RRM3

Launch data: Designation  43827 / 18101 Launch date - time  05 Dec 2018 - 18:16 UT Launch site  CCK, SLC-40 Launch vehicle  Falcon-9 v1.2 Mission  ISS component: Destination location  ISS/ Attached date   Earth orbit attached on ISS: Perigee / Apogee   km Inclination   ° Period   min

NASA′s Robotic Refueling Mission 3 before launch. Photo: NASA.

Description:

• Spacecraft use consumables like propellant and coolant to perform key functions such as maneuvering and maintaining critical equipment. Consumables, by their very nature, eventually run out. The technology to replenish these crucial supplies in space does not currently exist. NASA′s Robotic Refueling Mission 3 (RRM3) will help change that paradigm, advancing satellite servicing capabilities and enabling long duration, deep space exploration.

Mission:

• RRM3 builds on the first two phases of International Space Station technology demonstrations that tested tools, technologies, and techniques to refuel and repair satellites in orbit. RRM3 will extend these demonstrations to include technologies needed to store and transfer super-cold cryogenic fluids.
• The mission launched to space station in December 2018. It will have a projected two-year life on station, though NASA intends to accomplish RRM3′s objectives within the first year. On April 8, RRM3 experienced an issue that necessitated the venting of the cryogenic fluid contained within the module, but the mission is still projected to carry out the tool operations associated with transferring cryogenic fuel in space, demonstrating the cutting edge technologies needed to make it possible.
• RRM3 is developed and operated by the Satellite Servicing Projects Division at NASA′s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, under direction of NASA′s Space Technology Mission Directorate.

External links:

• NASA: RRM3 Information