About Kibo

Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section

Overview

The Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section (ELM-ES) will be attached to the end of the Exposed Facility (EF) to provide payload storage space. The ELM-ES can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where the ELM-ES can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle.

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Item	Specification
Structure	Frame
Width	4.9m
Height	2.2m (including the height of the payloads)
Length	4.1m
Mass (Dry weight)	1.2t (excluding payloads)
Number of Payloads (loading style variable)	Three EF payloads Two EF payloads + three R-ORUs Two EF payloads + two E-ORUs
Electrical power supply	Max. 1.0kW 120V DC
Thermal control	Heater and thermal insulator
Life time	More than 10 years

Structure

The ELM-ES is mainly composed of aluminum alloy panels in a reticular pattern. Five trunnions fasten the ELM-ES to the space shuttle's cargo bay.

Payload Interface Unit (PIU)

This mechanism is used to attach the ELM-ES to the EF or the Experiment Logistics Module-Pressurized Section (ELM-PS).

Trunnion

This is a fixture for fastening the EF to the space shuttle's cargo bay, when the EF is launched.

Grapple Fixtures

SSRMS (Space Station Remote Manipulator System) or SRMS (Shuttle Remote Manipulator System) grapple here.

Payload Attachment Mechanism (PAM)

This mechanism fastens EF payloads to the ELM-ES while the ELM-ES is being launched to the International Space Station (ISS) or returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. In addition, this mechanism is used to temporarily accommodate EF payloads. The PAM has electrical connectors that provide heater power to EF payloads.

Current Status

The ELM-ES was shipped from Japan to NASA Kennedy Space Center in 2008. The ELM-ES was launched on the STS-127 Mission (2J/A) and installed to the EF on July 21, 2009.

STS-127 Mission (2J/A)