The primary purpose of this experiment was to perform on-orbit testing on large space structures to verify mathematical models that were being used in the design of the International Space Station (ISS). On-orbit tests were performed in the Mir alone and Shuttle-Mir mated configurations and test data was recorded with a variety of existing and new instrumentation systems. This is a key piece of hardware that demonstrates the type of engineering required before completing the planning for a large space station. Although the actual flown hardware was retrieved from the Mir, the NASA contractors have retained this piece of equipment in the event that they decide to follow-up on the original experiments and collect data from the ISS.
NASA transferred this object to the museum.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
SPACECRAFT-Crewed-Instruments & Payloads
Contractor
McDonnell Douglas Corporation
Subcontractor
Payload Systems, Inc.
Dimensions
3-D: 41.6 x 47.6 x 22.9cm, 6.8kg (16 3/8 x 18 3/4 x 9 in., 15lb.)
Materials
Alnodized Aluminum
Steel
Plastic
Glass
Paper
Copper
Gold
Paint
Ink
Adhesive
Inventory Number
A20040177000
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration - Johnson Space Center.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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