The main problem with ISS science, other than funding, is that the Shuttle is the ONLY vehicle that can carry up AND back the large experiment racks. You can't do it in a Soyuz or the coming CEV. While it may be possible to further miniaturize many future scientific experiment racks, much of the current Science Racks are established designs that cannot be re-done on the cheap, if at all.<br /><br />Some of this science has been waiting a decade to be done so you can imagine the frustration of the scientists involved. And even if the racks were transported up, if the ISS crew was restricted to 3, just how much science do you think would get done? Six crew are needed, no question, as ISS has never yet had the chance to strut her stuff science-wise.<br /><br />What would the chances be of keeping 2 or even 1 Orbiter still running as a Science Rack+Cargo carrier with NO crew until more compact Science Racks are developed over, say, a 3 year period?<br /><br />Unlikely, is the answer. But just as a concept for the sake of discussion, say Endeavour alone was converted into an unmanned Shuttle with an automated Rendezvous & Docking system. Then, all crew stations and facilities (even the toilet!) were deleted and only basic life-support capabilities were retained so station Astronauts could work inside Endeavour to unload her.<br /><br />The vehicle would have a standard MPLM cargo module berthed in the payload bay and the Mid-deck area would also be crammed with cargo. This whole concept could represent a significant Up/Down logistics capability and would only have to fly 2 or 3 times a year to shift decent tonnage. Also, I'd suggest only flying this configuration until one or both Orbiters needed their Major Downtime Maintenance Period overhauls, then finally retire the system for good in say, 2014.<br /><br />Something to ponder, however unlikely it is to happen... <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> <p> </p><p>One Percent of Federal Funding For Space: America <strong><em><u>CAN</u></em></strong> Afford it!! LEO is a <strong><em>Prison</em></strong> -- It's time for a <em><strong>JAILBREAK</strong></em>!!</p> </div>