ELC-3

Launch data: Designation  N/A Launch date  16 May 2011 Launch site  KSC, LC39A Launch vehicle  Space Shuttle Mission  ISS Scientific Component: Destination platform   platform Attached date  18 May 2011

ELC-3 photographed during Exp.48 in 2016

Location payloads on ISS

Spacecraft data:

Description:

• The ELC is an un-pressurized attached payload project for the ISS, that provides mechanical mounting surfaces, electrical power, and command and data handling services for science experiments on the ISS. ("ExPRESS" stands for “expedite the processing of experiments to the Space Station”.) The ELCs have a deck size of about 14 feet by 16 feet and spans the width of the space shuttle′s payload bay. Each one is capable of providing scientists with a platform and infrastructure to deploy experiments in the vacuum of space without requiring a separate dedicated Earth-orbiting satellite. Each carrier is capable of carrying 9,800 lbs. to orbit and will also serve as parking fixtures for spare ISS hardware (ORUs) which can be retrieved when needed. Experiments are mounted on ExPRESS payload adapters (ExPA) which are about the same size as the FRAMs that hold ORUs.

External links:

• Wikipedia: Payload Information