The thermal control surfaces experiment (TCSE) was the most complex hardware system aboard the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF). The TCSE system consists of a scanning spectroreflectometer that measured test samples mounted on a rotatable carousel assembly. A microprocessor based data system controlled all aspects of TCSE system operation. Power was provided by four primary batteries. Flight measurement and housekeeping data were stored on a tape recorder for postflight analysis. The TCSE is a microcosm of complex electro-optical payloads being developed by NASA, DoD, and the aerospace community. The TCSE provides valuable data on the performance of these systems in space. The TCSE flight system and its excellent performance on the LDEF mission are described. A few operational anomalies were encountered and are discussed. Initial post-flight tests show that the TCSE system remains functional although some degradation in the optical measurements were observed. The results of these tests are also presented.
Thermal Control Surfaces Experiment (SOO69) Flight Systems Performance (Abstract Only)
1991
1 pages
Report
No indication
English
Astronautics , Coatings, Colorants, & Finishes , Materials Degradation & Fouling , Earth orbital environments , Environmental tests , Long duration exposure facility , Postflight analysis , Spaceborne experiments , Spacecraft instruments , Temperature control , Thermal control coatings , Complex systems , Data systems , Degradation , Electro-optics , Flight characteristics , Microprocessors , Optical measurement , Payloads