Small Payload Support Module

The objective of this proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of significantly reducing the time and costs to develop, integrate, manifest and fly a variety of small experiments or payloads, i.e., show the feasibility of flying small payloads in < 1year for < $1M. The opportunities and means for small experimental payloads to obtain space flight is a critical deficiency in our national space program efforts. Small payloads cannot afford their own launch vehicles, uniquely designed satellite busses,or ground support systems. The proposed Small Payload Support Module concept develops the right combination of launch and on-orbit support capabilities, and the innovative processes to bring this capability into existence. Design_Net Engineering will, 1)define the available launch space(s) and processes for timely manifesting on the STS, 2) identify the ISS locations where independent attached payloads could be hosted, 3) identify an independent communications system, 4) define a target generic payloadsupport capability, 5) define a Small Payload Support Module conceptual design and standardization, 6) identify the program cost, and 7) develop a plan for further program development and commercialization, based on our early small payload user input.Anticipated benefits are to reduce the backlog of existing payloads and experiments that are without a launch opportunity, to provide significant cost reductions in developing and launching small payloads, to further rapid advancement of scientific andengineering knowledge, and enhance risk reduction for space-related components and systems