Some of the activities during 1987, which are considered, include the following: Major efforts continued to focus on returning the space shuttle to flight status. Studies were completed concluding that a mixed fleet, consisting of the space shuttle and expendable launch vehicles, would be required for continued U.S. operations and access to space. Supernova 1987a, discovered in the Large Magellanic Cloud which is located 160,000 light years from Earth, was observed and studied. Based in Antarctica, scientists from U.S. agencies and universities conducted extensive studies to determine the causes of ozone depletion in the atmosphere. In the area of national security, the Strategic Defense Initiative program demonstrated the ability to intercept targets within the atmosphere and in space. Surveillance and warning systems continued to provide warning capability for attacks by ballistic missiles or threats by air-breathing vehicles. Increased capacity in the 11/12/14-GHz band allowed the Federal Communications Commission to approve applications for several small Earth-based antenna networks that will increase satellite-delivered communications services.
Aeronautics and Space Report of the President: 1987 Activities
1989
186 pages
Report
Keine Angabe
Englisch
Space Technology , Aeronautics & Aerodynamics , Astronomy & Astrophysics , Atmospheric Sciences , Reference Materials , Space sciences , Remote sensing , Communication satellites , Space programs , Space shuttles , Expendable launch vehicles , Supernova 1987A , Ozone depletion , Ballistic missile defense , Landsat 6 , Space stations , Uses