CNN: Is the Space Station a Money Pit?

[erioladastra]

"Major repairs to the ISS are not possible; modules cannot be replaced if they sustain major damage via space debris or just plain failure, with or without the shuttle. One good hit in a key module and it's over kiddies. Not exactly an example of inspired design IMO. "<br /><br />Except your opinion is incorrect. What are you basing this on? We can do a great many major repairs, including patching for debris hits. Of course, there is a certain size debris strike where you can't - but neither could Mir or any other design. What other major repairs do you claim are not possible? How would they just plain fail - since virtually ever part that could go bad is replaceable. Please explain your position.

 

[docm]

<font color="yellow">....there is a certain size debris strike where you can't - but neither could Mir or any other design.</font><br /><br />That's right; large damage to a module that's irreparable in situ. <br /><br />"Any other design"? Since Bigelow Sundancer & BA-330 modules will use CBM they presumably could be un-docked and replaced. True that many ISS modules also use CBM, but it's also not using the simplified central hub system the Bigelow stations will use. Kinda tough to extract a faulty module from what's fundamentally an inline layout like ISS's. <br /><br />But then again it'll be in the drink for budgetary reasons long before any threatening events occur <img src="/images/icons/tongue.gif" /> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> </div>