STS-97 PAYLOADS
International Space Station Assembly Flight 4A

Endeavour's payload is the P6 Integrated Truss Structure. The P6 includes the Solar Array Wing-3 and the Integrated Equipment Assembly. The P6 will be installed on the International Space Station.

The P6 Integrated Truss Structure

STS-97 will build on and enhance the capabilities of the International Space Station. Space Shuttle Endeavour will deliver the first set of U.S.-provided solar arrays and batteries, called the P6 Photovoltaic Module, and temporarily install the P6 Integrated Truss Structure on the Z1 Truss until it is relocated to its permanent location on the P5 Truss during a later assembly mission.

The P6 Integrated Truss Structure is the primary payload for the STS-97 mission and contains three discrete elements: the Photovoltaic Array Assembly, the Integrated Equipment Assembly and the Long Spacer.

The P6 has four primary functions: the conversion or generation, storage, regulation and distribution of electrical power for the space station.

The station derives its power from the conversion of solar energy into electrical power. The Photovoltaic Power Module performs this energy conversion.

The STS-97 crew will bring the first of eight sets of solar arrays that - at the completion of space station construction in 2006 - will comprise the station's electrical power system, converting sunlight to electricity.