Astronomy Spacelab payloads

Abstract

Preliminary analyses of four typical Spacelab astronomy payloads have been completed. The payloads consist of instrumentation recommended by NASA and other scientists for early Shuttle missions. Design concepts have been prepared and compatibility with Shuttle and Spacelab verified. Mission parameters that meet payload requirements and efficiently utilize Shuttle resources have been selected. Integrated pointing and stabilization and command and data-handling system concepts have been developed. The results of all these activities indicate that productive astronomy missions can be carried out with Shuttle and Spacelab systems.