McDonnell Aircraft Conducts Military Test Space Station Studies for USAF Space Programs
The U.S. Air Force studied the Military Test Space Station (MTSS) from 1959 to 1962, focusing on designs for manned space stations. Five contractors, including McDonnell Aircraft and General Dynamics, were selected to explore MTSS configurations. The studies included one-man and two-man station designs, with timelines for potential launches. The MTSS aimed to test rendezvous and docking technologies and had overlaps with civilian space station concepts. The report outlines a development schedule and highlights the military's continued interest in space stations post-Dyna-Soar cancellation.
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Between 1959 and 1962, the U.S. Air Force conducted studies on the Military Test Space Station (MTSS) as part of study SR 17527. Five contractors, including McDonnell Aircraft and General Dynamics, were selected in 1960.
Two phases were completed: the early capability phase by April 1961 and the advanced phase by January 1962. The MTSS was designed to support an astronaut for 14 days, using an inflatable tunnel for capsule access.
A two-man configuration was also proposed. The report highlights overlaps with civilian designs and a development plan for launching the one-man MTSS in 1963 and a five-man version in 1965, revealing ongoing military interest in space stations.
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