The Minitrack Network, the first worldwide satellite tracking capability (1957-1962), evolved into the Satellite Tracking and Data Acquisition Network (1960-1966). The Mercury Network which became operational in 1961, was the foundation for the Manned Space Flight Network which was also to support the following Gemini and Apollo missions. The NASA Communications Network (NASCOM) began to take shape in the early 1960s. All of these functions began playing together (1965) and were consolidated in the early 1970s as the Space Tracking and Data Network (STDN). The STDN has supported both the manned and scientific missions during the 1970s. The concept of spacecraft tracking support from a satellite system in synchronous orbit began in 1966. Feasibility studies for this Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS) were completed in 1971, the definition phase was completed in 1973, and the contractor-owned government leased TDRSS system is expected to be operational in 1983.


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    Title :

    The evolution of the spaceflight tracking and data network


    Additional title:

    Die Entwicklung des Raumfahrt-Nachfuehrungs- und Datennetzwerkes


    Contributors:

    Published in:

    ISA Transactions ; 20 , 2 ; 31-42


    Publication date :

    1981


    Size :

    12 Seiten, 5 Bilder, 2 Tabellen, 6 Quellen


    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Print


    Language :

    English






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