Interconnect Technology for Manned Space Flight

PROVEN-PERFORMANCE AND CURRENT-DAY FLIGHT HERITAGE

Glenair Interconnects and Assemblies in Next-Generation Manned-Flight Space Programs A New Generation of Manned-Flight Interconnect Design-Ins G lenair continues its long history of service in the manned space industry with a broad range of design wins on today’s most mission-critical space applications. From blind-mate and lanyard-release connectors used in launch vehicles umbilical cables to special high-speed data link connectors designed for use on a next-generation space station build, Glenair is still the go-to partner for manned space interconnect engineering and manufacturing. As always, we offer our space industry customers not only discrete component technologies, but engineered assemblies that combine Glenair signature solutions into turnkey assemblies. This page spread provides a brief summary for a few of these design wins, followed up with data sheets for both these as well as some other proven-performance solutions—all with current-day or upcoming manned space flight heritage.

Assisted Separation Force and Lanyard-Release Quick-Disconnect Connectors, Cables, and Conduits for Rocket Launch Applications Umbilical cables and ruggedized conduit assemblies used during rocket launch and inter-stage separation require sophisticated blind-mate and assisted-release connectors for reliable disengagement of the interconnect from the launch vehicle. Problems associated with poorly designed connectors of this type have long plagued launch events, even including for manned space programs. An original Titan (Missile C-2), for example, which had already been selected for use in early Gemini programs, suffered catastrophic failures due to non-separation of umbilical interconnects during launch. These problems have been completely resolved in both

space agency and commercial launch systems through the use of purpose-designed MIL-DTL-38999 type connectors—Glenair SuperNine ® —with accommodation for mating misalignment and spring-loaded assisted release. These solutions, as well as more conventional lanyard-release umbilical connectors, are supplied by Glenair for today’s most mission-critical manned space launch systems.