Space Station. Improving NASA's Planning for External Maintenance.
Abstract
In 1996, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) plans to begin assembly of the international Space Station Freedom in low earth orbit. One of the greatest challenges facing NASA will be maintaining the space station's external components throughout the assembly period and over its anticipated 30-year life using astronauts to perform space walks-referred to as extravehicular activity (EVA). The amount of EVA that can be performed is limited, and the activity is inherently risky, given the harsh environment of space. At the request of the Chair of the Government Activities and Transportation Subcommittee, House Committee on Government Operations, GAO reviewed NASA's efforts to determine the space station's EVA maintenance requirements and its planning to meet those requirements.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA298547
Entities
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office