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TheInternational Standard Payload Rack (ISPR) is a steel framework container that is designed and been adopted by theInternational Space Station (ISS) program to support efficient integration and interchangeability of space payload hardware, such as machines and experiments. A typical rack contains 37 ISPR slots for science payloads, which are interchangeable to accommodate different components or payloads.
Each ISPR provides 1.571 m3 (55.5 ft3) of internal volume being about 2 m (79 in) high, 1.05 m (41 in) wide, and 85.9 cm (33.8 in) deep. The rackweighs 104 kg (230 lb) and can accommodate an additional 700 kg (1,500 lb) of payload equipment.[1] The rack has internal mounting provisions to allow attachment of secondary structure. The ISPRs will be outfitted with a thin center post to accommodate sub-rack-sized payloads, such as the 483 mm (19-inch rack)Spacelab Standard Interface Rack (SIR) Drawer or theSpace Shuttle Middeck Locker. Utility pass-through ports are located on each side to allow cables to be run between Racks. Module attachment points are provided at the top of the rack and via pivot points at the bottom. The pivot points support installation and maintenance. Tracks on the exterior front posts allow mounting of payload equipment andlaptopcomputers. Additional adapters on the ISPRs are provided for ground handling.[citation needed]
The International Standard Payload Rack is the size of a side-by-side refrigerator, and is too big to fit through the Russian probe and drogue docking system,APAS, orNDS docking systems, and therefore cannot be transferred directly from aProgress,ATV, or the interior of theSpace Shuttle to the ISS.[2][citation needed] In the past ISPRs were delivered inMulti-Purpose Logistics Modules, which were carried in the Space Shuttle cargo bay and berthed toCBM ports.Cygnus spacecraft hatches are too narrow to fit ISPRs with their 37 inches (94 cm) wide openings andCargo Dragon 1 spacecraft have no capability to either launch or return ISPRs because of the design of the pressurized section of the Cargo Dragon 1 spacecraft which can only transport cargo bags and smaller racks.Cargo Dragon 2 spacecraft have 31 inches (79 cm) wide hatch openings and can not fit the 41.3 inches (105 cm) wide ISPRs. As of 2020[update] ISPRs can only be delivered using the JapaneseH-II Transfer Vehicle.[3]
Japan has developed an ISPR with interfaces and capabilities nearly identical to NASA's.[citation needed]
Bay one can carry four International Standard Payloads Racks (ISPRs), than can be removed from the HTV and transferred to the ISS.