The System
The benefits of the ARCTUS approach extend beyond the spacecraft
when considering the advantages of cargo flexibility, launch vehicle
compatability, established ground processing facilities and flight
operations. All aspects of the ARCTUS system utilize existing facilities
and proven processes to minimize risk and lower costs. |
Configuration Flexibility
Two variants of ARCTUS were developed to accommodate a variety
of payload configurations. The baseline configuration provides
a mix of pressurized and unpressurized cargo capabilities.
The “stretched” version increases the pressurized cargo
capacity at the expense of unpressurized cargo. A third
variant is currently being evaluated that would minimize
the pressurized cargo capacity in order to fly a very large
unpressurized cargo item or secondary satellite. 
Launch Vehicle Compatibility
Since ARCTUS is derived from Centaur components,
it is naturally compatible with the Atlas V family (400
and 500 series) of launch vehicles. ARCTUS utilizes world
standard interfaces ensuring compatibility with most other
large rockets such as Delta IV and Falcon 9.
Ground Operations
Final ARCTUS vehicle assembly, integration, and testing will
occur at the existing SPACEHAB facilities located adjacent
to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida. Final loading,
assembly and encapsulation for launch will occur in the
Astrotech Space Operations facilities. This close proximity
to NASA ISS ground processing infrastructure and personnel
enables the entire KSC work force to support pre-launch
integration activities thus significantly accelerating
these activities. |
Flight Operations
ARCTUS flight operations start at launch from the Atlas pad, LC-41,
at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. ARCTUS will separate from the Atlas-Centaur
upper stage and execute a series of maneuvers to phase with the ISS. At
a point of 3 km from the ISS, ARCTUS will start the ARPO phase to rendezvous
and be captured by the ISS SSRMS. Upon successful berthing, ARCTUS will
be configured and cargo transfer operations will begin the docked operations
phase. After cargo transfer is complete, the ISS SSRMS will unberth and
release ARCTUS. The spacecraft will then separate from the ISS and begin
the reentry and recovery phase targeting an Atlantic Ocean landing
zone off the east coast of Florida. After a ballistic reentry, the ARCTUS
recovery system will be deployed to slow ARCTUS to a speed and altitude
that will allow for a Mid Air Retrieval (MAR) by helicopter. The benign
environment provided with MAR is critical for recovery of sensitive microgravity
experiments while also enabling rapid recovery and delivery to the end customer.
Mission Control Center
SPACEHAB will utilize a mission control center near the Johnson Space Center
(JSC) for ARCTUS operations via the NASA GSTDN network. This will allow for
use of the TDRSS satellite constellation during the crucial ISS rendezvous
phase. Plans include a mission ops team located at JSC-MCC to work side-by-side
with the ISS team during rendezvous and proximity operations.
Page Last Updated: 12.07.2007 |
