Review of components for large spacecraft implementation

The future of large spacecraft assembly, maintenance and servicing can benefit from the techniques and technologies of the past, present, and future. Not only can existing concepts and hardware be used to reduce implementation costs, but they can also point to deficiencies, which require further attention and development. This paper reviews relevant design trades, tasks and experience associated with actual Shuttle, Mir, and ISS missions as well as some credible developmental projects that were not actually flown. It includes an illustrated summary of some of the latest designs in use for fasteners, mechanical joints, electrical connectors, fluid connectors and related components. Interfaces common to both manual EVA and robotic handling are noted. References are supplied to aid the reader in pursuing additional details. These assembly, maintenance and servicing technologies have application not only to low-earth orbit (LEO), but also for large spacecraft beyond LEO.