A packetised remote visual access data system for space station interactive payload operations.

Potential users of the pressurised Columbus elements, (the Attached Pressurised Module and the Man-Tended Free Flyer), were consulted in order to establish the requirements necessary to achieve effective and efficient remote interactive payload operations. These are briefly described and clearly indicate that the key to such operations is a versatile remote visual access (video) system which is well-tuned to the requirements of the users in both the on-board and ground segments. A packetised remote visual access data system is proposed which accommodates these requirements and offers a very flexible operational environment. It incorporates a scheme for optimising users' remote visual access to their experiments. Methods of implementing the necessary multiplexing and compression aspects of the system are discussed. A scheme for centralized on-board monitoring, which is complicated by the wide range of video sources required by the users, is outlined and aspects of the ground segment, in particular the problem is link delays, are considered.