ISS - A Risk Mitigation Platform for Enabling Technologies in Space Exploration

Abstract

During the developmental phase, the Space Exploration Program will have to undergo the capabilities-based assessment, where along with the fundamental mission capabilities, tasks, attributes and performance metrics, the gaps, shortfalls, redundancies and risk areas will be identified and proposed. Many of these solutions require extensive validation of the underlying technology in space. Even though many technical tools may and will be tested on the ground, the effects of microgravity, radiation, and human factors cannot be easily reproduced with the desired duration and accuracy. Presently, the only operational platform that offers the best approximation to crew exploration vehicle conditions is the International Space Station. An array of existing proven mature technologies that are used in commercial and military applications can be introduced to improve the safety, reliability, affordability, and, ultimately, capability of upcoming and increasingly complicated space exploration systems.