Abstract: A spacecraft propulsion module (16) that includes an outer cylindrical housing (20), an end wall (22) and a specialized internal structure (50) that is capable of supporting various spacecraft components (110, 112, 124), to provide different levels of spacecraft complexity for different missions. The internal structure (50) within the housing (20) includes a plurality of inner walls (52-58) defining an “eggcrate” structure. The plurality of inner walls (52-58) includes a first pair of walls (52, 54), extending in one direction and a second pair of walls (56, 58) extending in a substantially orthogonal direction to define a center compartment (76) surrounded by a plurality of perimeter compartments (60-74).

Abstract: A spacecraft propulsion module (16) that includes an outer cylindrical housing (20), an end wall (22) and a specialized internal structure (50) that is capable of supporting various spacecraft components (110, 112, 124), to provide different levels of spacecraft complexity for different missions. The internal structure (50) within the housing (20) includes a plurality of inner walls (52-58) defining an “eggcrate” structure. The plurality of inner walls (52-58) includes a first pair of walls (52, 54), extending in one direction and a second pair of walls (56, 58) extending in a substantially orthogonal direction to define a center compartment (76) surrounded by a plurality of perimeter compartments (60-74).

Abstract: A spacecraft propulsion module (16) that includes an outer cylindrical housing (20), an end wall (22) and a specialized internal structure (50) that is capable of supporting various spacecraft components (110, 112, 124), to provide different levels of spacecraft complexity for different missions. The internal structure (50) within the housing (20) includes a plurality of inner walls (52-58) defining an "eggcrate" structure. The plurality of inner walls (52-58) includes a first pair of walls (52, 54), extending in one direction and a second pair of walls (56, 58) extending in a substantially orthogonal direction to define a center compartment (76) surrounded by a plurality of perimeter compartments (60-74). The inner walls (52-58) and the outer housing (20) define support surfaces on which can be mounted different spacecraft components, such as propellant tanks (110), pressurant tanks (168), life support tanks (126), control, guidance, navigation and communication avionics (124), batteries (112), etc.

Abstract: An encapsulating service module for constructing a short, compact emergency descent vehicle which can be easily loaded into a space shuttle cargo bay with minimum volume. The encapsulating service module includes an annular-shaped support structure for attachment around a spacecraft module and various service module components mounted to the support structure. These service module components include propellant tanks, main and reaction control system (RCS) thrusters, environmental control and life support system tanks, and avionics and battery units. A micrometeoroid shield is included either as a separate structure or is integral with the encapsulating service module to protect the service and spacecraft modules from the space environment. The spacecraft module can be an Apollo-type command module, a Soyuz-type vehicle, or any other type of manned or unmanned spacecraft.