Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 1 

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION 

SPACE SHUTTLE 

MISSION 

STS-73 

PRESS KIT 

SEPTEMBER 1995 

UNITED STATES MICROGRAVITY LABORATORY-2 (USML-2) 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 2 

STS-73 INSIGNIA 

STS073-S-001 -- The insignia for STS-73, the second flight of the United States Microgravity Laboratory 

(USML-2), depicts the space shuttle Columbia in the vastness of space. In the foreground are the classic 

regular polyhedrons that were investigated by Plato and later Euclid. The Pythagoreans were also 

fascinated by the symmetrical three-dimensional objects whose sides are the same regular polygon. The 

tetrahedron, the cube, the octahedron, and the icosahedron were each associated with the "Natural 

Elements" of that time: fire (on this mission represented as combustion science); Earth (crystallography), 

air and water (fluid physics). An additional icon shown as the infinity symbol was added to further convey 

the discipline of fluid mechanics. The shape of the insignia represents a fifth polyhedron, a dodecahedron, 

which the Pythagoreans thought corresponded to a fifth element that represented the cosmos. 

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, 01/2001/Page 3 

NEWS MEDIA CONTACTS 

For Information on the Space Shuttle 

Ed Campion Policy/Management 202/358-1778 

 NASA Headquarters 

 Washington, DC 

 

 

Rob Navias 

 Johnson Space Center 

 Houston, TX 

Mission Operations 

Astronauts 

713/483-5111 

 

Bruce Buckingham 

 Kennedy Space Center, FL 

Launch Processing 

KSC Landing Information 

407/867-2468 

 

June Malone 

 Marshall Space Flight Center 

 Huntsville, AL 

External Tank/SRBs/SSMEs 205/544-0034 

 

Cam Martin 

 Dryden Flight Research Center 

 Edwards, CA 

DFRC Landing Information 805/258-3448 

For Information on STS-73 Experiments & Activities 

Mike Braukus 

 NASA Headquarters 

 Washington, DC 

USML-2 202/358-1979 

 

Terri Hudkins 

 Headquarters 

 Washington, DC 

Education Experiments 202/358-1977 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 4 

CONTENTS 

GENERAL BACKGROUND 

General Release 5 

Media Services Information 7 

Quick-Look Facts 9 

Shuttle Abort Modes 11 

Orbital Events Summary 12 

Summary Timeline 13 

Crew Responsibilities 14 

Payload and Vehicle Weights 15 

 

CARGO BAY PAYLOADS & ACTIVITIES 

United States Microgravity Laboratory-2 (USML-2) 17 

IN-CABIN PAYLOADS 

Education Experiments 40 

STS-73 CREW BIOGRAPHIES 41 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 5 

RELEASE: 95-152 

SECOND FLIGHT OF UNITED STATES MICROGRAVITY LABORATORY 

HIGHLIGHTS SIXTH SHUTTLE MISSION OF 1995 

The second United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML- 2) Spacelab mission will be the centerpiece of 

the STS-73 Space Shuttle flight in late September 1995. The Orbiter Columbia's planned 16-day flight will 

continue a cooperative effort of the U.S. government, universities and industry to push back the frontiers of 

science and technology in "microgravity," the near-weightless environment of space. 

Combining the strengths of these different communities allows for more extensive ground-based research 

in preparation for flight, improved methods for microgravity experimentation, and a wider distribution of 

the knowledge gained in the process. The involvement of U.S. industry also means that the results of both 

ground-based experiments and Shuttle operations can be "brought down to Earth" in a timely and practical 

manner. 

Leading the five-person STS-73 crew will be Mission Commander Kenneth D. Bowersox who will be 

making his third space flight. Pilot for the mission is Kent Rominger making his first flight. The three 

mission specialists for STS-73 are Kathryn Thornton, Payload Commander and Mission Specialist 3 

(MS3), making her fourth flight; Catherine Coleman, Mission Specialist 1 (MS1), making her first flight; 

and Michael Lopez-Alegria, Mission Specialist 2 (MS2) making his first flight. Also aboard Columbia will 

be two payload specialists--Fred Leslie, Payload Specialist 1 (PS1), and Albert Sacco, Payload Specialist 2 

(PS2), both of whom will be making their first space flight. 

Launch of Columbia on the STS-73 mission is currently scheduled for no earlier than September 28, 1995 

at 9:35 a.m. EDT. The planned mission duration is 15 days, 21 hours and 54 minutes. An on-time launch 

on September 28 would produce a landing at 7:30 a.m. EDT on October 14 at Kennedy Space Center's 

Shuttle Landing Facility. 

Some of the experiments being carried on the USML-2 payload were suggested by the results of the first 

USML mission that flew aboard Columbia in 1992 during Mission STS-50. The USML-1 mission 

provided new insights into theoretical models of fluid physics, the role of gravity in combustion and flame 

spreading, and how gravity affects the formation of semiconductor crystals. Data collected from several 

protein crystals grown on USML-1 have enabled scientists to determine the molecular structures of those 

proteins. 

USML-2 builds on that foundation. Technical knowledge gained has been incorporated into the mission 

plan to enhance procedures and operations. Where possible, experiment teams have refined their hardware 

to increase scientific understanding of basic physical processes on Earth and in space, as well as to prepare 

for more advanced operations aboard the international Space Station and other future space programs. 

The experiments being carried as part of the USML-2 payload cover a variety of scientific disciplines 

including fluid physics, materials science, biotechnology and combustion science. 

The fluid physics area is fundamental to many types of science, from the ways molten metals solidify and 

fuels burn, to the way planetary atmospheres operate. In space, subtle and complex phenomena normally 

hidden by the stronger force of gravity can be revealed for detailed study. 

Materials science will increase insight into the relationships between the structure, processing and 

properties of materials. Mixtures that separate on Earth because of different component densities can be 

evenly mixed and processed in microgravity. This allows scientists to study the processing of such 

materials and to create advanced materials for study and comparison. Without the pull of gravity and the 

associated convective flows, more perfect crystals can be produced, an advance many believe vital for 

creation of advanced computer chips and semiconductors. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 6 

Biotechnology experiments will grow protein crystals in three different experiment facilities, attempting to 

produce crystals of sufficient size and perfection that scientists can determine their structure and how they 

form. This approach is being pursued because of the promise it holds for the development of improved 

drugs. Two other biotechnology experiments address the development of food crops with higher protein 

content and increased disease resistance. 

Combustion science will aid in understanding the way a fire starts and spreads. Understanding the 

combustion process without the interference of gravity could lead to more efficient fuels and improved fire 

safety, both in space and on Earth. 

Also during the STS-73 mission, students at four sites will interact with Columbia's astronauts to discuss 

and compare onboard microgravity experiments with similar ground-based experiments. The goal is to 

involve students as participants in Shuttle investigations in an effort to generate excitement in physical 

science and chemistry. 

STS-73 will be the 18th flight of Space Shuttle Columbia and the 72nd flight of the Space Shuttle system. 

(END OF GENERAL RELEASE; BACKGROUND INFORMATION FOLLOWS.) 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 7 

MEDIA SERVICES INFORMATION 

NASA Television Transmission 

NASA Television is available through the Spacenet-2 satellite system, transponder 5, channel 9, at 69 

degrees West longitude, frequency 3880.0 MHz, audio 6.8 Megahertz. 

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; NASA Headquarters, Washington, 

DC. The television schedule will be updated to reflect changes dictated by mission operations. 

Television schedules also may be obtained by calling COMSTOR 713/483-5817. COMSTOR is a 

computer data base service requiring the use of a telephone modem. A voice update of the television 

schedule is updated daily at noon Eastern time. 

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 prior to 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 per day. The updated NASA television schedule will indicate when 

mission briefings are planned. 

Access by Internet 

NASA press releases can be obtained automatically by sending an Internet electronic mail message to 

domo@hq.nasa.gov. In the body of the message (not the subject line) users should type the words 

"subscribe press- release" (no quotes). The system will reply with a confirmation via E-mail of each 

subscription. A second automatic message will include additional information on the service. 

Informational materials also will be available from a data repository known as an anonymous FTP (File 

Transfer Protocol) server at ftp.pao.hq.nasa.gov under 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. 

The NASA public affairs home page also is available via the Internet. The page contains images, sound 

and text (press releases, press kits, fact sheets) to explain NASA activities. It also has links to many other 

NASA pages. The URL is: http://www.nasa.gov/hqpao/hqpao_home.html. 

Pre-launch status reports from KSC are found under ftp.hq.nasa.gov/pub/pao/statrpt/ksc, and mission 

status reports can be found under ftp.hq.nasa.gov/pub/pao/statrpt/jsc. Daily TV schedules can be found 

under ftp.hq.nasa.gov/pub/pao/statrpt/jsc/tvsked. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 8 

Access by fax 

An additional service known as fax-on-demand will enable users to access NASA informational materials 

from their fax machines. Users calling (202) 358-3976 may follow a series of prompts and will 

automatically be faxed the most recent Headquarters news releases they request. 

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, 01/2001/Page 9 

STS-73 QUICK LOOK 

Launch Date/Site: September 28, 1995/KSC Launch Pad 39-B 

 

Launch Time: 9:35 AM EDT 

 

Launch Window: 2 hours, 30 minutes 

 

Orbiter: Columbia (OV-102), 18th flight 

 

Orbit Altitude/Inclination: 150 nautical miles/39 degrees 

 

Mission Duration: 15 days, 21 hours, 54 minutes 

 

Landing Date: October 14, 1995 

 

Landing Time: 7:30 AM EDT 

 

Primary Landing Site: Kennedy Space Center, FL 

 

Abort Landing Sites: Return to Launch Site - KSC 

 Transoceanic Abort Sites - Ben Guerir, Morocco 

 Moron, Spain 

 Zaragoza, Spain 

 Abort-Once Around - Edwards Air Force Base, CA 

 

Crew: Ken Bowersox, Commander (CDR), Red Team 

 Kent Rominger, Pilot (PLT), Red Team 

 Catherine Coleman, Mission Specialist (MS 1), Blue Team 

 Michael Lopez-Alegria, MS 2, Blue Team 

 Kathryn Thornton, MS 3, Red Team 

 Fred Leslie, Payload Specialist 1 (PS 1), Blue Team 

 Albert Sacco, (PS 2), Red Team 

 

EVA Crew Members: Michael Lopez-Alegria (EV1), 

 Catherine Coleman (EV2) 

 

Cargo Bay Payloads: United States Microgravity Laboratory 

2 OARE 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 10 

Developmental Test Objectives/Detailed Supplementary Objectives 

DTO 301D: Ascent Structural Capability Evaluation 

DTO 307D: Entry Structural Capability 

DTO 312: ET TPS Performance 

DTO 319D: Shuttle/Payload Low Frequency Environment 

DTO 414: APU Shutdown Test 

DTO 623: Cabin Air Monitoring 

DTO 655: Foot Restraint Evaluation 

DTO 667: Portable In-Flight Landing Operations Trainer 

DTO 679: Ku-Band Communications Adapter Demonstration 

DTO 805: Crosswind Landing Performance 

DTO 913: Microgravity Measuring Device Evaluation 

DTO 1121: Ground-to-Air TV Demonstration 

 

DSO 487: Immunological Assessment of Crew Members 

DSO 491: Characterization of Microbial Transfer Among the Crew 

DSO 603C: Orthostatic Function During Entry, Landing and Egress 

DSO 604: Visual Vestibular Integration as a Function of Adaptation 

DSO 605: Postural Equilibrium Control During Landing/Egress 

DSO 611: Air Monitoring Instrument Evaluation and Atmosphere Test 

DSO 621: In-Flight Use of Florinef to Improve Orthostatic Intolerance 

DSO 624: Pre and Postflight of Cardiorespiratory Response to Exercise 

DSO 626: Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Response Before and After Flight 

DSO 802: Educational Activities 

DSO 901: Documentary Television 

DSO 902: Documentary Motion Picture Photography 

DSO 903: Documentary Still Photography 

DSO 904: Assessment of Human Factors 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 11 

SPACE SHUTTLE ABORT MODES 

The Space Shuttle launch abort philosophy aims toward safe and intact recovery of the flight crew, orbiter 

and its payload. Abort modes for STS-73 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 Edwards Air Force Base, CA. 

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

flight would force a landing at either Ben Guerir, Morocco; Moron, Spain; or Zaragoza, 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 KSC until within gliding 

distance of the Shuttle Landing Facility. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 12 

STS-73 ORBITAL EVENTS SUMMARY 

(Based on a Sept. 28, 1995 Launch) 

Event MET Time of Day (EDT) 

 

Launch 0/00:00 9:35 AM, September 28 

 

OMS-2 0/00:43 10:18 AM, September 28 

 

Spacelab Activation 0/02:10 11:41 AM, September 28 

 

Crew News Conference 13/19:30 5:05 AM, October 12 

 

FCS Checkout 14/19:30 5:05 AM, October 13 

 

Spacelab Deactivation 15/13:45 11:20 PM, October 13 

 

Deorbit Burn 15/20:54 6:30 AM, October 14 

 

KSC Landing 15/21:54 7:30 AM, October 14 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 13 

MISSION SUMMARY TIMELINE 

Flight Day 1 

Launch/Ascent 

OMS-2 Burn 

Spacelab Activation 

USML-2 Operations 

Flight Days 2-14 

USML-2 Operations 

Flight Day 12 

Educational TV event with 

students in Bozeman, MT, and 

Las Cruces, NM 

Flight Day 13 

Educational TV event with 

students in Worcester, MA, and 

Louisville, KY 

Flight Day 15 

USML-2 Operations 

Crew News Conference 

Flight Day 16 

USML-2 Operations 

Flight Control System Checkout 

Reaction Control System Hot-Fire 

Cabin Stow 

Spacelab Deactivation 

Flight Day 17 

Deorbit Prep 

Deorbit Burn 

Entry 

KSC Landing 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 14 

CREW RESPONSIBILITIES 

Payloads Prime Backup 

 

USML-2 Thornton, Coleman, Sacco, 

Leslie 

 

DTO/DSOs 

DTO 312 Coleman, Lopez-Alegria 

DTO 623 Rominger Bowersox 

DTO 655 Thornton, Coleman, Sacco 

DTO 667 Rominger Bowersox 

DTO 679 Bowersox, Lopez-Alegria Rominger 

DTO 682 Rominger, Lopez-Alegria Bowersox 

DTO 913 Rominger, Lopez-Alegria Bowersox 

DSO 603C Thornton, Leslie, Sacco 

DSO 604 Rominger, Lopez-Alegria 

DSO 605 Bowersox 

DSO 611 Rominger, Lopez-Alegria 

DSO 621 Leslie 

DSO 624 Bowersox, Rominger 

DSO 626 Thornton, Sacco, Leslie 

DSO 802 Coleman, Sacco 

DSO 901 Rominger, Lopez-Alegria 

DSO 902 Rominger, Lopez-Alegria 

DSO 903 Rominger, Lopez-Alegria 

 

Other Activities 

 

Earth Observations Rominger, Lopez-Alegria Bowersox 

EVA (if needed) Lopez-Alegria (EV1) Coleman (EV2) 

IV Crewmember Thornton 

Spacelab Activation Thornton, Sacco 

Spacelab Deactivation Coleman, Leslie Lopez-Alegria 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 15 

VEHICLE AND PAYLOAD WEIGHTS 

 Pounds

 

Orbiter (Columbia) empty and 3 SSMEs 182,070 

Spacelab and USML-2 Experiments 22,726 

Middeck USML-2 Experiments 897 

Orbital Acceleration Research Experiment 

(OARE) 

249 

 

DTOs/DSOs 129 

Shuttle System at SRB Ignition 4,521,139 

Orbiter Weight at Landing 230,158 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 16 
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UNITED STATES MICROGRAVITY LABORATORY-2 (USML-2) 

The second United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML- 2) Spacelab mission builds on the foundation 

of its predecessor. 

The first USML mission, which flew aboard Columbia in 1992 was one of the most successful NASA 

science missions. It provided new insights into theoretical models of fluid physics, the role of gravity in 

combustion and flame spreading, and how gravity affects the formation of semiconductor crystals. Data 

collected from several protein crystals grown on USML-1 have enabled scientists to determine the 

molecular structures of those proteins. 

USML-1 was the first flight for four major experiment facilities -- the Drop Physics Module, the Surface 

Tension Driven Convection Experiment apparatus, the Crystal Growth Furnace and the Glovebox -- which 

promise to provide a valuable technology base for future flights. A major objective of the USML program 

is to develop more capable instruments to support and refine mature space-based experimentation for the 

future. 

Technical knowledge gained has been incorporated into the USML-2 mission plan to enhance procedures 

and operations. Where possible, experiment teams have refined their hardware to increase scientific 

understanding of basic physical processes on Earth and in space, as well as to prepare for more advanced 

operations aboard the international Space Station and other future space programs. 

USML-2 Research 

Research during the mission is concentrated within the same overall areas as the first USML flight. 

Reflown experiments will follow-up on results from that mission, probing for answers to the next level of 

scientific questions. 

Fluid physics research with the Drop Physics Module, the Surface Tension Driven Convection Experiment 

and the Gravitational Fluid Flow Cell will seek to improve understanding of fluid behavior and to apply 

that understanding to processes of scientific and technical importance. Fluid physics is fundamental to 

many types of science, from the ways molten metals solidify and fuels burn, to the way planetary 

atmospheres operate. In space, subtle and complex phenomena normally hidden by the stronger force of 

gravity can be revealed for detailed study. 

Materials science research in the Crystal Growth Furnace and the Zeolite Crystal Growth experiment will 

increase insight into the relationships between the structure, processing and properties of materials. 

Mixtures that separate on Earth because of different component densities can be evenly mixed and 

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

advanced materials for study and comparison. Without the pull of gravity and the associated convective 

flows, more perfect crystals can be produced, an advance many believe vital for creation of advanced 

computer chips and semiconductors. 

Biotechnology research on USML-2 will grow protein crystals in three different experiment facilities, 

attempting to produce crystals of sufficient size and perfection that scientists can determine their structure 

and how they form. This approach is being pursued because of the promise it holds for the development of 

improved drugs. Two other biotechnology experiments address the development of food crops. 

Combustion science, a study of how the basic combustion process is affected by gravity, will be 

represented by one of seven technology investigations within the versatile Glovebox enclosure. 

Understanding the way a fire starts and spreads without the interference of gravity could lead to more 

efficient fuels and improved fire safety, both in space and on Earth. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 18 

Three sets of sensors will help scientists evaluate the quality of the microgravity environment, identifying 

factors which may disturb sensitive experiments. 

Several USML-2 experiments will look at how the presence or absence of gravity affects living organisms. 

This will aid long-term space efforts and also provide a better understanding of life on Earth. 

Commercial space processing technologies will again be demonstrated with the Commercial Generic 

Bioprocessing Apparatus, giving a large number of university and industry researchers access to space for 

their biological experiments. Techniques for plant cultivation in microgravity will be further advanced in 

the Astroculture facility. 

Several investigators will be able to view live video of their experiments at the same time, thanks to the 

new six-channel Hi-Pac video downlink system which will be making its first flight on USML-2. 

The USML-2 Mission 

USML-2 experiment racks will be housed in a 23-foot Spacelab module inside the Shuttle Columbia's 

cargo bay. The laboratory module is pressurized so researchers can work in their shirtsleeves instead of 

bulky space suits, and it is furnished with much of the same kind of equipment that they would use in their 

labs back home. 

The seven-member crew will work in two 12-hour shifts, so experiment operations can continue around the 

clock. The four payload crew members will conduct the majority of USML- 2 science operations. NASA 

astronaut Dr. Kathryn Thornton is payload commander, and astronaut Dr. Catherine Coleman is a science 

mission specialist for the flight. Dr. Fred Leslie of the Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, AL, and 

Dr. Albert Sacco of the Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, will serve as payload specialists 

on the USML-2 crew. 

USML-2 flight controllers and experiment scientists will direct science activities from NASA's Spacelab 

Mission Operations Control facility at the Marshall Space Flight Center. In addition, science teams at 

several NASA centers and universities will monitor and support operations of a number of experiments. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 19 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 20 

Surface Tension Driven Convection Experiment 

The Surface Tension Driven Convection Experiment apparatus allows investigators to view in great detail 

the basic fluid mechanics and heat transfer of thermocapillary flows, motions created within fluids by nonuniform heating of their free surfaces. Temperature variations cause irregularities in the fluid's surface 

tension (the force which makes an unhindered liquid surface tend to form a sphere, like a raindrop), which 

in turn triggers flows in the fluid. This thermocapillary flow, then, can also be referred to as surfacetension-driven convection. 

The facility uses a laser diode to illuminate particles suspended in silicone oil. Particle motions due to fluid 

flows, created by heating the oil either internally or on its surface, are recorded by a video camera attached 

to a chamber viewport. An infrared imaging system records oil surface temperature. A third camera, in 

concert with an optical measurement system, is used to monitor oil surface deformations and motions. 

One key factor prompting this research is that unwanted fluid flows during melting and resolidifying can 

create defects in high-tech crystals, metals, alloys and ceramics. 

On Earth, natural convection creates the strongest flows: colder, heavier fluid is pulled down, causing 

warmer, lighter fluid to rise. Thermocapillary flows occur in many industrial and materials processing 

methods as well, and they are known to play an important role. However, except in containers with very 

small dimensions like capillary tubes, thermocapillary flows are overshadowed by gravity-driven 

convection on Earth and are difficult to measure. 

In space, under microgravity conditions, thermocapillary flows become prominent and can be studied in 

detail. Knowledge of their behavior and effects is important to a thorough understanding of fluid physics. It 

is also necessary because these flows affect space applications such as bubble and droplet migration, fuel 

management and storage, and life support systems, as well as material processing methods like crystal 

growth from liquids, containerless processing, and welding. 

Understanding and controlling the effects of thermocapillary flows will become increasingly important as 

space flights become longer and space station operations begin. 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Simon Ostrach 

Case Western Reserve University 

Cleveland, OH 

This experiment will seek to measure the transition from steady, two-dimensional flows to oscillatory, or 

three- dimensional, flows within silicone oil. Thermocapillary flows sometimes show these periodic 

variations in fluid motion speed and temperature during the limited studies possible on Earth. 

By comparing conditions for the onset of this oscillation in microgravity and on Earth, scientists will gain 

insight into what causes it. Both steady thermocapillary flows and oscillatory flows may reduce the purity 

and uniformity of crystal growth solutions and molten metals. 

STDCE scientists will use this experiment to evaluate fluid flow models and theories of how 

thermocapillary flows transition from steady to oscillatory conditions. They also will attempt to determine 

how and when oscillatory thermocapillary flows are created: how they are affected by different heat 

sources and shapes of free fluid surfaces; how flows affect surface shape; and what relationships exist 

among free surface deformation, surface temperature distribution, and fluid flow velocity. 

On USML-1, STDCE experimenters concentrated on steady- state fluid flows, with results confirming 

many of their theoretical predictions. However, no oscillations were observed. On USML-2, three different 

sizes 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 21 

of experiment containers and several viscosities of oil will be used to create conditions favorable for 

oscillations. The STDCE imaging system has been improved to make oscillations easier to observe. 

Drop Physics Module 

The Drop Physics Module manipulates free-floating liquid drops in microgravity to test and expand current 

fluid physics models and theories and to measure the properties of liquid surfaces. 

People have been observing fluid phenomena for a long time. One of the areas which fluid physicists are 

studying today is the interface, or boundary, between liquids, and its effects on the fluids on either side of 

it. In space, where gravity's overwhelming influence is minimized, scientists can unmask and study more 

subtle forces that drive fluid behavior. This fundamental knowledge can be beneficial for a variety of 

industries on Earth, from pharmacology to industrial chemistry. 

The Drop Physics Module, operating in the microgravity environment of the Shuttle, allows investigators 

to study large drops in which dynamic phenomena will be slowed down and more easily seen. They can 

observe how flows inside a drop and the drop's surface interact to provide a variety of dynamic events: 

symmetric oscillations growing to become wild gyrations; dramatic splitting events where one drop breaks 

into two parts; and the centering of one drop within a second drop. Equally important, studies of how small 

amounts of an additive can drastically alter the behavior of a liquid drop will be made. 

The module has a rectangular experiment chamber where liquid samples are deployed. The samples are 

positioned by sound waves emitted by four loudspeaker drivers - one on each side of the chamber's bottom 

wall. Gentle acoustic forces are all that are required to position the drops in the microgravity environment; 

this allows the liquid to assume its preferred shape, which is a perfect sphere. 

A crew member controls the sound waves in the chamber to make the spherical drops vibrate, rotate, split 

or recombine, while a camera records the drops' responses. Particles are mixed into the fluid samples 

before flight to make motion inside the drop visible. 

Experiment scientists will monitor drop behavior through real-time video, so they can assess their 

experiment's progress and can quickly suggest changes for the crew to make to improve the ultimate 

science return. A film camera inside the module also can be used to make a high-speed record of the drops' 

behavior for later, more detailed analysis. 

Drop Dynamics Experiment 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Taylor Wang 

Vanderbilt University 

Nashville, TN 

This experiment will gather high quality data on the dynamics of liquid drops in low gravity for 

comparison with theoretical predictions and ground-based studies using very small drops. It will provide 

scientific and technical inputs for the development of new fields, such as containerless processing of 

materials and polymer encapsulation of living cells. 

On USML-1, Dr. Wang's team used the Drop Physics Module to confirm a theory that was more than 100 

years old. Using fluids ranging from water to oils, the module spun single drops until they formed a dogbone shape. All the drops changed into the same shape at the same point and at exactly the point that had 

been predicted over a century ago by fluid dynamics pioneer Lord Raleigh. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 22 

Having resolved the issues surrounding the point at which the drops change shape, the team will use 

USML-2 to examine two new aspects of drop phenomena. Again, results will help confirm or refine 

mathematical theories. 

One set of theories to be tested describes the fissioning, or breaking apart, of distorted drops as the 

viscosity (or thickness) of the fluid is varied. Scientists will observe and analyze conditions at which 

various sizes and viscosities of drops split. 

The second thrust of this effort attempts to lay the ground work for encapsulating living cells which could 

be used to treat hormonal disorders: a spherical polymer shell would protect the cells from immunological 

attack and provide timed release. The principal investigator will study the centering of shells (air bubbles 

within liquid drops) and compound drops (a drop of one liquid encased within a drop of a different liquid). 

This investigation could demonstrate how to provide uniform encapsulation which would aid scientists in 

using polymer systems to encapsulate living cells. 

In the case of diabetes, an improved treatment would be to inject a pancreatic cell that secretes insulin into 

the body, rather than injecting insulin itself. But the foreign cell would be immediately attacked by the 

patient's immune system. If the cell were encapsulated in a spherical shell made of a material strong 

enough to withstand attack, yet porous enough to allow absorption of nutrients and excretion of insulin, it 

could enable a marked improvement in treatment for diabetes patients. 

Science and Technology of Surface-Controlled Phenomena Principal Investigator: Dr. Robert Apfel Yale 

University New Haven, CT 

This study will use the Drop Physics Module to examine the influence of surfactants on the behavior of 

drops. Surfactants are substances which alter the surface properties of a liquid, aiding or inhibiting the way 

it adheres to or mixes with other substances. Processes which rely heavily on surfactants are as varied as 

dishwashing (soap and water is the classic surfactant-liquid interaction), the manufacture of cosmetics, the 

dissolution of proteins in synthetic drugs, the recovery of oil and environmental cleanup. 

This investigation will have two parts. The first set of experiments will explore single drop oscillation. 

Drops with varying amounts of surfactants will be squeezed with sound waves; when the distortion is 

removed, the decay of the resulting oscillations can be analyzed. The second set of experiments will 

investigate the coalescence or combining of drops with varying concentrations of surfactants. Surfactants 

should allow the drops to combine more easily, but this is not always the case. 

Both experiments will reveal surfactant behavior by creating novel situations that are not possible in 

Earth's normal gravity environment. Moreover, information gained from the space experiments will enable 

ground-based scientists to accurately and conveniently measure materials properties during similar tests on 

Earth. 

Results of the surface-controlled phenomena investigation conducted during USML-1 were used to 

confirm and adjust theoretical models. The USML-2 experiments will help further refine these theories. 

Geophysical Fluid Flow Cell Experiment 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. John Hart 

University of Colorado 

Boulder, CO 

The purpose of the Geophysical Fluid Flow Cell Experiment is to study how fluids move in microgravity, 

helping researchers understand the large-scale fluid dynamics of planetary and stellar atmospheres. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 23 

The experiment cannot be done in ground-based labs because the downward pull of Earth's gravity there is 

unlike the acceleration in stars and planets. In microgravity, different forms of acceleration can be 

simulated without interference. 

The experiment uses two hemispheres. One, made of stainless steel and about the size of a baseball, is 

placed inside a transparent sapphire hemisphere, and a layer of silicone oil fills the space between the two. 

They are mounted together on a turntable. The transparent sapphire allows a clear view of the oil and 

conducts heat well so precise temperature control of the sapphire dome can be maintained. 

The temperatures of the inner and outer hemispheres are controlled by the experiment computer, as is the 

speed of rotation. The heating creates a thermally driven motion in the oil, while the rotation mimics that 

present on rotating planets and stars. A high-voltage electric field is applied across the silicone oil, creating 

a buoyancy force identical to buoyant forces on Earth and in other atmospheres being modeled. The basic 

variables for the experiment are hemisphere rotation speed, voltage charge and temperatures. Once the 

variables are set and the experiment is running, thermally driven fluid flows within the rotating silicone oil 

are monitored. Dr. Hart and his team will study variations in the fluid's thermal patterns for a wide range of 

external forces. Different combinations of voltage, speed and temperature will be used during each run, 

creating unstable and turbulent flows in the rotating sphere shell that will help researchers better 

understand the dynamics of oceans, planetary atmospheres and stars. 

The Gravitational Fluid Flow Cell first flew on the Spacelab 3 mission (STS-51B) in 1985. Several new 

types of convection were observed in the photographic data from the experiment, which contained images 

of convection structures, instabilities and turbulence, under varying conditions of different heating and 

rotation settings. The USML-2 experiment will expand on these results. In addition it will investigate flow 

instability for atmospheric flows that are more like the layers of Earth's atmosphere. The science team also 

will investigate patter formations relevant to flows in the Earth's mantle, as well as temperature 

distributions not studied on Spacelab 3. 

Crystal Growth Furnace 

The Crystal Growth Furnace is a reusable Spacelab facility for growing crystals of semiconducting 

material, metals and alloys. The furnace, which had its debut on USML-1, is the first space furnace 

developed by the United States to process multiple large samples at very high temperatures (above 1,832 

degrees Fahrenheit or 1,000 degrees Celsius). 

Atoms in many solids line up in orderly rows and columns, forming three-dimensional structures known as 

crystals. By melting or vaporizing a material and then studying how it changes back from a liquid or gas 

into a crystalline solid, scientists can learn which conditions affect its physical, chemical and other 

properties. They also can determine how these properties affect the material's performance. Better 

understanding of these processes is desirable in designing or enhancing qualities in a specific material. 

Crystallization can be more effectively studied in microgravity than on Earth, because the gravity-induced 

phenomena that obscure or change the process are greatly reduced or eliminated. Gravity-related 

complications such as convection, sedimentation and buoyancy can result in problems ranging from 

physical flaws in the internal structure of the crystal to uneven distribution of component materials within 

it. 

By analyzing space-grown crystals with well-defined, orderly atomic structures, investigators can increase 

their knowledge of many types of materials - both in space and on the ground. In the future, this knowledge 

could result in improved materials, processing techniques, or products here on Earth. 

The four primary USML-2 Crystal Growth Experiments are continuations of investigations from USML-1. 

Three will be grown with the directional solidification method, where a moving furnace allows the molten 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 24 

material to gradually cool from one end to the other. Since the crystal forms in only one direction, its 

atomic arrangement is more orderly and defect-free. 

The fourth experiment will grow crystals using the vapor crystal growth method. The sample is heated until 

it begins to sublime, or turn from a solid into a gas. The vaporized material diffuses into a cooler area of 

the apparatus where it is gradually deposited onto a base material and a single crystal forms. 

Near the end of the mission, a fifth sample will be processed in the furnace to determine the effect of 

different Shuttle attitudes on crystal growth. Solidification of a material whose behavior is well understood 

on Earth (germanium with a trace of gallium added), will begin with the Shuttle in the particular 

orientation thought to be best for crystal growth. Midway through the crystal's processing, the Shuttle will 

maneuver to the standard "gravity gradient," or tail to Earth, attitude normally employed during 

microgravity missions. 

Orbital Processing of High Quality Cadmium Zinc Telluride Compound Semiconductors 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. David J. Larson Jr. 

Northrop-Grumman Corp. Research and Development Center 

Bethpage, NY 

This experiment examines the effects of gravity on the growth and quality of alloyed compound 

semiconductors. This experiment will attempt to produce high quality cadmium zinc telluride crystals with 

fewer physical defects and more uniform distribution of chemical components than those grown on Earth. 

Cadmium zinc telluride is used as a base, or substrate, on which infrared-detecting mercury cadmium 

telluride crystals are grown. The alloying element, zinc, is added to minimize strain where the two crystals 

join, thereby reducing defects. The resulting alloy, however, is a relatively soft material which can be 

deformed during the normal crystal growth process on Earth. These deformations can introduce undesired 

changes in the arrangement of atoms in the crystal. 

By studying space-grown crystals, Dr. Larson can identify the effects of gravity as a factor in causing 

structural defects in the crystal system. They should be able to predict the distribution of chemical 

components within a crystal - important information for improving crystal growth technology on Earth. 

The cadmium zinc telluride crystal grown during USML-1 was most defect-free where it completely 

touched the wall of the sample cylinder and where it did not touch the wall at all. Therefore, the primary 

sample container on USML-2 will be outfitted with a spring-loaded piston, which will move to reduce the 

volume of the cylinder as the material contracts during cooling. This should eliminate air voids in the 

crystal and ensure that it maintains even contact with the container wall along its entire surface. 

The Study of Dopant Segregation Behavior During the Crystal Growth of Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) 

in Microgravity 

Principal Investigator: Professor D. H. Matthiesen 

Case Western Reserve University 

Cleveland, OH 

This experiment investigates techniques for uniformly distributing a small amount of selenium within a 

gallium arsenide crystal as it grows in microgravity. 

Electronic devices made from gallium arsenide crystals operate at higher speeds and use less power than 

computer chips and other semiconductor applications made from silicon. Gallium arsenide is used in highspeed digital circuits, optoelectronic integrated circuits, solid-state lasers, and a variety of other products. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 25 

Impurities such as selenium, called dopants, are added to these semiconductor compounds to improve or 

precisely control their electronic characteristics. To produce high quality gallium arsenide crystals, 

scientists need to understand the process by which these impurities are distributed within the compound 

during crystal growth. 

Growing the crystals in microgravity will greatly reduce the gravitational influences that cause an uneven 

distribution of dopants in crystals grown on Earth. This will allow Dr. Matthiesen to identify more subtle 

influences, either confirming or denying the theories and models used to control crystal growth on Earth. 

For the USML-2 experiment, the growing crystal will be marked every 100 to 300 seconds by electric 

pulsing. The pulses will be time-coded to reveal the microscopic growth rate of the crystal and the shape 

and location of the liquid/solid boundary, or interface, at the various stages of growth. 

Crystal Growth of Selected II-VI Semiconducting Alloys by Directional Solidification 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Sandor Lehoczky 

NASA Marshall Space Flight Center 

Huntsville, AL 

This experiment seeks to confirm theories about how gravity influences the introduction and distribution of 

structural defects in alloy semiconductors during crystal growth. It will grow an approximately threequarter-inch- long crystal of mercury zinc telluride, which will be analyzed post-flight to determine its 

chemical and physical properties. 

Mercury zinc telluride is referred to as a II-VI alloy since its components appear in the vertical columns IIb 

and VIa of the periodic table of elements. The crystals have properties that theoretically make them 

superior infrared detectors for use in defense, space, medicine and commercial industry. The composition 

being grown on this mission has potential applications in instruments with diverse purposes ranging from 

locating and managing petroleum on Earth to studying distant stars and galaxies. 

By varying proportions of mercury, zinc and tellurium within the alloy, researchers can modify its 

electronic and optical properties to meet the needs of a range of applications. However, the growth of large, 

single crystals of mercury zinc telluride containing a predetermined fraction of each chemical component is 

hampered by the complexity of the chemistry involved and by the effects of gravity during the growing 

process. Experiments in microgravity should clarify the role that gravity plays in incorporating the different 

chemical components into the growing crystal. 

Vapor Transport Crystal Growth of Mercury Cadmium Telluride in Microgravity 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Herbert Wiedemeier 

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute 

Troy, NY 

The USML-2 version of this experiment focuses on the initial phase of vapor crystal growth in a complex 

alloy semiconductor. Dr. Wiedemeier and his team will grow a crystalline layer of mercury cadmium 

telluride on a cadmium telluride substrate, or base, by the vapor crystal growth method. The vapor 

transport method will cause layers, or thin films, of mercury cadmium telluride to be grown on the 

substrate in a process called epitaxial layer growth. The resulting crystal will be analyzed to determine the 

effects of microgravity on the growth rate, chemical composition, structural characteristics and other 

properties of the initial crystalline layer that forms on the substrate. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 26 

The similar crystal grown on USML-1 showed considerably improved quality over ground-based crystals. 

During their follow-up analysis, investigators found new information about the effects of microgravity on 

formation of the initial layer deposited on the substrate. Therefore, the USML-2 experiment zeros in on 

that stage of growth that determines the atomic arrangement of the entire crystal. 

The performance of infrared detectors made from this material will be greatly improved when electronics 

manufacturers can grow crystals without structural flaws and with more uniform distribution of chemical 

components. Better understanding of this crystal growth method will enhance ground based production of 

similar semiconductor materials and lead to further improvements in techniques for producing crystals 

using this process. 

Zeolite Crystal Growth Furnace 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Albert Sacco Jr. 

Worcester Polytechnic Institute 

Worcester, MA 

On USML-2, Dr. Sacco will continue a series of experiments investigating the formation of zeolite 

crystals, widely used in the chemical process industry as filters, catalysts for reactions, and purifiers. Using 

the Zeolite Crystal Growth (ZCG) furnace located on the Shuttle's middeck, scientists hope to gain a better 

understanding of the three-dimensional structure of these crystals, examining techniques for creating large, 

near-perfect zeolite crystals in microgravity and evaluating new mixtures of zeolite materials which will 

maximize growth and minimize defects. 

Zeolites can act as "molecular sieves" to separate out specific molecules from solutions. They also are 

active catalysts converting one molecule to another. Zeolites are used in life support systems, petroleum 

refining, waste management and biomedical fields for purification of fluids. High quality, near-perfect 

zeolites may one day allow gasoline, oil and other petroleum products to be refined less expensively. 

Scientists, armed with a better understanding of how zeolites grow and of their crystalline structure, may 

be able to expand current uses of these crystals. 

Thirty-eight zeolite sample containers will be processed during the mission. Each container will be loaded 

with two solutions - one aluminum-based and one silicon- based. A crew member will mix the solutions on 

orbit by turning a screw inside each separate sample container. (The proper amount of mixing for different 

sample containers and mixtures will be dictated by results of Glovebox ZCG mixing tests early in the 

flight.) The containers then will be placed in the ZCG furnace where they will be heated, allowing crystal 

growth to begin. 

ZCG flew for the first time on USML-1. Results from that flight indicate that crystals whose nucleation 

and growth was controlled from the onset of the experiment achieved a higher degree of crystal perfection 

than any crystals produced on Earth. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 27 

Glovebox Facility 

Project Scientist: 

Dr. Donald A. Reiss 

NASA Marshall Space Flight Center 

Huntsville, AL 

The Spacelab Glovebox, provided by the European Space Agency, is a versatile, transparent enclosure 

where experimenters can test and develop procedures and technologies in microgravity. It enables crew 

members to handle, transfer, and otherwise manipulate materials in ways that are impractical in the open 

Spacelab. The facility is equipped with photographic equipment that allows a visual record of experiment 

operations. 

y 

The Glovebox cabinet provides a clean working space and minimizes contamination risks to both the 

Spacelab and experiment samples. It provides two types of containment for small quantities of materials: 

physical isolation and a lower air pressure inside the enclosure than that of the Spacelab module. An airfiltering system also protects the crew from harmful experiment products. When an airtight seal is required, 

crew members can insert their hands into rugged gloves attached to the glove doors. If an experiment 

requires more sensitive handling, the crew may don surgical gloves and insert their arms through a set of 

adjustable sleeves. 

y

The Glovebox facility first flew on USML-1. Its working area has been increased for this mission, and 

lighting has been improved. On USML-2, the following seven investigations will use the facility. 

Interface Configuration Experiment 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Paul Concus 

University of California at Berkeley 

Berkeley, CA 

This follow-up to a USML-1 investigation studies the shapes that fluid surfaces assume within specific 

containers in microgravity. It will observe how colored liquid settles to equilibrium within two different 

shapes of clear plastic containers. 

Currently, the behavior in microgravity of free liquid- vapor interfaces, such as the way liquid propellant 

moves within spacecraft fuel tanks, cannot be predicted satisfactorily. Since many on-orbit operations 

involve fluids and depend on their behaviors, it is important to test and refine the models used to predict 

how container shape can affect the location and shape of fluid surfaces. 

Oscillatory Thermocapillary Flow Experiment 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Yasuhiro Kamotani 

Case Western Reserve University 

Cleveland, OH 

This investigation, also a USML-1 follow-up, complements the Surface Tension Driven Convection 

Experiment. It studies the conditions for the onset of oscillations, or periodic variations, in surfacetemperature-induced fluid flows. Heat will be applied to silicone oil in four vessels of different volumes 

and depths to determine how container dimensions affect the onset of oscillations. 

On Earth, thermocapillary flows (those generated by temperature variations along a free liquid surface) 

begin to oscillate under certain conditions. Both the flows themselves and the oscillations may reduce the 

purity and uniformity of crystal growth solutions and molten metals. By studying the conditions present 

when oscillations begin in microgravity and by comparing them to onset conditions present on Earth, 

scientists should be able to determine the cause of the oscillations. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 28 

Fiber Supported Droplet Combustion 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Forman A. Williams 

University of California at San Diego 

San Diego, CA 

This new Glovebox investigation tests a technique for studying combustion in microgravity. Droplets of 

different types of fuel will be suspended on a thin fiber, then ignited. Team members will observe the 

shape of the flame, how the flame grows and how fast it shrinks as it consumes the fuel. 

Droplet combustion studies are very difficult to perform on Earth. Drops burn unevenly because gravity 

causes high-density drops to sink and buoyancy-induced acceleration forces combustion products to rise. 

In space, the drop is expected to assume a symmetrical sphere shape and thus burn more evenly, making it 

easier to validate combustion theories. If successful, this new technique for studying droplet combustion 

could provide insight into fundamental combustion processes, such as how pollutants are formed. 

Protein Crystal Growth - Glovebox 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Larry DeLucas 

Center for Macromolecular Crystallography 

Birmingham, AL 

This repeat of the highly successful USML-1 protein crystal growth Glovebox experiments will help 

confirm the advantages of crew interaction in the process of growing protein crystals in microgravity. 

Protein crystals, important for analyzing the molecular structure of these "building blocks of life," are very 

difficult to produce. This experiment allows a crew member to modify protein crystal growth conditions 

such as mixing procedures, crystal seeding, crystal mounting and crystal preservation, based on his 

observations of previous sets of investigations. 

On USML-1, these modifications resulted in several crystals of much higher quality than had ever been 

grown before. In addition to improving the quality of crystals grown on this mission, USML-2 Glovebox 

PCG research will be applied to improve protein crystal growth procedures on future Shuttle missions and 

on the Space Station. 

Zeolite Crystal Growth - Glovebox 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Albert Sacco Jr. 

Worcester Polytechnic Institute 

Worcester, MA 

This Glovebox investigation extends the USML-1 evaluation of on-orbit mixing procedures for zeolite 

crystal growth experiments. 

Zeolite crystals are used as catalysts and filters in the chemical processing industry. To produce usable 

crystals, the growth solutions must be precisely mixed. USML-1 crew members' involvement in the mixing 

process resulted in more uniform mixing and helped minimize bubble formation. The USML-2 experiment 

will provide additional mixing information to researchers using the Zeolite Crystal Growth Furnace 

facility. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 29 

Colloidal Disorder-Order Transitions 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Paul Chaikin 

Princeton University 

Princeton, NJ 

This new Glovebox investigation looks at a fundamental question in condensed matter physics: how the 

density of a substance finely and uniformly dispersed within another substance of a different phase - a 

mixture called a colloid - affects its transition from a liquid to an ordered solid phase. 

For this experiment, several containers will hold different concentrations of fine solid spheres suspended in 

a liquid. Dr. Chaikin will observe which concentration of spheres is dense enough that they arrange 

themselves in an ordered state, rather than remaining randomly distributed within the liquid. 

A better understanding of what happens at the boundary between solid and liquid states of a colloid should 

help researchers improve materials processing methods on Earth, as well as in microgravity. 

Particle Dispersion Experiment 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. John Marshall 

NASA Ames Research Center 

Moffett Field, CA 

This investigation, another follow-up from USML-1, uses the microgravity environment to study how fine 

natural particles, such as dust, disperse within an atmosphere, then assemble back together (or reaggregate) 

into larger clusters. A short puff of air will disperse sand particles within a small, transparent container. Dr. 

Marshall will observe how they cluster in an environment free from the interference of gravity. 

In addition to helping scientists understand how planetary atmospheres are cleansed of dust injected by 

volcanic eruptions, meteorite impacts or dust storms, the experiment tests technologies for future Shuttle 

and Space Station experiments concerned with the dispersion of aerosols. 

The USML-1 investigation successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of methods for dispersing, 

redispersing and studying the clustering of particles caused by electrical interparticle forces. Electrical 

fields formed around some of the larger particle clusters. If "giant" electrical fields actually occur in the 

natural environment, they could have a significant impact on the way dense dust clouds are dispersed. 

Protein Crystal Growth Experiments 

A record number of protein crystal growth experiment facilities aboard USML-2 will be used to produce 

large, well-ordered crystals of various proteins under controlled conditions in microgravity. The crystals 

will be used in ground-based studies to determine the molecular structure of each protein. 

Proteins play important roles in daily life, from providing nourishment to fighting disease. Because a 

protein's structure determines its function, expanding knowledge of the structures of proteins has potential 

benefits to many areas of biotechnology - the use of advanced techniques to improve the quality of 

biological products. These benefits include new information on basic biological processes, development of 

food crops with higher protein content and increased resistance to disease, and basic research toward the 

development of more effective drugs. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 30 

For many crystals, those grown in microgravity show a more uniform and highly ordered structure with 

fewer defects than are found in crystals of the same proteins produced on Earth. 

The protein crystal growth experiments on USML-1 were very successful. Of the more than 30 protein 

crystals flown, nearly half produced crystals that were large enough for X-ray diffraction analysis. 

Canavalin, a plant protein, formed some of the largest crystals of that protein ever grown (more than 2.0 

millimeters long). Crystals of Human Proline Isomerase, a protein associated with transplant rejection and 

a target of drug designers, yielded the highest quality data ever collected on the protein. 

Large, well-formed crystals of proteins important to immune disorder studies also were grown. This 

included HIV Reverse Transcriptase Complex, a protein important in the design of drugs to fight AIDS. 

The three-dimensional structure of Factor D, a protein that plays a role in complications including 

inflammation after open-heart surgery, was completed using the high-quality crystals obtained on USML1. 

The variety of protein crystal growth experiment facilities on USML-2 reflects the progress made in this 

field over almost a decade of space experiments. Growth methods and facility design are continually 

refined and upgraded, based on results from previous flights. 

Single-Locker Protein Crystal Growth - Two Methods 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Daniel Carter 

NASA Marshall Space Flight Center 

Huntsville, AL 

This experiment will process more than 800 protein samples in a facility designed for the production of 

crystals with enhanced internal order. The Protein Crystallization Apparatus for Microgravity (PCAM) 

holds more than six times as many samples as are normally accommodated in the same amount of space. 

The PCAM will grow crystals using the vapor diffusion method, which has been highly effective in 

previous Shuttle experiments. In vapor diffusion, liquid evaporates from a protein solution and is absorbed 

by a reservoir solution contained in a wicking material. As the protein concentration rises, the proteins 

form crystals. 

Twelve PCAM cylinders - each holding 63 samples for a total of 756 - will be held in two temperature 

controlled enclosures, the Single-locker Thermal Enclosure System, each occupying a single Shuttle middeck locker. The enclosures will maintain temperatures at 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius). 

Eight Short PCAMs, containing precipitation ("salt") solutions, will be in an ambient-temperature stowage 

locker. They will be analyzed to determine the rate at which the vapor diffusion process proceeds in the 

diffusion-limited environment of microgravity. 

To start the PCAM experiments, a crew member will open the front of the enclosure, then rotate a shaft on 

the end of the cylinder with a ratchet from the Shuttle's tool kit. This will allow diffusion to start and 

protein crystal growth to begin. Near the end of the mission, a crew member will rotate the shaft in the 

opposite direction to stop diffusion. 

A new experiment chamber called the Diffusion- controlled Crystallization Apparatus for Microgravity 

(DCAM) also will be tested. It will be housed within a Single Locker Thermal Enclosure System inside the 

Spacelab module. There will be 81 DCAMs containing protein samples in this enclosure. The experiment 

will grow model proteins by a combination of the liquid-liquid diffusion and the dialysis methods of 

protein crystal growth. This is a newly developed method by NASA scientists to passively control the 

crystallization process over extended periods of time. The space-grown proteins will be compared with 

those grown by the same method on the ground. The experiment is a precursor for long-duration 

crystallization experiments aboard the international Space Station and Mir, which would benefit greatly 

from the ability to control crystal growth times of up to approximately six months in length. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 31 

Crystal Growth by Liquid-Liquid Diffusion 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Alexander McPherson Jr. 

University of California at Riverside 

Riverside, CA 

Four Handheld Diffusion Test Cell units containing four test cells each will grow protein crystals by 

diffusing one liquid into another. In liquid-liquid diffusion, different fluids are brought into contact but not 

mixed. Over time, the fluids will diffuse into each other through random motion of molecules. The gradual 

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

Liquid-liquid diffusion is difficult on Earth because differences in solution densities allow mixing by 

gravity-driven thermal convection. In addition, the greater density of the crystals allows them to settle into 

inappropriate parts of the cell. 

The end of the test cells, where crystals will grow, and the containment housing are made of clear plastic. 

Crew members will remove the units from stowage after launch and place them where they can photograph 

the growing crystals periodically during the mission. 

Each test cell has three chambers: protein solution, buffer solution, and precipitant solution. The buffer 

solution chamber cuts across the width of a shaft between protein and precipitant solutions. Before the 

experiment, a valve is positioned so each fluid is isolated from the others. A crew member will activate the 

experiment by rotating the valve 90 degrees, so the buffer contacts the protein and precipitant and the three 

form a single volume. The rotating valve minimizes liquid movement, limiting alteration of the liquids' 

shapes and volumes. When the three liquids are in contact, they will slowly diffuse into each other. The 

crew will close the valves before return to Earth. 

Commercial Protein Crystal Growth 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Larry DeLucas 

Center for Macromolecular Crystallography 

Birmingham, AL 

This experiment will grow large quantities of crystals of various proteins using the batch process method. 

A Protein Crystallization Facility will be housed in a commercial refrigeration/ incubation module in the 

Orbiter middeck. The facility contains four cylindrical crystallization chambers which will be kept at 104 

degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) until the Shuttle reaches orbit. Then, they will be gradually cooled 

to 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius) over a 100-hour period. The temperature change initiates 

crystal growth. Crystals form as the chamber cools, and crystal growth continues at 72 degrees for the 

remainder of the mission. 

The experiment also will grow additional crystals in a Vapor Diffusion Apparatus located in a 39-degreeFahrenheit (4-degree-Celsius) refrigerator/ incubation module. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 32 

Advanced Protein Crystallization Facility 

Project Scientist: 

Dr. Gottfried Wagner University of Giessen 

Giessen, Germany 

This facility is the first ever designed to use three methods of protein crystal growth: liquid-liquid 

diffusion, in which a protein solution and a salt solution are separated by a buffer and allowed to mix 

together slowly once in orbit; dialysis, with protein and salt solutions separated by a membrane; and vapor 

diffusion, where crystals form inside a drop of protein solution as solvent from the drop diffuses into a 

reservoir. Developed by the European Space Agency, the facility flew once before on the second 

International Microgravity Laboratory mission in June 1994. 

Video images will be made of crystals as they form. After the mission, the images will allow investigators 

to study the history of crystal development in microgravity. Scientists are interested particularly in why and 

how crystals nucleate and begin to form crystals. 

Crystallization of Apocrystacyanin C

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Naomi Chayen Imperial College 

London, England 

This protein is a member of the lipocalin family of proteins, which binds to certain pigments that are 

widely distributed in plants and animals. Knowledge of the structure of lipocalins will help scientists to 

alter these proteins to produce carriers that will bind more strongly to the pigment crocetin, which has anticancer properties. 

Crystal Structure Analysis of the Bacteriophage Lamda Lysozyme

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Jean-Paul Declercq 

Catholic University of Louvain Belgium 

The bacteriophage Lambda lysozyme is a small protein of 158 amino acids involved in the dissolution of 

the cell walls of bacteria. Investigators are seeking information about the method of destruction employed 

by this organism. 

Crystallization of RNA Molecules Under Microgravity Conditions

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Volker Erdmann 

Free University of Berlin Germany 

Ribonucleic acid (RNA) molecules have diverse biological roles, which include carrying genetic 

information for protein synthesis within living cells. They may also exhibit behavior characteristic of 

enzymes. Because of the large mass of its molecules, RNA has been extremely difficult to synthesize on 

Earth. 

Crystallization of the Protein Grb2 and Triclinic Lysozyme

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Arnaud Ducruix 

Centre National De La Recherche Scientifique Universite de Paris 

Sud, France 

Grb2 is an adapter protein involved in the transfer of signals from one cell to another. Investigators expect 

that space-grown crystals will have better resolution than those which have been grown and analyzed in 

Earth-based labs. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 33 

Lysozyme crystals grown in the APCF during the second International Microgravity Lab flight had a much 

higher level of perfection than those grown on earlier missions. USML-2 investigators want to extend the 

study to another crystalline structure of lysozyme, expecting to reach even better resolution values. 

Microgravity Crystallization of Thermophilic Aspartyl-tRNA Synthetase and Thaumatin

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Richard Giege 

Centre National De La Recherche Scientifique 

Strasbourg, France 

Investigators will continue and expand the IML-2 crystallization studies on thermophilic aspartyl-tRNA 

synthetase and will crystallize the plant-sweetening protein, thaumatin. 

While both proteins are biochemically stable and are purified easily, they also have significant structural 

and behavioral differences. Therefore, they make interesting subjects for comparative crystallography 

studies. 

In addition, thaumatin tastes extremely sweet when consumed by humans. Since it appears to be non-toxic, 

non- carcinogenic and low in calories, it may be a good sugar substitute. 

Crystallization in Space of Octarellins, de novo Designed (alpha/beta)-Barrell Proteins, and of a Mutated 

Human TIM Forming a Monomeric (alpha/beta)-Barrell Structure

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Joseph Martial 

University of Liege Belgium 

The long-term goal of investigators is to design a three-dimensional "scaffold" on which to build aminoacid bonds, eventually producing therapeutic agents for the treatment or prevention of disease. Before this 

can be accomplished, more knowledge is needed about rules governing protein folding and structure 

stabilization. Resolution of the three-dimensional structure of crystals of the synthetic protein octarellin 

may provide this information. 

Crystallization in a Microgravity Environment of CcdB, a Protein Involved in the Control of Cell Death

Principal Investigator: Dr. Lode Wyns 

Free University of Brussels 

Belgium 

Clarification of the structure and mode of action of this protein may lead to design of new antibiotics and 

anti- tumoral drugs. In this experiment, scientists want to improve crystal quality and produce crystals of 

two specific mutants, which have not produced crystals large enough for data collection on Earth. 

A Multivariate Analysis of X-ray Diffraction Data Obtained from Glutathione S Transferase

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Lennart Sjolin 

University of Goteborg 

Sweden 

This experiment will perform extensive comparative analysis of X-ray data from space-grown crystals and 

ground- based controls to provide a statistical comparison of the two. This will give scientists statistically 

significant data to either confirm or refute various hypotheses about the value of a convection-free 

environment for enhanced crystal quality. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 34 

Protein Crystal Growth: Light-driven Charge Translocation Through Bacteriorhodopsin

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Gottfried Wagner 

University of Geissen 

Germany 

This protein converts light energy to voltages in the membrane of photoenergetic micro-organisms. High 

quality bacteriorhodopsin crystals are difficult to grow on Earth because the crystalline clusters show 

structural disorder and loose bundling. These crystals grown in the APCF during IML-2 had a much higher 

level of perfection, and for the first time in microgravity showed a precise tendency to form as cubes. 

Resolution of the three-dimensional structure of bacteriorhodopsin will help scientists understand the 

mechanisms used to convert light energy to energy for growth. 

Crystallization of Ribosomes

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Ada Yonath 

Max-Planck Laboratory for Ribosomal Structure 

Hamburg, Germany 

Ribosomes are responsible for the translation of genetic code to proteins. While they are the only portion of 

living cells to have been crystallized, most Earth-grown crystals are very thin and crack on handling, 

making it very difficult to collect and evaluate data. 

As APCF growth chambers are almost tailor-made for growing this type of protein, this experiment could 

result in crystals of improved internal order, shape, size and mechanical properties. The facility also may 

allow scientists to control specific properties of the crystal's structure and form. 

Crystallization of Sulfolobus Solfataricus Alcohol Dehydrogenase

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Adriana Zagari 

University of Naples 

Italy 

Alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) is an enzyme that occurs in large amounts in the livers of mammals, where 

it plays an important role in several physiological functions including the breakdown of alcohol. However, 

mammalian ADH is unstable at high temperatures or in the presence of organic solvents, properties that 

limit its usefulness for the synthesis of organic compounds. On the other hand, ADH from the bacterium 

Sulfolobus solfataricus has greater thermal stability and is scarcely affected by the presence of organic 

solvents. Given these properties, the enzyme is a good candidate for industrial applications. 

Crystallization of Turnip Yellow Mosaic Virus, Tomato Aspermy Virus, Satellite Panicum Mosaic Virus, 

Canavalin, Beef Liver Catalase, Concanavalin B

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Alexander McPherson 

University of California Riverside, CA 

Canavalin, catalase and concanavalin B are being studied to determine the effects of microgravity on 

protein crystal growth by evaluating their size, habit, quality, defects and diffraction properties. 

Three viruses - very large proteins - are being studied to verify the theory that the effect of altered transport 

properties in microgravity should be magnified in proportion to the decreased diffusivity of such large 

molecules. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 35 

Crystallization of the Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) Receptor

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Wolfgang Weber 

University of Hamburg 

Germany 

The receptor for epidermal growth factor is increasing in its importance as a predictor for a series of human 

malignancies. Knowledge of its three-dimensional structure would open the possibility of tailoring drugs to 

treat numerous types of tumors. At present, though, the crystal structure of only one hormone receptor 

(growth hormone) and none of the growth factor receptors has been solved. 

Structure of the Membrane-Embedded Protein Complex Photosystem I

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Wolfram Sanger 

Free University of Berlin 

Germany 

This protein complex is one of two responsible for the primary conversion of visible light into chemical 

energy in water-oxidizing photosynthesis. This experiment aims to identify the complete arrangement of 

chlorophyll molecules that perform this conversion process in the most efficient way. 

Crystallization of Visual Pigment Rhodopsin

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Willem de Grip 

University of Nijmegen 

The Netherlands 

Visual pigments like rhodopsin are the primary photoreceptor proteins for a variety of light-regulated 

processes, such as vision and photoperiodic reproduction. Analysis of the protein crystals is needed if 

scientists are to unravel the molecular mechanisms responsible for these processes. 

Commercial Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Louis Stodieck 

Center for BioServe Space Technologies 

University of Colorado 

Boulder, CO 

The Commercial Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus (CBGA) is a tool which allows a variety of 

sophisticated bioprocessing experiments to be performed in one piece of hardware. 

Many of the experiments which will be processed in the CGBA have applications that could improve life 

on Earth while providing solutions to issues related to extended stays in space. 

Each experiment is housed in a glass tube called a Fluid Processing Apparatus (FPA). Groups of eight 

FPAs are packaged together so they can be activated simultaneously by turning a crank on the activation 

pack, and a number of activation packs are being flown on this mission. Each FPA tube holds a neutral 

storage medium and the sample, an experiment activator that initiates bioprocessing, and a termination 

fluid that fixes the experiment for post mission analysis. The fluids are separated by rubber stoppers. Once 

on orbit, a crew member mixes the samples and places them in an incubator for a preprogrammed period. 

Processing is terminated automatically. Samples will be removed and stored, some in the Spacelab module 

and others in middeck lockers, for the trip home. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 36 

The CGBA flew for the first time on USML-1. On that mission, biomedical experiments included 

investigations into how the human body fights disease, how infectious organisms like bacteria can be 

controlled, and how bacteria can be effectively used to treat waste and recover water - information vital for 

long space flights. There were experiments that investigated how cells and molecules develop and grow in 

reduced gravity, as well as seed germination experiments and experiments that looked at the microgravity 

effects on plant and animal development. 

Major areas of investigation on USML-2 include: 

Biomedical Testing and Drug Development 

These experiments will help researchers develop a better understanding of how microgravity affects bone 

metabolism, the immune system and the neuromuscular system. 

Information gleaned from these experiments may help scientists understand the changes caused by 

exposure to microgravity in order to develop new drugs for the possible treatment of diseases such as 

cancer, osteoporosis and AIDS. 

Ecological Test Systems 

This group of investigations will study plant development and the relationships between bacteria and plants 

in microgravity. Such knowledge is crucial for extended stays in space where plants will be used as both a 

food source and a means of purifying air. 

The experiments will examine how controlled agricultural applications, waste management processes and 

methods of controlling microbes affect plant seeding, seed germination, plant development and bacterial 

products and processes of plants. 

Biomaterials Products and Processes 

These experiments will study the growth of bacteria in microgravity, investigate new pharmaceutical 

products and delivery systems, and study materials that might be used as replacements for skin, tendons, 

blood vessels and corneas. 

Scientists hope to glean important information on how bacteria grow in the absence of gravity-driven fluid 

flows, as well as gaining insight on how to grow structures that can deliver drugs directly to cells. These 

investigations also will provide important information on models for potential implants, such as synthetic 

skin for burn victims. 

AstrocultureTM Facility and Experiment 

Principal Investigator: 

Dr. Raymond J. Bula 

Wisconsin Center for Space Automation & Robotics 

Madison, WI 

The AstrocultureTM facility is an apparatus used for growing plants in microgravity. There are two USML2 objectives for Astroculture. 1) The facility's three main subsystems will be tested to verify the apparatus 

as an effective on-orbit plant growth system, and 2) the facility will be used to investigate the nature of 

starch accumulation in microgravity. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 37 

Because plants will play an important role in future long-duration space flights, providing crews with oxygen, 

food, pure water and assisting in removing carbon dioxide from space habitats, it is important to develop an 

effective plant growth facility. USML-2 will evaluate the facility's plant watering and nutrient-delivery system, 

humidity control and plant illumination subsystems. 

The plant watering system must be able to deliver nutrients to the plants without releasing solutions into crew 

quarters. The Astroculture facility on USML-2 will test the effectiveness of a delivery system using porous tubes 

with different pressures to ensure a proper flow to the plants' roots. 

Another requirement of the facility is successful humidity control. Air moisture must remain at levels that do not 

damage experiments and equipment, while maintaining desired humidity levels to plants. The moisture in the air 

also may be recycled as condensed water for cooking, drinking or as a source of water for plants. On USML-2 

the system will humidify and dehumidify the air without needing a gas/liquid separator to recover the condensed 

water. All current systems in use must supply a separator. 

The third requirement for a reliable plant growth system is efficient use of lighting, since electrical power is at a 

premium on Shuttle flights. The lighting subsystem tested on USML-2 uses light emitting diodes (LEDs) 

providing high levels of light within the limits of electrical power available on orbit. Its energy conversion 

capability makes it superior even to fluorescent or sodium lamps. It also provides greater safety than any other 

light sources currently used by space-based plant growth facilities. 

During USML-2, small potatoes will be grown from potato leaf cuttings that can be induced to develop small 

tubers filled with starch in 10 to 15 days. Starch is an important energy storage compound in plants, and there are 

indications that starch accumulation in plants is restricted in microgravity. The crew will periodically monitor the 

status of the environment in the Astroculture plant chamber and the development of the potato plants. Video of 

the plants will be downlinked periodically during the mission. Post-mission evaluation of data will focus on rates 

of photosynthesis, movement of photosynthesis products from leaves to tubers, conversion of sugars to starch in 

storage organs, and enzyme activities for the formation and degradation of starch. Investigators also will study 

the number, size, shape and distribution of starch grains and the structures that form starch. 

The Astroculture equipment has previously flown on the USML-1, and SPACEHAB 1, 2 and 3 missions. During 

these flights lighting, humidity, acidity-alkalinity balance (pH), nutrient supply and composition, and carbon 

dioxide and atmospheric contaminant subsystems were successfully evaluated. Technology progress from 

previous flights has resulted in several commercial products for use on Earth. The lighting subsystem has 

provided technology to develop a unique lighting system for photosynthesis research and for use in some medical 

applications. Other commercial products from Astroculture technology include dehumidification/humidification 

units, water-efficient irrigation systems and energy-efficient lighting systems for large scale commercial 

nurseries. 

After flight qualification on USML-2, the plant growth facility will be available for sale or lease to commercial 

enterprises. The project is part of a cooperative experiment with the Secondary Payload Programs of NASA's 

Office of Life and Microgravity Sciences and Applications. 

Measuring Microgravity 

Whether on Earth or in space, any change in motion produces accelerations, or gravity. An astronaut exercising 

on the Space Shuttle, for instance, can cause the Orbiter to vibrate in response to the activity taking place inside 

it, creating gravity. Experiments on the Shuttle need a very stable microgravity environment so their delicate 

operations will not be disturbed. But with essential activities such as astronauts living and working on the 

Shuttle, Orbiter maneuvers, and antenna motions, absolute stability is impossible to achieve. Therefore, to 

interpret results correctly and to develop an understanding of the effects caused by these forces, investigators 

need to know the precise strength of gravitational influences and vibrations affecting their experiments. USML-2 

will include three facilities to measure different types of accelerations, and it will test a device that could be used 

to isolate sensitive experiments from disturbances. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 38 

Space Acceleration Measurement System 

Project Manager: 

Ron Sicker 

NASA Lewis Research Center 

Cleveland, OH 

The Space Acceleration Measurement System is a facility that measures the acceleration environment of 

the Spacelab module using three sensor heads to record accelerations over a specific range of frequencies. 

Sensors located on the Surface Tension Driven Convection Experiment, the Crystal Growth Furnace and 

the Glovebox will be connected by cables to a control and data storage unit in the Spacelab center aisle. 

Data from SAMS will be used to determine what effect crew movements, equipment operations and Shuttle 

maneuvers can have on the experiments being conducted on USML-2. Scientists will analyze the data postflight to determine that a disturbance took place at a particular time. They can then make allowances for the 

disturbance as they analyze their experiment data. 

Three Dimensional Microgravity Accelerometer 

Principal Investigator: 

Jan Bijvoet 

University of Alabama, Huntsville 

Huntsville, AL 

The Three Dimensional Microgravity Accelerometer (3DMA) apparatus will take two kinds of 

measurements on USML-2: the absolute level of microgravity acceleration, (the differences between zero 

acceleration and what is experienced during the mission), and microvibrations which could affect the 

investigations onboard. Using these two measurements, scientists can know the acceleration effects any 

time during their experiments. 

Located in the central housing of the 3DMA hardware are three accelerometers which measure the level of 

absolute microgravity in three separate axes or directions. Three remote sensors will record the different 

vibrations and accelerations caused by experiment and Orbiter operations. 

The data will be recorded in the central 3DMA unit for post-mission analysis. It will also be sent to the 

ground in real time. This will allow scientists to call up displays to view measurements of absolute gravity 

and microvibrations at the same time. The absolute level of microgravity and the data from the three 

remote sensors will allow quantification of disturbances. 

Orbital Acceleration Research Experiment 

Project Manager: Jose L. Christian Jr. 

NASA Lewis Research Center 

Cleveland, OH 

The Orbital Acceleration Research Experiment (OARE) is managed by Lewis Research Center as part of 

NASA's Microgravity Measurements and Analysis Project. Located outside the Spacelab, the OARE 

acceleration instrument will measure microgravity levels caused by atmospheric drag of the Shuttle, 

changes in Orbiter velocity and vibrations of onboard machinery, as well as Shuttle and crew operations. 

Data from OARE will complement information gathered from the SAMS instrument. While SAMS data on 

Shuttle accelerations will be analyzed post-mission, high-resolution data from the sensitive OARE 

instrument will be sent real- time to the ground. This will give scientists an opportunity to make on-thespot adjustments to their experiments to account for the on-orbit disturbances. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 39 

Suppression of Transient Accelerations By Levitation Evaluation 

Project Scientist: 

Dr. Gerald Nurre 

Marshall Space Flight Center 

Huntsville, AL 

The Suppression of Transient Accelerations By Levitation Evaluation (STABLE) will test a device 

designed to isolate a small science experiment from high-frequency accelerations, including Shuttle 

operations and crew activity. 

The entire device fits into a single locker space in a Spacelab rack, the bottom of the locker serving as the 

base of the isolator. The platform is suspended from the base in the center of the locker by three 

electromagnetic actuators, mechanisms which move and control the platform. Each actuator is composed of 

a magnet, permanently attached to the platform, and a coil assembly, bolted to the base. Accelerometers are 

mounted both on the platform and the base, providing feedback of acceleration measurements through a 

feedback controller, also contained in the locker. This feedback allows position sensors to locate the 

platform with respect to the base and are used to maintain the platform near its centered position, thus 

producing a microgravity environment on the platform. 

High-Packed Digital Television Technical Demonstration 

This is the first flight demonstration of a new digital television system to operate from the Spacelab. It will 

provide researchers on the ground with up to six channels of video which can be transmitted 

simultaneously from orbit. Previously, only one video channel at a time could be sent down, or 

downlinked, limiting the accessibility of video data from experiments and other activities. Experiments 

requiring live video for analysis by ground teams had to be scheduled at different times. 

The new six-channel system will increase science return from the USML-2 mission, since a number of 

science teams will be able to monitor and modify operation of their experiments simultaneously. The HIPAC TV technology will serve the remaining Spacelab missions and will extend well into the Space 

Station era. 

Using the Spacelab's high-rate data system, HI-PAC converts standard analog video signals into digital 

signals, compressing the signal and downlinking it the same way as other digital data. When the signals are 

received on the ground, the digital data will be converted back into analog signals, then distributed to 

scientists for viewing on monitors in the science operations area. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 40 

STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN MISSION INVESTIGATIONS 

During STS-73, students at four sites will interact with the astronauts to discuss and compare onboard 

microgravity experiments with similar, ground-based experiments. The goal is to involve students as 

participants in Shuttle investigations in an effort to generate excitement in physical science and chemistry. 

The first live downlink with students is currently scheduled for flight day 12. Middle school students at the 

following sites will discuss mixing and crystal growth experiments with the Shuttle crew. 

1. Museum of the Rockies, Bozeman, MT. Mixing and sedimentation. 

2. Sierra Middle School, Las Cruces, NM. Crystallization experiments. 

The second live downlink is scheduled for flight day 13. High school students from the following sites will 

discuss fluids and combustion experiments: 

1. South High School, Worcester, MA. Fluid experiments. 

2. Louisville Science Center, Louisville, KY. Combustion experiments. 

Prior to the mission, NASA's education specialists visited the sites to work with students on their 

experiments. 

A pre-flight education video of the STS-73 crew conducting the ground-based experiments and an 

accompanying "Microgravity Teacher's Guide with Activities for Physical Science" are available through 

the NASA Teacher Resource Center network. 

Teachers can access copies of the ground-based activities through the "Hot Topics" section in 

SPACELINK, NASA's electronic network for educators. These experiments use affordable and easily 

acquired materials. For this and other information, SPACELINK can be accessed via modem line (205) 

895-0028; WWW address http://spacelink.msfc.nasa.gov; and Telnet, Gopher and Anonymous FTP 

address spacelink.msfc.nasa.gov. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 41 

STS-73 CREWMEMBERS 

STS073-S-002 -- These five astronauts and two United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML) payload 

specialists pause from a rigid training schedule for the STS-73 crew portrait. On the front row, left to 

right, are Albert Sacco Jr., payload specialist; Kent V. Rominger, pilot; Michael E. Lopez-Alegria, mission 

specialist. On the back row are, left to right, Catherine G. Coleman, mission specialist; Kenneth D. 

Bowersox, commander; Fred W. Leslie, payload specialist; and Kathryn C. Thornton, payload 

commander. 

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, 01/2001/Page 42 

BIOGRAPHICAL DATA 

Navy Commander Kenneth D. Bowersox, 38, will lead the seven-member STS-73 crew during its 16-day 

mission in space. 

Bowersox was born in Portsmouth, VA, but considers Bedford, IN, to be his hometown. He received a 

bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering from the United States Naval Academy in 1978, and a master's 

degree in mechanical engineering from Columbia University in 1979. 

Bowersox received his commission in the Navy in 1978 and was designated a Naval Aviator in 1981. He 

was then assigned to Attack Squadron 22 aboard the USS Enterprise. Following graduation from the 

United States Air Force Test Pilot School at Edwards Air Force Base, CA, in 1985, he moved to the Naval 

Weapon Center at China Lake, CA. 

Bowersox was selected as an astronaut candidate in June 1987. Since then he has held a variety of 

technical assignments including flight software testing in the Shuttle Avionics Integration Laboratory; 

technical assistant to the director of flight crew operations; chief of the Astronaut Office Safety Branch; 

and spacecraft communicator in the Mission Control Center. A veteran of two space flights, Bowersox has 

logged more than 591 hours in space. 

His first flight, STS-50 in June/July 1992, was the first flight of the U.S. Microgravity Laboratory. Over a 

two-week period, crew members conducted a variety of experiments in materials processing and fluid 

dynamics in weightlessness. At that time, STS-50 was the longest Shuttle flight to date. Bowersox's second 

flight was as pilot of STS-61 in December 1993 which featured the servicing of the Hubble Space 

Telescope. During the 11-day mission, crew members conducted a record five spacewalks to restore the 

telescope to its full operating capacity. 

Colorado native and Navy Commander Kent Rominger, 39, will be making his first Shuttle flight on STS73. 

Born in Del Norte, CO, Rominger received a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from Colorado State 

University in 1978 and a master's degree in aeronautical engineering from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate 

School in 1987. Rominger received his commission through the Aviation Reserve Officer Candidate 

Program in 1979 and was designated a Naval Aviator in September 1980. Following training in the F-14 

Tomcat, he was assigned to Fighter Squadron Two and attended the Navy Fighter Weapons School. In 

1987, he completed Naval Postgraduate School/Test Pilot School Cooperative Program, and was assigned 

as the F-14 Project Officer to the Carrier Suitability Branch of the Strike Aircraft Test Directorate at 

Patuxent River, MD. During his tour of duty, he completed initial carrier suitability sea trials of the F- 14B, 

logging the first aircraft carrier assessment and catapult launch in the upgraded Tomcat. In 1990, he 

reported to Fighter Squadron 211 where he served as Operations Officer and completed a Desert Storm 

Deployment of the Arabian Gulf aboard the USS Nimitz. 

Rominger was selected as an astronaut candidate in 1992. He has since completed his candidate training 

and has been working technical issues for the Astronaut Office Operations Development Branch. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 43 

Three-time Shuttle veteran Kathryn Thornton, Ph.D., 43, will serve as Payload Commander and Mission 

Specialist 3 for the USML-2 mission. A native of Montgomery, AL, Thornton received a bachelor's degree 

in physics from Auburn University in 1974 as well as a master's degree and doctorate in physics from the 

University of Virginia in 1977 and 1979, respectively. 

After receiving her doctorate degree, Thornton was awarded a NATO Postdoctoral Fellowship to continue 

her research at the Max Planck Institute for Nuclear Physics in Heidelberg, West Germany. She then 

returned to Charlottesville, VA, where she was employed as a physicist at the US Army Foreign Science 

and Technology Center. 

Thornton completed her initial training as a NASA astronaut in 1985, and since then has logged more than 

593 hours in space, including more than 21 hours of extravehicular activity. 

Her first flight, in November 1989, was a five-day mission sponsored by the Department of Defense. Her 

second flight in May 1992 was aboard the maiden voyage of the Space Shuttle Endeavour on a mission to 

retrieve, repair and redeploy the International Telecommunications Satellite (INTELSAT), and to 

demonstrate and evaluate numerous EVA tasks to be used for the assembly of a space station. During that 

mission, Thornton and fellow crew member Tom Akers conducted a seven hour, 45 minute spacewalk. 

On her third flight, Thornton was part of the team that conducted five spacewalks to service and repair the 

Hubble Space Telescope. During the December 1993 mission, which lasted 11 days, Thornton performed 

two of the spacewalks, spending more than 13 EVA hours. 

Air Force Captain Catherine Coleman, Ph.D., 34, will be making her first space flight as Mission 

Specialist 1 during STS-73. 

Born in Charleston, SC, Coleman received a bachelor's degree in chemistry from the Massachusetts 

Institute of Technology in 1983, and a doctorate in polymer science and engineering from the University of 

Massachusetts in 1991. 

Coleman was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant in the Air Force in 1983 and began graduate work at the 

University of Massachusetts. In 1988, she entered active duty and was assigned to Wright-Patterson Air 

Force Base as a research chemist. She did research on new polymer materials and acted as a surface 

analysis consultant for the Long Duration Exposure Facility. In addition to assigned duties, Coleman was a 

volunteer test subject for the centrifuge program at the Crew Systems Directorate of the Armstrong 

Aeromedical Laboratory. She set several endurance and tolerance records during her participation in 

physiological and new equipment studies. 

Coleman was selected as an astronaut in 1992. Her technical assignments have since included working in 

the Astronaut Office Mission Support Branch and for flight software verification in the Shuttle Avionics 

Integration Laboratory. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 44 

Also making his first flight as Mission Specialist 2 is Navy Lieutenant Commander Michael LopezAlegria. 

Lopez-Alegria, 37, was born in Madrid, Spain, and considers both Madrid and Mission Viejo, CA, to be 

his hometowns. He earned a bachelor's degree in systems engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy in 

1980, and a master's degree in aeronautical engineering from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School in 1988. 

Lopez -Alegria was designated a naval aviator in 1981. He then served as a flight instructor in Pensacola, 

FL, until March 1983. His next assignment was to a fleet electronic reconnaissance squadron in Rota, 

Spain, where he served as a pilot and mission commander aboard EP-3E aircraft, flying missions in the 

Mediterranean Sea, North Atlantic, Baltic Sea and Central America. In 1986, he was assigned to a two-year 

cooperative program between the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, and the U.S. Naval Test 

Pilot School in Patuxent River, MD. His final tour before being assigned to NASA was at the Naval Air 

Test Center as an engineering test pilot and program manager. 

Lopez-Alegria also was selected as an astronaut in 1992, and has worked with the Space Shuttle Orbiter, 

Main Engine, Solid Rocket Booster and External Tank projects. 

The crew roster for STS-73 also includes two Payload Specialists -- Fred Leslie, Ph.D., from the Marshall 

Space Flight Center, and Albert Sacco Jr., Ph.D., from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. 

Leslie, 43, was born in Ancon, Panama. He received a bachelor's degree in engineering science from the 

University of Texas in 1974, and a master's and doctorate degrees in meteorology with a minor in fluid 

mechanics from the University of Oklahoma in 1977 and 1979, respectively. 

After earning his doctorate, Leslie served as a post doctoral research associate at Purdue University 

studying fluid vortex dynamics. In 1980, he worked for the Universities Space Research Association as a 

visiting scientist at the Marshall Space Flight Center. 

Since 1983, Leslie has served as a co-investigator for the Geophysical Fluid Flow Cell experiment which 

flew on the Spacelab 3 mission and is part of the USML-2 payload. He also was a principal investigator for 

the Fluid Interface and Bubble Experiment examining the behavior of a rotating free surface aboard 

NASA's KC-135 aircraft. He is the author of 27 journal papers, 45 conference papers, and nine NASA 

reports involving atmospheric and fluid dynamic phenomena. 

In 1987, he became chief of the Fluid Dynamics Branch where he directed and conducted research in both 

laboratory and theoretical investigations. He was also the mission scientist for the Japanese Spacelab 

mission, STS-47. STS-73 will be his first space flight. 

A native of Boston, MA, Sacco, 46, received a bachelor's degree with honors from Northeastern University 

in 1973 and a doctorate from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1977, both in chemical 

engineering. Since 1977, Sacco has been on the faculty at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in the 

Department of Chemical Engineering, splitting his time between research and teaching. He was appointed 

department head in 1989. He has consulted for numerous companies in the field of catalysis, solid/gas 

contacting, and equipment design for space applications. Also, with his father and brother, he ran a family 

restaurant in Boston for more than 20 years. 

Sacco has over 70 publications in the areas of carbon filament initiation and growth, catalyst deactivation, 

and zeolite synthesis. He is the principal investigator for the Zeolite Crystal Growth Experiment and served 

as an alternate payload specialist on USML-1. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 45 

The alternate payload specialists for the USML-2 mission are Glynn Holt, a research scientist at NASA's 

Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and David Matthiesen, an assistant professor of Materials Science and 

Engineering at Case Western Reserve University. 

Holt, 35, a native of Plainview, TX, has performed significant research in support of the Drop Physics 

Module Program. He has authored numerous papers on drop behavior and gas bubble phenomena in both 

1-G and microgravity environments. He is a co-investigator for the Drop Physics Module for both USML1 and USML-2. 

Matthiesen, 37, a native of Blue Island, IL, has conducted extensive material processing research both in 

the laboratory and in low gravity aboard the KC-136. He was principal investigator on the USML-1 

gallium arsenide experiment and will serve as PI for a similar activity on USML-2. 
Edited by Richard W. Orloff, 01/2001/Page 46 

SHUTTLE FLIGHTS AS OF AUGUST 1995 

71 TOTAL FLIGHTS OF THE SHUTTLE SYSTEM -- 46 SINCE RETURN TO FLIGHT 

STS-70 

07/13/95 - 07/22/95 

STS-63 

02/03/95 - 02/11/95 

STS-64 

09/09/94 - 09/20/94 

 STS-60 

02/03/94 - -2/11/94 

STS-65 

07/08/94 0 07/23/94 

STS-51 

09/12/93 - 09/22/93 

STS-62 

03/04/94 - 03/18/94 

STS-56 

04/08/83 - 04/17/93 

STS-58 

10/18/93 - 11/01/93 

STS-53 

12/02/92 - 12/09/92 

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-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-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 

(17 flights) 

OV-099 

Challenger 

(10 flights) 

OV-103 

Discovery 

(21 flights) 

OV-104 

Atlantis 

(14 flights) 

OV-105 

Endeavour 

(9 flights)