Manned maneuvering unit - A space platform support systemThe assembly and evaluation of large space platforms in low earth orbit will become practical in the Shuttle era. Extravehicular crewmembers, equipped with manned maneuvering units (MMUs), will play a vital role in the construction and checkout of these platforms. The MMU is a propulsive backpack with mobility extending the crew's visual, mental, and manipulative capabilities beyond the cabin to on-the-spot assembly and maintenance operations. Previous MMU experience is reviewed, Shuttle MMU design features related to space platform support are described, and the use of the MMU for specific construction and assembly tasks is illustrated.
Document ID
19780068081
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Whitsett, C. E., Jr. (NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, Tex., United States)
Lenda, J. A. (Martin Marietta Aerospace Denver, CO, United States)
Josephson, J. T. (Martin Marietta Aerospace Denver, Colo., United States)