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Windows to the Universe

International Space Station to Utilize Optically Clear Adhesive

What weighs 470 tons and travels at 18,000 miles per hour? In 2005, the answer will be the International Space Station. Playing a vital role in this global project are 16 to 18 windows between 21 and 29 inches in diameter and one-half inch thick to be placed in the Station's laboratory module and cupola. The module is considered the centerpiece of the station, where experiments will be performed in near zero gravity. And the cupola -- with its seven windows -- will offer crew members direct viewing of robotics operations, spacewalks and experiments.

Laminating the windows for the space station is Eyesaver International Inc. of Hanover, MA. During production, optically clear laminating adhesive 8141 from 3M Company, St. Paul, MN, is applied to a non-hardcoated clear film adhered to the innermost window, referred to as the "scratch pane." The scratch pane is used to protect the outer window and the film is attached to prevent glass from shattering inside the station. Eyesaver laminates the film and sends it to another company where the film is polished. Eyesaver then solders a conductive bar to the coating around the window to keep the glass warm. Windows are expected to be ready for installation this fall.

"3M hit a home run with the film. Its uniformity is excellent, there is zero distortion, no coating voids and the flatness has been unmatched," explained Eyesaver co-owner Steve George. "It has the optical clarity required by Boeing for photographing through the windows," agreed partner Matthew Smillie. The adhesive, manufactured under clean room conditions, delivers greater than 99 percent light transmission and a haze level under 0.1 percent.

The International Space Station, approximately the size of a Boeing 747 jetliner, will house a crew of seven and contain six labs, two habitation modules and two logistics modules. The finished station will contain 46,000 cubic feet of pressurized living and working space for engineers and scientists. The project's aim is to have research operations in biotechnology, fluid physics and engineering and technology conducted aboard the station.

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