Apr 5 1967
From The Space Library
NASA's 815lb ATS II (ATS-A) (Applications Technology Satellite) was launched from ETR by Atlas-Agena D booster on mission to evaluate gravity-gradient system for spacecraft stabilization in 6,900-mi-altitude orbit and to obtain useful data from experiments during first 30 days in orbit. Spacecraft successfully entered elliptical transfer orbit with 6,878-mi (11,069-km) apogee; 120-mi (192.7 km) perigee; 218.3-min period; and 28.4° inclination. Agena engines, which were to have reignited to inject spacecraft into 6,900-mi (11,103-km) -altitude circular orbit, failed to ignite for the second burn; spacecraft separated and, tumbling uncontrollably, remained in transfer orbit. By April 7, all but one of the scientific experiments had been turned on and operated successfully, but usefulness of data could not be determined because spacecraft's sensors were not compatible with its orbit. Last experiment was turned on April 15. Although it was apparent that mission could not be successfully completed, scientists continued to operate experiments to obtain as much data as possible on spacecraft performance, and ground stations received occasional TV pictures and meteorological photos. Gravity-gradient configuration functions would not be exercised until spacecraft's attitude behavior could be better defined. ATS II was second in series of five satellites designed to improve spacecraft technology; develop long-life control systems; advance spacecraft communications; and improve long-range weather predictions. Record size-252 ft long with 123-ft booms extended from opposite sides-ATS II was first US. gravity-gradient satellite to carry meteorological cameras and first with sufficient instrumentation to verify three-axis gravity control system in conjunction with detailed computer program. In addition to gravity-gradient experiment, satellite also carried communications equipment, two Advanced Vidicon Camera System (AVCS) cameras, and eight scientific experiments to measure orbital environment. ATS I was successfully launched Dec. 6, 1966, into a 22,300-mi-altitude near-synchronous orbit over the Pacific and was still operating flawlessly. ATS program was managed by GSFC under OSSA direction. (NASA Proj Off; NASA Release 67-71; AP, NYT, 3/31/67, 12)
NASA Aerobee 150, Mod I sounding rocket launched from WSMR carried Lockheed Missiles and Space Co. payload to 99.6-mi (160.3-km) altitude to obtain quantitative measurements of spectrum and intensity of solar x-ray flux in the 2-30 kev interval and to look for x rays from recurrent nova T Pyxides. This was first flight of new Aerobee configuration Mod I rocket and instrumentation performed satisfactorily. (NASA Rpt SRL)
Chairman James McCormack of ComSatCorp, speaking at annual meeting of National Assn. of Broadcasters, in Chicago, made these predictions: "With new satellites, having flexibility to permit working with several earth stations simultaneously and having increased transmission capabilities, and with improved earth stations, we are coming on better days. For a year or so, we will continue to be handicapped by a lack of ground facilities to enable the United States to work efficiently and simultaneously with more than one satellite in either the Atlantic or the Pacific [and] we will continue for a while to be embarrassed by lack of system capacity there, primarily in the earth stations, to handle occasional TV transmissions without buying back other circuits then under annual or monthly lease." He continued: ". . . in a very few years, you will have the potential of continuous, live, world-wide TV transmission at well under one percent of your total costs." He went on to explain: "Given the geographic coverage of the satellite, capable of being used directly from a number of points. simultaneously, and the rapid growth of all kinds of requirements for service, a single world-wide communications organization was deemed essential from the beginning. The same set of considerations would seem to indicate at least a broadly based international forum for broadcasting, an important and rather unique use of those communications." Turning to potential world-wide benefits, he said: "The establishment of a world-wide broadcast capability, in being and operating continuously, will enable the almost casual accomplishment of some of the greatest purposes of the United States and many other nations seeking better understanding as one basis for a reasonable peaceful world. I refer in particular of course to cultural exchanges, information and education." (Text)
NASA rejected industry bids ranging from $13.6-14.9 million for construction of four buildings at NASA's Electronics Research Center in Cambridge, Mass. ERC Director James C. Elms said that difference between bids and $10.4-million. Government estimate was too great to be adjusted and that building plans would have to be revised. (McElheny, Boston Globe, 4/6/67)
FRC awarded General Electric Co. a $2,782,272 contract for maintenance of XB-70 aircraft engines and support services. (NASA Release 67-81)
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