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This section describes the process by which the HITF analyzes data from hypervelocity impact tests for the purposes of studying real world problems, like the actual test programs listed below.
The HITF follows a few basic steps in the analysis of hypervelocity impact test data. Generally, the analysis process
consists of running a series of HVI experiments (a test program), collecting and analyzing the damage data produced, and developing models (ballistic limit equations)
which functionally predict damage for a particular shield configuration, given a set of impacting parameters. These equations serve as an input to the spacecraft threat
assessment model (called Bumper), which will yield the overall risk which meteoroids and orbital debris pose to a spacecraft. This "risk" is expressed in "probabilities of impact", and "probabilities of (critical) failure".
These last metrics are the fundamental objective which falls out of HVI research.
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At the HITF, testing, analysis, design, and other services have been performed
on a variety of manned and unmanned spacecraft. The following case
studies provide some insight into the capabilities of the HITF.
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An important part of the Spapce Station is its Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS),
the robotic arm that will be used to perform various tasks on the ISS. The HITF looked at the effects of meteoroid and debris impacts to the arm itself and its electrical cables.
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Mission support for the shuttle program has been a primary focus at the
HITF. Significant effort has gone towards prediction and mitigation of
on-orbit impact risk.
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The familiar Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) are used for spacewalks
by shuttle astronauts and will also be used during the construction of
the International Space Station.
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JSC is currently evaluating the feasibility of a manned mission to Mars,
and the HITF has conducted hypervelocity impact experiments to assess the
response of the Mars Module Shield (MMS) concepts.
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Stardust is an interplanetary probe that will be used to collect cometary
particulates from the comet 81P/Wild-2 while passing within 100 km (62 miles)
of its nucleus head in early 2004.
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The X-38 is the X-series name given to the prototype ISS Crew Return Vehicle (CRV).
The HITF has performed numerous hypervelocity experiments using X-38 materials which
have helped generate complete threat assessments for the spacecraft.
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Notices: What You Need to Know About NASA JSC Web Policies
