Interim Control Module: Difference between revisions

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Revision as of 10:06, 18 October 2004

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The Interim Control Module (ICM) was a NASA constructed module to serve as a temporary "tug" for the [[ISS]] in case the [[ISS Zvezda]] service module was destroyed or not launched for an extended period of time. It was derived from a formerly-classified Titan Launch Dispenser used to distribute reconnaissance satellites to different orbits. It would have been able to prolong the lifespan of the [[Zarya]] module by providing equivalent propulsion capabilities to the Service Module, although not any of the other life support capabilities.

In 1997 NASA requested that Naval ResearcgResearch Laboratory study the feasibility of adapting an existing, heritage spaceflight system to provide low-cost, contingency propulsion operations for the International Space Station (ISS).

After determining that the system could be adapted in time to meet NASA's schedule requirements, NRL was granted authority to proceed with the Interim Control Module (ICM). From its inception ICM was a contingency option for attitude control and reboost of the ISS that would allow NASA to preserve the on-orbit construction schedule in case of delays in the launch of the Russian Service Module.