Looking ahead: Science requirements for the U.S./International Space Station

During the next eight years the United States, European countries within the European Space Agency, Canada, and Japan will engage in the design and construction of facilities included in the current conceptual design of the U.S./International Space Station. The object will be to build a manned space facility capable of supporting scientific research, technological development, and commercial operations. This paper is directed towards an overview of the essential requirements for successful scientific use of the Space Station. Because specific supporting technologies will change so drastically before heavy use can begin, it is important to discuss the most fundamental aspects of user requirements; namely, (1) What are the characteristics of a remote, manned space facility that can promote first rate scientific use? (2) What does it take to achieve such a facility, and (3) What guidelines can be given such that once the facility is in operation it attracts the best possible scientific talent?