NASA | SLIC: The Unsung Hero of Hubble SM4

The video tutorial discusses the role of carriers in space missions, focusing on their structural and electrical support for the Hubble Space Telescope. It highlights the challenges faced during launch, such as load isolation and thermal control. The tutorial details the carriers used in Servicing Mission 4, including the mule, flight support system, and the innovative Slick carrier. Slick, a lightweight composite carrier, enables the transport of new instruments like the Widefield Camera 3. The video also covers the rigorous testing Slick underwent and the knowledge transfer to other space exploration programs.

What is the primary function of the carriers mentioned in the video?

• To act as communication satellites

• To serve as living quarters for astronauts

• To transport scientific instruments and hardware to space

• To provide food and supplies to astronauts

Which carrier is described as the primary birthing platform for the Hubble?

• The orbital replacement unit carrier

• The slick

• The flight support system

• The mule

What is the purpose of the new soft capture mechanism?

• To enhance the telescope's imaging capabilities

• To protect the telescope from space debris

• To attach to the bottom of the telescope for future capture

• To provide additional power to the telescope

What material is the Slick carrier primarily made of?

• Titanium

• Carbon fibers

• Steel

• Aluminum

Why was the Slick carrier subjected to significant testing?

• To ensure it could withstand the stresses of launch and landing

• To check its resistance to space radiation

• To test its ability to carry astronauts

• To evaluate its communication capabilities