The Shuttle Orbiter Airlock Support Subsystem /ALSS/

Abstract

The Orbiter Airlock Support Subsystem (ALSS) is designed to provide shirtsleeve intervehicular transfer (IVA) between the orbiter and payload spacelab. Also, the airlock provides for extravehicular transfer (EVA) of two crewman to space and/or unpressurized payload from a pressurized cabin environment. The orbiter airlock design permits three planned EVA's for periods up to 6 hr. The airlock is designed to be interchangeable in three different locations, in the crew cabin, attached to the cabin aft bulkhead or attached to transfer tunnel adapter both which are located in the cargo bay. The Orbiter Airlock Support Subsystem described herein provides ventilation, pressurization, depressurization, prebreathing, personnel oxygen system supply (POS), and Extravehicular Mobility Unit support (EMU). This paper defines the system configuration for each airlock location and the commonality between them. Emphasis is also placed on the design data used to define repressurization and depressurization requirements, ventilation, water cooling, wastewater discharge, flow rates, and valve sizing.