Operations Simulation Training for the Japanese Experiment Module "Kibo"

Operations simulation training for the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM), also known as "Kibo" was conducted on Oct. 28, 2005.During this simulation, the Space Station Operations Facility (SSOF) at Tsukuba Space Center (TKSC) and the Johnson Space Center (JSC) were linked together.

Simulation summary

Operations system configuration

The Kibo Operations Control System at the TKSC, the ISS/Kibo simulator at the JSC, and Mission Control Center Houston at JSC were linked together to transmit different types of data and to simulate Kibo operations.

Personnel in both Japan and the US participated in this test, which started early in the morning in Japan and continued throughout the day.

The simulation scenario started with the completion of the mechanical berthing operation of the Experiment Logistics Module Pressurized Section (ELM-PS) and the Pressurized Module (PM) and then focused on the activation of the ELM-PS.This session simulated the activation of the Thermal Control System heater, Power Distribution Box (PDB), smoke detector, lighting system, and the Emergency Lighting Power System of the ELM-PS.In addition, a Public Affairs Office (PAO) event was held at the ELM-PS, in accordance with the timeline, as if it were actual on-orbit activation operations.

In addition, anomalies involving equipment in Node 2, such as the DC-DC Converter Unit, PDB, and Remote Power Controller Module, were planned as part of the scenario.The simulation's goals were accomplished by participants simulating the discussions on how to deal with the anomalies and replanning the operations schedule.

Kibo Mission Control Room at the Space Station Operations Facility, JAXA TKSC During the training Kibo Mission Control Room

Space Station Control Center at NASA JSC During the training Space Station Training Facility at NASA JSC During the training ISS/Kibo Simulator at NASA JSC During the training

Future Schedule

The flight directors and flight controllers' preparation for Kibo operation is progressing satisfactorily.In the future, there will be more operations simulations in which JAXA and NASA will be linked together.