Project Title:

Microgravity Aerodynamic Positioning System (MAPS)

94-1	15.01	1992		

Microgravity Aerodynamic Positioning System (MAPS)

Abstract:

ORBITEC proposes to conduct innovative research and development 
that will finish with a Microgravity Aerodynamic Positioning 
Control (MAPS) technology demonstration on the Space Shuttle, Mir, 
or Space Station. The innovation is based on: the use of a newly 
developed gas-jet rectifier hardware concept, an expert system 
software architecture concept, and a new containment concept for 
on-orbit position control of small spherical samples. In Phase I we 
propose to develop the preliminary design for a Phase II prototype 
space flight system using a newly-developed CFD code, conducting 
tests with a new spherical mockup test fixture and gas-jet 
rectifiers, and the feasibility testing of several other critical 
components. A fully developed space night version of a gasjet-based 
microgravity aerodynamic position control (MAPS) facility on the 
Space Shuttle, Mir, or International Space Station is expected to 
provide NASA an "overdue" the first basic demonstration of the 
unique technology that can be later applied to a wide variety of 
microgravity research efforts. The MAPS system coupled with heating 
and cooling capacity will lead to a most powerful research tool for 
development of metallic, ceramic, glass and other materials in a 
high-temperature microgravity environment, as well as a very low-g, 
vibrationally isolated, float zone capability that can enhance 
protein crystal growth.

A fully developed facility for space flight applications provides 
the opportunity to: make significant progress in heating, melting 
and controlled slow and very rapid cooling of materials in a free-
float zone; conduct crystal structure studies; measure viscosity in 
melts and other liquids/solutions; and conduct various fluid 
dynamic and combustion studies in a micro-g environment. KC-135 
test flights of the basic approach have proven that superior 
performance and experimental flexibility is achievable over other 
techniques, including acoustic, electromagnetic, and electrostatic 
levitation. 

Key Words

Orbital Technologies Corporation (ORBITEC)
402 Gammon Place, Ste. 200
Madison, WI  53719