Difference between revisions of "Partial G Space Station"
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== Radial rotation == | == Radial rotation == | ||
| − | One initial idea is to use Bigelow Aerospace inflatable space stations for partial gravity research, because these stations have a much larger diameter than anything that fits in a payload fairing. | + | One initial idea is to use Bigelow Aerospace inflatable space stations for partial gravity research, because these stations have a much larger diameter than anything that fits in a payload fairing. A large diameter station can simulate artificial gravity by rotating along its axis. |
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I have not been able to find the dimensions of the largest Bigelow module, but judging from [http://www.bigelowaerospace.com/out_there/complex_modules_size_up.php] the BA 330 appears to have around twice the diameter of the Galaxy, so 8 meters across. TODO: calculate how fast it needs to spin for various G levels. | I have not been able to find the dimensions of the largest Bigelow module, but judging from [http://www.bigelowaerospace.com/out_there/complex_modules_size_up.php] the BA 330 appears to have around twice the diameter of the Galaxy, so 8 meters across. TODO: calculate how fast it needs to spin for various G levels. | ||
Revision as of 21:08, 19 July 2007
Radial rotation
One initial idea is to use Bigelow Aerospace inflatable space stations for partial gravity research, because these stations have a much larger diameter than anything that fits in a payload fairing. A large diameter station can simulate artificial gravity by rotating along its axis.
I have not been able to find the dimensions of the largest Bigelow module, but judging from [1] the BA 330 appears to have around twice the diameter of the Galaxy, so 8 meters across. TODO: calculate how fast it needs to spin for various G levels.
The basic idea is to assemble a rigid "Ikea style" floor inside the inflatable walls, so the force of supporting equipment and astronauts does not hit the inflatable walls. There can be a ramp and/or ladder up to the airlock, which is on the rotational axis.
Pros:
- Uses an off the shelf space station component.
- The air lock is on the rotational axis, so craft can be docked without spinning down the station.
- Can probably be launched in one go. The only on-orbit assembly will happen inside the already pressurized station.
- There is a lot of living space inside a BA 330, possibly as much as 100 square meters of partial gravity floor.
Cons:
- An "ikea style" floor would need to be installed inside the walls.
- The gravity level at the floor would be higher than at head height, by about 40% for a 1.70 meter astronaut.
- Matching the rotation of crew capsules to that of the station will complicate docking and supply stowage.
Tethered/dumbell configuration
Another proposal is to attach two components to each other with a tether or truss and rotate them around each other. This has the advantage that it can be done entirely using solid space station components.
Pros:
- Uses off the shelf space station components, except for the tether or truss.
- Uses all solid compartments.
- Has been done before briefly, on a Gemini mission.
Cons:
- Less living and laboratory space.
- The station needs to be "spun down" before crew capsules can dock and undock. Does this have "life boat" safety implications?
