News | 2009 News Archive

AASC Hardware to Launch for Hubble Servicing Mission

02/17/2009

 

AASC’s Super Lightweight Interchangeable Carrier (SLIC) hardware is set to launch into space on May 12, 2009. AASC had previously built similar metallic versions of the Hubble pallets/carrier, which is largely why AASC was selected for this program.

This launch is for Atlantis' STS-125 servicing mission to the Hubble Space Telescope. SLIC will carry a 1000 lb camera, a 500 lb radiator, and two 500 lb batteries.

The fabrication of SLIC is AASC's largest composite assembly to be launched into space to date. The pentagon shaped pallet and other hardware is intended to mount and carry hardware to space. It consists of honeycomb aluminum core with M55J/RS-3 graphite skins (medium-high modulus material used for stiffness). This is a structurally efficient design, improving performance and load-carrying capabilities while greatly reducing the weight of the structure.

The entire structure weighs 1200lbs, and can carry a payload of up to 7200 lbs, making the performance (load capability/weight) at a level of 6.0. The performance level is over three times that of previous carriers. The SLIC hardware is structurally interchangeable and will be used multiple times after the Hubble repair mission. It will be reconfigured for space station service and various types of missions.