Journal Published Online: 10 November 2015
Volume 4, Issue 1

Space Station Solar Array Joint Repair

CODEN: MPCACD

Abstract

In October 2007, the International Space Station (ISS) crew noticed a vibrating camera in the vicinity of Starboard Solar Alpha Rotary Joint (SARJ). It had less than 5 months of run time when the anomaly was observed. This 3.2 m-diameter bearing joint supports solar arrays that power the station critical to its operation. The crew performed an EVA to identify what was causing the vibration. It was discovered that one of the 3 bearing tracks of this unconventional bearing had significant spalling damage. This paper discussed the SARJ’s unique bearing design and the vulnerability in its design leading to the observed anomaly. The design of an SARJ vacuum test rig was also described along with the results of a life test that validated the proposed repair should extend the life of the SARJ a minimum of 18 years on-orbit.

Author Information

Loewenthal, Stuart
Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company, Sunnyvale, CA, US
Allmon, Curtis
Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company, Sunnyvale, CA, US
Reznik, Carter
Boeing Space Systems, Houston, TX, US
Mcfatter, Justin
Boeing Space Systems, Houston, TX, US
Davis, Robert
NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, US
Pages: 10
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: MPC20150029
ISSN: 2165-3992
DOI: 10.1520/MPC20150029