Columbus Phase-B utilization studies overview

Preparatory steps towards identifying the potential of Columbus and Space Station for scientific utilization and industrial applications have been undertaken, as early as 1982. The 'European Utilization Aspects of Low Earth Orbit Space Station Elements' (EUA) studies had provided Europe with the prime framework within which the main directions of utilization ideas have been formulated, discussed and refined. In addition to four studies, 17 dedicated payload studies were conducted in parallel under the responsibility of the relevant ESA User Directorates. The outputs, when available, were used as inputs for the Utilization Studies. These and other aspects of the subject are discussed.