Protecting the Space Station from Meteoroids and Orbital Debris (1997) / Chapter Skim
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5: REDUCING THE EFFECTS OF DAMAGING IMPACTS
5: REDUCING THE EFFECTS OF DAMAGING IMPACTS
Pages 39-45
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From page 39... ...
The code randomly generates the parameters debris diameter, velocity, approach angle, and strike location on the space station geometric model of an individual orbital debris particle impact, based on the relative probability distribution of each parameter. It then determines whether this particular impact would penetrate a pressurized module by comparing the impact parameters to the ballistic limit of the space station shielding at the impact location.
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From page 40... ...
This tool also has been used to perform preliminary evaluations of the effectiveness of various escape protocols and of the efficacy of having personal oxygen bottles readily available. Figure 5-l depicts current MSCSurv predictions for the probability of loss in the event of a penetration under baseline assumptions for three cases: where hatch closure is used to isolate the half of the station in which the leak has occurred, where the individual leaking module can be isolated as the crew proceeds to the safe haven, and where the leak can be immediately located.
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From page 41... ...
However, sensors that can monitor pressure and changes in pressure are distributed throughout the station as part of the ISS life support system. Sonic impact warning systems for detecting and locating leaks are also not currently planned for the ISS (although test results indicate that astronauts may be able to detect penetrations by the sound of the air hissing through the hole)
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From page 42... ...
Design concepts for hole repair kits from outside the station have been developed, and a prototype may be tested in space around the year 2000. ANALYSIS AND FINDINGS Because of the statistical size distribution of meteoroids and orbital debris, effective damage control should be able to prevent the catastrophic loss of ISS equipment and lives in most cases where existing shielding is insufficient to stop incoming objects.
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From page 43... ...
Unlike the shuttles, the space station cannot be modified during regularly scheduled visits to a repair facility. If needed damage control hardware cannot be developed before the launch date, modifying the ISS to facilitate the subsequent addition of the hardware could help reduce future costs.
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From page 44... ...
NASA should intensify its cooperation with the Russian Space Agency in identifying and resolving areas of difference in design features, operational procedures, and repair techniques to mitigate the hazardous effects of meteoroid and orbital debris penetrations. Issues to be discussed should include emergency procedures, crew location aids, warning systems, oxygen masks, and hatch positioning.
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From page 45... ...
Recommendation 16. A study of the failure modes of shielded pressure walls should be performed over the critical range of the threat size, shape, and velocity to fully characterize damage control and repair requirements for potential International Space Station orbital debris penetration.
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