Spacelab Flight Operations

This paper will cover the primary activities involved in conducting Spacelab flight operations. Spacelab flight operations are characterized by a unique partnership between the operators of the Space Transportation System (STS) and the Mission Management organization. This partnership involves both the activities of the flight control personnel and the flight crew and must exist as an integrated team in order to be able to successfully complete a Spacelab flight. This paper will discuss an overview of how this partnership functions from the initial planning phase though the actual flight conduct. The responsibilities and functions of the flight crew members will be discussed as well as the make up of the flight control team. A typical flight scenario describing the basic operation of the Spacelab will be covered. A description of the Mission Control Center (MCC) and Payload Operations Control Center-(POCC) capabilities wiH be given.