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dwightlooi
Guest
I understand that a lot of the modules are still on the ground . In fact, some of them will never make it to the ISS. The number of shuttle missions required to assemble the station (depending on the degree of module omissions) range between 15 and 22. I am wondering is whether this is really necessary.<br /><br />Weight wise, a Delta IV (including Heavy) or an Atlas V rocket can handle anything the Shuttle can lift to LEO. There is NO ISS module in access of 26 tons. In fact even the biggest, heaviest modules like the multi-purpose laboratory module is just 19.3 tons with full equipment payload or 10 tons empty. Most other modules are lighter. Dimension wise, the 4.5 x 7 m modules will fit inside the 5 x 17m payload fairings of the EELVs. In fact a lot of the smaller modules may not even need a Delta IV heavy and can fly on a Delta IV (medium+) or Atlas V. Now, the payload interface will be different but I am sure that a suitable adapter can be fabricated for that purpose. Yes, there may be some technical issues and complications, but what happened to the "can do", "make it happen", attitude at NASA?<br /><br />Of course, the modules will not be able to assemble themselves. But this doesn't stop them from being launched to a parking spot next to the ISS. This way, one extended shuttle mission can assemble 3 or 4 modules already sitting next to the ISS. This should be able to cut down on the number of shuttle missions required to finish the station -- which both increases the likely hood that more of the modules will actually make it and decrease the number of shuttle flights.<br /><br />