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This paper describes a life support and EVA system for an SSTO that will have minimum mass impact on spaceship design while permitting full in-flight functionality, ready EVA, adequate back-up in emergencies and simplified maintenance and checkout. The system premises a single crewmember, continuously suited operations, limited on-orbit stay, an unpressurized cabin and EVA without need for an airlock. Conceptual drawing and mass estimate are provided.

Extravehicular Activity (EVA) for space operations is essential, but use is inhibited by the hazard associated with it1. EVA's importance to future projects mean assessment of its danger should be based on facts, not individual perceptions. This study surveyed data on EVA as conducted by US astronauts and Russian cosmonauts, documented the EVA experience and compared EVA to similar human activities of comparable difficulty and danger. This was to establish a basis for estimating the long term hazard level of EVA in the absence of adequate statistical data for EVA, per se. The results are tabulated and some conclusions drawn.

The present airlock and EVA suit present some barriers to cost-effective EVA. CREWLOCK is an alternative to the present airlock that is compatible with orbiter design and new EVA suit technologies. A pressure wall transit device which is a relatively close form fit to the transiting body reduces loss of pressurant gases, eliminates pumps, and reduces lock mass and transit time.