Photovoltaic module on-orbit assembly for Space Station Freedom

The photovoltaic modules of the Space Station Freedom power system will be assembled on-orbit during the assembly phase of the program. The modules will be assembled either from the shuttle orbiter or from the Mobile Servicing Center (MSC). The different types of assembly operation that will be used to assemble the PV modules are described. One of the objectives of the assembly sequence is to prevent the need for throw-away hardware that will only be used temporarily to support Freedom during its assembly phase. The goal is to build Freedom in such a way that each piece of equipment is installed in its operating location without the need to remove or relocate it at a later point in the assembly sequence