Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 1 

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION 

SPACE SHUTTLE 

MISSION 

STS-83 

PRESS KIT 

APRIL 1997 

MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE LABORATORY-1 (MSL-1) 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 2 

STS-83 INSIGNIA 

STS083-S-001 – The insignia for NASA's STS-83 mission depicts the space shuttle Columbia launching into space for 

the first Microgravity Sciences Laboratory (MSL) mission. MSL will investigate materials science, fluid dynamics, 

biotechnology, and combustion science in the microgravity environment of space, experiments that will be conducted in 

the Spacelab module in Columbia's cargo bay during the planned 16-day mission. The center circle symbolizes a free 

liquid under microgravity conditions representing various fluid and materials science experiments. Symbolic of the 

combustion experiments is the surrounding starburst of a blue flame burning in space. The 3-lobed shape of the 

outermost starburst ring traces the dot pattern of a transmission Laue photograph typical of biotechnology 

experiments. The numerical designation for the mission is shown at bottom center. As a forerunner to missions 

involving International Space Station, STS-83 represents the hope that scientific results and knowledge gained during 

the flight will be applied to solving problems on Earth for the benefit and advancement of humankind. 

The NASA insignia design for space shuttle flights is reserved for use by the astronauts and for other official use as the 

NASA Administrator may authorize. Public availability has been approved only in the form of illustrations by the 

various news media. When and if there is any change in this policy, which we do not anticipate, it will be publicly 

announced. 

PHOTO CREDIT: NASA or National Aeronautics and Space Administration. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 3 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

NEWS MEDIA CONTACTS 5 

GENERAL PRESS RELEASE 6 

MEDIA SERVICES INFORMATION 7 

STS-83 QUICK LOOK 9 

CREW RESPONSIBILITIES 10 

DEVELOPMENT TEST OBJECTIVES 11 

DETAILED SUPPLEMENTARY OBJECTIVES 11 

RISK MITIGATION EXPERIMENTS 11 

PAYLOAD AND VEHICLE WEIGHTS 12 

MISSION SUMMARY TIMELINE 13 

SHUTTLE ABORT MODES 14 

MICROGRAVITY SCIENCES LABORATORY-1 (MSL-1) 

 Overview 10 

 MSL-1 Science 15 

 Experiment Facilities 15 

 Conducting Science in Microgravity 16 

 Protein Crystallography 16 

 Combustion Science 16 

 Materials Science 17 

 Mission Operations 17 

 Combustion Module-1 

 Laminar Soot Processes 18 

 Structure of Flame Balls at Low Lewis-number 18 

 Droplet Combustion Apparatus 

 Droplet Combustion Experiment 19 

 Fiber-Supported Droplet Combustion 19 

 Protein Crystal Growth 

 Protein Crystallization Apparatus for Microgravity 19 

 Second-Generation Vapor Diffusion Apparatus 20 

 Handheld Diffusion Test Cells 20 

 EXPRESS Rack 

 Physics of Hard Spheres Experiment 20 

 Astro/Plant Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus 21 

 Large Isothermal Furnace 

 Measurement of Diffusion Coefficient by Shear Cell Method 21 

 Diffusion of Liquid Metals 22 

 Diffusion in Liquid Lead-Tin-Telluride 22 

 Impurity Diffusion in Ionic Metals 22 

 Liquid Phase Sintering II 22 

 Diffusion Processes in Molten Semiconductors 22 

 Measuring Microgravity 

 Space Acceleration Measurement System 23 

 Quasi-Steady Acceleration Measurement 23 

 Orbital Acceleration Research Experiment 24 

 Microgravity Measurement Assembly 24 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 4 

 TEMPUS 

 Electromagnetic Containerless Processing Facility 25 

 Thermophysical Properties of Undercooled Metallic Melts 25 

 Thermophysical Properties of Advanced Materials in the Undercooled Liquid State 26 

 Measurement of the Surface Tension of Liquid and Undercooled Metallic Melts by Oscillating Drop 

 Technique 26 

 Study if the Morphological Stability of Growing Dendrites by Comparative Dendrite Velocity 

 Measurements on Pure Ni and a Dilute Ni-C Alloy in Earth and Space Laboratory 26 

 Undercooled Melts of Alloys with Polytetrahedral Short-Range Order 26 

 Thermal Expansion of Glass Forming Metallic Alloys in the Undercooled State 227 

 Experiments on Nucleation in Different Flow Regimes 27 

 Alloy Undercooling Experiments 27 

 Measurement of Surface Tension and Viscosity of Undercooled Liquid Metals 28 

 AC Calorimetry and Thermophysical Properties of Bulk Glass-Forming Metallic Liquids 28 

 Middeck Glovebox 28 

 Coarsening in Solid-Liquid Mixtures 29 

 Bubble and Drop Nonlinear Dynamics 29 

 A Study of Fundamental Operation of a Capillary-driven Heat Transfer (CHT) Device in Microgravity 29 

 Internal Flows in a Free Drop 29 

CRYOGENIC FLEXIBLE DIODE (CRYOFD) 30 

SHUTTLE AMATEUR RADIO EXPERIMENT-II (SAREX-II) 31 

STS-94 CREW BIOGRAPHIES 33 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 5 

NASA MEDIA CONTACTS 

Debbie Rahn 

 NASA Headquarters 

 Washington, DC 

Space Shuttle Mission Policy/Mgmt 202/358-1639 

 

Mike Braukus 

 NASA Headquarters 

 Washington, DC 

Life & Microgravity Sciences Policy/Mgmt 202/358-1979 

 

Kyle Herring/Ed Campion 

 Johnson Space Center 

 Houston, TX 

Mission Operations/Astronauts 281/483/5111 

 

Bruce Buckingham 

 Kennedy Space Center, FL 

Launch Processing, KSC Landing Information 407/876-2468 

Steve Roy 

 Marshall Space Flight Center 

MSL Experiments 205/544-0034 

 Huntsville, AL 

 

Lisa Malone/Dave Dickinson 

 Kennedy Space Center, FL 

Launch Processing/KSC Landing Info. 407/876-2468 

Cam Martin 

 Dryden Flight Research Center 

 Edwards, CA 

DFRC Landing Information 805/258-3448 

 

June Malone 

 Marshall Space Flight Center 

 Huntsville, AL 

External Tank/Shuttle 205/544-7061 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 6 

RELEASE: J97-8 

MICROGRAVITY RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS MISSION STS-83 

NASA's continuing effort to understand the subtle and complex phenomena associated with the influence of gravity in many 

aspects of our daily life will be the focus of the upcoming STS-83 Microgravity Science Laboratory (MSL-1) mission. The 

flight will involve Shuttle Columbia and her seven astronauts spending more than two weeks in orbit as they conduct a 

variety of experiments to examine how various materials and liquids change and behave in the weightless environment of 

space. 

The STS-83 crew will be commanded by Jim Halsell, who will be making his third Shuttle flight. The pilot is Susan Still, 

who will be making her first flight and will be the second American woman to serve as a Shuttle pilot. There are three 

mission specialists on the flight. Janice Voss, making her third flight, is Mission Specialist-1 and is also the Payload 

Commander for STS-83. Mission Specialist-2 is Mike Gernhardt, making his second flight. Don Thomas is Mission 

Specialist-3 and is making his third flight. There are also two payload specialists serving on the STS-83 crew. Roger Crouch 

is Payload Specialist-1 and Greg Linteris is Payload Specialist- 2. Both Crouch and Linteris are making their first space flight. 

Columbia is targeted for launch on April 3 from NASA's Kennedy Space Center (KSC) Launch Complex 39-A at 2:01 p.m. 

EST at the opening of a 2 _ hour available launch window. With an on-time launch on April 3 and a nominal 16-day mission, 

Columbia will land back at KSC on April 19 at about 7:30 a.m. EDT. 

The primary focus for mission STS-83 is to conduct experiments and evaluate facilities associated with the Microgravity 

Science Laboratory-1 (MSL-1) payload. The MSL mission will serve as a bridge to America's future in space Ð the mission 

spanning the gap between the relatively short duration work done on today's Shuttle Spacelab flights to the long duration 

research that will be performed on the International Space Station. 

MSL-1 will test some of the hardware, facilities and procedures that will be used on the International Space Station. It will 

introduce new procedures designed to place scientific payloads into orbit in a shorter amount of time than previously possible.

The MSL flight will serve as a test-bed for new ways to conduct experiments in space -- helping to validate and improve that 

process. New methods of integrating experiments and equipment will be introduced, requiring new procedures at every step. 

The STS-83 flight mirrors the future work aboard the Space Station in the international complexion of the flight. MSL-1 is 

bringing together academic, industrial and governmental partners from around the world. Scientists from four space agencies 

developed 33 investigations for the MSL-1 mission. Representatives of the European Space Agency, the German Space 

Agency and the National Space Development Agency of Japan are joining NASA and scientists throughout the United States 

in this research mission. 

The STS-83 mission will introduce some new experiment facilities, designed to give scientists additional tools for finding 

answers in the microgravity of space. One such new component on MSL-1 is the innovative EXPRESS Rack, standing for 

EXpedite the PRocessing of Experiments to the Space Station. It is designed for quick and easy installation of experiment and 

facility hardware on orbit and will provide the same structural and resource connections the rack will have on ISS. 

Another advanced operational concept being tested on MSL-1 is the use of expert software systems. Designed to reduce the 

number of people now required to support ISS operations, the software packages will help human controllers provide rapid 

response to changes in mission operations. 

The work performed on the MSL-1 flight has direct impact to life back on Earth. The protein crystals being grown on the 

flight may help scientists better understand the structure of various diseases and possible cures. The experiments designed to 

examine the combustion process which will help improve the design of more efficient, clean-burning combustion engines and 

shed light, as well, on issues of fire safety. The materials science investigations will help researchers understand how the 

structure of a material forms and how this structure affects the material's properties with implications from electronic 

materials, to the strength or resistance to corrosion of some materials, to how flaws in glasses and alloys can make them crack

or break more easily. 

STS-83 will be the 22nd Flight of Columbia and the 83rd mission flown since the start of the Space Shuttle program in April 

1981. 

(END OF GENERAL RELEASE; BACKGROUND INFORMATION FOLLOWS.) 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 7 

MEDIA SERVICES INFORMATION 

NASA Television Transmission 

NASA Television is now available at a new satellite location. NASA TV is now available through the GE2 satellite 

system which is located on Transponder 9C, at 85 degrees west longitude, frequency 3880.0 MHz, audio 6.8 MHz. 

The schedule for television transmissions from the orbiter and for mission briefings will be available during the mission 

at Kennedy Space Center, FL; Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, AL; Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, 

CA; Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX; and NASA Headquarters, Washington, DC. The television schedule will be 

updated to reflect changes dictated by mission operations. 

Status Reports 

Status reports on countdown and mission progress, on-orbit activities and landing operations will be produced by the 

appropriate NASA newscenter. 

Briefings 

A mission press briefing schedule will be issued before launch. During the mission, status briefings by a flight director 

or mission operations representative and when appropriate, representatives from the payload team, will occur at least 

once each day. The updated NASA television schedule will indicate when mission briefings are planned. 

Internet Information 

Information on STS-83 is available through several sources on the Internet. The primary source for mission information 

is the NASA Shuttle Web, part of the World Wide Web. This site contains information on the crew and their mission 

and will be regularly updated with status reports, photos and video clips throughout the flight. The NASA Shuttle 

Web's address is: 

http://shuttle.nasa.gov 

If that address is busy or unavailable, Shuttle information is available through the Office of Space Flight Home Page: 

http://www.osf.hq.nasa.gov/ 

General information on NASA and its programs is available through the NASA Home Page and the NASA Public 

Affairs Home Page: 

http://www.nasa.gov 

or http://www.gsfc.nasa.gov/hqpao/hqpao_home.html 

Information on other current NASA activities is available through the Today@NASA page: 

http://www.hq.nasa.gov/office/pao/NewsRoom/today.html 

The NASA TV schedule is available from the NTV Home Page: 

http://www.hq.nasa.gov/office/pao/ntv.html 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 8 

Status reports, TV schedules and other information also are available from the NASA Headquarters FTP (File Transfer 

Protocol) server, ftp.hq.nasa.gov. Log in as anonymous and go to the directory /pub/pao. Users should log on with the 

user name "anonymous" (no quotes), then enter their E-mail address as the password. Within the /pub/pao directory 

there will be a "readme.txt" file explaining the directory structure: 

• Pre-launch status reports (KSC): ftp.hq.nasa.gov/pub/pao/statrpt/ksc 

• Mission status reports(JSC): ftp.hq.nasa.gov/pub/pao/statrpt/jsc 

• Daily TV schedules: ftp.hq.nasa.gov/pub/pao/statrpt/jsc/tvsked. 

NASA's Spacelink, a resource for educators, also provides mission information via the Internet. The system fully 

supports the following Internet services: 

• World Wide Web: http://spacelink.msfc.nasa.gov 

• Gopher: spacelink.msfc.nasa.gov 

• Anonymous FTP: spacelink.msfc.nasa.gov 

• Telnet : spacelink.msfc.nasa.gov 

Spacelink's dial-up modem line is 205/895-0028. 

Access by CompuServe 

Users with CompuServe accounts can access NASA press releases by typing "GO NASA" (no quotes) and making a 

selection from the categories offered. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 9 

STS-83 QUICK LOOK 

Launch Date/Site: April 3, 1997/KSC Launch Pad 39-A 

Launch Time: 2:01 P.M. EST 

Launch Window: 2 hours, 30 minutes 

Orbiter: Columbia (OV-102), 22nd flight 

Orbit Altitude/Inclination: 160 nautical miles, 28.45 degrees 

Mission Duration: 15 days, 16 hours, 36 minutes 

Landing Date: April 19, 1997 

Landing Time: 7:37 A.M. EDT 

Primary Landing Site: Kennedy Space Center, Florida 

Abort Landing Sites: Return to Launch Site - KSC 

Transoceanic Abort Sites Ben Guerir, Morocco; Moron, Spain 

Abort-Once Around - Edwards AFB, CA 

Crew: Jim Halsell, Commander (CDR), 3rd flight 

Susan Still, Pilot (PLT), 1st flight 

Janice Voss, Payload Commander, Mission Specialist-1 (MS-1), 3rd flight 

Mike Gernhardt, Mission Specialist-2 (MS-2), 2nd flight 

Don Thomas, Mission Specialist 3 (MS 3), 3rd flight 

Roger Crouch, Payload Specialist 1 (PS 1), 1st flight 

Greg Linteris, Payload Specialist 2, (PS 2), 1st flight 

Spacelab Teams: Red Team: Halsell, Still, Thomas, Linteris 

Blue Team: Voss, Gernhardt, Crouch 

EVA Crewmembers ) Mike Gernhardt (EV 1), Don Thomas (EV 2 

 (if needed, contingency) 

Cargo Bay Payloads: MSL-1, CRYOFD, OARE 

In-Cabin Payloads: SAREX, MSX 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 10 

CREW RESPONSIBILITIES 

Payloads Prime Backup 

 

MSL-1 Activation/Deact Voss Gernhardt 

MSL-1 Science Voss Others 

Secondary Experiments Gernhardt Halsell, Still 

EVA (if needed) Gernhardt (EV 1) Thomas 

(EV 2) Intravehicular Crewmember Still ---- 

Earth Observations Still Gernhardt 

SAREX Halsell Gernhardt 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 11 

DEVELOPMENT TEST OBJECTIVES 

DTO 255: Wraparound DAP Flight Test Verification 

DTO 312: External Tank TPS Performance 

DTO 416: Water Spray Boiler Quick Restart Capability 

DTO 667: Portable In-Flight Landing Operations Trainer 

DTO 677: Evaluation of Microbial Capture Device in Microgravity 

DTO 684: Radiation Measurement in Crew Compartment 

DTO 805: Crosswind Landing Performance 

DETAILED SUPPLEMENTARY OBJECTIVES 

DSO 331: Integration of the Space Shuttle Launch and Entry Suit 

DSO 487: Immunological Assessment of Crewmembers 

DSO 493: Monitoring Latent Virus Reactivation and Shedding in Astronauts 

RME 1309: In-Suit Doppler Ultrasound for Determining the Risk of Decompression Sickness during 

Extravehicular Activities 

RISK MITIGATION EXPERIMENTS 

RME 1330: Wireless Data Acquisition System 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 12 

PAYLOAD AND VEHICLE WEIGHTS 

 Pounds

 

Orbiter (Columbia) empty and 3 SSMEs 187,634 

Shuttle System at SRB Ignition 4,522,854 

Orbiter Weight at Landing with Cargo 259,705 

MSL-1 Spacelab Module 22,418 

CRYOFD 763 

OARE 252 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 13 

MISSION SUMMARY TIMELINE 

Flight Day 1 

Launch/Ascent 

OMS-2 Burn 

Payload Bay Door Opening 

Spacelab Activation 

MSL-1 Science Operations 

Flight Day 2-14 

MSL-1 Science Operations 

Flight Day 15 

MSL-1 Science Operations 

Crew News Conference 

Flight Day 16 

MSL-1 Science Operations 

Flight Control System Checkout 

Reaction Control System Hot-Fire 

Cabin Stow 

Spacelab Deactivation 

Flight Day 17 

Deorbit Preparation 

Payload Bay Door Closing 

Deorbit Burn 

KSC Landing 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 14 

SHUTTLE ABORT MODES 

Space Shuttle launch abort philosophy aims toward safe and intact recovery of the flight crew, Orbiter and its payload. 

Abort modes for STS-83 include: 

• Abort-To-Orbit (ATO) -- Partial loss of main engine thrust late enough to permit reaching a minimal 105-

nautical mile orbit with the orbital maneuvering system engines. 

• Abort-Once-Around (AOA) -- Earlier main engine shutdown with the capability to allow one orbit of the 

Earth before landing at the Kennedy Space Center, FL. 

• Transoceanic Abort Landing (TAL) -- Loss of one or more main engines midway through powered flight 

would force a landing at either Ben Guerir, Morocco; or Moron, Spain. 

• Return-To-Launch-Site (RTLS) -- Early shutdown of one or more engines, and without enough energy to 

reach a TAL site, would result in a pitch around and thrust back toward Kennedy until within gliding 

distance. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 15 

MICROGRAVITY SCIENCE LABORATORY-1 (MSL-1) 

The first Microgravity Science Laboratory mission (MSL-1) is the bridge to America's future in space -- the mission 

spanning the gap between today's Spacelab and tomorrow's International Space Station. 

MSL-1 will connect the foundations of American space exploration and discovery, laid by the Apollo, Skylab and 

Spacelab programs, to the Space Station. 

Using Spacelab as a test-bed, MSL-1 will test some of the hardware, facilities and procedures that will be used on the 

International Space Station. 

MSL-1 incorporates new and existing facilities to expand previous research -- and begin exploration in new directions. 

With its primary goal as an orbiting laboratory for long- term research in microgravity, MSL-1 will introduce new 

procedures designed to place scientific payloads into orbit in a shorter amount of time than previously possible. It will 

serve as a test-bed for new ways to conduct experiments in space -- helping to validate and improve that process. New 

methods of integrating experiments and equipment will be introduced, requiring new procedures at every step. 

Bringing together international academic, industrial and governmental partners in a venture that will model future 

operations, MSL-1 builds on past cooperative and scientific foundations. Those include the International Microgravity 

Laboratory missions, the U.S. Microgravity Laboratory missions, Spacelab J and the German Spacelab missions. 

By thoroughly testing these new procedures, hardware, and systems, MSL-1 will help ensure that Space Station 

research has the best start possible. The information and samples from the mission's scientific investigations also will 

ensure mature, long-term research in microgravity. 

MSL-1 Science 

Scientists from four space agencies developed 33 investigations for the MSL-1 mission. Representatives of the 

European Space Agency, the German Space Agency and the National Space Development Agency of Japan are joining 

NASA and scientists throughout the United States in this mission of discovery. 

The crew will conduct these experiments inside Spacelab, a versatile research laboratory which fits in the Space Shuttle 

cargo bay. With its extra work area, power supplies, information management capability and versatile equipment racks, 

scientists in space can work much as they would in their laboratories on Earth. 

Many MSL-1 experiments owe their heritage to earlier Skylab, sounding rocket and ground-based experiments. Some 

experiments have evolved over several Spacelab missions. Some flown on previous flights are being flown again to 

probe new scientific questions or further explore prior studies. 

Experiment Facilities 

This mission will introduce some new experiment facilities, designed to give scientists additional tools for finding 

answers in the microgravity of space. 

A new, key component on MSL-1 is the innovative EXPRESS Rack, standing for EXpedite the PRocessing of 

Experiments to the Space Station. It is designed for quick and easy installation of experiment and facility hardware on 

orbit. 

On MSL-1, the EXPRESS Rack will replace a Spacelab double rack, and special hardware will provide the same 

structural and resource connections the rack will have on Space Station. Two payloads -- the Physics of Hard Spheres 

experiment and the Astro/Plant Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus experiment -- will be flown to check the design, 

development and adaptation of the EXPRESS Rack hardware. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 16 

Another advanced operational concept being tested on MSL-1 is the use of expert software systems. Designed to reduce 

the number of people now required to support Space Station operations, the software packages will help human 

controllers provide rapid response to changes in mission operations. If there is an unscheduled event during a mission, 

the system will provide immediate information about its impact on the operation of each experiment. 

Conducting Science in Microgravity 

The microgravity environment of the orbiting Space Shuttle provides unique opportunities to researchers. 

Subtle and complex phenomena, normally hidden by the stronger force of gravity, can be revealed for detailed study. 

Mixtures that separate on Earth because of the different densities of their components can be mixed evenly and 

processed in microgravity. This allows scientists to study the processing of such materials and possibly to create 

advanced materials for study and comparison. 

The growth of near-perfect protein crystals will enhance our understanding of protein molecular structures and may 

speed the development of improved drugs. 

Also, scientists can use the microgravity environment of space to learn how the presence or absence of gravity affects 

living organisms. This will aid long-term space efforts and provide a better understanding of life on Earth by allowing 

scientists to study biological processes and phenomena impossible to study in gravity. 

Protein Crystallography 

Science has gained a better understanding of various diseases through research known as protein crystallography. 

Proteins are essential components of all living cells and serve many different functions. By studying a protein that is 

part of a virus, researchers can learn how that virus attacks plants or animals. 

To determine the exact structure of a selected protein, scientists must grow near-perfect crystals of that protein. While 

some proteins can be crystallized easily on Earth, gravity works against the formation of perfect crystals of any 

substance. By growing protein crystals in microgravity, investigators can get significantly closer to the ideal of 

perfection. 

Three protein crystal growth experiments are scheduled for MSL-1. The Protein Crystal Growth Using the Protein 

Crystallization Apparatus for Microgravity experiment will grow large quantities of various proteins. The Protein 

Crystal Growth Using the Second Generation Vapor Diffusion Apparatus experiment will grow high-quality crystals of 

various proteins using the alternate method known as vapor diffusion. The Protein Crystal Growth Using the HandHeld Diffusion Test Cells experiment will grow crystals to investigate differences in the processes in microgravity from 

those on Earth and to refine the cell design for the Observable Protein Crystal Growth Apparatus. 

Combustion Science 

Combustion -- the more scientific term for burning -- plays a key role in processes involved in ground transportation, 

spacecraft and aircraft propulsion, and hazardous waste disposal. Yet, despite years of study, there is only a limited 

understanding of many fundamental combustion processes because Earth's gravity limits studies -- again, by masking 

many subtle phenomena. 

The microgravity environment of space, however, allows scientists to expand the scale and duration of experiments and 

to study details hidden on Earth. 

The MSL-1 mission will support three combustion investigations. The Laminar Soot Processes experiment will explore 

the properties and processes of soot and flames. The Structure of Flame Balls at Low Lewis-number experiment will 

try to determine if stable flame balls can exist. The Droplet Combustion Experiment will study the processes and 

phenomena associated with combustion in spherical fuel droplets. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 17 

Results from these experiments will improve understanding of how fundamental combustion phenomena are affected 

by gravity; advance combustion science and technology on Earth -- including the improved design of more efficient, 

clean-burning combustion engines; and shed light, as well, on issues of fire safety in space. 

Materials Science 

The key to materials science research is understanding how the structure of a material forms and how this structure 

affects the material's properties. 

On Earth, sedimentation and buoyancy cause uneven mixing of a material's ingredients and can deform the structure as 

it solidifies. These gravity-induced imperfections limit the usefulness of many electronic materials. Imperfections in the 

structures of metals and alloys can affect mechanical strength or resistance to corrosion, while similar flaws in glasses 

and alloys can make them crack or break more easily. Gravity also affects the internal structure of polymers, long 

chains of organic molecules that form the basis of a range of products from nylon to plastic. 

In microgravity, sedimentation and buoyancy are reduced or eliminated, allowing scientists to study the process of 

material formation in ways never before possible. Minute forces and phenomena that are overwhelmed by gravity on 

Earth can be observed and studied. Physical and chemical conditions present during processing can be controlled and 

changed, enabling investigators to learn how these factors affect the final structure of the material. 

MSL-1 will feature 19 materials science investigations in three major facilities. These facilities are the Large 

Isothermal Furnace, the EXPRESS Rack and the Electromagnetic Containerless Processing Facility. 

Additional technology demonstrations and experiments will be performed in the Middeck Glovebox facility. 

The knowledge gained from these studies will benefit future microgravity research and material processing efforts and 

also will be used to improve materials processing on Earth. 

Mission Operations 

The Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala., manages MSL-1 as NASA's lead center for microgravity 

research. 

Experiment operations for the 16-day flight will be directed from the Spacelab Mission Operations Control center at 

Marshall. 

During the mission, scientists and engineers representing many MSL-1 experiments will work in Marshall's Science 

Operations Area. There, they will monitor experiments by video and voice links with the Shuttle, send remote 

commands to their instruments, discuss operations with the MSL-1 crew, and coordinate mission activities with 

members of other experiment teams. 

The teams will be backed by colleagues working at remote sites for science operations and support. 

Remote operations have been an important part of previous Spacelab missions. But MSL-1 will refine their operation, 

while making use of previous hardware and facilities. MSL-1 will have new remote operations in Tsukuba, Japan, as 

well as sites at Lewis Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio; and the University of Colorado at Denver. Also, a remote 

site -- distinct from the Spacelab Mission Operations Control facility -- will be operational at Marshall for the 

Glovebox experiments. Additional science teams will be located at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, and 

the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. 

Primary responsibility for operating the experiments in orbit belongs to the Spacelab science crew. Payload 

Commander Janice E. Voss, Mission Specialists Donald A. Thomas and Michael L. Gernhardt, and Payload Specialists 

Roger K. Crouch and Gregory Linteris will work in two 12-hour shifts. Operating Spacelab 24 hours a day enables 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 18 

scientists to obtain the most from valuable time in orbit. The crew will work from a pre-planned master timeline, with 

adjustments allowed for unexpected opportunities. 

After landing, many experiment samples -- some with limited lifetimes -- will be returned to the scientists for 

evaluation. 

Later, experiment hardware will be returned to the space agency that developed it. And computer tapes, voice 

recordings, video tapes and other information collected in the experiments will be organized and forwarded to 

investigators. Analysis of the results will start even before the Shuttle returns to Earth, and may continue for several 

years. 

The investigators will be rewarded with new insights into the intrinsic properties of materials and increased knowledge 

of how gravity affects living systems on Earth. And MSL-1 will certainly provide new questions for scientists and 

engineers seeking additional answers in the unique laboratory of space. 

COMBUSTION MODULE-1 

Combustion Module-1 was developed by NASA to test hardware and experiment approaches on Spacelab. The module 

can accommodate a variety of combustion experiments through the use of experiment-unique chamber inserts called 

Experiment Mounting Structures. 

It requires two Spacelab racks--one double and one single-- with a combined weight of 1,600 pounds. 

Housed in the double rack is the Experiment Package. The package contains a 24 gallon combustion chamber, a gas 

chromatograph, seven cameras, the experiments' computers and support equipment. 

The combustion chamber has slide rails and can be quickly disconnected, allowing the crew to insert and connect the 

Experiment Mounting Structures. 

The single rack contains the Fluid Supply Package and the Video Cassette Recorder Package. The Fluid Package 

consists of 20 bottled gases and supplies gas for combustion, combustion chamber purges, soot sampling, chemical 

diagnostics, on-orbit leak tests and pure air in the combustion chamber for science and crew access. 

Combustion Module-1 will support two investigations during the mission. 

Experiment: Laminar Soot Processes 

Facility: Combustion Module 1 

PI: Dr. Gerard Faeth, University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. 

Laminar jet diffusion flames involve the combustion of a hydrocarbon fuel in still air. They are similar to candle flames 

except that the fuel is supplied by a gas jet rather than by evaporation from a wick. The shape of a laminar jet diffusion 

flame approximates combustion processes in many practical devices, such as diesel engines, aircraft jet engines and 

furnaces. Information will be collected on flame shape, the type and amount of soot produced under various conditions 

and the temperature of soot components. This experiment could lead to ways to contain unwanted fires, and also limit 

the number of fatalities from carbon monoxide emissions. Scientists also hope to use information learned from the 

experiment to improve theoretical models of combustion. 

Experiment: Structure of Flame Balls at Low Lewis-number (SOFBALL) 

Facility: Combustion Module-1 

PI: Dr. Paul Ronney, University of Southern California in Los Angeles 

The purpose of the investigation is to determine if stable balls of flame can exist. If proven they can, additional studies 

may determine if radiative loss is the stabilizing mechanism and how mixture properties affect flame balls. Information 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 19 

gained from this experiment could lead to improvements in lean-burn internal combustion engines, to increase 

efficiency and reduce emissions. Other benefits may include improved fire safety for mine shafts, chemical plants and 

spacecraft. 

DROPLET COMBUSTION APPARATUS 

The Droplet Combustion Apparatus is an enclosed chamber in which one investigation, the Droplet Combustion 

Experiment, will process during MSL-1. 

Experiment: Droplet Combustion Experiment 

Facility: Droplet Combustion Apparatus 

PI: Dr. Forman Williams, University of California at San Diego 

The purpose of the experiment is to collect information on burning rates of flames, flame structures and conditions 

when extinguishing a flame. Combustion of fuel droplets is an important element in heating furnaces for materials 

processing, heating homes and businesses, producing power by gas turbines, as well as combustion of gasoline in 

vehicle engines. With improved understanding of droplet combustion, the results of this experiment could lead to 

cleaner and safer ways to burn fossil fuels, and more efficient methods of generating heat and power on Earth. 

Experiment: Fiber-Supported Droplet Combustion 

Facility: Middeck Glove Box 

PI: Dr. Forman Williams, University of California at San Diego 

The purpose of the experiment is to study how fuels burn and test a new technique of droplet deployment and ignition 

using thin fibers for positioning. The fiber-supported droplet combustion technique will allow researchers to study 

fundamental combustion processes, such as how pollutants are formed. The mechanisms that cause the production of 

soot in flames are among the most 

important unresolved problems of combustion science because soot affects life on Earth in many ways. Knowledge 

gained from this experiment could be applied to increased efficiency in the utilization of fossil fuels and to further the 

understanding of combustion byproducts such as soot and smog. 

PROTEIN CRYSTAL GROWTH 

Each cell in a living organism contains thousands of different proteins the substances which play essential roles in the 

maintenance of life. Protein crystals are used in basic biological research, pharmacology and drug development. 

However, the structures of many important proteins remain a mystery simply because researchers are unable to obtain 

crystals of sufficient quality or size. Earth's gravity affects the purity and structural integrity of crystals. The low 

gravity environment in space allows for the growth of larger, purer crystals of greater structural integrity. In some 

cases, the analysis of protein crystals grown in space has revealed more about a protein's molecular structure than has 

been possible even after years of effort with crystals grown on Earth. Three protein crystal growth studies will be 

conducted on MSL-1. 

Experiment: Protein Crystallization Apparatus for Microgravity 

PI: Dr. Dan Carter of New Century Pharmaceuticals in Huntsville, Ala. 

Facility: The Protein Crystallization Apparatus for Microgravity consists of small plastic trays with seven sample wells 

surrounded by donut-shaped reservoirs. The complete crystallization apparatus comprises nine trays (63 specimens) 

carried in a cylinder with a crank mechanism. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 20 

MSL-1 will carry six cylinders in a Single-locker Thermal Enclosure System and another six in cabin-temperature 

locker, for a total of 756 specimens. 

Experiment: Second-Generation Vapor Diffusion Apparatus 

PI: Dr. Larry DeLucas of the Center for Macromolecular Crystallography at the University of Alabama in Birmingham. 

Facility: This facility will use vapor diffusion techniques to process eleven different proteins in 80 crystallization 

chambers. These experiments in protein crystallization research include efforts to obtain detailed structural data on two 

proteins that relate to Chagas' disease, a debilitating and deadly disease that effects more than 20 million people in 

Latin America and parts of the United States. This work is in collaboration with an Investigators' Working Group 

currently comprised of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Mexico, Uruguay and the United States as part of a larger 

effort to help control communicable diseases. 

Experiment: Handheld Diffusion Test Cells 

PI: Dr. Alexander McPherson of the University of California, Riverside. 

Facility: A single unit of the Hand-Held Diffusion Test Cells experiment consists of eight cells mounted on a rail and 

contained in a protective enclosure. Each test cell has three chambers containing a protein solution, a buffer solution 

and a precipitant solution chamber. Using the liquid-liquid diffusion method the different fluids are brought into 

contact but not mixed. Over time, the fluids will diffuse into each other through the random motion of molecules. The 

gradual increase in concentration of the precipitant within the protein solution causes the proteins to crystallize. A total 

of 32 specimens will be flown on MSL-1, and results will be used to refine the design of an Observable Protein Crystal 

Growth Apparatus being designed for later missions 

EXPRESS RACK 

The EXPRESS Rack is designed to simplify and speed the process of housing, transporting, installing and operating 

Space Station experiments. Officially called Expedite the Processing of Experiments to the International Space Station, 

the EXPRESS rack complies with established standards of Space Station hardware. 

Developed by NASA's Life Sciences division, the rack contains 10 compartments for housing experiments -- eight 

smaller compartments called lockers and two larger, standardized compartments called drawers. 

During the Microgravity Science Laboratory mission, two experiments will be conducted in the EXPRESS Rack to test 

and demonstrate the hardware. 

The Physics of Hard Spheres Experiment will be transported into orbit in the EXPRESS Rack. It will be housed in four 

lockers and one drawer of the facility, demonstrating the rack's capability to accommodate smaller, standardized 

experiments. 

The Astro/Plant Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus will be carried into orbit in the Shuttle's middeck and transferred to 

the EXPRESS Rack once in orbit. The apparatus will be returned to the middeck following the experiment run. This 

will demonstrate the ease and speed of installing and removing an EXPRESS Rack experiment, a process which will be 

used to transfer experiments to and from the International Space Station. 

Physics of Hard Spheres Experiment 

Dr. Paul Chaikin, Princeton University, Princeton, N.J. 

Objective: The experiment will examine the changes which occur during the transition of a substances from liquids to 

solids and solids to liquids. These transitions are fundamental to materials processing. A better understanding of liquidto- solid and solid-to-liquid transitional phases may result in the improved design of metallic alloys and processing 

techniques. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 21 

The investigation will examine seven, three-component samples of varying concentrations. The samples, contained in 

glass spheres, will be colloidal systems -- a colloid dispersed in a gas, liquid or solid. A colloidal substance consists of 

very small particles which will remain suspended in a medium, do not dissolve in it, and will diffract light. Using a 

Light Scattering Instrument, measurements of diffracted light from the small particles of the colloids will be obtained 

as varying degrees of force -- produced by a laser in the Light Scattering Instrument -- are applied to the samples. 

Astro/Plant Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus (AstroPGBA) 

Dr. Louis Stodieck, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colo. 

Objective: This experiment will study the effect of space on certain species of plants. Specifically, it will investigate the 

production of lignin Ð essential for the formation and joining of woody cell walls in plants; the production of 

secondary metabolites -- essential to generating energy needed to sustain vital life processes; and changes which occur 

in the sugars and starches of vegetable plants. From this investigation, researchers hope to determine if these processes 

are interrelated and how they may be manipulated to improve plant growth and production on Earth. Researchers also 

hope the study will verify evidence that plants grown in microgravity require less metabolic energy to produce lignin, 

permitting greater production of secondary metabolites, a source of many medicinal drugs. Secondary metabolites may 

also serve to attract, repel or poison insects. 

Plants to be studied include Artemisia annua, a species of sage native to Southeast Asia and a source of the antimalarial 

drug artemisinin; Catharanthus roseus, which produces vinca alkaloids, used in chemotherapy treatment of cancer; 

Pinus taeda (loblolly pine), used widely in the paper and lumber industries; and Spinacia oleracea, a variety of spinach. 

LARGE ISOTHERMAL FURNACE 

The Large Isothermal Furnace is a facility capable of uniformly heating large samples of metal alloys to 2912 degrees 

Fahrenheit (1,600 degrees Celsius) and rapidly cooling samples using a flow of helium. A vacuum-heating facility, the 

furnace consists of a sample container and heating element surrounded by a vacuum chamber. 

The furnace will be used to study the diffusion of liquid metals -- the process by which liquid metals mix when heated. 

This process cannot adequately be studied on Earth because of convection. 

The first, convection, is the transfer of heat caused by the movement of fluid particles which results from a variation in 

concentration and gravity. On Earth, liquids will gradually mix as a result of heat and stirring generated by convection. 

To study the effect of an outside source of heat and stirring on the mixing process, it is necessary to reduce or eliminate 

convection. 

In the near-zero gravity aboard the orbiting Space Shuttle, researchers are able to study the diffusion process unaffected 

by convection. The experiments may provide a better understanding of how liquid metals mix, a process vital to the 

production of high quality metal alloys and products. 

Measurement of Diffusion Coefficient by Shear Cell Method 

Dr. Shinichi Yoda, National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), Tsukuba, Japan 

Objective: This experiment will test the shear cell cartridge, or container, to be used in two investigations conducted in 

the Large Isothermal Furnace. The cartridge is specifically designed for these two studies which will use the shear cell 

method to determine the diffusion coefficient -- or an accurate measurement for the fundamental variables which 

regulate diffusion. 

This method involves two column samples of different concentrations. The columns are melted, then rotated into 

contact with each other for a specific period of time. The resulting single column is sheared into segments and cooled 

before measurements are taken. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 22 

Using the shear cell method, this study may also reveal the rate of diffusion of tin and lead-tin-telluride. Findings may 

lead to a better understanding of the diffusion process and improved metal alloys and products. 

Diffusion of Liquid Metals 

Dr. Toshio Itami, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan 

Objective: The study is designed to establish an accurate measurement for the fundamental variables which regulate 

diffusion of liquid tin relative to temperature. On Earth, diffusion experiments conducted at high temperatures have 

been unsuccessful due to convection, or fluid movement caused by gravity. This experiment may help researchers more 

clearly define the diffusion process and could lead to improved designs of metallic alloys and processing techniques on 

Earth. 

Diffusion in Liquid Lead-Tin-Telluride 

Ms. Misako Uchida, Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries, Tokyo, Japan 

Objective: Researchers hope to establish an accurate measurement for the diffusion coefficient of liquid lead-tintelluride in relative to temperature. On Earth, it is difficult to achieve an equal distribution of particles in this metal 

mixture as the mixture solidifies. As with other liquid metals, the diffusion process is masked by gravity's influence on 

the movement of liquid particles. It also appears that diffusion's dependence on temperature is different in microgravity, 

or near-zero gravity. Lead-tin-telluride holds potential as a material for use in infrared detectors and lasers. 

Impurity Diffusion in Ionic Metals 

Dr. Tsutomu Yamamura, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan 

Objective: The objective of the study is to determine an accurate measurement for the diffusion coefficient of a tracer, 

or impurity, in molten salts. Conducting the study in the microgravity environment of the Space Shuttle will eliminate 

convection, or fluid movement caused by gravity. On Earth, convection disturbs the diffusion process, resulting in 

inconsistent measurements. 

In addition, the study is designed to reveal ideal conditions for electrolysis of molten salts. Electrolysis is the use of an 

electrical current to break down a dissolved substance into its constituent components. 

The experiment may provide needed information to improve the diffusion process. An accurate measurement for the 

diffusion coefficient in molten salts would also be useful in basic science and engineering work. 

Liquid Phase Sintering II 

Dr. Randall German, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Penn. 

Objective: The investigation will test theories of liquid- phase sintering -- to heat and liquefy materials to form a 

mixture without reaching the melting point of the solid phase material. Specifically, the study will examine the 

coalescence, or mixing together, of materials during liquid-phase sintering. The investigation will also look at changes 

that occur in the materials' pores which allow the mixing of fluids during liquid-phase sintering. Information gathered 

will be compared with theoretical predictions in hopes of improving theoretical models and developing a better 

understanding of sintering in microgravity. 

Diffusion Processes in Molten Semiconductors 

Dr. David N. Matthiesen, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 

Objective: The experiment is designed to determine an the diffusion coefficient relative to temperature, impurities and 

diameter of the sample. Specifically, researchers hope to establish an accurate measurement for the fundamental 

variables which regulate the diffusion of tracers, or impurities, of gallium, silicon and antimony in melted germanium. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 23 

On Earth, the movement of tracers during the processing of semiconductors or other materials results from a 

combination of diffusion and gravity-generated convection, or fluid movement caused by gravity. Since diffusion and 

convection cannot be separated on Earth, scientists have not been able to accurately measure the diffusion coefficient. 

This research is aimed at developing better models of diffusion. 

MEASURING MICROGRAVITY 

Space Acceleration Measurement System (SAMS) 

Project Scientist: Dr. Peter Tschen, NASA Lewis Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio 

Objective: The effects of Earth's gravity on the Space Shuttle and its cargo are markedly reduced when in orbit. But so 

strong are the forces of gravity, the effects are never completely eliminated. Disturbances occur when crew members 

move about the Shuttle, when onboard equipment is operated, or thrusters are fired to maneuver the Shuttle to its 

proper position. Even slight, atmospheric drag on the Shuttle can create disturbances that mimic gravity. Such minute 

changes in the orbital environment of the Shuttle can effect sensitive experiments being conducted onboard. 

Researchers and scientists conducting experiments on the Microgravity Science Laboratory mission will depend on the 

Space Acceleration Measurement System to record precise measurements of such changes. The system will enable 

them to adjust their experiments and improve the collection of scientific information during the mission. The system's 

measurements also aid in determining how vibrations or accelerations affect the results of experiments. 

System Operation: The system accurately measures and maps the acceleration environment in orbit, using three remote 

sensor heads mounted in different locations. Each sensor head has three accelerometers oriented to enable the detection 

of accelerations three-dimensionally, in the range of .01- to 100- Hertz. For this mission, one sensor head will detect 

accelerations up to 2.5 Hertz, while others can detect accelerations up to 25 Hertz. Information collected by the sensors 

is transmitted to the ground through the Shuttle's communications system. This allows scientists to make immediate 

assessments of the effects of the microgravity environment, and make necessary corrections for their experiments. 

Quasi-Steady Acceleration Measurement (QSAM) 

Project Scientist: Dr. Hans Hamacher, German Aerospace Research Establishment (DLR) 

Objective: Researchers who conduct scientific experiments in the microgravity environment of space require as few 

disturbances as possible. But even the near-vacuum of space has some forces of gravity and vibration. Among the 

disturbances encountered on a Space Shuttle mission are rapidly changing movements by the crew or periodic 

equipment operations. And steady accelerations -- changes in velocity -- such as a slight pull on the Shuttle created by 

atmospheric drag, also create disturbances making it impossible to achieve complete zero- gravity conditions. 

Different experiments conducted in space are sensitive to different types of accelerations. To accurately interpret the 

results of their experiments, researchers need to know the precise level of accelerations that occur at all times during 

their experiments. 

The Quasi-Steady Acceleration Measurement (QSAM) experiment is primarily designed to detect steady, very lowfrequency, residual accelerations between 0 and 0.02 Hertz, or cycles per second. 

System Operation: Low-frequency accelerations affect various physical processes more than higher-frequency 

accelerations. By means of a unique design of its sensor heads, the Quasi-Steady Acceleration Measurement 

experiment is able to make precise measurements of this important acceleration range. 

This system complements three others that are measuring disturbances on the Microgravity Science Laboratory 

mission. Together, the four systems provide detection of the entire range of accelerations that may affect experiments. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 24 

Orbital Acceleration Research Experiment (OARE) 

Project Scientist: Dr. Peter Tschen, NASA Lewis Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio 

Objective: There is no line -- no hard boundary -- between Earth's atmosphere and space. At the Earth's surface, the 

atmosphere is thickest, and it gradually thins with increasing elevation. Even altitudes reached by the Space Shuttle are 

not completely without air. The Shuttle travels very rapidly through this tenuous, near-vacuum atmosphere. But the 

Shuttle is slightly slowed, or decelerated, by friction with the gas molecules. And because the density of the atmosphere 

changes from day to night, the amount of friction varies proportionally. 

The Orbital Acceleration Research Experiment (OARE) makes extremely accurate measurements of these variations 

and other disturbances, using a sensor called an accelerometer, and records them for later analysis. Analysis of these 

and other types of microgravity disturbances enables researchers to assess the influence of Shuttle accelerations on the 

scientific experiments carried onboard the Microgravity Science Laboratory. 

System Operation: The Orbital Acceleration Research Experiment is a self- calibrating instrument that monitors and 

records extremely small accelerations -- changes in velocity -- and vibrations that are experienced during orbit of the 

Shuttle. At the heart of the instrument is a miniature electrostatic accelerometer that precisely measures low- frequency, 

on-orbit acceleration disturbances. The OARE is capable of sensing and recording accelerations on the order of onebillionth the acceleration of Earth's gravity -- 1 nano-g - - at a frequency of less than 1 Hertz, or once per second. 

The instrument's principal purpose is to help determine the orientation of the least acceleration disturbance for the 

Shuttle orbiter during flight. Information is collected and measured by the instrument. Then it is processed, stored and 

transmitted in near real-time to scientists on Earth. Based on this information, the Shuttle's flight attitude can be 

adjusted to satisfy the needs of any particular experiment. 

Microgravity Measurement Assembly (MMA) 

Project Scientist: Dr. Hans Hamacher, German Aerospace Research Establishment (DLR) 

Objective: Many experiments onboard the Microgravity Science Laboratory require a very smooth ride through space 

so that their delicate operations are not disturbed. Yet even in the quiet, low-gravity environment of space, disruptions 

occur from movements by the crew, equipment operations and occasional firing of thrusters to adjust the orbital 

position of the Shuttle. 

One of the systems developed to measure disruptions to experiments caused by accelerations is the Microgravity 

Measurement Assembly (MMA). 

System Operation: The Microgravity Measurement Assembly determines both high- and low-frequency spacecraft 

disturbances, collecting measurements from seven sensor heads placed at selected locations in the Spacelab. Four of the 

sensor heads are placed in the Spacelab experiment racks, where many of the gravity-sensitive investigations are 

located. Most of the MMA sensors can detect accelerations in the range of 0.1- to 100-Hertz. One sensor, called the 

Accelerometre Spatial Triaxial Electrostatique, can measure accelerations below 1.0 Hertz. 

Information collected from the sensors is sent to the instrument's central computer. It can be transmitted in real- time to 

researchers on the ground, where they can promptly assess measurements of the microgravity environment vs. the 

requirements for various experiments. From this, plans can be made for possible corrective actions for particular 

experiments. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 25 

TEMPUS 

Electromagnetic Containerless Processing Facility (German: Tiegelfreies Elektromagnetisches Prozessieren 

Unter Schwerelosigkeit, or TEMPUS.) 

Hardware Developer: Wolfgang Dreier, German Space Agency (DARA) 

Project Scientists: Dr. Ivan Egry, German Aerospace Research Establishment (DLR), Cologne, Germany and Dr. Jan 

Rogers, NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Ala. 

The Electromagnetic Containerless Processing Facility -- referred to by its German acronym TEMPUS -- was 

developed by the German Space Agency. It is an electromagnetic levitation facility that allows scientists on the ground 

to process metallic samples in a containerless microgravity environment. TEMPUS uses a combination of an 

electromagnetic field and the microgravity environment to suspend metal alloys in free space within a set of coils so the 

alloys may be melted and resolidified in an ultra-pure environment. By levitating the sample within the coils, 

researchers can study the alloy's solidification while ensuring the sample does not touch any container's walls. The 

facility records information on the alloys while they are molten as they solidify. 

The TEMPUS facility first flew on the second International Microgravity Laboratory (IML-2), a Shuttle and Spacelab 

mission in July 1994. 

Electromagnetic levitation is commonly used in ground- based experiments to melt and then cool metallic substances 

below their "freezing" points while preventing solidification from occurring. The process of cooling metallic melts 

below their normal freezing points without solidification is termed "undercooling." The ability of very pure liquid 

alloys, in a microgravity environment, to remain liquid at hundreds of degrees below their normal solidification points 

is due to the absence of contact with other materials. 

During the MSL-1 mission, scientists will perform experiments which build upon those conducted during IML-2, 

studying various thermodynamic and kinetic properties of 18 samples. For each investigation, a small spherical sample, 

about 5/16 inch round (7-8 mm), will be positioned by the electromagnetic coil, melted, and then cooled. Melting 

points of the samples range between 1,400-3,362 F (760-1,850 C), with the maximum sample temperature about 3,812 

F (2,100 C). 

A key phenomenon to be studies is nucleation. This is the initial stage of crystalline solidification, when small, isolated 

clusters of atoms begin arranging themselves into a regular, repeating structure. Atoms fall into place on these clusters, 

or nuclei, causing the sites to grow until the entire mass becomes solid. 

The TEMPUS system provides the means for physically manipulating samples during processing. Rotations and 

oscillations can be controlled through the application of an electromagnetic field. Nucleation can be initiated at any 

desired undercooled temperature by inserting a needle into the sample, causing the entire sample to rapidly solidify. 

Also, the sample can be squeezed by applying short power pulses to the heating or levitation coils. By observing how 

the sample reacts, properties such as surface tension and viscosity can be determined. 

Experiment: Thermophysical Properties of Undercooled Metallic Melts Facility: Electromagnetic Containerless 

Processing 

Facility (TEMPUS) 

Principal Investigator: Dr. Ivan Egry, DLR. 

Co-Investigators: Dr. Georg Lohoefer, DLR; Dr. Berndt Feuerbacher, DLR. 

To measure surface tension, viscosity, and electrical conductivity of liquid and undercooled alloys, specifically 

palladium- copper-silicon and cobalt-palladium. This experiment will provide information about the heat transfer 

properties of undercooled metallic melts. Findings from this study will complement existing information on liquid 

metals at and above the melting point, providing insight into the largely unexplored state where an undercooled liquid 

begins to solidify. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 26 

Experiment: Thermophysical Properties of Advanced Materials in the Undercooled Liquid State 

Facility: TEMPUS 

Principal Investigator: Dr. Hans F. Fecht, Technical University Berlin, Germany. 

Co-Investigator: Dr. Rainer Wunderlich, Technical University Berlin. 

This experiment will measure the heating properties of undercooled metallic substances to help researchers further 

understand how metallic glass forms in zirconium-based alloys. Comparisons between different alloys should indicate 

how the glass-forming ability of an alloy is related to its composition. Understanding the fundamentals of undercooling 

and formation of metallic glasses is vital for designing such materials. They may find applications in many 

technological areas because of their unique mechanical and physical properties. Some present areas of application 

include high-powered laser choke switches, transformer cores, brazing alloys, wear- resistant coatings and reinforcing 

fibers in metal matrices. In the future, these injection- molded, bulk metallic glasses could influence the state of 

materials science and engineering. 

Experiment: Measurements of the Surface Tension of Liquid and Undercooled Metallic Melts by Oscillating 

Drop Technique Experiment 

Facility: TEMPUS 

Principal Investigator: Dr. Martin G. Frohberg, Technical University Berlin, Germany. 

Co-Investigator: Dr. Michael Roesner-Kuhn, Technical University Berlin. 

This experiment studies the surface tension of liquid metal drops, which are levitated and positioned in an 

electromagnetic field. The physical property of surface tension results from the forces of mutual attraction of the 

molecules making up a liquid. These forces cause the molecules at the drop's outer surface to be pulled inward. The 

approximately spherical shape of rain drops, for example, is a result of surface tension. The strength of the force 

working on the rain drop or any other liquid sample depends on the temperature and purity of the liquid. Scientists 

currently do not have sufficient data about concentration- and temperature-dependent surface tensions of liquid, and 

especially undercooled liquid, materials. Industrial processes which may benefit from findings include: metal-gas-slag 

reactions, filtration of melts, hot sintering of metallic powders, reactions between melts and refractories, solidification 

processes, and material flow in the interface between two different liquids. 

Experiment: Study of the Morphological Stability of Growing Dendrites by Comparative Dendrite Velocity 

Measurements on Pure Ni and a Dilute Ni-C Alloy in the Earth and Space Laboratory Experiment 

Facility: TEMPUS 

Principal Investigator: Dr. D. M. Herlach, DLR. 

Co-Investigator: Dr. M. Barth, DLR; Dr. B. Feuerbacher, DLR. 

This experiment deals with the investigation of the dendritic solidification velocity resulting from small levels of melt 

undercooling. Dendrites -- from the Greek word for "tree" -- are tiny branching structures that form inside molten metal 

alloys when they solidify during manufacturing. The size, shape and structure of the dendrites have a major effect on 

the strength, ductility and usefulness of an alloy. Measurements of the speed of dendritic solidification can be used to 

test and refine modeling of dendritic growth behavior. This type of experiment must be performed in microgravity 

because crystal growth can be greatly affected by convective fluid flow, or buoyancy-driven motion, in molten metal. 

The low-acceleration environment in space effectively eliminates convection. Comparing space experiment data to 

those obtained on Earth will allow researchers to learn more about the effect convection has on dendrite growth. 

Information gained from this experiment could have significance in many manufacturing processes, such as welding 

and casting. 

Experiment: Undercooled Melts of Alloys with Polytetrahedral Short-Range Order Experiment 

Facility: TEMPUS 

Principal Investigator: Dr. D. M. Herlach, DLR 

Co-Investigator: Dr. Dirk Holland-Moritz, DLR; Dr. Heinrich Bach, University of Bochum, Germany; Dr. Hans Fecht, 

Technical University Berlin; Dr. Kenneth Kelton, Washington University, St. Louis; Dr. Berndt Feuerbacher, DLR. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 27 

The experiment will investigate the recently discovered and fascinating subject of quasicrystals. The quasicrystalline 

state, discovered in 1994, is a third state of solid matter -- in addition to the normal crystalline and glassy states. 

Quasicrystals exhibit excellent structural order based on atom arrangements. This feature provides quasicrystalline 

materials with a high degree of hardness and novel electrical and physical properties. This experiment is expected to 

provide a better understanding of nucleation and short-range order phenomena occurring in undercooled melts. Also, 

measurement of the specific heat (defined as the heat needed to raise one gram of substance one degree Celsius) will 

enable better analysis of undercooling experiments performed in space, as well as those performed on Earth. Sample 

materials used in this experiment are three quasicrystal-forming alloys of aluminum-copper-iron and aluminum-coppercobalt. 

Experiment: Thermal Expansion of Glass Forming Metallic Alloys in the Undercooled State 

Facility: TEMPUS 

Principal Investigator: Dr. K. Samwer, Institute for Physics, University of Augsburg, Germany. 

Co-Investigator: Dr. B. Damaschke, Institute for Physics, University of Augsburg; Dr. Ivan Egry, DLR. 

To investigate the thermal expansion of multicomponent amorphous alloys in the wide temperature range between the 

melting point and the glass transition point. Amorphous alloys are alloys consisting of many metals whose atoms are 

not arranged in the form of crystalline structures. Solids can be subdivided into crystalline or non-crystalline forms 

based on the internal arrangement of their atoms or molecules. The glass transition point is where this experiment is 

expected to reveal new information about both a thermodynamic approach to glassy and undercooled metals and the 

existence of structural changes in the undercooled alloys, which is important for the development of new customized 

materials. 

Experiment: Experiments on Nucleation in Different Flow Regimes 

Facility: TEMPUS 

Principal Investigator: Dr. Robert Bayuzick, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tenn. 

Co-Investigators: Dr. William H. Hofmeister, Vanderbilt University; Dr. Michael B. Robinson, NASA Marshall Space 

Flight Center. 

This investigation looks to better understand specific details on how metals solidify and to investigate ways in which 

the solidification process can be controlled. Scientists hope to pinpoint what phenomenon kicks off solidification. The 

current understanding of the nucleation of solids is limited to models derived from the classical theory of nucleation. 

However, the unique environment of Spacelab provides the combination of requirements -- free- floating melts, great 

control of conditions within the melt and very careful measurement of temperature -- that will allow for an unparalleled 

opportunity to test the theory. Solidifying metals is one of the most important processes in industry. Learning more 

about nucleation may provide clues for making different materials. The studies may help determine the nucleation 

behavior of zirconium, a strong, ductile refractory metal used chiefly in nuclear reactors and chemical processing 

equipment. 

Alloy Undercooling Experiments Experiment 

Facility: TEMPUS 

Principal Investigator: Dr. Merton Flemings, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, Mass. 

Co-Investigator: Dr. Douglas Matson, MIT; Dr. Wolfgang Lšser, Institut fur Festkoerper und Westoffordchug, 

Dresden, Germany. 

To measure the solidification velocity in steel alloys, using a combination of video and sophisticated temperature 

measurement techniques. Atoms in molten liquid alloy line up in a specified order as the alloy cools and becomes a 

solid crystal. Scientists hope to learn more about the order in which atoms attach to each other as they grow into a 

crystal structure. Investigators also want to study the speed at which the crystallization process occurs. The stainless 

steels employed in this experiment are the same sort of alloys we are familiar with in everyday life, such as the stainless 

steel used in pots and pans. However, a unique mode of solidification is being studied in this experiment -- one which 

will alter the internal structure and properties of the material. This experiment is designed to yield information on the 

transition phases and the speed at which solidification spreads as the temperature at the start of solidification is 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 28 

changed. The experiment has direct application to the design of steel strip casting facilities on Earth and will help 

scientists understand how welding processes may be conducted in space. This may help industry make better metals. 

For example, in the casting of high-performance metal components like jet engine turbine blades, each blade is the 

result of a crystal grown from a single nucleation site. Improving this process may make it possible to construct turbine 

blades that would have a greater operating efficiency through being capable to withstand higher temperatures. In 

another example, in welding stainless steels (where rapid solidification is encountered), unexpected and unexplained 

structures sometimes occur. The fundamental understanding gained in these experiments should help researchers to 

understand this behavior and to improve the welding process. 

Measurement of Surface Tension and Viscosity of Undercooled Liquid Metals Experiment 

Facility: TEMPUS 

Principal Investigators: Dr. Julian Szekely (deceased); Dr. Merton Flemings, MIT; Dr. Gerardo Trapaga, MIT. 

Co-Investigator: Dr. Robert Hyers, MIT. 

This experiment is designed to demonstrate a containerless technique to measure both the viscosity -- or the resistance a 

gas or liquid has to flowing over a solid surface of other layers of fluid -- and the surface tension of reactive and 

undercooled liquid metals. The metals include zirconium, gold and metallic glass-forming alloys. The experiment will 

allow for viscosity measurements that are impossible to achieve in Earth-based experiments because of gravity. In the 

microgravity environment of space, force and fluid flow velocity is greatly reduced, allowing measurements to be 

taken. To measure the viscosity of a liquid, the internal flow velocity must be kept below a certain value to prevent a 

transition to turbulence. In ground-based electromagnetic levitation, the same forces that levitate the sample against 

gravity cause intensely turbulent internal fluid flows, making the measurement of viscosity impossible. In microgravity, 

however, the force and fluid flow velocity is greatly reduced. With care, it is possible to reduce the internal fluid flows. 

Experiment: AC Calorimetry and Thermophysical Properties of Bulk Glass-Forming Metallic Liquids 

Experiment 

Facility: TEMPUS 

Principal Investigator: Dr. W. L. Johnson, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Pasadena, Calif. 

Co-Investigator: Dr. David Lee, Caltech. 

The experiment will measure the thermophysical properties of glass-forming metallic alloys. Those properties include 

specific heat capacity, thermal conductivity, nucleation rates, surface tension, viscosity and thermal expansion. The 

experiment uses a new experimental method termed "non-contact modulation calorimetry" to measure the heat capacity 

and thermal conductivity of liquid metallic alloys cooled below the point at which they would normally solidify. The 

undercooled liquid range is accessible because molten metal alloys remain at liquid temperatures below their freezing 

point when they are suspended in a containerless manner such as provided by TEMPUS. Results of this investigation 

may lead to improving methods of processing metallic glasses. An understanding of the undercooling and formation of 

metallic glasses is vital to the design and processing of such materials. Some present applications for metallic glasses 

include high-powered laser choke switches, transformer cores, brazing alloys, hard-facing for coal-crusher teeth and oil 

field drill bits, and fly-ash resistant coatings in boilers. In the future, bulk metallic glasses will be made into 

increasingly complex shapes and their properties further tailored to applications as wide-ranging as the computer 

industry, processing plants and recreational sports. 

MIDDECK GLOVEBOX 

The Middeck Glovebox offers scientists the capability to conduct experiments, test science procedures, and develop 

new technologies in microgravity. The facility enables crew members to handle, transfer, and manipulate experiment 

hardware and materials that are not approved for use in the open Spacelab. In addition, the facility is equipped with 

photographic equipment and video and data recording capability, allowing a complete record of experiment operations. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 29 

Coarsening in Solid-Liquid Mixtures 

D. Peter Voorhees, North Western University, Chicago, IL 

The experiment will examine the process of coarsening in metals and use results developed during the mission to 

compare with current theoretical models. Coarsening may occur during the high-temperature operation of mechanical 

devices and may result in degradation of the strength of the materials. During coarsening, small particles shrink by 

loosing atoms to larger particles, causing the larger particles to grow and resulting in lack of uniform particle 

distribution . Materials containing larger particles are weaker than materials containing many small ones. Although the 

driving force for coarsening is well characterized, the speed and mechanisms by which it occurs are not. 

To develop materials with particular lifetimes and predictable characteristics it is necessary to understand the 

mechanisms and rates of the coarsening process. This experiment may help researchers develop improved 

manufacturing processes and stronger metal alloys. 

Experiment: Bubble and Drop Nonlinear Dynamics 

Dr. L. G. Leal, University of California at Santa Barbara, California 

Researchers hope to improve the understanding of how the shape and behavior of bubbles change in response to 

ultrasonic radiation pressure. It may be possible to develop techniques that eliminate or counteract the complications of 

that bubbles cause during materials processing. Many industrial applications, including the solidification of certain 

alloys, involve processes where large numbers of bubbles and drops are used. Scientists will assess their ability to 

control bubble location, manipulate double bubbles and maximize bubble shape. Shape deformation will be studied 

using ultrasonic pressure. 

Experiment: A Study of Fundamental Operation of a Capillary- driven Heat Transfer (CHT) Device in 

Microgravity 

Dr. Kevin P. Hallinan, University of Dayton, Ohio 

Researchers hope to gain an improved understanding of the mechanisms leading to the unstable operation and failure of 

specialized heat transfer devices in space operations. Capillary-pumped loop devices transfer heat from one location to 

another, specifically those that move heat away from a particular location, such as in spacecraft where they transfer 

heat from electrical devices to radiators. The transfer of heat is accomplished by evaporating from one liquid surface at 

the hot side and condensing the vapor produced at the other side of the loop where heat is discharged into the 

surrounding area. This experiment investigates the fundamental fluid physics phenomena thought to be responsible for 

the failure of capillary-pumped loop devices in low-gravity operations. 

Experiment: Internal Flows in a Free Drop 

Dr. S. S. Sadhal, University of Southern California in Los Angeles, California 

Researchers will investigate the capability of current non-contact and remote manipulation techniques for controlling 

the position and motion of liquids in low-gravity. Free single liquid drops will be deployed and positioned actively 

using ultrasonic pressure. Tracer particles will within the drops will be recorded by video cameras. Acoustic 

positioning is an important technique used in containerless processing of materials and in non-contact measurements of 

viscosity and surface tension. This experiment is important to many processes in chemical manufacturing industries, 

including such industries as petroleum technology, cosmetics and food sciences. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 30 

CRYOGENIC FLEXIBLE DIODE (CRYOFD) 

The Cryogenic Flexible Diode (CRYOFD) heat pipe experiment is a Hitchhiker payload flying on Space Shuttle 

Columbia during the STS-83 mission. Flight testing of heat pipes in space is being conducted to gain advances in 

passive thermal control technology. Engineers hope to transfer any technology achieved in space to commercial 

applications on Earth. 

Spacecraft electronics are packed tightly together and generate heat, which can limit their performance. Heat pipes can 

remove heat from the electronics and redirect it to other areas that need heating or to radiators that vent that heat 

outside the spacecraft. Heat pipes are primarily used in spacecraft and play an ever-increasing role in spacecraft 

telecommunications. 

CRYOFD is a flight experiment jointly developed and sponsored by NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in 

Greenbelt, Md. and the U.S. Air Force Phillips Laboratory in Albuquerque. The CRYOFD experiment is on the cutting 

edge of thermal control technology. The payload consists of two heat pipe experiments: the Cryogenic Flexible Diode 

Heat Pipe (CFDHP) and the American Loop Heat Pipe with Ammonia (ALPHA). Cryogenic heat pipes are used to cool 

instruments and improve their performance. 

There are two CFDHP units: one uses oxygen as the working fluid to operate at temperatures as low as 60 Kelvin; the 

other uses methane to operate at temperatures as low as 100 Kelvin. These heat pipes incorporate unique flexible wick 

designs and flexible bellows to permit easier integration into a spacecraft or with an instrument. Since they are flexible, 

heat pipes also permit pointing of the instrument. 

The ALPHA experiment represents the first flight demonstration of the American Loop Heat Pipe. ALPHA will 

operate near room temperature (20 C) and can transport heat loads of up to 500 watts over distances of 1 - 2 meters 

with a very small temperature drop (e.g., less than 10 C). Deployable radiators for high power telecommunications 

spacecraft are a potential application of this technology. 

The Hitchhiker Project is managed by the Shuttle Small Payloads Project in the Engineering Directorate at Goddard. 

Hitchhiker's modular hardware also allows for flexibility in locating and manifesting experiments of different sizes and 

needs to optimize use of the Shuttle Cargo Bay. Hitchhiker avionics provide power and control data flow between the 

CRYOFD payload and the Shuttle. The avionics unit also carries the equipment for transmitting the data real-time to 

Goddard. Experimenters can command their payload and downlink data in real-time from the Payload Operations 

Control Center located at Goddard. 

More information on the CRYOFD mission can be found on the world wide web at: 

http://sspp.gsfc.nasa.gov/cryofd.htm. The mission manager for the flight of CRYOFD is Susan Olden of Goddard 

Center and the principal investigator is Marko Stoyanof from USAF Phillips Laboratory in Albuquerque. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 31 

SHUTTLE AMATEUR RADIO EXPERIMENT 

STS-83 will include Amateur (or "ham") radio, where radio operators and students will attempt to make radio contacts 

with the orbiting Shuttle as part of a project called Shuttle Amateur Radio EXperiment, or SAREX. Amateur Radio has 

been flying aboard the Shuttles since 1983. 

Ham radio operators from around the world will point their antennas at the Space Shuttle Columbia, hoping to find the 

astronauts on-the-air. Some of these amateurs have volunteered to assist student groups who have prepared questions to 

ask the astronauts during specially scheduled contact times. To make their radio contacts, the astronauts will use a radio 

aboard the Shuttle on frequencies used by ham radio operators. 

To operate Amateur Radio from the Space Shuttle, one or more of the astronauts must have an Amateur Radio license. 

The STS-83 crew members who are licensed Amateur Radio operators include Commander James D. Halsell, Payload 

Commander Janice E. Voss, and Mission Specialist Donald A. Thomas. 

During SAREX missions, the astronauts will typically make the following types of Amateur Radio contacts: * 

Scheduled radio contacts with schools. * Random radio contacts with the Amateur Radio community. * Personal 

contacts with the astronauts' families. 

SAREX SPONSORS: The Shuttle Amateur Radio EXperiment (SAREX) is sponsored by the American Radio Relay 

League (ARRL), The Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation (AMSAT) and The National Aeronautics and Space 

Administration (NASA). SAREX is supported by the Federal Communications Commission. 

SHUTTLE TRACKING: Current Keplerian elements to track the Shuttle are available from the following sources: 

* NASA Spacelink computer information system 

BBS: (205) 895-0028 [VT-100, 8-N-1] 

Telnet, FTP, and Gopher: spacelink.msfc.nasa.gov 

World Wide Web: http://spacelink.msfc.nasa.gov

Internet TCP/IP address: 192.149.89.61 

* NASA SAREX WWW Home Page: http://www.nasa.gov/sarex/sarex_mainpage.html

* ARRL 

W1AW news bulletins (frequencies and times listed under "FOR FURTHER INFORMATION") 

BBS: (860) 594-0306 

ARRL World Wide Web: http://www.arrl.org/sarex/

* AMSAT 

World Wide Web: http://www.amsat.org

* Johnson Space Center Amateur Radio Club 

World Wide Web: http://www.phoenix.net/mbordel/jscarc/index.html

BBS: (713) 244-5625 

* Goddard Amateur Radio Club 

BBS: (301) 286-4137 

World Wide Web: http://garc.gsfc.nasa.gov/www/garc- home-page.html 

Packet: WA3NAN on 145.090 MHz in DC area 

CONFIGURATION: During STS-83, the SAREX hardware will be flown in configuration C. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 32 

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: 

Contact the American Radio Relay League 

Educational Activities Department 225 

Main Street, Newington CT 06111-1494 USA 

Telephone (860) 594-0301, FAX (860) 594-0259, ARRL BBS (860) 594-0306 

Internet sarex@arrl.org

World Wide Web http://www.arrl.org/

CompuServe 70007,3373 

America Online HQARRL1 

ARRL's (Newington, CT) Amateur Radio station (call sign W1AW) transmits news bulletins (9:45 PM, 12:45 AM 

EST) on HF bands at 1.855, 3.99, 7.29, 14.29, 18.16, 21.39, 28.59 megahertz (MHz). 

Members of the Goddard Amateur Radio Club (Greenbelt, MD) re- transmit live, Shuttle air-to-ground audio over the 

amateur frequencies from their club station, WA3NAN. To listen-in, tune to Amateur Radio high frequency (HF) bands 

at 3.86, 7.185, 14.295, 21.395, and 28.65 megahertz (MHz) and in the Maryland/DC area, on a very high frequency 

(VHF) band at 147.45 MHz. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 33 

STS-83 CREWMEMBERS 

STS083-S-002 -- Five NASA astronauts and two scientists comprise the crew for the STS-83 mission in support of the 

first Microgravity Sciences Laboratory (MSL-1). On the front: left to right: Janice E. Voss, James D. Halsell Jr. , 

Susan L. Still and Donald Thomas. Back row: Roger K. Crouch, Gregory T. Linteris and Michael L. Gernhardt. Halsell 

is mission commander, with Still assigned as pilot. Voss, Gernhardt and Thomas are all mission specialists. Dr. Crouch 

and Dr. Linteris, payload specialists, are experts in several disciplines which will be treated on MSL-1. 

No copyright is asserted for this photograph. If a recognizable person appears in the photo, use for commercial 

purposes may infringe a right of privacy or publicity. It may not be used to state or imply the endorsement by NASA or 

by any NASA employee of a commercial product, process or service, or used in any other manner that might mislead. 

Accordingly, it is requested that if this photograph is used in advertising and other commercial promotion, layout and 

copy be submitted to NASA prior to release. 

PHOTO CREDIT: NASA or National Aeronautics and Space Administration. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 34 

BIOGRAPHICAL DATA 

JAMES DONALD HALSELL Jr.: STS-83 Mission Commander: (Lieutenant Colonel, USAF) 

BIRTH DATE/PLACE: Born September 29, 1956, in Monroe, Louisiana. Considers West Monroe, Louisiana, his 

home. 

EDUCATION: Graduated from West Monroe High School, West Monroe, Louisiana, in 1974; received a bachelor of 

science degree in engineering from the United States Air Force (USAF) Academy in 1978, a master of science degree 

in management from Troy University in 1983, and a master of science degree in space operations from the Air Force 

Institute of Technology in 1985. 

RECREATIONAL INTERESTS: Enjoys snow skiing, water skiing, light aircraft flying, running and exercising. 

ORGANIZATIONS: Member of the Society of Experimental Test Pilots (SETP). 

SPECIAL HONORS: Graduated first in test pilot school class and awarded the Liethen/Tittle Trophy for the Best 

Overall Record for Flying and Academic Performance (1986). Recipient of the USAF Flying Safety Award (1980), and 

the USAF Pilot Training Academic Award (1979). 

EXPERIENCE: Halsell graduated from the USAF Academy in 1978, and from Undergraduate Pilot Training at 

Columbus Air Force Base, Mississippi, in 1979. Assigned to Nellis Air Force Base, Las Vegas, Nevada, from 1980-

1981, he served as an F-4D aircraft commander, qualified in conventional and nuclear weapons deliveries. From 1981-

1984, he was stationed at Moody Air Force Base, Valdosta, Georgia, where he served as an F-4E flight lead and 

instructor pilot. In 1984-1985, he was a graduate student at the Air Force Institute of Technology, Wright-Patterson Air 

Force Base, Dayton, Ohio. His thesis, sponsored by JSC Crew Systems Division, prototyped a space rescue transfer 

vehicle using off-the-shelf equipment. He then attended the Air Force Test Pilot School at Edwards Air Force Base, 

California, and during the next four years he performed test flights in the F- 4, the F-16, and the SR-71 aircraft. 

Selected by NASA in January 1990, Halsell became an astronaut in July 1991. Assigned to the Astronaut Office 

Mission Support Branch, Halsell initially served as a spacecraft communicator (CAPCOM) in the Mission Control 

Center (MCC). Subsequently, he was assigned to the Astronaut Support Personnel team which helps to prepare the 

Space Shuttle vehicles for flights at the Kennedy Space Center, Florida. 

Halsell was the pilot on STS-65. The seven-member crew aboard Space Shuttle Columbia launched from Kennedy 

Space Center in Florida on July 8, 1994, and returned there on July 23, 1994, setting a new flight duration record for 

the Space Shuttle program. The STS-65 mission flew the second International Microgravity Laboratory (IML-2). 

During the 15- day flight the crew conducted more than 80 experiments focusing on materials and life sciences research 

in microgravity. The mission was accomplished in 236 orbits of the Earth, traveling 6.1 million miles. 

Most recently, Halsell served as pilot on STS-74, NASA's second Space Shuttle mission to rendezvous and dock with 

the Russian Space Station Mir. During the 8 day flight the crew aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis successfully attached a 

permanent docking module to Mir and transferred over 2,000 pounds of food, water and scientific supplies for use by 

the cosmonauts. The STS-74 mission was accomplished in 129 orbits of the Earth, traveling 3.4 million miles in 196 

hours, 30 minutes, 44 seconds. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 35 

BIOGRAPHICAL DATA 

SUSAN LEIGH STILL: STS-83 Pilot (Lieutenant Commander, USN) 

BIRTHDATE/PLACE: Born October, 24, 1961, in Augusta, Georgia. Her parents, Joe and Sue Still, reside in 

Martinez, Georgia. Her mother, Jean Ann Batho Still, is deceased. 

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Blonde hair; brown eyes; 5 feet 6 inches; 120 pounds. 

EDUCATION: Graduated from Walnut Hill High School, Natick, Massachusetts, in 1979. Bachelor of science degree 

in aeronautical engineering from Embry-Riddle University, 1982. Master of science degree in aerospace engineering 

from Georgia Institute of Technology, 1985. 

RECREATIONAL INTERESTS: Enjoys triathlons, martial arts, and playing the piano. 

ORGANIZATIONS: Association of Naval Aviation. 

SPECIAL HONORS: Distinguished Naval Graduate of Aviation Officer Candidate School; Distinguished Graduate of 

the United States Naval Test Pilot School, Class 103; Awarded the Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement 

Medal, and National Defense Service Medal. 

EXPERIENCE: After graduating from undergraduate school, Susan worked as a Wind Tunnel Project Officer for 

Lockheed Corporation in Marietta, Georgia and earned her graduate degree. She was commissioned in 1985 and 

designated a naval aviator in 1987. Still was selected to be a flight instructor in the TA-4J Skyhawk. She later flew EA6A Electric Intruders for Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 33 in Key West, Florida. After completing Test Pilot 

School, she reported to Fighter Squadron 101 in Virginia Beach, Virginia for F-14 Tomcat training. She has logged 

over 2,000 flight hours in more than 30 different aircraft. 

NASA EXPERIENCE: Selected by NASA in December 1994, Susan reported to the Johnson Space Center in March 

1995, has completed a year of training and evaluation, and is currently qualified for assignment as a shuttle pilot. She is 

presently working technical issues for the Vehicle Systems and Operations Branch of the Astronaut Office while 

awaiting her first flight assignment. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 36 

JANICE VOSS: STS-83 Payload Commander / Mission Specialist-1 (Ph.D.) 

BIRTH DATE/PLACE: Born October 8, 1956, in South Bend, Indiana, but considers Rockford, Illinois, to be her 

hometown. Her parents, Dr. & Mrs. James R. Voss, reside in Dupont, Indiana. 

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Light brown hair; brown eyes; 5 feet 6 inches; 130 pounds. 

EDUCATION: Graduated from Minnechaug Regional High School, Wilbraham, Massachusetts, in 1972; received a 

bachelor of science degree in engineering science from Purdue University in 1975, a master of science degree in 

electrical engineering and a doctorate in aeronautics/astronautics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 

1977 and 1987, respectively. From 1973 to 1975 she took correspondence courses at the University of Oklahoma. She 

also did some graduate work in space physics at Rice University in 1977 and 1978. 

RECREATIONAL INTERESTS: Reading science fiction, dancing, volleyball, flying. 

ORGANIZATIONS: Member of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA). 

SPECIAL HONORS: NASA Space Flight Medals (1993, 1995); Zonta Amelia Earhart Fellowship (1982); Howard 

Hughes Fellowship (1981); National Science Foundation Fellowship (1976). 

EXPERIENCE: Dr. Voss was a co-op at the NASA Johnson Space Center from 1973 to 1975. During that time she did 

computer simulations in the Engineering and Development Directorate. In 1977 she returned to the Johnson Space 

Center and, for a year, worked as a crew trainer, teaching entry guidance and navigation. She completed her doctorate 

in 1987 and accepted a job with Orbital Sciences Corporation. Her responsibilities there included mission integration 

and flight operations support for an upper stage called the Transfer Orbit Stage (TOS). TOS launched the Advanced 

Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS) from the Space Shuttle in September 1993, and the Mars Observer from 

a Titan in the Fall of 1992. 

Selected by NASA in January 1990, Dr. Voss became an astronaut in July 1991. She is qualified for assignment as a 

mission specialist on future Space Shuttle flight crews. Her technical assignments have included working 

Spacelab/Spacehab issues for the Astronaut Office Mission Development Branch, and robotics issues for the 

EVA/Robotics Branch. Dr. Voss first flew on STS-57 (June 21 to July 1, 1993). Mission highlights included retrieval 

of the European Retrievable Carrier (EURECA) with the Shuttle's robotic arm, a spacewalk by two crew members, and 

an assortment of experiments in the first flight of the Spacehab middeck augmentation module. More recently, she flew 

on STS-63 (February 3-11, 1995). Mission highlights included the rendezvous with the Russian Space Station, Mir, the 

deployment and retrieval of Spartan 204, and the third flight of Spacehab. In completing her second flight, Dr. Voss has 

logged over 438 hours in space. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 37 

MICHAEL L. GERNHARDT: STS-83 Mission Specialist-2 (Ph.D.) 

BIRTH DATE/PLACE: Born May 4, 1956, in Mansfield, Ohio. His father, George M. Gernhardt, resides in Marco 

Island, Florida. His mother, Suzanne C. Winters, resides in Whitestone, Virginia. 

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Blond hair; blue eyes; 6 feet 2 inches; 175 pounds. 

EDUCATION: Graduated from Malabar High School, Mansfield, Ohio, in 1974; received a bachelor of science degree 

in physics from Vanderbilt University in 1978; master of science degree and a doctorate in bioengineering from 

University of Pennsylvania, in 1983 and 1991, respectively. 

RECREATIONAL INTERESTS: Enjoys running, swimming, triathlons, flying, fishing, snow skiing, tennis, and scuba 

diving. 

ORGANIZATIONS: Member, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), and the Undersea and 

Hyperbaric Medical Society. 

EXPERIENCE: From 1977 to 1984, Gernhardt worked as a professional deep sea diver and project engineer on a 

variety of subsea oil field construction and repair projects around the world. He has logged over 700 deep sea dives and 

has experience in air, mixed gas, bounce bell and saturation diving. During his diving career Gernhardt attended 

graduate school at the University of Pennsylvania and developed a new theoretical decompression model based on 

tissue gas bubble dynamics. He then participated in the development and field implementation of a variety of new 

decompression tables. From 1984 to 1988, Gernhardt worked as Manager and then Vice President of Special Projects 

for Oceaneering International. During this time he led the development of a telerobotic system for subsea platform 

cleaning and inspection as well as a variety of new diver and robot tools. In 1988 he founded Oceaneering Space 

Systems, a wholly owned subsidiary of Oceaneering International. From 1988 until his selection by NASA in 1992, he 

worked on the development of new astronaut and robot-compatible tools for performing maintenance on Space Station 

Freedom. He also worked on the development of new portable life support systems and decompression procedures for 

extravehicular activity. 

NASA EXPERIENCE: Dr. Gernhardt was selected by NASA in March 1992, and reported to the Johnson Space Center 

in August 1992. His technical assignments include having served in the Astronaut Office Mission Support Branch, 

detailed to flight software verification in the Shuttle Avionics Integration Laboratory (SAIL). He also worked on the 

development of nitrox diving to support training for the Hubble Space Telescope repair and on a variety of Space 

Station EVA developments. Most recently, Dr. Gernhardt was a mission specialist on STS-69 which launched on 

September 7, 1995. The primary objective was the successful deployment and retrieval of a SPARTAN satellite and the 

Wake Shield Facility (WSF). The WSF is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of using this free- flying experiment to 

grow semiconductors, high temperature superconductors and other materials using the ultra-high vacuum created 

behind the spacecraft near the experiment package. Dr. Gernhardt was one of two astronauts to perform a spacewalk to 

evaluate future Space Station tools and hardware. Following 171 orbits of the Earth, Endeavour landed at the Kennedy 

Space Center on September 18, 1995. In completing his first space flight, Mike logged a total of 260 hours, 29 minutes, 

and 8 seconds in space, including 6 hours and 46 minutes of EVA. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 38 

DONALD A. THOMAS: STS-83 Mission Specialist-3 (Ph.D.) 

BIRTH DATE/PLACE: Born May 6, 1955, in Cleveland, Ohio. His mother, Mrs. Irene M. Thomas, resides in 

Bloomington, Indiana. 

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Brown hair; brown eyes; 5 feet 10 inches; 160 pounds 

EDUCATION: Graduated from Cleveland Heights High School, Cleveland Heights, Ohio, in 1973; received a bachelor 

of science degree in Physics from Case Western Reserve University in 1977, and a master of science degree and a 

doctorate in Materials Science from Cornell University in 1980 and 1982, respectively. His dissertation involved 

evaluating the effect of crystalline defects and sample purity on the superconducting properties of niobium. 

MARITAL STATUS: Married to the former Simone Lehmann of Geppingen, Germany. Her parents, Margrit and 

Gerhard Lehmann, reside in Geppingen, Germany. 

CHILDREN: Son, Kai, February 16, 1995. 

RECREATIONAL INTERESTS: Swimming, biking, camping, flying. 

ORGANIZATIONS: Member, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), and Tau Beta Pi. 

SPECIAL HONORS: Graduated with Honors from Case Western Reserve University in 1977. Recipient of NASA 

Sustained Superior Performance Award, 1989. Recipient of NASA Group Achievement Awards in 1990, 1992, and 

1994 for his work on the Microgravity Disturbances Experiment, the Shuttle System Safety Review Panel, and 

development of the Microgravity Measurement Device. 

EXPERIENCE: Following graduation from Cornell University in 1982, Dr. Thomas joined AT&T Bell Laboratories in 

Princeton, New Jersey, working as a Senior Member of the Technical Staff. 

His responsibilities there included the development of advanced materials and processes for high density 

interconnections of semiconductor devices. He was also an adjunct professor in the Physics Department at Trenton 

State College in New Jersey. He holds two patents and has authored several technical papers. He left AT&T in 1987 to 

work for Lockheed Engineering and Sciences Company in Houston, Texas, where his responsibilities involved 

reviewing materials used in Space Shuttle payloads. In 1988 he joined NASA's Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center as a 

Materials Engineer. His work involved lifetime projections of advanced composite materials for use on Space Station 

Freedom. He was also a Principal Investigator for the Microgravity Disturbances Experiment, a middeck crystal growth 

experiment which flew on STS-32 in January 1990. This experiment investigated the effects of Orbiter and crewinduced disturbances on the growth of crystals in space. He is a private pilot with over 250 hours in single engine land 

aircraft and gliders, and over 500 hours flying as mission specialist in NASA T-38 jet aircraft. Selected by NASA in 

January 1990, Dr. Thomas became an astronaut in July 1991. He has worked in the Safety and Operations 

Development Branches of the Astronaut Office working on issues relating to Shuttle Orbiter systems, and was also a 

spacecraft communicator (CAPCOM) for Shuttle missions STS-47, 52 and 53. A veteran of two space flights, he flew 

as a mission specialist on STS-65 in 1994, and STS-70 in 1995, and has logged 568 hours and 15 minutes in space. He 

is scheduled to fly aboard Columbia on STS-83 in the Spring of 1997. STS-65 flew the second International 

Microgravity Laboratory (IML-2) Spacelab module. The seven-member crew aboard Space Shuttle Columbia launched 

from Kennedy Space Center in Florida on July 8, 1994, and returned there on July 23, 1994, setting a new flight 

duration record for the Space Shuttle program. During the 15-day flight the crew conducted more than 80 experiments 

focusing on materials and life sciences research in microgravity. The mission was accomplished in 236 orbits of the 

Earth, traveling 6.1 million miles. Dr. Thomas next served on STS-70, and was responsible for the deployment of the 

sixth and final Tracking and Data Relay Satellite from the Space Shuttle. The five-member crew aboard Space Shuttle 

Discovery launched from the Kennedy Space Center July 13, 1995, and returned there July 22, 1995. During this 8 day 

22 hour mission, the crew completed 142 orbits of the Earth, traveling 3.7 million miles. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 39 

ROGER K. CROUCH: STS-83 Payload Specialist-1 

BIRTHPLACE AND DATE: Considers Jamestown, TN, where he was born September 12, 1940, as his hometown. 

Currently resides in Laurel, MD. His mother, Mrs. Maxine S. Crouch, lives in Jamestown. His father, Willard Crouch is 

deceased. 

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Brown hair; hazel eyes; 6 feet; 195 pounds. 

EDUCATION: Earned a bachelor of science in physics from Tennessee Polytechnic Institute in 1962, a master of 

science and a doctor of philosophy in physics from Virginia Polytechnic Institute in 1968 and 1971, respectively. He 

was a visiting scientist at Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1979-80. 

EXPERIENCE: As the Chief Scientist of the NASA Microgravity Space and Applications Division since 1985 he has 

served as the manager for a research program that supports materials science, fluid physics, low temperature 

microgravity physics, combustion science, and biotechnology. He had responsibility for assuring that experiments in 

the flight program achieved the highest levels of scientific results possible. He served as Program Scientist on Spacelab 

J, the second International Microgravity Laboratory Program (IML-2), the first United States Microgravity Laboratory 

(USML-1) and a Program Scientist (Materials Sciences) IML-1. In addition, he helped organize and has served as cochairman for Microgravity Science Working Groups between NASA and the European Space Agency, France, 

Germany, Japan and Russia. He was the co-chair of the International Microgravity Science Strategic Planning Group. 

He was the co-chair for the IML Science Working Group from 1985-1989. He has served on several governmental 

interagency panels on Materials Science, most recently as a team member assessing the potential for collaborative 

efforts between the U.S. and China. He was a co- principal investigator on an experiment that flew in the Materials 

Experiment Apparatus on the D-1 mission. Prior to working in NASA Headquarters, he had been at the Langley 

Research Center since 1962. His last position there was group leader of a research group investigating the effects of 

convection on semiconductor properties. He was a principal investigator in the MSAD flight program from 1977-1985. 

He has done research in various types of semiconductor crystal growth, electrical and optical properties of materials, 

electronic devices for remote sensing and flat panel displays and heat shield protection for reentry space vehicles. He 

trained as the Alternate Payload Specialist on STS-42 (First International Microgravity Laboratory). 

PUBLICATIONS: Published over 40 technical papers and more than 40 technical presentations in various areas of 

research, concentrating since 1978 on semiconductor crystal growth and the influence of gravitational forces on 

materials properties. 

SPECIAL HONORS: Floyd Thompson Fellowship 1979; Quality Increase 1972, 1986, 1988; Exceptional Service 

Award 1989; Outstanding Performance Rating, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1989, Certificates of Recognition 1973, 1975, 1976, 

1977, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1984 (2), 1985, 1986, 1987 (3), Special Achievement Award, 1983, Sustained Superior 

Performance Award, 1989, Superior Accomplishment Award 1992, NASA Exceptional Achievement Medal 1995. 

ORGANIZATIONS: Member of American Physical Society, American Association for Crystal Growth, Sigma Pi 

Sigma, Kappa Mu Epsilon. 

RECREATIONAL INTERESTS: Hobbies include traveling, photography, basketball, softball, camping, hiking, 

fishing, and whitewater rafting. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 40 

GREGORY T. LINTERIS: STS-83 Payload Specialist-2 (Ph.D.) 

BIRTHPLACE AND DATE: Born October 4, 1957, in Demarest, New Jersey, where his parents, Lino Luigi Linteris 

and Helen Mary Linteris reside. 

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Brown hair; brown eyes; 5 feet 7 inches; 135 pounds. 

EDUCATION: Graduated from Northern Valley Regional High School at Demarest, New Jersey in 1975; received a 

bachelor of science degree in chemical engineering from Princeton University in 1979; obtained a master of science 

degree from the design division of the mechanical engineering department at Stanford University in 1984; and was 

awarded a doctorate in mechanical and aerospace engineering from Princeton University in 1990. 

RECREATIONAL INTERESTS: He enjoys running, skiing, board sailing, hiking, backpacking, and reading, and was a 

member of Princeton's wrestling team. 

ORGANIZATIONS: Member of American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, American Physical Society, 

Combustion Institute, Sigma Xi. 

PUBLICATIONS: Dr. Linteris has over 40 publications in the areas of combustion, chemical kinetics, spectroscopy, 

and heat transfer. 

SPECIAL HONORS: Graduated with honors from Princeton University (1979). Awarded a Mechanical Engineering 

Department Fellowship from Stanford University (1983), and received Fourth Place in the James F. Lincoln National 

Design Competition (1984). At Princeton, he was the recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship (1985), a Grumman Prize 

for excellence in Research (1988), and the Luigi Crocco Award (1988) for outstanding performance as an Assistant in 

Instruction. 

EXPERIENCE: At Princeton from 1985 to 1990, Dr. Linteris studied the high temperature chemical kinetics of 

combustion reactions in a turbulent chemical kinetic flow reactor using laser induced fluorescence and laser absorption. 

As a research staff member at the University of California, San Diego, from 1990 to 1992, he studied droplet dynamics 

and performed numerical and analytical modeling of the chemistry important in the gas-phase reaction region of solid 

rocket propellants. Since 1992 he has been at the National Institute of Standards and Technology where he has been 

developing a research program on advanced fire suppressants and studying the inhibition mechanisms of chemical 

inhibitors. He is Principle Investigator on a NASA microgravity combustion experiment: "Chemical Inhibitor Effects 

on Diffusion Flames in Microgravity." 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 02/2001/Page 41 

SHUTTLE FLIGHTS AS OF APRIL1997 

82 TOTAL FLIGHTS OF THE SHUTTLE SYSTEM -- 57 SINCE RETURN TO FLIGHT 

STS-82 

02/11//97 - 02/21/97 

STS-80 

11/19/96 - 12/07/96 

STS-70 

07/13/95 - 07/22/95 

STS-78 

06/20/96 - 07/07/96 

STS-63 

02/03/95 - 02/11/95 

STS-75 

02/22/96 - 03/09/96 

STS-64 

09/09/94 - 09/20/94 

STS-73 

10/20/95 - 11/05/95 

STS-60 

02/03/94 - 02/11/94 

STS-81 

01/12/97 - 01/22/97 

STS-65 

07/08/94 - 07/23/94 

STS-51 

09/12/93 - 09/22/93 

STS-79 

09/16/96 - 09/26/96 

STS-62 

03/04/94 - 03/18/94 

STS-56 

04/08/83 - 04/17/93 

STS-76 

03/22/96 - 03/31/96 

STS-58 

10/18/93 - 11/01/93 

STS-53 

12/02/92 - 12/09/92 

STS-74 

11/12/95 - 11/20/95 

STS-55 

04/26/93 - 05/06/93 

STS-42 

01/22/92 - 01/30/92 

STS-71 

06/27/95 - 07/07/95 

STS-52 

10/22/92 - 11/01/92 

STS-48 

09/12/91 - 09/18/91 

STS-66 

11/03/94 - 11/14/94 

STS-50 

06/25/92 - 07/09/92 

STS-39 

04/28/91 - 05/06/91 

STS-46 

07/31/92 - 08/08/92 

STS-40 

06/05/91 - 06/14/91 

STS-41 

10/06/90 - 10/10/90 

STS-45 

03/24/92 - 04/02/92 

STS-77 

05/19/96 - 05/29/96 

STS-35 

12/02/90 - 12/10/90 

STS-51L 

01/28/86 

STS-31 

04/24/90 - 04/29/90 

STS-44 

11/24/91 - 12/01/91 

STS-72 

01/11/96 - 11/20/96 

STS-32 

01/09/90 - 01/20/90 

STS-61A 

10/30/85 - 11/06/85 

STS-33 

11/22/89 - 11/27/89 

STS-43 

08/02/91 - 08/11/91 

STS-69 

09/07/95 - 09/18/95 

STS-28 

08/08/89 - 08/13/89 

STS-51F 

07/29/85 - 08/06/85 

STS-29 

03/13/89 - 03/18/89 

STS-37 

04/05/91 - 04/11/91 

STS-67 

03/02/95 - 03/18/95 

STS-61C 

01/12/86 - 01/18/86 

STS-51B 

04/29/85 - 05/06/85 

STS-26 

09/29/88 - 10/03/88 

STS-38 

11/15/90 - 11/20/90 

STS-68 

09/30/94 - 10/11/94 

STS-9 

11/28/83 - 12/08/83 

STS-41G 

10/05/84 - 10/13/84 

STS-51-I 

08/27/85 - 09/03/85 

STS-36 

02/28/90 - 03/04/90 

STS-59 

04/09/94 – 04/20/94 

STS-5 

11/11/82 - 11/16/82 

STS-41C 

04/06/84 - 04/13/84 

STS-51G 

06/17/85 - 06/24/85 

STS-34 

10/18/89 - 10/23/89 

STS-61 

12/02/93 - 12/13/93 

STS-4 

06/27/82 - 07/04/82 

STS-41B 

02/03/84 - 02/11/84 

STS-51D 

04/12/85 - 04/19/85 

STS-30 

05/04/89 - 05/08/89 

STS-57 

06/21/93 - 07/01/93 

STS-3 

03/22/82 - 03/30/82 

STS-8 

08/30/83 - 09/05/83 

STS-51C 

01/24/85 - 01/27/85 

STS-27 

12/02/88 - 12/06/88 

STS-54 

01/13/93 - 01/19/93 

STS-2 

11/12/81 - 11/14/81 

STS-7 

06/18/83 - 06/24/83 

STS-51A 

11/08/84 - 11/16/84 

STS-61B 

11/26/85 - 12/03/85 

STS-47 

09/12/92 - 09/20/92 

STS-1 

04/12/81 - 04/14/81 

STS-6 

04/04/83 - 04/09/83 

STS-41D 

08/30/84 - 09/05/84 

STS-51J 

10/03/85 - 10/07/85 

STS-49 

05/07/92 - 05/16/92 

 

OV-102 

Columbia 

(21 flights) 

OV-099 

Challenger 

(10 flights) 

OV-103 

Discovery 

(22 flights) 

OV-104 

Atlantis 

(18 flights) 

OV-105 

Endeavour 

(11 flights)