Special Considerations in Outfitting a Space Station Module for Scientific Use

This paper addresses some of the key issues involved with outfitting a space station module for life sciences research, namely the integration of a large diameter centrifuge for holding control specimens at 1G (or fractions thereof); accommodating international participation in the design and construction of key elements of the lab module (including the module itself); and maintaining biological isolation between the experimental animals and the crew.

Several design concepts are presented that address these specific issues. Centrifuge vibration - once thought to be a major problem in a station that also houses materials technology experiments - will be virtually eliminated by the use of an active magnetic suspension and automated rotor balancing. Bioisolation is provided by housing the animals in special isolator cages and performing all experimental work in a laminar flow isolation hood.