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.