Abstract: A method is disclosed for exchanging a payload module on a satellite comprising a control module and a detachable payload for a new payload module in the STS or space shuttle orbiter using one RMS or remote manipulator system. In the method after the space shuttle orbiter is placed near the satellite the RMS rotates the new payload in a position to present the control module attachment end away from the cargo bay. The RMS then captures the satellite and positions it in the cargo bay of the orbiter adjacent the new module with the control module facing away from the cargo bay. The control module is moved to the new payload module and the assembly deployed in space away from the space shuttle orbiter.