AbstractThe Applications Technology Satellite (ATS) program evolved from Project SYNCOM and the Advanced SYNCOM program to develop geosynchronous spacecraft technology made possible by the increased capability of the Atlas-Agena launch vehicle. The ATS-1-5 program developed spin stabilized and gravity gradient stabilized spacecraft for geosynchronous orbit; Earth-oriented antennas for increased antenna gain; Earth-scanning meteorological experiments for continuous weather monitoring; and made possible satellite communications to mobile terminals. The ATS-6 program developed a space-deployed, high-gain antenna for color television broadcast to low-cost ground terminals and precise spacecraft attitude control for pointing, slewing, and tracking applications. All of the ATS program objectives were successfully met, except for the gravity gradient experiments. ATS-1, -3, -5, and -6 are in orbit and operational.
Applications technology satellite program
Acta Astronautica ; 5 , 3-4 ; 299-325
1977-09-21
27 pages
Article (Journal)
Electronic Resource
English
Applications Technology Satellite program
NTRS | 1978
|NASA Applications Technology Satellite Program
NTIS | 1971
The applications technology satellite.
NTRS | 1966
|