[net.columbia] LAUNCH -- MMU Info

alb@alice.UUCP (Adam L. Buchsbaum) (02/04/84)

The jet pack (MMU for manned maneuvering unit) is considered
safe by NASA.  A primitive version of it was tested inside
of Skylab in the 1970's.  The pack delivers 6 pounds of thrust,
and, together with the astronaut, must propel about 15 to 20 slugs.
Therefore, NASA says there is ''no chance'' that a malfunction
could send the astronaut soaring away into space.  As for fuel,
there is more than enough for the planned 1.5 and 3 hour flights.
In case the astronaut becomes stranded in space, the shuttle will
maneuver close enough for another astronaut in the cargo bay to
latch onto Buck Rogers and pull him in.