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This paper presents the basic test data obtained from tests of a cabin air distribution system in a simulated Space Station Man-Tended Capability (MTC) configuration and correlations of some of this data with the results from analytical modeling of the test setup flow conditions. The MTC configuration simulated in the test setup includes: Lab-A, the Node, the Cupola, and the Pressurized Module Adaptor (PMA). The test data and analytical data presented are confined to those for the Lab module. The cabin air distribution system controls the flow of air in the open space of a Space Station module. In order to meet crew comfort criteria the local velocities for this cabin air are required to be distributed within a specified range with upper and lower limits.

The International Space Station Alpha (ISSA) Temperature and Humidity Control (THC) subsystem has been reconfigured and tested for both Node 1 and US Laboratory modules. Each element shares conditioned air that originates in the Lab module and is distributed into either the Lab, Node 1, Mini-Pressurized Logistics Module (MPLM), or the Cupola. This “parasitic” cooling scheme was tested at the McDonnell Douglas Space System Laboratory in Huntington Beach, California, during the summer of 1995. This test involved the use of standard and nonstandard techniques of measuring air flow through a complex system of ducting. Flow balancing was achieved through a series of additional dampers and orifices throughout the system. The purpose of this paper is to review some of the air flow measurement techniques and compare some of the test results with traditional theory. Techniques used for flow balancing, and test conclusions and recommendations, are also included.