The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has successfully launched its first HTV-X cargo spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS). This marks JAXA's return to ISS resupply missions after a five-and-a-half-year hiatus following the retirement of the original HTV.
The HTV-X boasts a pressurised cargo capacity of 4,070 kg and a further 1,750 kg in its unpressurised "trunk." While the mass capacity is similar to its predecessor, the HTV-X offers a significantly increased total volume of 78 cubic metres across both compartments, compared to the HTV's 49. Measuring eight metres long and 4.4 metres wide, the HTV-X also features enhanced capabilities.
Compared to other cargo capsules, the HTV-X provides 1.2 times the capacity of Cygnus, 1.8 times that of Dragon, and 2.3 times that of Progress. It can supply electricity to onboard experiments, accommodate last-minute cargo up to 24 hours before launch (compared to 80 hours for the HTV), and remain docked to the ISS for up to six months, with the potential for a further 18 months in orbit after undocking.
The HTV-X is launched via the H3 rocket, specifically the 24L variant. The HTV-X1 mission is carrying 4,000 kg of pressurised cargo and 250 kg of unpressurised cargo, including supplies for the crew, the Kibo laboratory, and various experiments. The unpressurised module houses the i-SEEP platform, designed for external experiments on the Kibo laboratory. Arrival at the ISS is scheduled for October 30th, where it will be grappled by the station's robotic arm and docked to the Harmony module for a six-month stay, followed by a three-month extended mission in orbit.
Fuente Original: https://www.microsiervos.com/archivo/espacio/japon-lanza-primer-carguero-htvx-estacion-espacial.html
Artículos relacionados de LaRebelión:
Artículo generado mediante LaRebelionBOT
No hay comentarios:
Publicar un comentario