The Space Station; A Fundamental Element of the Integrated Space Program

This paper includes a brief look at the present space station program for the early 1970s, a broad overview of future earth orbital mission goals and objectives, and a review of the approach being taken in evolving a “common module” space station concept responsive to these future program requirements. Design requirements pertinent to all future space stations and alternate space station concepts are briefly described. A generic space station concept is discussed in terms of its role within the total integrated program of the 1970s and its advanced applications. The feasibility of achieving a “common module” design suitable to alternate mission applications is analyzed. It is concluded that essential commonality and modularity features can be incorporated into the basic design approach to future space stations that will permit their multipurpose application to a wide variety of missions.