Research and Development Activities Support Structures for satellites’ appendages: “Ultra-Light Structures” Objectives: Demonstrate the feasibility of manufacturing, folding, deploying and rigidizing large pneumatic satellite two-dimensional appendage supporting structures by developing the relevant technology. Programme: TRP Contractor: Astrium-ST Status: Expected completion (2007/Q4) “Polymerisation of Composite Structures in Free-Space Conditions” Objectives: Develop the polymerisation process of composite structural materials in space environment Programme: TRP Contractor: Astrium-ST Status: Expected completion (2007/Q1) Landing: “Exomars Phase B1” Objectives: Design, breadboard and tests of both vented and non-vented airbags for performance comparison. Programme: EXOMARS Contractor: Aerosekur Status: Expected completion (2007/Q2) Actuators: “Capture/Docking Mechanism Testing” Objectives: Follow-on development of a MSR Inflatable Capture Mechanism (ICM). Testing in relevant environment intends to demonstrate the capability of the ICM to capture the SC and transfer it into the Orbiter. Programme: Aurora Contractor: Alcatel-Alenia Space Italy Status: Expected completion (2008/Q1) Habitats: “SpaceHaven Inflatable Habitat Study” Objectives: Requirements definition and preliminary design of Inflatable Habitat for future Human Exploration missions. Breadboard activities for selected capabilities. Programme: STEP Contractor: Alcatel-Alenia Space Italy Status: Expected completion (2007/Q1) “Design, Verification and Manufacturing aspects relevant for Inflatable Modules” Objectives: Analyse and test technologies, specific design aspects relevant for inflatable modules. Programme: TRP Contractor: Alcatel-Alenia Space Italy Status: Expected completion (2007/Q4) Last update: 23 May 2007
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