Abstract Optical measurements made from the Space Shuttle include several sources of emission, each modified according to viewing configuration, Shuttle altitude, solar activity, local time, and latitude. These sources include the atmospheric emissions and emissions of non-terrestrial origin (such as stellar, interstellar, and interplanetary), together with any contamination emission induced by the Shuttle itself. In order to make astronomical observations from the Shuttle, the observer needs good information on the intensities and spectral characteristics of these various sources. In this paper we present a model spectrum for one of these components, the natural airglow background. The spectrum is modeled over a wavelength range extending from the extreme ultraviolet to the near infrared. This model is based on our present knowledge of the upper atmosphere. The effect of different viewing configurations is illustrated, together with day to night variations. The results synthesized here assume an ideal vehicle in the sense that no contaminant emissions are induced by the Shuttle and payload. These spectra therefore represent a baseline which can be used to locate unanticipated or non-ambient features.


    Access

    Check access

    Check availability in my library

    Order at Subito €


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    The natural background at shuttle altitudes


    Contributors:
    Torr, Marsha R. (author) / Owens, J.K. (author) / Eun, J.W. (author) / Torr, D.G. (author) / Richards, P.G. (author)

    Published in:

    Publication date :

    1987-01-01


    Size :

    11 pages




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English



    The natural background at Shuttle altitudes

    Torr, Marsha R. / Owens, J. K. / Eun, J. W. et al. | NTRS | 1987


    Aerodynamics of Shuttle Orbiter at high altitudes

    Rault, Didier F. G. | NTRS | 1993



    Aerodynamics of the Shuttle Orbiter at High Altitudes

    Rault, D.F.G. | Online Contents | 1994