MSFC-HDBK-3051 REV A

Abstract

The Microgravity Science Glovebox (MSG) is a double rack facility designed for microgravity investigation/experiment handling aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The MSG consists of: The Core Facility (CF), the International Standard Payload Rack (ISPR) with its Standard Payload Outfitting Equipment (SPOE). <br>The MSG facility provides an enclosed working area for investigation/experiment manipulation and observation in the ISS. This working area can serve as an environment that is isolated from the manned atmosphere, as a constantly recirculating environment that is maintained at a pressure lower than the manned ambient, or as a working area not isolated from the manned atmosphere. This is accomplished by a design that includes multiple air circulation modes, multipurpose filters that filter circulated air, and access for differing requirements for experiment manipulation. <br>This manual contains information on the capabilities of the MSG facility. The manual includes information in the following areas: general system description, mechanical and electrical interfaces, power, video, command and data, thermal conditioning, vacuum resource and exhaust, Nitrogen, experiment material handling, working envelopes and MSG outfitting equipment. <br>This is a top-level document, which attempts to identify the MSG resources available to the user. Resource details and interface requirements are fully described in the MSG Investigation Interface Requirements Document (IIRD), MSFC-RQMT-2888. Information concerning schedules and integration requirements can be found in the MSG Investigation Integration Plan, MSFC-PLAN-3052. These documents will be made available to all investigations assigned to a flight/increment.