Andoya Rocket Range, the Norwegian Space Center's launch facility, established in 1962 has an extensive record of successful launches of sounding rockets. In 1989, demand for launch facilities capable of launching large sounding rockets, such as the Black Brant, was identified, and major upgrades were initiated. A new launch facility is now under construction. This pad can handle rocket configurations of up to 20 tons, offering elevation from 65 to 90 degrees and azimuth of 260 to 020 degrees. The new launch facility has been verified for use for orbital launches of microsatellites. Typically, 150 kg can be placed in polar or high inclination orbits at an altitude of 550 km. Recent developments in satellite technology and the increasing demand for smaller satellites in dedicated orbits are making this an interesting market. A launch facility for small polar satellites is presented. Focus is on the development of a cost effective total service for launch and operation of microsatellites. A general TTC (Telemetry, Tracking and Command) station located at the island of Svalbard (Arctic) is introduced as a supplement to the Tromso Satellite Station. Special emphasis is put on describing the design of a universal launch facility for sounding rockets and microsatellites.
Integrated Launch Facility for Sounding Rockets and Micro-Satellites
1991
5 pages
Report
No indication
English
Space Launch Vehicles & Support Equipment , Rockets , Meteorological Instruments & Instrument Platforms , Launching bases , Ranges (Facilities) , Small scientific satellites , Sounding rockets , Command and control , Ground support equipment , Norway , Polar orbits , Telemetry , Tracking stations , Foreign technology