May 28, 2016
Invocon Wireless Instrumentation Monitors First Inflatable Habitat for Humans
Today, two Invocon systems monitored the deployment of the first inflatable habitat used in human spaceflight. The Bigelow Expandable Activity Module (BEAM) was successfully deployed today as the newest module on the International Space Station (ISS). Invocon’s Enhanced Wideband Micro Tri-axial Accelerometer Unit (EWBMTAU) was installed before launch so that it could monitor stresses on the module during deployment. Additionally, Invocon’s Internal Wireless Instrumentation System (IWIS) was used to monitor other parts of the ISS during deployment. The wireless nature of these systems provides NASA with a significant level of flexibility in their placement and operation.
Two other Invocon wireless systems will be installed in the BEAM in early June when astronauts first enter the new module. The Distributed Impact Detection System (DIDS) will be used to monitor the BEAM for impacts from micrometeoroids and orbital debris (MMOD). The Wireless Strain Gage Instrumentation System (WSGIS) will monitor temperature in the BEAM.
April 8, 2016
Invocon Wireless Instrumentation aboard SpaceX Launch CRS-8
Three Invocon instrumentation systems are headed to the International Space Station (ISS) today as part of the SpaceX CRS-8 launch. Each of these systems will be used to monitor the Bigelow Expandable Activity Module (BEAM). The BEAM is an inflatable habitat that will be tested at the ISS for the next two years in preparation for long-duration missions. The Invocon systems include the Distributed Impact Detection System (DIDS), the Wireless Strain Gage Instrumentation System (WSGIS), and the Enhanced Wideband Micro-miniature Tri-axial Accelerometer Unit (EWBMTAU). DIDS will be used to monitor the BEAM for impacts from micrometeoroids and orbital debris (MMOD). WSGIS has been re-tasked from its original purpose aboard the ISS and Space Shuttle. It will monitor temperature in the BEAM. EWBMTAU will monitor dynamic stresses on the BEAM during its inflation. Additionally, Invocon’s Internal Wireless Instrumentation System (IWIS) – already operating on the station – will monitor dynamic stresses on the ISS adjacent to the BEAM.