The Multi-Element Integrated Test (MEIT) between the
Japanese Experiment Module-Pressurized Module (JEM-PM) Kibo,
and NASA’s Node-2 began Aug. 26 and was successfully
completed last week at Kennedy Space Center (KSC), Fla.
The MEIT performed testing of the International Space Station
(ISS) element interfaces to be utilized on Node-2 beginning
with the JEM-PM mission. The testing included both the Node-2
and JEM-PM emulation of the ISS on-orbit activation sequence,
command and track systems that support audio and video
systems on-orbit, and the caution and warning systems that
monitor life-support systems in the modules.
“The successful completion of the MEIT is a major milestone,
successfully demonstrating on-orbit performance of key
Station elements on the ground,” said Tip Talone, director of
International Space Station and Payload Processing at KSC.
“The team did a superior job.”
The complexity of the MEIT, only the third integrated test of
its kind to be performed at KSC, required assembly of an
international and multi-organizational team. The team
included members of the European Space Agency, the National
Space Development Agency of Japan, the Canadian Space Agency,
the Italian Space Agency, and NASA and Boeing employees at
KSC; Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Ala.; Glenn
Research Center, Cleveland; Johnson Space Center, Houston;
and Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, Calif. Flight
crew members from the United States, Japan and Brazil also
came to KSC to assist in testing.
Upon delivery to the Station, Node-2 will be attached to the
U.S. Lab Destiny, and JEM-PM will subsequently be attached to
Node-2.
