Apparatus for encapsulating space launch payloads

Abstract

A method and apparatus for encapsulating a payload in a shroud and mounting the resulting assembly on a launch vehicle. An encapsulation cell is provided for containing a payload to be encapsulated in a shroud. That cell is maintained at a 'clean room' level of cleanliness. A shroud having a cleaned and sealed interior is placed on the roof in a vertical orientation. A seal arrangement seals between the shroud near its lower end and the roof, creating an airlock. The roof panels below the shroud are opened and the payload is lifted into the shroud through the opening and secured in the shroud. The opening is then closed, the seal retracted and the assembly of payload and shroud moved to a bay where it is mated to a space launch vehicle. This cell and encapsulation system eliminates the need to clean the shroud exterior and any need for a very large clean room cell to house the payload, shroud and lifting device. Ideally, several clean rooms are provided adjacent to the cell for assembling and testing payloads, with a clean room aisle for moving payloads from the assembly rooms to the cell. Also, several launch vehicle assembly bays may be provided for mating shroud and payload assemblies on launch vehicles and performing the required tests prior to moving the complete launch vehicle to a launch pad. One encapsulation cell can service several payload assembly facilities and launch vehicle assembly facilities.