Visvesvarayya Space Lab

Preliminary Space Lab Demonstrator

Abstract

In this paper preliminary design of a space lab module is realised with bottom-up approach. Initial design iterations are performed on hexagonal cross-section module design assembled together in T shape. Design consists of research AQ1 and human habitable sections integrated. Structural finite element analysis is performed on the design, further iterated to obtain suitable design configuration for both orbital and ground cases. Modal analysis is performed on the orbital design to study suitability of launch vehicle adaption. Thus obtained preliminary design AQ2 concept along with theme of subsystem design is implemented in real-world, life-sized demonstrator at the institution. The demonstrator served as test bench to apply, test, observe functionalities, proving capability and engineering principles. Demonstrator performance was optimised for its respective operating condition i.e., orbital and ground. The work serves as preliminary design towards realising an in-space operating space lab.