TDRS is prepared for encapsulation in the SAEF-2

[KSC-00PP-0749]

  • Photo Number: KSC-00PP-0749

  • Release Date: 13-Jun-2000

    • Description: In the Spacecraft Assembly and Encapsulation Facility, the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS-H) at right sits while one-half of the fairing (left) is moved closer to it. After encapsulation in the fairing, TDRS will be transported to Launch Pad 36A, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station for launch scheduled June 29 aboard an Atlas IIA/Centaur rocket. One of three satellites (labeled H, I and J) being built in the Hughes Space and Communications Company Integrated Satellite Factory in El Segundo, Calif., the latest TDRS uses an innovative springback antenna design. A pair of 15-foot-diameter, flexible mesh antenna reflectors fold up for launch, then spring back into their original cupped circular shape on orbit. The new satellites will augment the TDRS system's existing S- and Ku-band frequencies by adding Ka-band capability. TDRS will serve as the sole means of continuous, high-data-rate communication with the space shuttle, with the International Space Station upon its completion, and with dozens of unmanned scientific satellites in low earth orbit.

    Resolution Format Width
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    Thumbnail GIF 67 100 10231
    Slide GIF 111 156 25115
    Low GIF 160 240 55154
    Medium JPEG 512 768 105065
    High JPEG 1780 2670 1116973

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    Photos By: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
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    Captions: InDyne, Inc.
    Curator: NASA/KSC Internet Systems Lab (Dumoulin, Downs, Paladino)
    Last Updated: Friday October 24 12:13:42 EDT 2003 (Anita Barrett)

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