Preparing EMU for Space Station

The Space Shuttle Program Extravehicular Mobility Unit (SSP EMU) will support initial phases of the Space Station Freedom program. These phases are station assembly and man-tended operation from Shuttle and the first stages of Station's permanently manned capability. Station support increases requirements for on-orbit duration, adds new requirements for accommodation aboard Freedom and adds new environments unique to Freedom. Building upon enhancements currently in the EMU program, the SSP EMU appears to be well capable of meeting these new requirements. Certification will be extended by analysis and test and supported by limited redesign in a few specific areas.

This paper discusses the enhanced EMU, identifies the new requirements for Space Station Freedom support, the process for identifying and approving these requirements, and the expected delta certification and limited redesign programs.