The Layout of a Laboratory for Life Sciences Experiments in Space

The process of developing a configuration layout of Life Sciences experiments in the Spacelab module requires both engineering and management judgement in order to be successful. As experiments are being developed for the dedicated Life Sciences mission, the many factors which determrine the final configuration are being managed through a set of prioritized objectives.

From an initial configuration which best meets the objectives stated above, an iterative process begins. When changes in equipment design or operation occur affecting the layout, the available options are considered. The decision may affect the room for growth, stowage capacity, complexity of interconnections, altered efficiency of operation, or constraints imposed on equipment developers.