The role of man in space

The roles played by astronauts in space missions are discussed using illustrations from the Spacelab and STS experience, and the implications for the proposed space station are considered. Man's ability to perform successfully for relatively long periods in space is demonstrated, and capabilities in manipulation, EVA, equipment repair and compensation for equipment failure, earth observation, astronomy of sun and stars, and laboratory experimentation are characterized and illustrated with photographs. Space station activities planned include repairs (like that of the Solar Maximum Satellite), maintenance (of the Space Telescope), and construction and involve the use of a manned maneuvering unit, a teleoperator maneuvering system, and/or a manned or unmanned OTV.