Development of the Fire Detection System for Space Station Freedom

A flexible fire detection system is required in order to monitor Space Station Freedom pressurized volumes, including spaces which may be inaccessible to the crew, or may be unattended for long periods of time. The system uses flame detectors to survey open areas for radiation at wavelengths and intensities characteristic of combustion, and uses smoke detectors to monitor particulates in open areas and in air circulation ducts. This paper briefly reviews the design of the system and the detectors and presents results of development testing of the smoke detectors. The duct-type smoke detector has met all Space Station Freedom performance requirements.