THIS IS NOT AN OFFICIAL DOCUMENT! This is a scanned copy of the original document, and it MUST not be used as a source for flight data or change requests. STS-50 FLIGHT PLAN NOTES (CONSTRAINTS AND GUIDELINES) A. FLIGHT DESCRIPTION The STS-50 (OV102) launch from KSC on June 9, 1992, will be into a 162 by 160 nm orbit at an inclination of 29.45 degrees. The mission duration will be 13 days with the capability of 2 addltional days for contingency operations and weather avoidance. Nominal landing occurs at EDW on June 22, 1992. Landing opportunities are: Landing orbit No. Site Local Time Nominal Primary 206 One Rev. Late EDW 05:29 PDT EDW 07:04 PDT Alternate 205 KSC 07:02 EDT Weather Att. 206 KSC 08:37 EDT Weather Att. 206 NOR 06:31 MDT 1 Day Late Primary 222 EDW 05:31 PDT One Rev Late 223 Alternate 221 EDW 07:06 PDT Weather Alt. 222 KSC 07:04 EDT Weather Alt. 222 08:39 EDT NOR 06:33 MDT 2 Days Late Primary 238 EDW 05:32 POT Alternate 237 KSC 07:06 EDT Weather Alt. 238 NOR 06:35 MDT MAJOR EVENTS LAUNCH (KSC) July 9, 1992 MET (DD/HH:MM:SS) 0/00:00:00 Day of Year 161 CDT/GMT 11:00/16:00 OMS-2 MET (DD/HH:MM) 0/00:42 DV (fps) 221 ORBIT ha/hp (nm) 162/160 DEORBIT BURN MET (DD/HH:MM) 12/19:27 DV (fps) 274 LANDING (EDW) MET (DD/HH:MM) 12/20:29 Day of year 174 CDT/GMT 07:29/l2:29 8-2 FLT PLN/50/F1N B. CREW 1. There will be seven crewmembers flying this mission with each specialist assigned to the following tasks: COR - Richard N. Richards PLT - Kenneth D. Bowersox MSi - Bonnie J. Dunbar MS2 - Ellen S. Baker MS3 - Carl J. Heade PSl - Lawrence DeLucas PS2 - Eugene Trinh 2. The crewmembers responsible for performing an EVA, should one become necessary, are: MS2 as EV1, MS3 as EV2, and PLT as IV. C. ORBITER SYSTEMS 1. Communications and Instrumentation a. The Operational Instrumentation (01) system will nominally be managed from the ground through uplink real-time commands (RTCs) coordinated with the crew. b. TDRS coverage is assumed to be supported by TDRS-E (41 degrees W) and TDRS-W (174 degrees W) and is the prime mode of communication coverage. TDRS-W is shared with many other users and may have to be given up for periods of time. c. There are five Ground Network (GM) sites available for on- orbit contingency support: MEL (MLX), BDA (BDX), BKR, DFR, and GDX. (Note: DFR is not shown in this Flight Plan.) MAD (MAX) and CAN are available for emergency support (2-hour lead time is required). d. TDRS Ku-band is the prime mode of real-time TV; however, there are also two GM sites available as backup: GDX and MEL (MLX) (90-minute lead time required). e. RTS sites are available for contingency support or when scheduled in advance (4-hour lead time required): HTS, GTS, VTS, 105, CTS, NHS, TCS, and DGS. f. TQRS-E and TDRS-W are available to support Ku-band uplink (e.g., TAGS). g. 5-band NOR uplink (e.g., Teleprinter) is available through TDRS-E and TDR5-W. h. TDRS-E and TDR5-W are available for ascent and entry support. 105 (RTS site) is available for UHF voice in an emergency (2-hour lead time required). i. Early TDRS handovers are planned throughout the mission for all TORS passes except on orbits 1 through 4 and orbit 200 through landing. 8-3 FLT PLN/50/F1N 2. Television/Photography a. Two camcorders are available for in-cabin coverage. There will also be four PLB TV cameras. There are three different lens assemblies for the PLB cameras (color, monochrome, and wide-angle lens assembly). The type of lens assembly for each PLB camera is documented in the Flight Requirements Document. b. The Orbiter has one video tape recorder available which uses 30-minute cassettes. c. Three camera systems are available: 35mm, 16mm, and 70mm. D. PAYLOADS 1. United States Microgravity Laboratory - 1 (USML-1) USML-1 is a mission of various experiments which focus on micro- gravity materials processing technology and other science and research requiring the low gravity environment of Earth orbit. It will include a long Spacelab Transfer Tunnel (SST) and a long module made up of a core segment and an experiment segment to be located in the cargo bay. Some experiments will also be installed in the Orbiter middeck locker spaces. a. USML-1 Module Experiments (1) Crystal Growth Furnace (CGF) The CGF experiment consists of a large structure that has three furnaces (high temp, low temp, adiabatic) and a carousel mechanism that places material samples into the processing mechanism. The CGF dictates the Orbiter attitude since it requires that the long axis of the furnace be pointed along the velocity vector. Four different CGF samples will be processed with run durations of 1, 2, 4, and 6 days. (2) Surface Tension Driven Convection Experiment (STDCE) The purpose of STDCE is to study how thermocapillary flow affects containerless materials processing. In the experiment, a 4-inch diameter by 2-inch deep container of silicone oil is heated and data is collected on the velocity profile of the cross section of the oil. Two different methods of heating are used: surface heating by a C02 laser and internal heating by a heater cartridge. The effects of both are studied. (3) Drop Physics Module (DPM) DPM studies containerless materials processing. With the use of acoustic waves, a drop of a particular material will be held in the middle of a container. 8-4 FLT PLN/50/FIN (4) Glovebox (GBX) The glovebox will house many experiments to be conducted in a closed environment. These will include combustion experiments using wire insulation, candles, etc. (5) Space Acceleration Measurement System (5AM5) 5AM5 will measure the accelerations of the module experiments with the use of three triaxal sensor heads and an optical drive. (6) Solid Surface Combustion Experiment (SSCE) SSCE will burn pieces of paper and other materials to study flame propagation in space. (7) Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus (GBA) GBA is a self-contained mixing and heating module used to process biological fluid samples. The experiment hardware is located in the SMIDEX rack in the module, and refrigerated samples (4~C) will be kept in the GBA Refrigerator/lncubator Module (R/IM) located in the middeck. (8) Extended Duration Orbiter Medical Project (ED0MP) (a) In-Flight Lower Body Negative Pressure (LBNP) Fluid loading via ingestion of salt tablets and water in association with lower body negative pressure (LBNP) treatment will protect tolerance to orthostatis (simulated in-flight by LBNP). The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of fluid loading during LBNP in improving tolerance of a LBNP stress protocol. (b) Blood Pressure Variability During Spaceflight The objective of this experiment is to determine whether arterial blood pressure and heart rate exhibi+ less varibility in a microgravity environment than on Earth. The data will be used to investigate whether reduced blood pressure variability in-flight, if any, is correlated with the extent of baroreflex attenuation that has been measured postflight. Integrity of the baroreceptor function is required for the appropriate blood pressure responses to the orthostatic stresses imposed by entry, landing, and egress. The crewmember will wear blood pressure and electrocardiograph equipment for two flight days on orbit. (c) Air Monitoring Instrument Evaluation and Atmosphere Characterization This experiment will evaluate and verify the microbial air sampler (MAS) to ensure proper 8-5 FIT PLN/50/FIN function and operations in-flight. In addition, data will be collected on contaminant levels to establish baseline levels and to evaluate potential risks to crew health and safety. b. USML-1 Middeck Experiments (1) Protein Crystal Growth (PCG) The primary objective of PCG is to produce large high- quality crystals of selected proteins while under controlled conditions of microgravity. There will be two R/IMs on the Orbiter middeck, one at 22~C and one at 4~C. (2) Zeolite Crystal Growth (ZCG) ZCG will try to synthesize large zeolite crystals made up of a complex arrangement of silica and alumina. Because of its molecular sieve characteristics, zeolite is used for highly selective catalysts, absorbents, and ion exchange materials. (3) Astroculture (ASC) ASC is essentially a hydroponic experiment that will be conducted in a microgravity environment. Its fluid system will spray a nutrient solution on the roots of several plants. (4) Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus (GBA) Refer to a. (7). 2. Investigations Into Polymer Membrane Processing (IPMP) The research objective of the IPMP payload is to flash evaporate mixed solvent systems in the absence of convection to control the porosity of the polymer membrane. The crewmember will activate the system during a period of low 'G' and deactivate the test after the appropriate amount cf time. 3. Shuttle Amateur Radio Experiment II (SAREX-II) The SAREX-II payload provide voice communications between the Orbiter and amateur radio operators on the Earth. The SAREX will be operated at the direction of the licensed crewmember. Crewmembers are licensed radio operators for STS-50. SAREX will fly a modified configuration D on STS-50. 4. Ultraviolet Plume Instrument (UVPI) The UVPI is an instrument on the Low-power Atmospheric Compensation Experiment (LACE) satellite in orbit at 43 degrees inclination and approximately 290 nm altitude. It is desired to use the Orbiter during cooperative encounters of the LACE satellite to obtain imagery and/or signature data to support the calibration of the UVPI space-based sensors and to observe Orblter events. 8-6 FLT PLN/50/FIN E. ON-ORBIT DTOs 1. Cabin Air Monitoring (DTO 623) This DTO will use the solid sorbent sampler to continuously sample the Orbiter atmosphere throughout the flight. The solid sorbent sampler is to be flown on all Spacelab manned module flights. For STS-50, the solid sorbent sampler will alternate readings between the middeck and the Spacelab module. 2. Foot Restraint Evaluation (DTO 655) The purpose of this DTO is to evaluate a new conceptual design for foot restraints. The crew will comment on ease of ingress/egress, if pitch is required in design, foot loop size and spacing, fit and comfort, as well as base plate size. The foot restraints will be used in the Spacelab module during Spacelab experiment operations. 3. Evaluation of the Ergometer Vibration Isolation System (EVIS) (DTO 658) The purpose of this DTO is to measure the magnitude and frequency of the vibration generated in the Spacelab and Orbiter middeck by the cycle ergometer with EVIS on specific areas of the Spacelab and the middeck. The crew will also comment on ease of setup and stowage, impact on exercise activities, as well as activities in the middeck. 4. Acoustical Noise Dosimeter Data (DTO 663) The primary purpose of this DTO is to obtain baseline data of time-averaged acoustical noise levels for the middeck (crew sleep station, airlock) and the module (location OH7) during daytime and nighttime operations using an audio dosimeter. 5. Acoustical Noise Sound Level Data (DTO 665) The purpose of this DTO is to obtain baseline data of octave-band acoustical noise levels for the middeck and flight deck using a Spacelab analog sound level meter. The Spacelab sound level meter will also be used to record eight sound level readings for the USML-1 payload. 6. Orbiter Experiment (OEX) Orbital Acceleration Research Experiment (OARE) (DTO 910) OARE will acquire accurate measurement data on low-level aerodynamic acceleration on the Orbiter principal axes during orbit and reentry. Its instruments have 'nano-g' measurement capability, and are therefore more sensitive than SAMS. 8-7 FLT PIN/50/FIN F. ON-ORBIT DSOs 1. OV1O2 Acceleration Data Collection to Support Microgravity Disturbances (DSO 314) The purpose of this DSO is to measure Orbiter accelerations during thruster firings, crew exercise, and other disturbances using the High Resolution Acceleration Package (HIRAP). This data will be used to define the acceleration environment of the Orbiter during microgravity experiments. 2. Intraocular Pressure (DSO 472) The purpose of this DSO is to establish a database of changes in intraocular pressures that can be used to evaluate crew health. The handheld tonometer will be validated as a tool for diagnostic and scientific data collection on-orbit. 3. Retinal Photography (DSO 474) The purpose of this DSO is to analyze retinal photography taken on-orbit and determine if microgravity-induced cephalad fluid shifts elevate intracranial pressure. It will also certify equipment to provide retinal images for diagnostic and investigative purposes. 4. Orthostatic Function During Entry, Landing, and Egress (DSO 603B) The objective of this DSO is to measure the changes in orthostatic function of crewmembers during the actual stresses of entry, landing, and egress from the Orbiter. Crewmembers will don equipment prior to donning the LES during deorbit preparation. Equipment consists of a blood pressure monitor, accelerometers, an Impedance Cardiograph, and Transcranial Doppler hardware. The crewmember wears the equipment and records verbal comments throughout entry. 5. Changes in the Endocrine Regulation of Orthostatic Tolerance Following Spaceflight (DSO 613) DSO 613 will characterize the extent and pattern of changes in plasma volume during spaceflight of up to 16 days duration. It will also determine whether resting levels of catecholamines are elevated immediately after flight, and whether catecholamine release in response to varying degrees of orthostatic and cardiovascular stresses is impaired after spaceflight. There are no in-flight requirements for this DSO. 6. The Effect of Prolonged Spaceflight on Head and Gaze Stability During Locomotion (DSO 614) The objective of this DSO is to characterize head and body movement along with gaze stability during exercise. Changes in these parameters due to the microgravlty environment could impair a crewmember's ability to perform an emergency egrees from the vehicle. There are no in-flight requirements for this DSO. 8-8 FLT PIN/50/FIN 7. Evaluation of Functional Skeletal Muscle Performance Following Spaceflight (DSO 617) The purpose of this DSO is to determine the physiological effect of long duration spaceflight on skeletal muscle strength, endurance, and power. On-orbit activities consist of maintaining an exercise log. 8. Effects of Intense Exercise During Spaceflight on Aerobic Capacity and Orthostatic Function (DSO 618) The purpose of this DSO is to evaluate the effects of cycle erogometer exercise prior to landing with similar exercise performed immediately postflight, to quantify deconditioning that occurs over the duration of the flight, and to compare pre- flight, in-flight, and postflight heart rate responses to cycle ergometry. 9. Physiological Evaluation of Astronaut Seat Egress Ability at Wheel Stop (DSO 620) The purpose of this DSO is to determine the nature and magnitude of equilibrum control, effect of head position on postural stability, and vision as it affects stability immediately postflight. This DSO will enable the design of appropriate countermeasures to ensure the crew can perform an emergency egress. 10. In-Flight Use of Mineralocorticoid to Improve Orthostatic Intolerance Postflight (DSO 621) The purpose of this DSO is to evaluate mineralocorticoid's, commonly known as Florlnef, effects on postflight orthostatic tolerance using heart rate, blood pressure, and stroke volume, as well as other cardiovascular responses to orthostatic stresses. 11. Educational Activities (DSO 802) The purpose of this DSO is to use spaceflight to motivate students toward careers In engineering, science, and mathematics. This will be accomplished by live downlink of educational activities performed by the crew and production of video lessons with scenes recorded both on-orbit and on the ground. 12. Documentary Television (DSO 901) The DSO requires live television transmission or VTR dumps of crew activities and spacecraft functions which include: Payload Bay Views, STS and Payload Crew Activities, VTR Downllnk of Crew Activities, In-Flight Crew Conference, and unscheduled TV Activities. 13. Documentary Motion Picture Photography (DSO 902) The DSO 902 requires documentary and public affair motion picture photography of significant activities which best depicts the basic capabilities of the space shuttle and key objectives. This DSO includes motion picture photography of spacelab module activities, flight deck activities, middeck activities, and any unscheduled motion picture photography. 8-9 FLT PLN/50/FIN 14. Documentary Still Photography (DSO 903) The DSO 903 requires still photography of crew activities in the Orbiter and Spacelab and mission-related scenes of general public and historical interest. Still photography with 70mm format for exterior photography and 35mm format for interior photography is required. 15. Assessment of Human Factors (DSO 904) This DSO will analyze data from the digital sound level meter recording device in the middeck, flight deck, and module, relative to crew comments and crew performance. In addition, it will evaluate human-machine interactions during routine Spacelab operations (e.g., stowage, hand and foot restraints, wire and cable interface, etc.) 8-10 FLT PLN/50/FIN