I thought I would start a thread on a topic of conversation, In Service Weight Control, from recent SAWE events. After a platform is put into operation, configuration changes take place throughout operation. This must be kept track of for safe and successful operation.
What related experiences can you share?
I’ll start. I perform Integrated Mass Properties analysis on the International Space Station (ISS). I gather inputs from the International partners on Visiting Vehicles coming and going. I gather inputs from our International partners on modules. I gather inputs from our Configuration team as changes are made, for example moving Orbital Replacement Units (ORUs) from their storage location on ISS to their new location to support continued operation. I verify the inputs make sense and question everything that doesn’t.
When you put it all together, you have analysis of the ISS at any given point in time needed to operate the ISS as it orbits our Earth every 90 minutes.
Consider sharing your experiences here, at a local chapter meeting, in a presentation / paper, and/or at a conference.
I am hoping this will be a catalyst to increased technical discussion.
Thanks.
Clint.