.

The USML-1 microgravity apparatus are supported by a suite of common Spacelab
systems.  Spacelab provides electrical power and air cooling to all of the
racks.  A supplementary fluid cooling system is provided for those experiments
that use a substantial amount of power.  The facility also provides special
services, such as argon gas for use by the Crystal Growth Furnace, and vacuum
venting.

Cameras and specialized sensors are an integral part of many USML-1
instruments.  These record the progress of the experiments and capture
relevant data.  Experiment data are recorded by Spacelab systems and are also
available for transmission to ground controllers.  Spacelab also provides
experiment commanding services for payload systems requiring control from the
ground.

USML-2: THE FUTURE

Resources provided in the Spacelab, developed by the European Space Agency,
afford volume, crew time, power and data access that are substantially greater
than the middeck can provide.  Most of the experiment apparatus flown on
USML-1 will be modified and reflown with new investigations on the USML-2
mission scheduled for 1995.  The second International Microgravity Laboratory,
IML-2, a follow-on mission to the highly successful IML-1 mission flown in
January, 1992, will give U.S. investigators an opportunity to conduct
microgravity research in apparatus developed by other nations.  NASA also will
seek additional opportunities for U.S. researchers on two planned European
Spacelab missions: E1 (1995) and E2 (1997).


STS-50/USML-1 MISSION FACTS:

Launch Site -- Kennedy Space Center
Shuttle Orbiter -- Columbia (OV-102)
Operations Altitude -- 297 KM (160 NM)
Orbital Inclination -- Tail-to-Earth, bay forward with additional 12 degrees
                 roll bias angle for crystal growth
Mission Duration -- 13 days
Prime Landing Site -- Edwards Air Force Base, CA
Crew Size -- 7
Primary Payload -- USML-1

Secondary Payload:
Investigations into Polymer Membrane Processing
Shuttle Amateur Radio Experiment II
Ultraviolet Plume Instrument

QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS DOCUMENT CAN BE DIRECTED TO:

Kathryn D. Scott
The Bionetics Corporation
250 E Street, SW
Suite 340
Washington, DC  20024
     Source:NASA Spacelink    Modem:205-895-0028  Internet:192.149.89.61
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SPACELAB J: The United States and Japan in Space
AUGUST, 1992

Office of Space Science and Applications
MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE AND APPLICATIONS DIVISION


SPACELAB J

For the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), Spacelab-J (SL-J)
affords an opportunity to conduct research in space us ing resources procured
by Japan through reimbursement to NASA. SL-J is the first shared Space Shuttle
mission between the United States and Japan and is the most ambitious venture
between the two countries to date.

The main thrust of Japan's SL-J science will be materials processing.  On-orbit
operations aboard STS-47 will be assisted by NASDA's first Payload Specialist,
Dr. Mamoru Mohri. NASDA's First Materials Processing Test (FMPT) is Japan's
entry into a national dedicated Spacelab mission, similar to Spacelab
missions by Germany (D-1) and the United States (SLS-1 and USML-1). Japan
purchased the opportunity to fly the FMPT experiments and will share its
resulting science data.

For NASA, STS-47/SL-J is yet another opportunity to conduct low-gravity
research in the broad, future-critical disciplines of microgravity
research and life sciences.  For both agencies, participation in this flight is
an important step in strengthening international ties, and SL-J has been
instrumental in furthering the cooperative space research program that is now
developing between the two nations.  SL-J is seen as a spring board for
international activity associated with the planning and development of the
Space Station.

MICROGRAVITY LABORATORY IN SPACE

A microgravity environment has unique characteristics--such as substantially
reduced buoyancy forces, sedimentation, and hydrostatic pressure--that allow
the investigation of phenomena and processes that are difficult or impossible
to study on Earth due to normal gravity.  In microgravity, it becomes possible
to isolate and control gravity-related phenomena and take measurements that
generally afford greater accuracy than can be achieved on Earth.

MICROGRAVITY

Microgravity is a result of the state of continuous freefall we think of as
orbital flight.  The prefix micro- is derived from the Greek word mikros,
meaning "small." It is also used in quantitative systems of measurement like
the metric system , where micro- means "one part in a million".  In
space science, orbiting spacecraft can very nearly provide a microgravity
environment that meets the criterion of the second definition.  However, the
term is generally used by NASA in a broader context to encompass a range of
very low acceleration-related forces likely to be experienced in orbit or that
can very briefly be created on Earth for experimental scientific research.

True zero-gravity or absolute weightlessness is virtually impossible to
achieve, particularly in the vicinity of a planetary body like Earth. An
orbiting Space Shuttle has escaped less than 10% of the gravity at Earth's
surface (1g).  Only at a distance of more than six million kilometers from
Earth--seventeen times farther away than the Moon--does our planet's
gravitational pull weaken to a force that is comparable to the low gravity
environment astronauts experience in orbit -- microgravity.

NASA's Office of Space Science and Applications (OSSA) is responsible for
planning and executing the scientific research activities associated with the
Agency's goals.  Within OSSA, the Microgravity Science and Applications
Division undertakes the study of important physical, chemical and biochemical
processes in a microgravity environment.

SPACELAB

Spacelab-J (SL-J) uses a reusable modular laboratory, Spacelab, developed by
the European Space Agency (ESA).  Spacelab is a cylindrical structure designed
for installation in a Space Shuttle cargo bay, and its flexible design is
custom configured to suit each mission's needs.  These Spacelab facilities can
then be uniquely equipped for specific research requirements.

Spacelab measures 23 feet (7 meters) long and 16 feet (5 meters) in diameter --
about the size of a small bus.  The crew moves between the Spacelab and the
Space Shuttle's crew cabin through an eight-foot tunnel.  The laboratory
otherwise affords the same "shirt sleeve" life support environment as is
produced in the orbiter.  The module itself includes work areas, instrument
racks and support services needed to conduct the experiments and investigations
peculiar to each mission.  The flexibility of the modular design permits
configuring interchangeable elements to satisfy unique requirements
encountered by each program.

The SL-J microgravity experiments are supported by a suite of common Spacelab
systems.  Spacelab provides electrical power and air cooling to all of the
racks.  A supplementary fluid cooling system is provided for those experiments
that use a substantial amount of power.  The facility also provides special
services, such as vacuum venting or argon gas for use by processing furnaces.

Cameras and specialized sensors are an integral part of many SL-J instruments.
These record the progress of the experiments and capture relevant data.
Experiment data are recorded by Spacelab systems and are also available for
transmission to ground controllers.  Spacelab also provides experiment
commanding services for payload systems requiring control from the ground.
Finally, some of the SL-J experiment equipment is located in the orbiter
middeck, including refrigeration for storing samples.

MISSION MANAGEMENT

Spacelab mission management is conducted from the Payload Operations Control
Center at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsvil le, Alabama. Scientists
on the ground monitor and, when necessary, troubleshoot and assist with
experiment adjustments to assure o r enhance the quality of the science return.


SPACELAB J PRIMARY MISSION

THE NATIONAL SPACE DEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF JAPAN (NASDA) NASDA, Japan's National
Space Development Agency, is NASA's counterpart and principal user for
Spacelab-J. The Spacelab-J mission is managed within NASDA by the Space
Experiments Group.

NASDA's First Materials Processing Test (FMPT) science payload consists of 34
materials and life sciences experiments -- 22 in the area of materials
processing and 12 life science investigations.  Materials processing research
will examine two significant areas, materials science and fluid mechanics,
while life science experiments will be invested in six areas of research that
include human physiology, cell biology, and radiation biology.

PROGRAM GOALS

Use the space environment to address important science and technical questions
in materials science, fluids research, biotechnology, combustion science,
human physiology, radiation biology, cell biology, and developmental biology.

Develop a foundation of cooperation between NASA and NASDA as an evolving
partnership to explore and develop the potential of the space environment.

Offer scientific communities in the United States and Japan access to the
sophisticated, long-duration research capabilities of the Spacelab.

Build a base of experience in preparation for Space Station Freedom.


LIFE SCIENCES

During space flight, humans undergo numerous changes: bone mineral content
declines, muscle mass is lost, heart function is altered, and spatial
perception changes.  Virtually all body systems are affected by exposure to
microgravity.  Spacelab experiments have been pathfinders in addressing
important questions, developing equipment and techniques for research, and
leading to discoveries impossible to detect in the gravitational environment
on Earth.

The life sciences payload consists of experiments in developmental biology,
cell biology, neuroscience, technology development, and human psychology.  They
will provide information on how microgravity affects the human body, animals,
and both plant and animal cell s.

NASA's Microgravity Science & Applications Program The Microgravity Science and
Applications Division (MSAD) of the Office of Space Science and Applications
(OSSA) supports a research program in all areas of microgravity science,
including materials science, biotechnology, combustion science, and fluid
physics/dynamics.

The on-orbit microgravity environment causes the magnitude of phenomena
dependent on gravity to change drastically.  Forces that on Earth are
overshadowed by gravity's strength become dominant in space.  The microgravity
environment allows gravity-related phenomen a to be isolated and controlled,
and measurements have an accuracy that cannot be obtained on Earth.

MSAD will conduct three science experiments aboard SL-J, reflecting its
interests in: biotechnology, fluid physics, and combustion science.  A fourth
investigation will measure accelerations imparted by Space Shuttle activities
and motions to help understand their affect on experiments.

The biotechnology program's Protein Crystal Growth (PCG) experiment and the
Space Acceleration Measurement System (SAMS) will fly in the Spacelab as
primary payloads.  The Solid Surface Combustion Experiment (SSCE) will make
its fifth flight in the middeck, and the Pool Boiling Experiment (PBE) will
be in the cargo bay as a Get-Away Special. The PBE is designed to reveal basic
properties of fluids as they begin to boil.


SPACE SCIENCE: AN INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY

COOPERATION IN SPACE

Spacelab-J is the first shared Space Shuttle mission between the United States
and Japan. Japan procured the use of two Spacelab double racks to conduct
materials science, one double rack for life sciences, and support for
associated payload, launch and mission services.  The rest of Spacelab's
facility space will be used by NASA for life science and microgravity research.

International cooperation will continue with the future use of Spacelab,
helping to prepare its user partners for future work aboard the Space Station.
The second International Microgravity Laboratory, IML-2, a follow-on mission to
the highly successful IML-1 mission flown in January, 1992, will give U.S.
investigators an opportunity to conduct microgravity research in research
equipment developed by other nations.  NASA also will seek additional
opportunities for U.S. researchers on two planned European Spacelab missions:
E1 (1995) and E2 (1997).


STS-47/Spacelab J Mission Facts

Launch Site -- Kennedy Space Center
Space Shuttle Orbiter -- Endeavour (OV-105), 2nd Flight
Operations Altitude -- 297 KM (160 NM)
Orbital Inclination -- 57 degrees
Mission Attitude -- Gravity Gradient (Tail-to-Earth for Quiescent Operation)
Mission Duration -- 7 days
Crew Size -- 7
Prime Landing Site -- Kennedy Space Center, FL

PRIMARY PAYLOAD
NASA and NASDA Spacelab-J Experiments

SECONDARY PAYLOAD

Solid Surface Combustion Experiment (SSCE)
Israeli Space Agency Investigation About Hornets (ISAIAH)
Get-Away Special (GAS) Bridge


SPACELAB J NASA/NASDA CREW

Mission Commander:
USN Captain Robert L. "Hoot" Gibson SL-J is Capt. Gibson's fourth Space Shuttle
mission.  He previously flew as Pilot on STS-41B, Commander on STS-61C, and
Commander on STS-27.

Pilot:
USAF Major Curtis L. Brown, Jr. SL-J is Major Brown's first mission.  He was an
Air Force flight instructor at Eglin Air Force Base.

Flight Engineer:
Dr. Jay Apt SL-J is Dr. Apt's second mission.  He served as a mission
specialist on STS-37, the Gamma Ray Observatory mission, performing both a
scheduled and an unscheduled space walk.

Payload Commander:
USAF Lt. Col. Mark C. Lee SL-J is Col. Lee's second mission.  Before being
selected as an astronaut, he was Flight Commander in the 4th Tactical Fight
Squadron at Hill AFB in Utah; he later served as a mission specialist on
STS-30 during deployment of the Magellan Venus orbiter.

Science Mission Specialist:
Dr. Mae C. Jemison SL-J is Dr. Jemison's first mission since joining NASA from
private industry.  In addition to an MD, her education includes chemical
engineering, and African and African American studies.

Mission Specialist:
Dr. N. Jan Davis SL-J is Dr. Davis's first mission.  With a background in
applied biology and a PhD in mechanical engineering, Dr. Davis was with NASA
at the Marshall Space Flight Center before being selected to join the SL-J
crew.

Japanese Payload Specialist:
Dr. Mamoru Mohri Dr. Mohri was an associate professor in the Department of
Nuclear Engineering at Hokkaido University. He had been an astronaut candidate
since 1985.


ALTERNATES:

Science Mission Specialist
Dr. Stanley N. Koszelak is a research biochemist from the University of
California, Riverside. He has been a co-investigator in protein crystal growth
experiments flown on previous Space Shuttle missions.

Japanese Payload Specialist
Dr. Chiaki Mukai (M.D., PhD) served her residency in general surgery and later
became an instructor for Keio University's Dept. of Cardiovascular Surgery.
She has been an astronaut candidate since 1985.

Japanese Payload Specialist
Dr. Takao Doi was a research associate with the Institute of Space and
Astronautics Science until 1985.  He then served as a National Research
Council Research Associate at NASA's Lewis Research Center before his selection
as a NASDA astronaut candidate.

Spacelab J Research

2 NASA Microgravity Science and Applications Investigationsá:
    - Protein Crystal Growth
    - Space Acceleration Measurement System

7 NASA Life Science Investigations:
    Human physiology (3), cell biology (2), developmental biology (1), and
    fluid therapy system testing (1).

34 NASDA Science Investigations
    Materials science (19), fluid mechanics (3), biotechnology (3), human
    physiology (2), developmental biology (1), neuroscienc e (3), cell
    biology (1), and radiation biology (2).

*The Solid Surface Combustion Experiment (fifth flight) and the Pool Boiling
Experiment (first flight) are conducted independent of Spacelab facilities, the
latter as a Get-Away Special.

QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS DOCUMENT CAN BE DIRECTED TO:

Kathryn D. Scott
The Bionetics Corporation
250 E Street, SW
Suite 340
Washington, DC  20024
     Source:NASA Spacelink    Modem:205-895-0028  Internet:192.149.89.61
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The First United States Microgravity Payload-USMP-1
OCTOBER, 1992        Pre-Launch Information


Office of Space Science and Applications
MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE AND APPLICATIONS DIVISION


GROUND TENDED MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE

The STS-52 mission manifest for the Space Shuttle orbiter Columbia includes the
first flight of the United States Microgravity Payload (USMP-1).  This
microgravity science and technology package is part of an ongoing series of
Space Shuttle missions designed to help establish a microgravity science and
applications program with long-term continuity.  An important goal of the
program is to build U.S. preeminence in understanding and using the
microgravity environment.

The USMP missions were conceived to take advantage of benefits afforded by the
Space Shuttle cargo bay.  As a part of its design, the cargo bay can house
structures developed to accommodate large experiments that require neither the
crew environment nor hands-on interaction by crew specialists.  USMP missions
are designed to operate in this manner.

USMP-1's primary science experiments are expected to make a significant
contribution to the scientific and technical base of knowledge in both
materials science and condensed matter physics.  The paylaod also includes
sensitive instruments developed to characterize the microgravity environment
aboard Columbia during its 10-day mission.

LAGEOS II, a passive satellite developed jointly by NASA and the Italian Space
Agency as a laser-ranging target to help make precise measurements of Earth's
crustal movements, will share the cargo bay.  A suite of Canadian experiments
and commercial program experiments also will be aboard STS-52.


NASA's MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE AND APPLICATIONS PROGRAM

NASA's Office of Space Science and Applications (OSSA) is responsible for
planning and executing the scientific research activities associated with the
Agency's goals.  OSSA's Microgravity Science and Applications Division (MSAD)
guides the study of important physical, chemical and biochemical processes in
a microgravity environment, supporting research through four major microgravity
science disciplines: biotechnology, combustion science, fluid physics, and
materials science.

MSAD will conduct two major science experiments aboard Columbia during the
STS-52 mission.  A third investigation will measure accelerations imparted by
Space Shuttle activities and motions, producing data that will contribute to
our understanding of the affect of these small acceleration forces on USMP-1 as
well as future Space Shuttle experiments and planning associated with the
development of systems and research for the Space Station.

MICROGRAVITY

True zero-gravity or absolute weightlessness is virtually impossible to
achieve, particularly in the vicinity of a planetary body like Earth. An
orbiting Space Shuttle has escaped less than 10% of the gravity at Earth's
surface (1g).  Only at a distance of more than six million kilometers from
Earth--seventeen times farther away than the Moon--does our planet's
gravitational pull weaken to a force that is comparable to the low gravity
environment astronauts experience in orbit -- microgravity.

Microgravity is a result of the state of continuous freefall we think of as
orbital flight.  The prefix micro- is derived from the Greek word mikros,
meaning "small." It is also used in quantitative systems of measurement like
the metric system , where micro- means "one part in a million".  In
space science, orbiting spacecraft can very nearly provide a microgravity
environment that meets the criterion of the second definition.  However, the
term is generally used by NASA in a broader context to encompass a range of
very low acceleration-related forces likely to be experienced in orbit or that
can very briefly be created on Earth for experimental scientific research.

Due largely to the microgravity environment created by freefall in Earth orbit,
space flight gives scientists the opportunity to study as never before the
fundamental states of matter--solids, liquids and gasses--and the forces that
affect them.  Because microgravity is the virtual absence of gravity as we
know it, studies in such an environment help science to understand the
influence of gravity upon the physical world around us.

The microgravity environment causes the magnitude of phenomena dependent on
gravity to change significantly.  Forces overshadowed by normal gravity on
Earth become dominant in space.  Gravity-related phenomena can be isolated and
controlled in a microgravity environment , and measurements can generally be
made with an precision that can't be achieved on Earth.

USMP-1:
SUPER COLD AND VERY HOT EXPERIMENTS
A microgravity environment has unique characteristics--such as substantially
reduced buoyancy forces, sedimentation, and hydrostatic pressure--that allow
the investigation of phenomena and processes that are difficult or impossible
to study on Earth due to normal gravity.  The two major science experiments
developed for the first flight United States Microgravity Payload carrier
reflect this characterization and were designed to study the fundamental
behavior of fluid and metallurgical processes at critical phases that are very
difficult to observe and measure on Earth.

LAMBDA-POINT EXPERIMENT
The Lambda-Point Experiment (LPE) uses microgravity to test the theory of
cooperative (second order) phase transitions.  And it does so using the most
unique liquid known: helium.  The lambda point of helium is 2.177 Kelvin
(-454.7 degrees F), and below that temperature liquid helium undergoes a
unique phase change and becomes a superfluid.  As such, it can do some
interesting things, such as its ability to conduct heat 1000 times more
effectively than copper.

The transition phase is of considerable interest, but gravity-induced problems
make it all but impossible to observe.  Gravity acts on liquid helium to cause
pressure at the bottom of the sample to be greater than at the top, producing
density differences.  As a result, fluid at the top becomes superfluid at a
higher temperature.

In a microgravity environment, the lambda-point transition of helium is ideal
for such studies because it is possible to approach th e transition point 100
times more closely than with similar materials, and observed phenomena are
present in a variety of physical systems for a broad application of resulting
data.  Thermometers will measure the sample's heat capacity (the degree to
which its temperature rises in response to the pulses within a few billionths
of a degree of the transition temperature.

MEPHISTO
The French MEPHISTO experiment was developed to study the behavior of metals
and semiconductors during solidification from a molten state.  Results will be
useful in the improvement of theories involving segregation behavior and the
morphological stability of the solid/liquid interface.  Many materials, such as
metals, glasses and polymers, are formed by directional solidification -- i.e.,
they are melted and then carefully cooled to produce a solid with the desired
atomic structure.  But gravity drives convective fluid flows between warmer
and cooler regions in molten materials and, as solidification occurs, the flows
can cause nonuniformities in the solid.

In the MEPHISTO apparatus, small furnaces capable of melting and solidifying
several samples simultaneously are used.  Directional solidification occurs as
the furnaces are moved after a melt has been achieved.  It is the nature of
fluid flows at the "solidification front" of a melt sample that influences the
final composition and structure of the solid.  A variety of tests will be
conducted to determine how directional solidification in microgravity affects
the shape, temperature and velocity of the solidification front.  These
experiments will product information that will improve the understanding of
fundamental behavior of materials during solidification on Earth.

MISSION MANAGEMENT
USMP mission management is conducted from the Payload Operations Control Center
at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama.

STS-52 MISSION INFORMATION

Columbia -- Second Flight of a New Career
Columbia (OV-102), America's first Space Shuttle orbiter to be launched into
space, will be making its 13th flight during the STS-52 mission -- its second
since rejoining the fleet in 1992 following an extensive refurbishment that
made it one of the most advanced orbiters in NASA's fleet.  Its first flight
in 1992 carried the first United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) into
orbit, a Spacelab mission that remained in space to complete the longest
flight yet for the Space Shuttle program.

Launch Site -- Kennedy Space Center
Space Shuttle Orbiter -- Columbia (OV-102)
Operations Altitude -- 296 KM (160 NM)
Orbital Inclination -- 28.45 degrees
Mission Attitude -- Cargo Bay Toward Earth, Local Vertical (-ZLV)
Mission Duration -- 10 days
Crew Size -- 6
Prime Landing Site -- Kennedy Space Center, FL

Primary Payload:    United States Microgravity Payload (USMP-1)
    Laser Geodynamics Satellite (LAGEOS II)

Secondary Payload:     Attitude Sensor Package (ASP)
    Canadian Experiments-2 (CANEX-2)
    Commercial MDA ITA Experiments-1 (CMIX-1)
    Commercial Protein Crystal Growth-II (CPCG-II)
    Crystals by Vapor Transport Experiment-1 (CVTE-1)
    Heat Pipe Performance Experiment (HPPE)
    Physiological System Experiment-2 (PSE-2)
    Shuttle Plume Impingement Experiment (SPIE)
    Tank Pressure Control Experiment-2 (TPCE-2)

STS-52 COLUMBIA CREW
Mission Commander:
USN Commander James D. Wetherbee
STS-52 will be Commander Wetherbee's second Space Shuttle mission.  He served
as Pilot for STS-32, the retrieval of the Long Duration Exposure facility
(LDEF).

Pilot:
USN Captain Michael A. Baker
Captain Baker is flying his second Space Shuttle mission as Pilot, having also
served in that capacity for STS-43, the deployment of a Tracking and Data
Relay Satellite (TDRS).

Mission Specialist:
USN Captain William M. Sheperd
STS-52 is Captain Sheperd's third Space Shuttle mission as a Mission
Specialist. He served in that capacity for STS-27, a Department of Defense
mission, and the STS-41 mission for the deployment of the Ulysses (solar polar)
spacecraft.

Mission Specialist:
Dr. Tamara E. Jernigan
Dr. Jernigan will be associated with her second Space Shuttle mission.  She
previously served as a Mission Specialist for STS-40, the first Space Life
Sciences mission.

Mission Specialist:
Charles L. Veach
STS-52 will be the second Space Shuttle mission flown by Charles Veach. He
served in the same capacity for STS-39, a Department of Defense mission.

Payload Specialist:
Dr. Steven G. MacLean
Dr. MacLean, Canadian Space Agency, assisted in the development of the
experiments he will perform on STS-52. In addition, he is astronaut advisor
for Strategic Technologies in the Automated & Robotics Program (STEAR) and is
Program Manager of the Advanced Space Vision System.

Alternate Payload Specialist:
Dr. Bjarni V. Tryggvason
Canadian Space Agency

QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS DOCUMENT CAN BE DIRECTED TO:

Kathryn D. Scott
The Bionetics Corporation
250 E Street, SW
Suite 340
Washington, DC  20024
     Source:NASA Spacelink    Modem:205-895-0028  Internet:192.149.89.61
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SPACE STATION RESEARCH: AN ORBITING LABORATORY FOR MICROGRAVITY RESEARCH

Office of Life and Microgravity Sciences and Applications
MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE AND APPLICATIONS DIVISION


NASA is preparing today for a new era in microgravity research using the Space
Station. During 1992, NASA launched four Space Shuttle missions to
improve our fundamental understanding of the effect of gravity on a variety of
physical, chemical and biological processes.  These missions used the low
gravity environment in Earth orbit--microgravity--to probe phenomena which are
difficult or impossible to study in normal gravity.

Three of these missions used the Spacelab laboratory module to demonstrate the
potential of microgravity science research using the astronaut crew.  During
the United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) mission crew members carried
out experiments in all four major microgravity science research areas.  The
International Microgravity Laboratory (IML) mission featured cooperation, both
between international partners, and between the microgravity and life
sciences.  Spacelab-J (SL-J) a reimbursable mission with Japan, also explored
topics in microgravity and life sciences research.

The Space Station will provide a microgravity science laboratory unrivaled by
any on Earth or aboard the Space Shuttle. Experiments requiring long exposure
to low gravity will not be limited by the relatively short flights provided by
the Space Shuttle. Highly trained crew members will use the Space Station as a
microgravity laboratory, modifying experiments in response to previous results,
and troubleshooting problems.  The Space Station will also provide the
resources--power and data handling capability--to support many microgravity
experiments at the same time.

MICROGRAVITY RESEARCH ON THE SPACE STATION

NASA'S microgravity science program focuses on four areas: biotechnology,
combustion research, fluid dynamics and transport phenomena, and materials
science.  Protein crystal growth research seeks to gain knowledge of biological
molecular structures, using microgravity to grow crystals suitable for
analysis by X-ray diffraction.  Diffraction data can be used to develop
detailed models of a protein's structure.  These models may provide insight
into the protein's functions and may serve as the basis for designing
pharmaceuticals.

Microgravity protein crystallization experiments have produced crystals that
provide much better structural data than their best ground-grown counterparts.
Microgravity is also used to understand the mechanisms controlling the
crystallization of biological molecules.

Observations from the 14-day United States Microgravity Laboratory mission
(June 1992) suggest that longer-duration exposure to microgravity improves the
results of protein crystallization experiments.  On the Space Station,
long-duration microgravity protein crystal growth experiments will take place
in the Protein Crystal Growth (PCG) facility.  The PCG facility will
accommodate several experiment enclosures which provide thermal control for a
variety of crystal growth apparatus.

Mammalian cell culture is one of the most exciting areas in the biotechnology
field.  Improved cell and tissue cultures may be useful for creating more
accurate models of abnormal cells, such as tumors, and may have applications in
disease studies.  Preliminary studies suggest that better control of the
stresses exerted on cells or tissues can play an important role in improving
cell cultures .  Mechanical stresses on growing tissues and cells can be held
to very low levels in a microgravity environment.  Researchers are currently
assessing the scientific value of cells and tissues grown in low gravity.

During the next few years, preliminary low-gravity cell culturing experiments
lasting one to two weeks will be flown on the Space Shuttle.  On the Space
Station, cell culturing experiments lasting as long as several months will be
flown in the Biotechnology Facility (BTF).  The BTF will provide a set
of standard services -- basic gases and fluids, power, data -- for the
experiments.

NASA's low gravity combustion research program focuses on understanding the
important processes of flame ignition, propagation and extinction.  Combustion
scientists study the physical characteristics of flame, such as size and shape,
and the role of soot formation in combustion.  Investigations also study air
flows, as well as heat and mass transfer for materials like fuel vapors, liquid
pools, paper and metal solids.  Researchers use microgravity to study basic
combustion processes, and to improve fire safety in spacecraft.

Combustion research on the Space Station will take place in a series of
Combustion Experiment Modules, designed to support many different
investigations.  For example, one such module might be a combustion chamber for
studying gas flames.  The flexibility of working in a long-duration
microgravity laboratory will allow numerous repetitions of the experiments.
Crew members will rework experiments based on data from previous runs, and will
replace experiment supplies, such as fuel bottles.

This discipline supports investigations into aspects of fluid behavior which
are affected by gravity.  Researchers can gain insight into fluid behavior by
observing their flow, the processes that occur within them, and the
transformation between the liquid, gas and solid states of matter.  Studying
these conditions in microgravity allows scientists to examine processes and
phenomena impossible to study on Earth. Knowledge from this research can be
used to improve fluid handling and materials processing in space.  Fluids
research may also provide fundamental knowledge about fluid behavior which can
be used in Earth-based applications, such as improving the flow of films and
coatings in industrial processes.

Fluids research on the Space Station will take place in a series of Fluids
Experiment Modules. Crew members will modify these units to accommodate new
investigations, or will replace them with new modules.  Other apparatus will
provide standard services-- video switching, data recording, power
conditioning--for the modules.

The materials science program makes use of the low gravity environment of space
to understand the processes needed to produce materials of scientific and
industrial value.  The program also studies the properties of the materials
themselves, some of which can only be studied in space.  Other research focuses
on advancing the basic understanding of the physics of solidification, crystal
growth and condensation.  Research activities in this area could produce unique
information for Earth-based applications, such as new materials for use in
scientific research or in industry.

Materials science research will be carried out primarily in the Space Station
Furnace Facility (SSFF).  The SSFF "core" will provide services--cooling,
purge gas, power conditioning and control--for a series of furnace modules.
The electrical power and long-duration microgravity environment available on
Space Station will allow the facility to operate for long periods of time,
processing many samples for future analysis in ground-based laboratories.

USING THE SPACE STATION

NASA's Microgravity Science and Applications program sponsors peer-reviewed
microgravity research.  NASA's Microgravity Science and Applications Division
(MSAD) uses research announcements to request proposals from the research
community.  Successful proposals are selected for either the ground-based
research program or for flight development.

Many Space Station microgravity experiments will be accommodated in research
facilities developed by the MSAD. Other NASA organizations will also sponsor
microgravity research facilities on the Space Station. Where appropriate,
the MSAD will cooperate with other NASA organizations to accommodate
peer-reviewed microgravity research on these facilities.

NASA's international partners on the Space Station -- the Canadian
Space Agency, the European Space Agency, and the National Space Development
Agency of Japan--will also develop microgravity research apparatus.  NASA will
seek international agreements for the use of these facilities by U.S.
microgravity researchers on an equal exchange basis.

The Space Station will be assembled in low-Earth orbit over a four year period.
Although the Space Station will not have a permanent crew until the end of
assembly, microgravity research will begin as soon as the U.S. Laboratory
module is launched.  After the Laboratory module is attached to the Space
Station, NASA will launch three Shuttle flights per year dedicated to
microgravity and life sciences research.  During these 16 day flights, the
astronaut crews will carry out experiments in the Space Station Laboratory
Module, and will set-up experiments which will be "teleoperated" by scientists
from the ground between visits by the Space Shuttle and its crew.

OPERATING PAYLOADS ON THE SPACE STATION

The Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX will coordinate overall Space Station
Operations. Microgravity Space Station payload operations will be coordinated
by the United States Operations Center at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center
in Huntsville, AL. The Lewis Research Center in Cleveland, OH, and the Johnson
Space Center will be linked to the Marshall Space Flight Center to support
microgravity payload operations.  Teams of scientists and engineers at these
centers will work together to compare Space Station experiment results to
ground-based studies, and to use copies of the experiment apparatus to solve
unexpected problems.

CREW TRAINING

Research using the Shuttle's Spacelab module has demonstrated the value of
having highly trained crew members to carry out microgravity experiments.
General training will help Space Station crews develop sufficient knowledge
about microgravity science research objectives to carry out experiment
operations.  Training at the payload development sites will use copies of the
experiment facilities to teach on-orbit hardware installation, experiment
procedures and facility troubleshooting.

QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS DOCUMENT CAN BE DIRECTED TO:

Kathryn D. Scott
The Bionetics Corporation
250 E Street, SW
Suite 340
Washington, DC  20024
     Source:NASA Spacelink    Modem:205-895-0028  Internet:192.149.89.61
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STS-51 PRE-LAUNCH ELEMENTS  7/21/93


STS-51 prelaunch elements (July 24 launch)

STS-51
1 00051U          93205.61095896  .00044522  00000-0  13742-3 0    21
2 00051  28.4662 335.5961 0004344 291.3491  68.6685 15.91099027    26

Satellite: STS-51
Catalog number: 00051
Epoch time:      93205.61095896   =    (24 JUL 93   14:39:46.85 UTC)
Element set:     002
Inclination:       28.4662 deg
RA of node:       335.5961 deg           Space Shuttle Flight STS-51
Eccentricity:     .0004344              Prelaunch Element set JSC-002
Arg of perigee:   291.3491 deg          Launch:  24 JUL 93  13:27 UTC
Mean anomaly:      68.6685 deg
Mean motion:   15.91099027 rev/day              G. L. Carman
Decay rate:     4.4522e-04 rev/day~2      NASA Johnson Space Center
Epoch rev:               2
Checksum:              290

G.L.CARMAN

     Source:NASA Spacelink    Modem:205-895-0028  Internet:192.149.89.61
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