Introduction

The John F. Kennedy Space Center's (KSC) outstanding record of achievements has earned it an honored place in history and an essential role in space transportation today. As NASA's Center of Excellence for Launch and Payload Processing Systems, KSC is increasing the momentum in space-faring technology development for current and future spaceports. The Spaceport Technology Center (STC) initiative carries out KSC's role within NASA to meet the goals of increased safety, reduced cost of space access, and rapid expansion of commercial markets by infusing spaceport technologies into all facets of recent and future Space Transportation Systems.

KSC's historic background as the nation's premier launch site creates an ideal environment for the STC. The STC's knowledge, expertise, facilities, and equipment provide technologies and processes to customers who propose to build and operate spaceports on Earth, in orbit, and beyond. The STC is composed of three strategic lines of business: Spaceport Operations, Spaceport Design and System Development, and Range Technology and Science. KSC has unparalleled expertise in designing, building, and operating a spaceport with all its complex systems.

The thrust of STC technology development activity is concentrated in six Spaceport Technology and Science Thrust Areas - Fluid System Technologies; Spaceport Structures and Materials; Process and Human Factors Engineering; Range Technologies; Command, Control, and Monitoring Technologies; and Biological Sciences. KSC's leadership in incorporating safer, faster, cheaper, and more robust systems and technologies will pave the way for future space industry. This report is organized by these six Technology and Science Thrust Areas.

KSC aggressively seeks industry participation and collaboration in its research and technology development initiatives. KSC also seeks to transfer its expertise and technology to the commercial sector and academic community. Programs and commercialization opportunities available to American industries and other institutional organizations are described in the Technology Programs and Commercialization Office Internet Web site at http://technology.ksc.nasa.gov. Additional insight into KSC's Spaceport Technology Center can be found on KSC's homepage at www.ksc.nasa.gov.