Digital Commons Network^™

User-Oriented Performance Measurements Of The Amsat-Na Microsat, Robert Diersing

Small Satellite Conference

A preliminary set of user-oriented performance measurements has been conducted using the AMSAT-NA PACSAT-1, and to a lesser degree, the AMSAT-LU LUSAT-1 Microsats. These preliminary measurements have been carried out by exchanging files and commands between two separate ground stations. During some of the tests a third station was used to monitor the satellite downlink independent of the stations engaged in the communications exchange. The monitored frames were captured and examined as an aid in determining the effective data rate and response time as observed by the end user. The tests have been an attempt to determine approximately what performance …

Laser Payloads On Small Satellites, L.S. Lingvay, A.P. Bowman, A.S. Wallace

Small Satellite Conference

Laser payloads on satellites have the ability to enhance our communications capabilities and information gathering power from space. Implementation of lasers to Lightsats provides one method to assess the effectiveness of these technologies at reduced risk. This paper will focus on the main applications of lasers in space and how laser systems may be adapted to the Lightsat environment. This will include a discussion of the different types of lasers, which types are suitable for space based payloads, and which of these is suitable for what types of applications. Included in this discussion will be the selection criteria based on …

Advanced Ehf Technologies For Lightweight Augmentation / Restoration Communications Satellites, Dean Kolba, William Greenberg, David Mcelroy, Marilyn Semprucci

Small Satellite Conference

Small EHF satellites can significantly complement the anti-jam service provided by basic EHF MILSATCOM space segments. Mobile/survivable launch vehicles with rapid launch preparations can be utilized to responsively deploy these small satellites into high altitude elliptical or circular orbits. From such orbits, only a few satellites are needed to provide high duty cycle coverage of a critical area. The communications capabilities provided by these EHF payloads can range from low data rate services (75 to 2400 bps per channel) to high data rate links (10 Mbps or more per link) depending on the payload configuration. Through the use of EHF …

High Latitude Communications Satellite, Brij Agrawal

Small Satellite Conference

This paper presents preliminary design of a high latitude communications satellite. The satellite provides a continuous UHF communications for areas located north of the region covered by geosynchronous communications satellites. The satellite orbit is elliptic with 63.40 inclination with perigee at 1204 km altitude in the southern hemisphere and apogee at 14930 km altitude. The orbit period is 4.8 hours. The system consists of three satellites equally spaced in mean anomaly. It is launched by Delta II launch vehicle in three satellite staked configuration. The spacecraft uses three-axis-stabilization consisting of three reaction wheel system. Solar array surface is always normal …

The Parashield Entry Vehicle Concept: Basic Theory And Flight Test Development, David Akin

Small Satellite Conference

With the emergence of microsatellite launch vehicle technology and the development of interest in space commercialization, there is a renewed need for entry vehicle technology to return mass from low earth orbit. This paper documents the ParaShield concept of the Space Systems Laboratory, which is an ultra-low ballistic coefficient (ULβ) entry vehicle. Trajectory simulations show that as the ballistic coefficient is lowered into the range of 100-150 Pa (2-3lb/ft2) the total heat load and peak heating flux drop markedly due to primary deceleration in regions of extremely low dynamic pressure. In this range any of a number of ceramic or …

Potential For Small Satellite Use In Noaa’S Operational Polar Program, Daniel Cotter, Anthony Durham

Small Satellite Conference

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) manages operational satellite systems for the remote sensing of the Earth System, including the Polar-orbiting operational Environmental Satellite (POES) system. A new configuration of the POES system will be introduced about 1998. Small satellite technology is being investigated by NOAA as a supplement for the future POES system. The baseline payload for the new POES configuration is known and under development. Candidate payload additions are also known. Both payload categories are described. NOAA perceives POES mission advantages as being associated with the use of small satellites in the future system. These advantages, and …

Commercial Application Of Eyesat, Dino Lorenzini, Doug Loughmiller

Small Satellite Conference

With the continued growth in geosynchronous satellite communications transponders today, why could anyone consider using a low earth orbit, low data rate, limited availability satellite? Several factors have proven to be important as our experience with small, low earth orbit satellites increases: user priority, simple access, low investment cost, portability, global reach, and flexibility in meeting specialized requirements. The purpose of this paper is to describe some of the potential commercial applications of the AMSAT Microsatellite. Four of these spacecrafts are currently in sun-synchronous orbit, being tested and used by amateur radio operators around the world. Interferometrics Inc. of Vienna, …

Pegasus: A Geosynchronous Launch Profile, David Bearden, Shaun Anderson, Richard Shorthill

Small Satellite Conference

Pegasus is a low cost system which can carry a 600 pound payload to 250 nautical mile polar orbits as well as larger payloads to lower altitude/ lower inclination orbits or suborbital trajectories. The craft is carried aloft by a conventional transport/bomber-class aircraft and launched from level flight at approximately 40,000 ft. The first flight of Pegasus was made on April 5, 1990 over the Western Test Range at an altitude of 43,000 feet using the NASA B-52. The unmanned launch vehicle was developed jointly by Orbital Science Corporation (OSC) and Hercules Aerospace Company and the first flight which reached …

A Small Satellite Bus Designed For Low Earth Orbiting Experiments, J.B. Oakes

Small Satellite Conference

The concept of a small satellite bus, designed to support a variety of low earth orbit payloads, has led to the detailed design of such a bus and its launch vehicle adapter. The basic bus, which weighs approximately 170 Ibs, is sized for launch on either Pegasus or Scout. It provides three axis stabilization (gravity gradient boom plus constant speed momentum wheel), solar power (40 watts minimum after 1 year in polar orbit), an S-band TM transmitter (1 watt output) and command receiver, a microprocessor-controlled telemetry encoder/formatter (usable at data rates up to 300 kbps), a command system providing logic …

Small Satellite Constellations For Ehf Polar Coverage, William Acker

Small Satellite Conference

Because atmospheric attenuation is greater for EHF frequencies than lower frequencies, it is necessary to design EHF satellite constellations so that the minimum elevation angles of the ground station antennas are larger than for satellite communication links using lower frequencies. The need for larger elevation angles reduces the coverage provided by geosynchronous equatorial satellites. This paper examines how the size of the polar regions not receiving adequate EHF coverage varies with the number of equally spaced equatorial satellites. The suitabilities of 24 hour Tundra, 12 hour Molniya, and six hour circular orbits for providing the missing coverage are then examined. …

Reserves: A Responsive, Multi-Mission Tactical Satellite Architecture, Jack Farrell

Small Satellite Conference

This paper summarizes the 1st phase of the Responsive Replacement Vehicles, RESERVES, study performed by the McDonnell Douglas Electronic Systems Company (MDESC) for the Air Force Space Systems Division/DCS Development Planning (SSD/XRP). This summary comprises the results of a comprehensive analysis of responsive satellite system requirements, complete architectural design, and operational concepts.

Mission Cost Reduction, Anthony Dietl, Robert Nordyke

Small Satellite Conference

The United States Air Force has historically performed the ICBM launch detection mission using satellites placed in high altitude orbits. This type of mission can also be performed at other altitudes while still maintaining overall mission performance. The choice of satellite altitude drives the size of the constellation, the characteristics of the sensor system and the supporting electronics, and the associated launch costs. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate to a first order that the ICBM launch detection mission can be performed at a lower altitude for a lower overall cost using a constellation of smaller less capable …

Design Concepts For Space-Borne Multi-Mission Sensors For Tactical Military Needs, Capt. Thomas Utsch, Thomas Hopp, Harrisson Sarrafian, Steven Kilston

Small Satellite Conference

A standard electro-optical sensor can perform several different surveillance missions to support tactical military users. The missions include environmental sensing, land and ocean remote sensing, tactical missile tracking, and space object surveillance. The key is that while the spacecraft is a standard configuration for all missions, its design is a compromise between the specific requirements for each mission; the orbit chosen and operations mode for each mission also vary. Although sub-optimal for any given mission, standard sensor systems have the advantage of achieving a higher benefit-to-cost ratio by realizing economies of scale in production and reduced development. Point designs of …

Modular Small Satellite Design For Responsive Tactical Applications, Bernard Raab

Small Satellite Conference

The requirement for small tactical satellites capable of satisfying a variety of missions on short notice has been studied as part of the AFSSD-sponsored RESERVES study. An innovative spacecraft design approach is described which makes use of pre-assembled subsystem modules. The design is successfully tested against the requirements of four example missions using three different launch vehicles, demonstrating ample design margins in each case. The approach holds promise of providing a simple, flexible cost-effective solution to the rapid-response requirements of the tactical military world.

Autonomous Surveillance Satellite, Gary Grisbeck, John Doleman, Robert Reed

Small Satellite Conference

This paper describes the potential to enhance the performance and reliability of small satellites by using increased levels of digital processing on-board the spacecraft. It describes an architecture, developed by Control Data, that will satisfy its users' needs and provide mechanisms for high reliability. The term "SMARTSAT" means a small satellite that has significant "smarts" (processing capability) on-board.

Creating The Future Of Microspace Technology, L. Flynn, R. Bonometti, E. Nicastri, R. Sudol, A. Wheatley

Small Satellite Conference

The Advanced Space Technology Program (ASTP) at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has recently initiated a series of technology development efforts as part of its drive to enhance the cost effectiveness and responsiveness of defense space systems. These efforts focus on reducing spacecraft size, cost, weight, and power consumption, while simultaneously improving performance. The technology initiatives which are underway span a broad spectrum of efforts at the satellite system and subsystem levels, as well as some which focus on individual components and materials. The technology initiatives which DARPA is pursuing will enhance large, major satellites via technology insertions …

Meeting Minutes, Wku Student Government Association

Student Government Association

Meeting regarding retreat, fight song, Stay & Play Weekend, freshman elections, WKU Glasgow funding and committee assignments.

The Insurance Climate For Small Satellites And Elvs: 1990, Peter Stark

Small Satellite Conference

The space insurance industry provides coverage for physical damage and liability risks to which space ventures are exposed as part of their business. The Insured party obtains insurance coverage through a Broker, who represents the Insured in soliciting coverage from the various Insurers in the world market. Physical damage insurance is designed to cover the value of an asset or the revenue it may provide, while liability insurance covers damage to the person or property of parties unrelated to those involved in launch activities. To date, five commercial launches of small ELVs have been conducted, and the necessary insurance has …

Astronaut Deployable Satellite, William Clapp

Small Satellite Conference

The Astronaut Deployable Satellite (ADSAT) is an educational satellite being designed and built by faculty, local engineers, and students at Weber State University. The ADSAT is our third satellite project after the success of two others, NUSAT I (Challenger April 85) and WEBERSAT-OSCAR 18 (Ariane-Jan 90. The ADSAT is designed to be tossed into space by an astronaut. The 16" X 16" X 4" AnSAT is self-contained and is designed to ride into space in a mid-deck stowage locker on the shuttle. When launch is desired, the astronaut removes the AnSAT from the locker and carries it outside. The astronaut …

Meeting, Wku Board Of Regents

Board of Regents Documents

Minutes of WKU Board of Regents meeting regarding establishment of Center for Gifted Studies, minor in land surveying, minor in marketing, international education, series J revenue bonds, personnel actions and salaries, resolutions in honor of Ronald Clark and Amos Gott, Miss Kentucky contestants Nancy Cox and Betsy Drewry and ACT scores. Includes exhibits:

A resolution amending the Series J Resolution of the Borad of Regents of WKU authorizing the issuance of $11,400,000 consolidated educational builidngs revenue bonds.

Notice of Bond Sale

Official Terms and Conditions of Sale of Bonds

Public Relations Report, Wku Student Government Association

Student Government Association

Report of committee assignments made at the Public Relations Committee meeting.

Meeting Minutes, Wku University Senate

Faculty Senate

Notes from Executive Committee meeting regarding Western XXI, administrator evaluations and insurance.

Registration, Conference Attendees

Faulkner and Yoknapatawpha Conference

No abstract provided.

Special Meeting, Wku Board Of Regents

Board of Regents Documents

Minutes of special meeting of the WKU Board of Regents regarding reorganization of the board, personnel actions and salaries, series L revenue bonds, transfer of Bennett Lane to Warren County, Kentucky, resolution in honor of Marcella Brashear, Preston Health & Activities Center, minority journalism workshop, Colleen Mendel and Western XXI process.

Special Meeting, Wku Board Of Regents

Board of Regents Documents

Minutes of special meeting of the WKU Board of Regents regarding the 1990-91 operating budget, tuition, personnel changes and salaries, Michael Morse, Virigina Wood Davis estate and Larry Hopkins. Includes ehxibits regarding the budget.

Special Meeting, Wku Board Of Regents

Board of Regents Documents

Minutes of special meeting of the WKU Board of Regents regarding Western XXI strategic planning process and sale of revenue bonds. Includes exhibit regarding revenue bonds.

Paper Session Iii-C - Orbiting Sentinels For Security, Stanly G. Rosen

Space Congress® Proceedings

For the past forty years, the threat of retaliation has been the foundation of our national security strategy. This threat has been the basis of the deterrent strategy which has helped maintain a relatively peaceful relationship between the world's major powers. However, this strategy has also led to an expensive and possibly dangerous need to maintain large numbers of nuclear and conventional weapons around the world.

These difficulties with retaliatory deterrence are the main reason for many of the alternative strategies which are being considered. One alternative is to move beyond threat in structuring our national security posture. New technical …

Paper Session Iii-B - Giving Direction To The Dream: New Experiences In Space Education, Frank Sietzen

Space Congress® Proceedings

To truly achieve a permanent, spacefaring civilization whose cultural and. material values reflect those of a free society, the people that make up that society must give importance and support 'for the Ideas of space exploration, exploitation, and development. In the three decades of the Space Age, American space policy has suffered, imbalance and indecision at the policy-making level in part because the American people have, not been educated in the various Issues contained in the exploration of space. To achieve stability of policy and commonality of purpose in space, people must be introduced to the value of spaceflight in …

Paper Session Iii-B - Space Exploration Through Education, Charles D. Quincy

Space Congress® Proceedings

During Buzz Aldrin's remarks at the twentieth anniversary of the Apollo 11 liftoff last July r he indicated that this country was not yet ready to commit to a manned mission to Mars* I contend that to put off this commitment or any commitment only lessens the chances of ever doing it.

The United States space program, like the rest of the american industrial complex is at a very critical point. Long range decisions must be made for it to remain in a competitive position worldwide. It must be remembered that "not to decide is to decide". During the past …

Paper Session Iii-A - Human Exploration Initiative, William D. Goldsby

Space Congress® Proceedings

Reliable access to space through the use of a mixed fleet of launch vehicles, including the Space Transportation System (STS) and other existing and new systems, will be needed to provide the capability to accommodate the major new initiative for the Human Exploration (HEI) Program. The operational Space Station Freedom (SSF) will be established as a transportation node for Lunar and planetary missions and will required the Shuttle-C for assembly and implementation. The proposed Lunar mission schedule beginning in 1999 will also require a heavy lift launch vehicle (HLLV) capability in the class of the Shuttle- C. The large payloads …