Introduction

The function of the flight- and cargo-integration effort is to ensure that elements of the total payload complement for a flight are compatible in form, fit, and function, and that all associated flight-design parameters and crew activities are within Space Shuttle Program (SSP) capabilities. This effort includes assessments by flight- and ground-systems engineering, safety, and all elements of SSP operations. Figure 18.1 illustrates the SSP/payload thermal-integration process in flowchart form. The Cargo Integration Review (CIR) is the major cargo-related review of this assessment effort, and it occurs at the same time customer concurrence is obtained. A typical schedule of events leading to the CIR, subsequent reviews and, ultimately, flight is shown in Fig. 18.2.

Figure 18.1: SSP/payload thermal-integration process.

Figure 18.2: SSP/payload integration timeline.

The following assessments are required prior to formal reviews to ensure an adequate SSP understanding of the cargo and flight requirements and the ability to support such requirements.

• crew-activities assessment

• flight operations and support assessment

• payload operations control center/mission control center

• network assessment

• training assessment

• ground-operations assessment

• conceptual flight-profile assessment

• human use

• engineering-compatibility assessment

• interface-verification status

• safety assessment

Most of these assessments do not require direct involvement of the payload thermal engineer;