Characteristics of EVA Mass Handling Skill <xref ref-type="fn" rid="FN1">1</xref>

Key attributes of skilled mass-handling were identified through an examination of lessons learned by the EVA operational community. These qualities were translated into measurable quantities. The operational validity of the ground-based investigation was improved by building a device that increased the DOF of EMU motion on the Precision Air Bear Floor,, The results revealed subtle patterns of interaction between motions of an ORU mockup and mass handler that should be important for effective performance on orbit. The investigation also demonstrated that such patterns can be measured with a variety of common instruments and under imperfect conditions of observation.