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ISS assembly order: truss vs. modules

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Author	Topic: ISS assembly order: truss vs. modules
NavySpaceFan Member Posts: 655 From: Norfolk, VA Registered: May 2007	posted 09-17-2007 11:46 AM Judging by the mission number of its assigned flight, the mission to deliver and install the S-6 truss/arrays should be the next to launch. However, the next few assembly flights deliver four new node/laboratory modules. Why the change? Was there political considerations in getting the ESA/JAXA modules up sooner? Is it due to some problem with the S-6 truss? Is it a crew training issue? Thanks!
cspg Member Posts: 6210 From: Geneva, Switzerland Registered: May 2006	posted 09-17-2007 11:46 AM Apparently there's enough power on the Station to power the new modules, which will increase the man-rated capability of the station to a 6-person crew. Before adding even more power, maybe the reasoning is that they want to check all electrical connections first to see if everything is ok. Also no new modules were added since 2001 and I'm wondering if there's a ground storage issue (easier to store a truss than a pressurized module?). Chris.
Jay Chladek Member Posts: 2272 From: Bellevue, NE, USA Registered: Aug 2007	posted 09-18-2007 01:27 AM Another thing to consider is they are probably also wanting to start doing more science experiments then what the Destiny module can accomplish. As such, the ESA and JAXA modules will potentially allow them to do that. A solar array on the otherhand just produces power and with the second main array up and working, they have power to spare now. The main reason I imagine that they wanted to get the two arrays on the main truss in quick fashion probably has to do with the sail drag of one array on the structure. By getting a symetrical configuration to the ISS, I figure there weren't as many issues with the station's gyro systems once they got the arrays to begin sun track rotations.

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