Boeing and Khrunichev have joined forces to market the first commercial module for the International Space Station (ISS). Identical to the Russian-built Zarya control module launched in November 1998 as the first element of the ISS, the multi-purpose module is essentially complete and could be launched in mid-2002.
The commercial space module (CSM) could deliver up to 3,000kg (6,600lb) of cargo and propellant to the ISS. The project will cost around $200 million including the launch by Russian Proton M booster from Baikonur, says Brewster Shaw, Boeing ISS general manager, and will be privately funded.
Docked to the Zarya module, the CSM would provide interim crew quarters, on-orbit storage and waste management capabilities, as well as space for scientific experiments and other commercial payloads. "The ISS is hard-pressed for usable volume, particularly for the crew," says Shaw. "We can bridge the gap with FGB-2 [CSM]."
"Boeing has started negotiations with potential customers," says Sergei Shaevich, ISS programme director for module builder Krunichev. "FGB-2 is a clone of FGB-1 [Zarya]."
Costs for commercial customers will be based on the price list already established by NASA, but "we intend to be flexible", says Shaevich. Potential customers for the CSM range from pharmaceutical companies to the film industry.
Boeing, as ISS prime contractor, has held consultations with NASA and the Russian Space Agency, says Shaw. "The preliminary evaluation of both agencies is positive."
Source: Flight International
