3.3.2 GAS Complex Autonomous Pay load (CAP) It is clear from this description that the standard GAS Cans are inadequate for the purposes of a Powersat demonstrator. However, a number of enhancements are available, but at greater cost. In particular, the GAS CAP is a recent (mid-1991) development being proposed by NASA for missions that require more than a standard GAS canister, but for those experimenters who cannot afford the relatively high cost of the Hitchhikers (see below). The total cost for one basic GAS CAP (without motorised door assembly) is currently targeted at around $100,000. In addition, a charge of $25,000 is required to lease the GAS beam needed to hold the GAS CAP to the Shuttle. The cost for optional capabilities, including the motorised door assembly needed to allow deployment of small payloads (Figure 3.3-2), will be charged appropriately, although NASA has not established a firm pricing policy yet. [14] Other optional services, most of which appear to be applicable to the Powersat demonstration, include, • Max ejection mass 68 kg, • Ejected payload size 0.48 m dia. x 0.51 m, • Orbiter pointing at specific targets for short periods, • Greater astronaut interaction than standard GAS Cans, • Possibility to electrically connect two GAS Cans, • Mounting of small items on the door (sealed GAS only). • Customer unique apertures in top plate (sealed GAS only), • Access to launch pad up to L-4 days, selected flights, • Co-manifesting with specific primary/secondary payload, • Manifesting on flight with specific orbit, altitude etc.
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