Development of a multi-user facility for quantum experiments in the Einstein-Elevator by integrating an ISS express rack

The aim of this research project is to develop a multi-user express rack that functions as an interface between the Einstein-Elevator and the scientific experiments on the International Space Station (ISS). The Multi-User Express Rack is based on the standardized sizes of the International Standard Payload Rack (ISPR). This standardization makes it possible for the experiments to be examined to have direct access to the rack, which significantly reduces the integration effort.

In order to realistically simulate the environmental conditions of the ISS, the Multi-User Express Rack will be integrated into the Einstein-Elevator, a state-of-the-art research facility at the Hannover Institute of Technology (HITec) of the Leibniz University Hannover. The Einstein-Elevator provides a novel platform that can simulate a wide range of gravitational conditions - from microgravity (µg) to the high forces of a rocket launch (5 g). This is done in short time intervals with a high repetition rate.

The possibilities of a multi-user express rack are of great advantage for quantum experiments such as BECCAL, but above all for developing new, international cooperative experiments. The system can be used to support both ongoing and completed scientific projects on the ISS. When the setup is on the ISS, an additional ground-based test system can be used to evaluate specific results or malfunctions of the flown setup. New procedures can be quickly prepared and tested on the ground, and hardware changes can be implemented immediately. In addition, the systems of future ISS research projects can be tested in advance in the Einstein-Elevator to minimize the risk of costly failures.

As part of this project, an initial study on the technical details of feasibility is being developed. In addition to evolving the interface between the rack and the experiments, technical specifications such as the power supply, communication systems, cooling and the transportation of liquid and gaseous media will be worked out and adapted to the specific environmental conditions of the Einstein-Elevator.