Future of MPLM

Just a thought,
If Shuttle operations end prior to 2010 and the proposed commercial delivery
of cargo to ISS doesn't transpire - what happens to MPLM. Indeed even if all
goes to plan aren't there agreements in place that gives italy time on the
station in exchange for the MPLM - what happens then?
A possible solution is to develop a reentry cradle for the MPLM so that it
can be launch on an expendable rocket. (I'm thinking a T/Space/Kistler type
Corona style reentry system).

Now that would be a very handy system and would allow the deletion of
several shuttle launches whilst fulfilling international agreements.

Nathan

The European ATV transfer vehicle's pressurized cargo section is based
on the MPLM. It doesn't have reentry capabilitiy, but is an interesting
system. First flight, Jules Verne, is supposed to fly in 2006.

http://www.esa.int/SPECIALS/ATV/ESAE021VMOC_0.html

Josh