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Commercial and US Government Launch Vehicles => ULA - Delta, Atlas, Vulcan => Topic started by: Chris Bergin on 10/30/2015 07:20 pm

Title: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 10/30/2015 07:20 pm
October 30, 2015
CONTRACT RELEASE C15-047
NASA Awards Launch Services Contract for Next Tracking, Data Relay Satellite

NASA has selected United Launch Services LLC of Centennial, Colorado, to provide launch services for the agency’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite-M (TDRS-M) mission. The mission will launch in October 2017 aboard an Atlas V 401 rocket from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

The total cost for NASA to launch TDRS-M is approximately $132.4 million, which includes the launch service, spacecraft processing, payload integration, tracking, data and telemetry, and other launch support requirements.

TDRS-M will join other TDRS spacecraft of the NASA Space Network, which provides voice, data, video and telemetry services for low-Earth orbiting satellites, such as the Hubble Space Telescope, the International Space Station, weather and environmental monitoring satellites. The Space Network also captures real-time telemetry data from expendable vehicles during launch and early orbit. Customers using data from scientific satellites can also take advantage of TDRS-M. Signals will be sent through the primary TDRS ground station located in White Sands, New Mexico.

NASA’s Launch Services Program at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida manages and oversees the Atlas V 401 launch services for TDRS-M. The TDRS Project at Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, manages TDRS-M spacecraft development for the agency’s Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate in Washington.

For more information about NASA programs and missions, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov (http://www.nasa.gov)
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 10/30/2015 07:48 pm
ULA:
NASA Selects United Launch Alliance Atlas V to Launch TDRS-M Satellite

 

Centennial, Colo., (Oct. 30, 2015) – NASA’s Launch Services Program announced today that it selected United Launch Alliance’s (ULA’s) proven Atlas V vehicle to launch the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite M (TDRS-M) mission, the third and final satellite in the current TDRS series.

            “We are very pleased that NASA has selected ULA to launch TDRS-M,” said Jim Sponnick, ULA vice president of Atlas and Delta Programs. “ULA and NASA have collaborated on 11 highly successful Atlas V launches and we look forward to applying a one-launch-at-time focus on mission success to the TDRS-M mission.”

The mission is scheduled to launch in late 2017 from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. This mission will launch aboard an Atlas V 401 Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV), which includes a 4-meter diameter payload fairing.

            “NASA has trusted our highly reliable Atlas vehicles to launch all second and third generation TDRS satellites,” said Laura Maginnis, ULA vice president of Custom Services.  “Our team is ready to again demonstrate the critical teamwork with NASA to ensure the successful integration and launch for the next in the series of TDRS satellites.”

NASA established the TDRS project in 1973, with the first launch in 1983, to provide around-the-clock and around-the-Earth communications for the network that routes voice calls, telemetry streams and television signals from the International Space Station, as well as telemetry and science data from the Hubble Space Telescope and other orbiting spacecraft.

With more than a century of combined heritage, United Launch Alliance is the nation’s most experienced and reliable launch service provider. ULA has successfully delivered more than 100 satellites to orbit that provide critical capabilities for troops in the field, aid meteorologists in tracking severe weather, enable personal device-based GPS navigation and unlock the mysteries of our solar system.

For more information on ULA, visit the ULA website at www.ulalaunch.com. Join the conversation at www.facebook.com/ulalaunch, twitter.com/ulalaunch, and instagram.com/ulalaunch.

 
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Targeteer on 10/30/2015 08:20 pm
So can any of the smart people out there extract the cost of the Atlas 401 itself from the total cost and give everyone a rare look at how much is charged for the rocket?
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: arachnitect on 10/30/2015 10:12 pm
So can any of the smart people out there extract the cost of the Atlas 401 itself from the total cost and give everyone a rare look at how much is charged for the rocket?

I am not a smart person, but I'll try: Spacex' TESS contract was ~140% of the "list price."

If you assume a similar percentage LV/services split you get ~$95M for the Atlas.

If you assume the service prices are the same and subtract them, you get ~$107M for the Atlas.

If you assume as above, but also subtract the ELC reimbursement, you get a number in the low 90s.

Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: vapour_nudge on 10/31/2015 03:23 am
This one is a non-military launch so its RD-180 does not count against the USA congress imposed limitation
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Targeteer on 10/31/2015 08:29 am
This one is a non-military launch so its RD-180 does not count against the USA congress imposed limitation

A cynic might say it really is a military launch if the persistent reports of significant DOD/NRO use of TDRS are true.  The recurring periods of "no TDRS Ku coverage" for ISS support despite fully functional, redundant satellites at the West, East, and Indian Ocean orbital locations indicate something is using that capacity and it isn't NASA.  http://www.nasa.gov/directorates/heo/scan/services/networks/txt_tdrs_fleet.html
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Star One on 10/31/2015 10:19 am

This one is a non-military launch so its RD-180 does not count against the USA congress imposed limitation

A cynic might say it really is a military launch if the persistent reports of significant DOD/NRO use of TDRS are true.  The recurring periods of "no TDRS Ku coverage" for ISS support despite fully functional, redundant satellites at the West, East, and Indian Ocean orbital locations indicate something is using that capacity and it isn't NASA.  http://www.nasa.gov/directorates/heo/scan/services/networks/txt_tdrs_fleet.html

Even if it's true they co-use it. It's still a win win for NASA as these other users no doubt pay their way & without that I doubt NASA alone would be able to pay for such effective coverage.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Targeteer on 10/31/2015 10:57 am
A few interesting notes from a 2014 IG report...

DOD use is actually confirmed--maybe for the first time?

"Other Government agencies, including the Department of Defense and the National Science Foundation, and commercial entities also rely on the Space Network to communicate with various spacecraft."

"The Space Network will expand its operations with a ground station in Blossom Point, Maryland, which SCaN anticipates will be operational by early 2017."

"Although NASA had planned to launch TDRS-M as early as December 2015, it now expects to delay that launch by as many as 6 years because it lacks funding to procure a launch vehicle." 

Guess they found the money, somewhere.

"Based on a December 2013 contract award in support of a science mission, the estimated cost of an Atlas V launch vehicle is $160 million." "NASA’s contract with Boeing has provisions for up to 2 years of additional storage for TDRS-M beyond 2015 at a cost of $10 million. If NASA delays the launch beyond that date, it is likely to incur additional costs. NASA has directed Boeing to examine the technical and cost implications of extended storage."

"Even if it's true they co-use it. It's still a win win for NASA as these other users no doubt pay their way & without that I doubt NASA alone would be able to pay for such effective coverage."

Not so much...

"Other Matters. Since 2009, between 9 and 13 external customers have used Space Network assets each fiscal year and reimbursed NASA between $2.1 and $3.1 million. In September 2010, we reported that NASA had not updated the rates it charged customers for use of the Space Network for more than 4 years.3 Following our audit, NASA agreed to update the rates annually. However, in this audit we found that NASA had not updated the rates for FY 2014 and, as of March 2014, continued to charge FY 2013 rates that may not accurately capture current operating costs."    "The Space Network does not charge NASA missions for its services. However, it charges other Federal and private sector customers on a reimbursable basis. Until this year, the Space Network collected approximately $70 million per year in reimbursable funding from these external customers and was largely self-sustaining. However, in 2006, NASA entered into a cost sharing arrangement with some of its customers to defray development costs for TDRSs K and L. In exchange for this up-front contribution, NASA agreed not to charge those customers for Space Network usage for 25 years – an estimated value of $1.8 billion. However, NASA failed to develop a plan for replacing the lost revenue. The reasons for this failure are unclear because the Agency no longer has the documentation supporting the cost sharing decision and the personnel involved in the decision have left NASA."
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Star One on 10/31/2015 12:32 pm
I didn't so much mean paying for their use but rather paying to help build the satellite & paying for the launcher.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 10/31/2015 12:36 pm
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Prober on 10/31/2015 07:14 pm
Is TDRS-M a replacement or an upgrade?

Will it decrease the LOS from the ISS at all?

The last EVA was painful to watch with all the 15 min drops :(
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Jim on 11/01/2015 10:38 am
replacement and no
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Targeteer on 11/02/2015 11:51 pm
http://www.nasa.gov/feature/goddard/new-system-giving-smap-scientists-the-speed-they-need

This piece is interesting because it covers TDRS relaying high-speed data downloaded to a ground site first.  Is that due to orbital inclination?

Oct. 29, 2015

New System Giving SMAP Scientists the Speed They Need

For scientists now studying the voluminous amounts of data collected daily by NASA’s Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) mission, speed is everything. A new NASA-developed data-transmission technology installed at the U.S. Antarctic Program’s McMurdo Station in Antarctica is giving them the speed they need.

Since SMAP began gathering soil-moisture measurements in the spring, the upgraded McMurdo TDRSS Relay System (MTRS) operating as part of NASA’s Near Earth Network has transmitted terabytes of data via NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS) at a whopping 200 megabits per second (Mbps).

SMAP measures the amount of water in the top two inches of soil everywhere on Earth’s surface, distinguishing between ground that is frozen or thawed. The mission is now producing its global measurements with just its radiometer instrument after it was found this summer that the SMAP radar could no longer return data.

With the SMAP radiometer data, scientists will produce global maps to improve their understanding of how water and carbon in its various forms circulate. The data also will enhance scientists’ ability to monitor and predict natural hazards like floods and droughts. In addition, SMAP data have additional practical applications, including improved weather forecasting and crop-yield predictions.

“The mission is downloading terabytes of data; hence the need for a faster link,” explained Philip Baldwin, a systems engineer at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, who led a six-member team that spent five years redesigning and building the system that allows for one of the fastest data transfer off the Antarctic continent.

“Not only do they have a lot of data to downlink, the mission’s data also is time-sensitive. We have only 30 minutes to deliver the data from one pass. So far, we haven’t lost any data, and SMAP is happy with the service we’re able to provide,” he said, adding that MTRS is actually capable of 300 Mbps data-transfer speeds.

Other Polar-Orbiting Spacecraft Will Benefit

Although developed to accommodate SMAP’s titanic data and tight time requirements, MTRS eventually will function as a multi-mission asset under the Near Earth Network and become available to other polar-orbiting spacecraft. “This will greatly increase Goddard’s ability to support an even greater range of science missions,” Baldwin added.

The system’s performance is striking, Baldwin said, adding that it went operational in March when SMAP started gathering data. “It really has improved data flow,” he said.

As the polar-orbiting SMAP flies over Antarctica, it downlinks roughly 10 gigabytes of data during each pass to an X-band receiver located at the McMurdo Ground Station. (Due to TDRSS visibility, SMAP downloads up to six times a day.)

A fiber-optic cable carries the data to the MTRS equipment housed 1.5 miles away inside an orange and white radome covering the MTRS 4.6-meter antenna dish and the system’s high-speed terminal consisting of two boxes or racks of electronic equipment.  Every 12-hour period, the data are transferred to a TDRSS spacecraft that then downlinks the data to NASA’s Space Network ground station at the White Sands Complex, east of Los Cruces, New Mexico, for ultimate delivery to SMAP scientists.

To create the capability, the team upgraded an existing system that Goddard initially developed 15 years ago to demonstrate data transfer from McMurdo to White Sands. The previous incarnation of the system was last used in 2005 and had remained dormant since. Among other issues, the existing equipment fell far short of SMAP’s operational readiness for data transfer and timing. “We assessed what we needed to do and basically started over,” Baldwin said.

The team, which visited Antarctica five times to complete the job, designed, upgraded, and refurbished every aspect of the system, Baldwin said. It created the software, custom transceivers, and high-speed computers to produce the fastest data link off the world’s southern-most continent.

“It’s certainly faster than my Internet service at home,” he added.

For more Goddard technology news, go to https://gsfctechnology.gsfc.nasa.gov/newsletter/Current.pdf
Lori Keesey
NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Brovane on 11/03/2015 01:19 am
What NASA payload class are the TDRS satellite's?
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: arachnitect on 11/03/2015 09:20 pm
What NASA payload class are the TDRS satellite's?

Class B
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Brovane on 11/03/2015 10:05 pm
What NASA payload class are the TDRS satellite's?

Class B

Thank you, When did the RFP go out for this contract?   Based on the timing I would think ULA was the only company with a certified vehicle that was capable of meeting the contract requirements. 
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Jim on 11/04/2015 02:29 am
no, Falcon has been eligible to fly the previous TDRS missions
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: a_langwich on 11/04/2015 02:42 am
no, Falcon has been eligible to fly the previous TDRS missions

When was SpaceX eligible to fly Class B missions?  Wouldn't TDRS-L have been contracted in the 2011 time frame, long before SpaceX had launched any satellites to GEO?  Or were K and L launches contracted even earlier than that?
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Brovane on 11/04/2015 03:14 am
no, Falcon has been eligible to fly the previous TDRS missions

When was SpaceX eligible to fly Class B missions?  Wouldn't TDRS-L have been contracted in the 2011 time frame, long before SpaceX had launched any satellites to GEO?  Or were K and L launches contracted even earlier than that?

It seems that from the timing of Jason-3 award (2012) that NASA will award a contract for a launch by a launch vehicle before certification has been achieved.  Since Jason-3 was awarded before the F9 was certified as a Category-1 or 2 LV.  I wouldn't think that NASA would award a contract to a un-certified vehicle. 
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Jim on 11/04/2015 11:03 am
certification is not a requirement for contract award
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: woods170 on 11/04/2015 12:01 pm
no, Falcon has been eligible to fly the previous TDRS missions
Possibly. But did SpaceX even bother to bid for this launch, or the previous ones?

Also, one needs to remind that for NASA launch cost is not the only factor in the decision to award a TDRS launch to a certain provider. Other factors are in play as well, and there are a number of those that very much favor Atlas V.
Most notably the fact that a very substantial part of the bandwith of the TDRS network is reserved for national security purposes. And while this particular launch may have been up for bidding by SpaceX, under the restrictions set by the national security community, the previous ones were most definitely not.

http://spacenews.com/37021leaked-documents-offer-snapshot-of-nro-activity/ (http://spacenews.com/37021leaked-documents-offer-snapshot-of-nro-activity/)

Quote from: Mike Gruss
The geostationary-orbiting TDRS system’s nominal purpose is to allow NASA to communicate at all times with its low-orbiting spacecraft, including the international space station, but officials with the civil space agency have acknowledged that the Department of Defense is the primary user of the system and provides most of the funding.

It is a public secret that USAF capacity is often used as a 'front' for NRO activities. TDRS is no exception. NASA official admitting that TDRS is mostly used by DoD is also admitting that TDRS is often used by NRO.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Brovane on 11/04/2015 12:28 pm

Also, one needs to remind that for NASA launch cost is not the only factor in the decision to award a TDRS launch to a certain provider. Other factors are in play as well, and there are a number of those that very much favor Atlas V[/b]

What other factors are you saying that favor the Atlas-V?  I am coming up with reliability and on schedule launch. 
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: baldusi on 11/04/2015 12:58 pm
Already integrated? That would reduce the Atlas V cost wrt F9. Besides, Falcon 9 was Category 2 certified and that means "some B", not all.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Brovane on 11/04/2015 01:21 pm
Already integrated? That would reduce the Atlas V cost wrt F9. Besides, Falcon 9 was Category 2 certified and that means "some B", not all.

From the information that Jim provided the a launch provider can bid on a contract without a certified launch vehicle.  In 2012 SpaceX bid $82 Million for the Jason-3 launch.  For the TDRS-M ULA got the contract with a bid of $132 Million.  Makes me wonder if SpaceX even bid on the contract or what other factors came into play in the decision. 
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Star One on 11/04/2015 03:33 pm

no, Falcon has been eligible to fly the previous TDRS missions
Possibly. But did SpaceX even bother to bid for this launch, or the previous ones?

Also, one needs to remind that for NASA launch cost is not the only factor in the decision to award a TDRS launch to a certain provider. Other factors are in play as well, and there are a number of those that very much favor Atlas V.
Most notably the fact that a very substantial part of the bandwith of the TDRS network is reserved for national security purposes. And while this particular launch may have been up for bidding by SpaceX, under the restrictions set by the national security community, the previous ones were most definitely not.

http://spacenews.com/37021leaked-documents-offer-snapshot-of-nro-activity/ (http://spacenews.com/37021leaked-documents-offer-snapshot-of-nro-activity/)

Quote from: Mike Gruss
The geostationary-orbiting TDRS system’s nominal purpose is to allow NASA to communicate at all times with its low-orbiting spacecraft, including the international space station, but officials with the civil space agency have acknowledged that the Department of Defense is the primary user of the system and provides most of the funding.

It is a public secret that USAF capacity is often used as a 'front' for NRO activities. TDRS is no exception. NASA official admitting that TDRS is mostly used by DoD is also admitting that TDRS is often used by NRO.

Surely NASA must get some degree of use out of them, after all they are used for ISS communications as far as I am aware.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: woods170 on 11/04/2015 04:30 pm

no, Falcon has been eligible to fly the previous TDRS missions
Possibly. But did SpaceX even bother to bid for this launch, or the previous ones?

Also, one needs to remind that for NASA launch cost is not the only factor in the decision to award a TDRS launch to a certain provider. Other factors are in play as well, and there are a number of those that very much favor Atlas V.
Most notably the fact that a very substantial part of the bandwith of the TDRS network is reserved for national security purposes. And while this particular launch may have been up for bidding by SpaceX, under the restrictions set by the national security community, the previous ones were most definitely not.

http://spacenews.com/37021leaked-documents-offer-snapshot-of-nro-activity/ (http://spacenews.com/37021leaked-documents-offer-snapshot-of-nro-activity/)

Quote from: Mike Gruss
The geostationary-orbiting TDRS system’s nominal purpose is to allow NASA to communicate at all times with its low-orbiting spacecraft, including the international space station, but officials with the civil space agency have acknowledged that the Department of Defense is the primary user of the system and provides most of the funding.

It is a public secret that USAF capacity is often used as a 'front' for NRO activities. TDRS is no exception. NASA official admitting that TDRS is mostly used by DoD is also admitting that TDRS is often used by NRO.

Surely NASA must get some degree of use out of them, after all they are used for ISS communications as far as I am aware.
Correct. NASA uses the system also. However, as NASA officials related to Mike: DoD is the primary user and primary funding provider of TDRS.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Star One on 11/04/2015 06:48 pm


no, Falcon has been eligible to fly the previous TDRS missions
Possibly. But did SpaceX even bother to bid for this launch, or the previous ones?

Also, one needs to remind that for NASA launch cost is not the only factor in the decision to award a TDRS launch to a certain provider. Other factors are in play as well, and there are a number of those that very much favor Atlas V.
Most notably the fact that a very substantial part of the bandwith of the TDRS network is reserved for national security purposes. And while this particular launch may have been up for bidding by SpaceX, under the restrictions set by the national security community, the previous ones were most definitely not.

http://spacenews.com/37021leaked-documents-offer-snapshot-of-nro-activity/ (http://spacenews.com/37021leaked-documents-offer-snapshot-of-nro-activity/)

Quote from: Mike Gruss
The geostationary-orbiting TDRS system’s nominal purpose is to allow NASA to communicate at all times with its low-orbiting spacecraft, including the international space station, but officials with the civil space agency have acknowledged that the Department of Defense is the primary user of the system and provides most of the funding.

It is a public secret that USAF capacity is often used as a 'front' for NRO activities. TDRS is no exception. NASA official admitting that TDRS is mostly used by DoD is also admitting that TDRS is often used by NRO.

Surely NASA must get some degree of use out of them, after all they are used for ISS communications as far as I am aware.
Correct. NASA uses the system also. However, as NASA officials related to Mike: DoD is the primary user and primary funding provider of TDRS.

Are NASA likely to request more bandwidth on them once the commercial crew vehicles come into use & they expand the number of permanent crew onboard ISS?
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Jim on 11/04/2015 08:18 pm
NASA doesn't request.  It is a NASA system.  NASA allocates the bandwidth.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Star One on 11/04/2015 08:24 pm

NASA doesn't request.  It is a NASA system.  NASA allocates the bandwidth.

Oh it sounded like it was round the other way so thanks for the clarification.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: kevin-rf on 11/04/2015 09:19 pm
Just curious, An no I don't expect anyone can provide a real answer, but how similar to GEO SDS satellites are TDRS satellites? They seem to serve the same purpose for some of the same users. Seems like TDRS has one extra customer, NASA... I just wonder.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Jim on 11/05/2015 12:51 am
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: woods170 on 11/05/2015 08:51 am

NASA doesn't request.  It is a NASA system.  NASA allocates the bandwidth.

Oh it sounded like it was round the other way so thanks for the clarification.
People need to remember that the owner of a given system does not necessarily has to be the primary user of, let alone be the primary funding provider for, that system.
That is exactly what is going on here:
- TDRS is a NASA-owned system
- NASA allocates bandwidth, but...
- Primary user is DoD.
- Primary funding provider is DoD.
- Secondary user is NASA
- Secondary funding provider is NASA.

So although the TDRS system is officially a NASA system it is mostly used by the DoD. The latter being the primary user will likely result in NASA allocating a majority of the system's bandwidth to DoD, not to themselves.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: kevin-rf on 11/05/2015 01:51 pm
Jim,

I believe both of your images are first generation SDS spin stabilized satellites that predate TDRS. Was second generation SDS spin stabilized and are current generation SDS satellites spin stabilized? So I get back to, I wonder how similar the two are.

Now if we get a little off topic and venture towards the historic, Second generation SDS are said to contain an early warning IR package, so spin stabilize would make sense. But, correct me if I am wrong, current SBIRS high packages are sit and stare sensors that are co hosted on what are believed to be SDS satellites. So they must be three axis stabilized, correct... So I get back to the question I know I can not get an answer for... The only key difference is as a hosted package the SBIRS High host must be structurally different from a satellite that does not host a similar package. But SBIRS GEO are not hosted on GEO SDS, so we get back to the same TDRS question.

Anyway, I return us to looking forward to the TDRS-M launch.

Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Jim on 11/05/2015 02:39 pm
Jim,

I believe both of your images are first generation SDS spin stabilized satellites that predate TDRS. Was second generation SDS spin stabilized and are current generation SDS satellites spin stabilized? So I get back to, I wonder how similar the two are.



Those pics are of the 2nd gen
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: vapour_nudge on 02/16/2016 01:03 am
Is there a tail number assigned to this Atlas launch yet?
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: russianhalo117 on 02/16/2016 01:57 am
Is there a tail number assigned to this Atlas launch yet?
Current launch order and launch date state AV tail sequence number of AV-084.

As always this is subject to change
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: Newton_V on 02/16/2016 03:51 pm
Is there a tail number assigned to this Atlas launch yet?

No.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: WHAP on 02/17/2016 04:16 am
Is there a tail number assigned to this Atlas launch yet?
Current launch order and launch date state AV tail sequence number of AV-084.

As always this is subject to change

Is there a tail number assigned to this Atlas launch yet?

No.

Neither is correct.  There IS a vehicle (tail number) assignment for TDRS-M that is currently NOT AV-084, but russianhalo117 is correct that it is subject to change, and it probably will change again shortly.  And the launch day is not in 2017.  Chasing this data more than a year and a half before launch is a waste of time, IMO.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 04/13/2016 09:04 am
Boeing Completes Satellite for NASA TDRS Constellation Ahead of Contract Schedule

Spacecraft enables continuous communication with International Space Station, Hubble Telescope


El Segundo, Calif., April 12, 2016 – Boeing [NYSE: BA] has completed, and delivered to storage, the last in a series of satellites for NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) constellation. TDRS-M is the sixth Boeing-built satellite for the NASA network providing high-bandwidth communications to spacecraft in low Earth orbit. Programs using the system include those supporting human space flight, the International Space Station, the Hubble Space Telescope, the Earth Observing System and several launch vehicles.

This is the second block of Boeing-built TDRS spacecraft. The company delivered the first three (TDRS-H, -I and –J) in 2000-2002. The first two satellites of the second block (TDRS-K and –L) were launched in 2013 and 2014. The last satellite, TDRS-M, was completed ahead of the contract schedule and within budget at the end of 2015.

“Boeing’s advanced TDRS satellites provide NASA with greater bandwidth at an affordable cost, helping them provide additional capacity for this critical communications relay network,” said Dan Hart, vice president, Boeing Government Satellite Systems. “We are continuing to invest in technologies that could enable communications for future NASA near-Earth, moon, Mars and deep space missions.”

NASA has given Boeing its formal “consent to store” the satellite at Boeing’s Satellite Development Center in El Segundo, Calif., until it’s ready for deployment. TDRS-M is expected to launch on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket in 2017.

Boeing has provided space communication services to NASA for more than 40 years, and has been NASA’s sole provider of tracking and data relay satellites since 1995.

Boeing and its heritage companies have been advancing satellite technology for more than 50 years. Continuing investments in space are helping the company retain its industry leadership as it begins its second century in 2016.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 02/13/2017 04:38 pm
Quote
#TDRSM begins final testing. Scheduled for launch Aug 3 from @NASAKennedy on @ulalaunch Atlas V rocket. #TDRS
https://www.nasa.gov/feature/goddard/2017/nasa-s-tdrs-m-space-communications-satellite-begins-final-testing

https://twitter.com/nasascan/status/831188631708659712 (https://twitter.com/nasascan/status/831188631708659712)

Looks a bit alien to me ...  ;)
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - Cape Canaveral - Oct. 2017
Post by: catdlr on 02/14/2017 03:46 am
NASA promo trailer.....

Coming Soon: The Latest Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, TDRS-M

NASA Goddard
Published on Feb 13, 2017
TDRS-M will enable groundbreaking science and expand the current fleet of satellites. TDRS puts the "space" in Space Network. In geosynchronous orbit around Earth, the TDRS constellation ensures reliable, global communications coverage to more than 35 NASA spacecraft. TDRS-M will be the 12th satellite the TDRS team has launched since 1983.

Credit: NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center/Stuart Snodgrass

https://youtu.be/H32w3xU2c9A?t=001

https://youtu.be/H32w3xU2c9A
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 04/22/2017 02:16 pm
Atlas V to Launch NASA’s TDRS-M Mission

Atlas V 401 Configuration RocketRocket/Payload: A United Launch Alliance Atlas V 401 configuration vehicle will launch the Tracking Data Relay System (TDRS)-M payload for NASA.

Date/Site/Launch Time:  Thursday, Aug. 3, 2017, from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.

Live Broadcast: Stay tuned for how you can watch live.

Mission Description: The addition of TDRS-M to the Space Network (SN) will provide the ability to support space communication for an additional 15 years. The network consists of TDRS satellites that transmit data to and from ground stations on Earth for NASA missions and expendable launch vehicles. Without the Space Network, scientists, engineers and control room staff would be unable to readily access data from missions like the Hubble Space Telescope and the International Space Station.

Launch Notes: This launch will be ULA’s fifth of 2017 and 120th overall. A ULA Atlas V also launched TDRS-K mission in 2013 and TDRS-L in 2014. This mission will mark the 72nd Atlas V rocket since its inaugural launch in 2002.

Launch Updates: To keep up to speed with updates to the launch countdown, dial the ULA launch hotline at 1-877-852-4321 or join the conversation at www.facebook.com/ulalaunch, twitter.com/ulalaunch and instagram.com/ulalaunch.


Go Atlas! Go Centaur! Go TDRS-M!
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: catdlr on 06/23/2017 06:34 pm
June 23, 2017
MEDIA ADVISORY M17-076

Media Accreditation Open for Launch of NASA’s Newest Communications Satellite

NASA is preparing to launch the next satellite in the agency’s space network fleet – the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite.

Media accreditation is open for the launch of NASA's Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS)-M. Liftoff on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida is targeted for 9:02 a.m. EDT Aug. 3, at the opening of a 40-minute launch window.

Media prelaunch and launch activities will take place at the Air Force station and nearby at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.

All media accreditation requests should be submitted online. Deadlines for accreditation are as follows:

International media without U.S. citizenship must apply by 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 27, for access to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and Kennedy.
International media without U.S. citizenship must apply by 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 19, for access to Kennedy only.
U.S. media must apply by 4:30 p.m. Friday, July 21, for access to both locations.
Questions about accreditation may be sent to [email protected]. For other questions or additional information, contact Kennedy’s newsroom at 321-867-2468.

The addition of TDRS-M to the fleet will provide NASA’s Space Network the ability to support space communication for an additional 15 years. The network consists of TDRS satellites that transmit data to and from ground stations on Earth for NASA missions and expendable launch vehicles. The Space Network allows scientists, engineers and control room staff to readily access data from missions like the Hubble Space Telescope and the International Space Station.

Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems of El Segundo, California, built TDRS-M. NASA's Space Communications and Navigation Program, a part of the Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington, is responsible for the TDRS network. Launch management of the Atlas V launch service for TDRS-M is the responsibility of the mission directorate's Launch Services Program at Kennedy.

For more information about the mission, visit:

https://www.nasa.gov/tdrs

-end-
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 06/26/2017 10:37 am
NASA's TDRS-M satellite arrives at Space Coast Regional Airport in Titusville, Florida, aboard a U.S. Air Force transport aircraft. The spacecraft will be transported to the nearby Astrotech facility, also in Titusville, for preflight processing. The TDRS-M is the latest spacecraft destined for the agency's constellation of communications satellites that allows nearly continuous contact with orbiting spacecraft ranging from the International Space Station and Hubble Space Telescope to the array of scientific observatories. Liftoff atop a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket is scheduled to take place from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 9:02 a.m. EDT Aug. 3, 2017. Photo credit: Kim Shiflett
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: zubenelgenubi on 06/27/2017 11:54 pm
NASA's TDRS-M satellite arrives at Space Coast Regional Airport in Titusville, Florida, aboard a U.S. Air Force transport aircraft.
<snip>
The aircraft in the image is a C-17.

According to TDRS-M satellite and its Atlas 5 rocket shipped to Florida for launch campaign (https://spaceflightnow.com/2017/06/26/tdrs-m-satellite-and-its-atlas-5-rocket-shipped-to-florida-for-launch-campaign/), delivery was last Friday, June 23, from Boeing’s Satellite Development Center in El Segundo, California, via Los Angeles International Airport.

Also,
Quote
[T]he ocean-going Delta Mariner cargo ship delivered the Atlas 5’s booster stage and Centaur upper stage to Port Canaveral today [June 26] after an 8-day journey from ULA’s production factory in Decatur, Alabama.
Were the two stages the sole cargo?

Also,
Quote
The vessel traversed 270 miles up the Tennessee River, 60 miles on the Ohio River and 646 miles down the Mississippi River. The trek then covered 815 miles through the Gulf of Mexico and around to Florida’s east-central coast to the Cape...
Why didn't the Delta Mariner traverse the Tennessee–Tombigbee Waterway?
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 06/29/2017 12:37 am
Quote
@ulalaunch #AtlasV rocket arrives at the Cape in preparation for the August 3rd 9:02am launch of #TDRSM from Space Launch Complex 41

https://twitter.com/nasa_nerd/status/880211219260506112 (https://twitter.com/nasa_nerd/status/880211219260506112)
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 07/04/2017 09:05 am
July 03, 2017
MEDIA ADVISORY M12-17

NASA Offers News Media Access to TDRS-M Spacecraft July 13

News media are invited to view NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS-M) spacecraft and interview project and launch program officials at 10 a.m. EDT Thursday, July 13, at the Astrotech Space Operations facility in Titusville, Florida.

Participants in the briefing will include representatives from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland; the Launch Services Program at the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida; and United Launch Alliance (ULA).

TDRS-M is scheduled to lift off on a ULA Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida on Aug. 3 at the opening of a 40-minute launch window that extends from 9:02 to 9:42 p.m. EDT.

This event is open to U.S. citizens only. A government-issued photo identification, such as a driver's license, is required to participate. In addition, proof of U.S. citizenship also is required, such as a passport or birth certificate.

All news media must RSVP for this event no later than Monday, July 10, by emailing [email protected]. If an RSVP is not received for each attending media representative, you will not be approved to participate in the press opportunity.

Registered U.S. media may proceed directly to Astrotech July 13, which is located in the Spaceport Florida Industrial Park, 1515 Chaffee Drive in Titusville. Access will be available starting at 9:30 a.m., and the event will begin at 10 a.m.

The addition of TDRS-M to the fleet will provide the Space Network (SN) the ability to support space communications to the mid-2020s. The network consists of TDRS satellites that transmit data to and from ground stations on Earth for NASA missions and expendable launch vehicles. Without the Space Network, scientists, engineers and control room staff would be unable to readily access data from missions like the Hubble Space Telescope and the International Space Station.

Full clean-room attire must be worn during the media opportunity and will be furnished. Media should not wear perfume, cologne or makeup. Long pants and closed-toe shoes must be worn. No shorts or skirts will be permitted. Some camera equipment may be identified by Boeing contamination control specialists as having to be cleaned before being taken into the high bay facility. Alcohol wipes will be provided. All camera equipment must be self-contained, and no portable lights are allowed. Flash photography will not be permitted; however, the facility has adequate metal halide lighting for pictures. Wireless microphones also are not permitted inside the high bay.

Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems in El Segundo, California  . , built TDRS-M. NASA's Space Communications and Navigation Program, part of the Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington, is responsible for the TDRS network. NASA's Launch Services Program at Kennedy is responsible for launch management. United Launch Alliance provides the Atlas V rocket and launch service.

For more information about TDRS-M, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/tdrs
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 07/13/2017 08:33 pm
Quote
Check out our behind-the-scenes look at TDRS-M in the clean room where it will be packed for launch! http://facebook.com/NASA.TDRS

https://twitter.com/nasa_tdrs/status/885589904289300481 (https://twitter.com/nasa_tdrs/status/885589904289300481)
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 07/14/2017 08:37 am
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 07/14/2017 11:11 am
Quote
Tory Bruno‏ Verified account @torybruno 2m2 minutes ago

Centaur is on the stack! #TDRSM

https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/885818233009451008 (https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/885818233009451008)
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 07/15/2017 03:02 pm
I'm hoping someone can confirm this isn't true:

Quote
#Breaking: #TDRSM Satellite May Have Been Damaged #ULA https://spacenews360.com/breaking-tdrs-m-satellite-may-have-been-damaged/

https://twitter.com/spacenews360/status/886224145595478016 (https://twitter.com/spacenews360/status/886224145595478016)
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: DatUser14 on 07/16/2017 12:58 am
I'm hoping someone can confirm this isn't true:

Quote
#Breaking: #TDRSM Satellite May Have Been Damaged #ULA https://spacenews360.com/breaking-tdrs-m-satellite-may-have-been-damaged/ (https://spacenews360.com/breaking-tdrs-m-satellite-may-have-been-damaged/)

https://twitter.com/spacenews360/status/886224145595478016 (https://twitter.com/spacenews360/status/886224145595478016)
It appears to be true, https://www.nasa.gov/feature/goddard/2017/tdrs-m-status-update-july-15-2017

TDRS-M Status Update - July 15, 2017
NASA and Boeing are reviewing an incident that occurred during final spacecraft closeout activities on the Tracking Data Relay Satellite (TDRS-M) mission at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Florida, on July 14, involving the Omni S-band antenna. The mission team is developing a plan to assess flight acceptance and the schedule forward. These additional activities are under evaluation for a planned TDRS-M launch Aug. 3, 2017, on an Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 07/16/2017 01:19 am
Certainly serious as they are issuing a statement, but not the first. I'll write up the other incident earlier in the flow. This one's been in the wars.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: ZachS09 on 07/16/2017 02:19 am
How long of a delay would this incident enact?

Hopefully not too long.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: IanThePineapple on 07/16/2017 02:27 am
How long of a delay would this incident enact?

Hopefully not too long.

It depends of the amount of damage done and how much work/inspections will be needed. Even if it wasn't too bad it'll still need a good bit of inspections and probably tests.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: SmallKing on 07/16/2017 09:00 am
Certainly serious as they are issuing a statement, but not the first. I'll write up the other incident earlier in the flow. This one's been in the wars.
Don't forget Heinrich's Law, it's very important for ULA to keep mission suceess
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: Jim on 07/16/2017 01:45 pm
Certainly serious as they are issuing a statement, but not the first. I'll write up the other incident earlier in the flow. This one's been in the wars.
Don't forget Heinrich's Law, it's very important for ULA to keep mission suceess

This has nothing to do with ULA
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 07/17/2017 06:14 am
As Jim said; ULA & Tory just referring people to NASA:

Quote
Refering questions to NASA. This operation is upstream from us

Quote
Here's the article from @NASA. They're the best source of info. nasa.gov/feature/goddar…
https://twitter.com/ulalaunch/status/886601279396487169

https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/886721293889884160 (https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/886721293889884160)
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 07/17/2017 10:39 am
A write up of the issue, the other issue and there wasn't much more to write about so added some historical overview of TDRS from William:
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2017/07/tdrs-m-under-review-pre-launch-incident/
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: psionedge on 07/17/2017 04:47 pm
A write up of the issue, the other issue and there wasn't much more to write about so added some historical overview of TDRS from William:
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2017/07/tdrs-m-under-review-pre-launch-incident/
From the article:
Quote
The satellite carries s-band phased array antennae to allow simultaneous communications with five other spacecraft, as well as two steerable antennae providing S, Ku or Ka band coverage to spacecraft requiring communications at a higher data rate. It’s this system that is currently being reviewed due to the incident noted by NASA over the weekend.
S-band omnis are typically for command and telemetry purposes (e.g. USB during post-launch, pre-deployment), not a high data rate application.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: Jim on 07/17/2017 05:22 pm
A write up of the issue, the other issue and there wasn't much more to write about so added some historical overview of TDRS from William:
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2017/07/tdrs-m-under-review-pre-launch-incident/
From the article:
Quote
The satellite carries s-band phased array antennae to allow simultaneous communications with five other spacecraft, as well as two steerable antennae providing S, Ku or Ka band coverage to spacecraft requiring communications at a higher data rate. It’s this system that is currently being reviewed due to the incident noted by NASA over the weekend.
S-band omnis are typically for command and telemetry purposes (e.g. USB during post-launch, pre-deployment), not a high data rate application.

Yes, this is an omni for spacecraft bus command and telemetry (with ground station) purposes through out all mission phases and has nothing to do with the comm package payload that is used to talk to other spacecraft.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 07/18/2017 01:28 pm
Just noticed this wasn't posted from last week:

Quote
July 13, 2017
Atlas V First Stage is Lifted for TDRS-M

A United Launch Alliance Atlas V first stage is lifted at the Vertical Integration Facility at Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The rocket is scheduled to launch the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, TDRS-M. It will be the latest spacecraft destined for the agency's constellation of communications satellites that allows nearly continuous contact with orbiting spacecraft ranging from the International Space Station and Hubble Space Telescope to the array of scientific observatories. Liftoff atop the ULA Atlas V rocket is scheduled to take place from Cape Canaveral's Space Launch Complex 41 on Aug. 3, 2017 at 9:02 a.m. EDT.

Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

https://www.nasa.gov/image-feature/atlas-v-first-stage-is-lifted-for-tdrs-m (https://www.nasa.gov/image-feature/atlas-v-first-stage-is-lifted-for-tdrs-m)
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 07/19/2017 08:48 am
A United Launch Alliance Atlas V Centaur upper stage is on its way to the Vertical Integration Facility at Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The rocket is scheduled to help launch the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, TDRS-M. It will be the latest spacecraft destined for the agency's constellation of communications satellites that allows nearly continuous contact with orbiting spacecraft ranging from the International Space Station and Hubble Space Telescope to the array of scientific observatories. Liftoff atop the ULA Atlas V rocket is scheduled to take place from Cape Canaveral's Space Launch Complex 41 in early August.

Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 07/19/2017 02:42 pm
Launch Viewing for ULA TDRS-M

Witness the August 3 launch from Kennedy Space Center!

Watch the launch of ULA’s TDRS-M, a satellite that will enable near-constant communication between Earth and missions like the International Space Station and Hubble Space Telescope.

 Launch viewing opportunities from Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex for TDRS-M are available at the following locations:
•LC-39 Observation Gantry, approximately 2.3 miles/3.7 kilometers from launch pad - $49 in addition to daily admission.
•Apollo/Saturn V Center, approximately 5.4 miles/8.7 kilometers from launch pad - $20 in addition to daily admission
•The main visitor complex outside of Space Shuttle Atlantis®, approximately 7.1 miles/11.4 kilometers from launch pad - included with daily admission
Rocket Launch Location
Launch viewing/transportation tickets for the Apollo/Saturn V Center and LC-39 Gantry are available online in addition to daily admission. The main visitor complex viewing area is accessible with only daily admission and does not require an additional ticket. All launch viewing/transportation tickets are first come, first served.

 Click “Learn More” (below) to access all launch viewing/transportation ticket inclusions, our Scrub Policy, how to prepare for your visit, and for information on this launch’s mission.


https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/tickets.aspx?keyword=Rocket%20Launch&spMailingID=29827657&spUserID=MT
E1Njg5MDIwMzQ4S0&spJobID=1082322384&spReportId=MTA4MjMyMjM4NAS2
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 07/19/2017 03:29 pm
Quote
Centaur Upper Stage in Place Atop Atlas V
Posted on July 18, 2017 at 2:38 pm by Anna Heiney.

At the Vertical Integration Facility at Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, United Launch Alliance team members mate a Centaur upper stage to an Atlas V booster. The rocket is scheduled to launch the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, TDRS-M.At the Vertical Integration Facility at Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, United Launch Alliance team members mate a Centaur upper stage to an Atlas V booster. The rocket is scheduled to launch the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, TDRS-M.The Centaur upper stage has been installed atop its United Launch Alliance Atlas V booster inside the Vertical Integration Facility at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station’s Space Launch Complex 41.

The rocket is slated to launch the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, TDRS-M. It will be the latest spacecraft destined for the agency’s constellation of communications satellites that allows nearly continuous contact with orbiting spacecraft ranging from the International Space Station and Hubble Space Telescope to the array of scientific observatories. Liftoff from Space Launch Complex 41 is scheduled for early August.

Photo credits: NASA/Kim Shiflett

https://blogs.nasa.gov/tdrs/2017/07/18/centaur-upper-stage-in-place-atop-atlas-v/ (https://blogs.nasa.gov/tdrs/2017/07/18/centaur-upper-stage-in-place-atop-atlas-v/)
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: Lars-J on 07/19/2017 04:22 pm
So no word yet if the damaged antenna will cause a launch delay?
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: Jim on 07/19/2017 04:50 pm
its a given
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 07/20/2017 10:20 pm
TDRS-M Status Update - July 20, 2017
NASA and Boeing are reviewing plans to safely replace an antenna on the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS-M). The satellite’s Omni S-band antenna was damaged during spacecraft closeout activities July 14 at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Florida. The TDRS team is also evaluating a possible electrostatic discharge event involving spacecraft mechanical ground support equipment at the launch site. An integrated launch team is assessing the Aug. 3 launch date on an United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. TDRS-M is the latest satellite to support the space segment of NASA’s Space Network.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 07/21/2017 07:05 am
Quote
Sorry to hear about the issue with #TDRSM apparently damaged S-band TT&C antenna,critical for sat ops,AFAIK 1 of 2 shown here [first 3 photos]
https://twitter.com/dutchspace/status/888178515404869632

Quote
Re ##TDRSM before you ask, yes there are 2 S-band antenna's, it was not mentioned which 1 was damaged,this is the other one,take your pick..[last 2 photos]
https://twitter.com/dutchspace/status/888183311377600512
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 03, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 07/21/2017 09:28 pm
Quote
Jeff Foust‏ @jeff_foust 14m14 minutes ago

NASA, Boeing and ULA “are reviewing a new launch date in August” for TDRS-M, according to an agency statement.

https://twitter.com/jeff_foust/status/888507066477944836 (https://twitter.com/jeff_foust/status/888507066477944836)

Edit to add:

Quote
TDRS-M Status Update – July 21, 2017
Posted on July 21, 2017 at 5:12 pm by Amber Philman.

NASA, Boeing and United Launch Alliance (ULA) are reviewing a new launch date in August for the agency’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS-M). NASA and Boeing need additional time to replace the spacecraft’s Omni S-band antenna at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Florida. A separate possible ground support equipment issue at Astrotech still is being assessed. TDRS-M will launch on a ULA Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. It is the latest satellite in a fleet of satellites supporting the space segment of the NASA’s Space Network.

https://blogs.nasa.gov/kennedy/2017/07/21/tdrs-m-status-update-july-21-2017/
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 07/22/2017 09:15 pm
Not official, but we understand they are looking at August 10 NET, pending final reviews. This was CRS-12 Dragon's previous launch date. NASA decided TDRS has priority.

Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 07/24/2017 03:12 pm
Quote
Stephen Clark‏ @StephenClark1 14m14 minutes ago

NASA’s Greg Williams, in NASA Advisory Council committee hearing, says replacement of damaged TDRS-M omni antenna is to occur today.

https://twitter.com/StephenClark1/status/889499706170249217
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August, 2017
Post by: zubenelgenubi on 07/25/2017 09:11 pm
NSF experts, please correct if I'm wrong:

Currently, it takes approximately 3 days to reconfigure the launch range between Canaveral/KSC launches.  Correct?

Some, but not all United States launches use TDRSS during launch.  Atlas V/Delta IV: yes; Falcon 9: no?
***

Launching TDRS-M from Canaveral on 8/10, followed by NROL-42 from Vandenberg, on 8/14, both on Atlas V's, is eminently do-able, yes?

Launching NROL-42 on Atlas V, from Vandenberg on 8/14, followed by launching Dragon, on Falcon 9, from KSC later on the same day--also possible?  No interference between the launch assets?

Are there any personnel that will work 2, or all 3, of these launches?

Thank you in advance!

EDIT: left a date out, EDITed it in.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August, 2017
Post by: Jim on 07/25/2017 09:40 pm
NSF experts, please correct if I'm wrong:

1.  Currently, it takes approximately 3 days to reconfigure the launch range between Canaveral/KSC launches.  Correct?

2.  Some, but not all United States launches use TDRSS during launch.  Atlas V/Delta IV: yes; Falcon 9: no?
***

3.  Launching TDRS-M from Canaveral on 8/10, followed by NROL-42 from Vandenberg, both on Atlas V's, is eminently do-able, yes?

4. Launching NROL-42 on Atlas V, from Vandenberg on 8/14, followed by launching Dragon, on Falcon 9, from KSC later on the same day--also possible?  No interference between the launch assets?

5. Are there any personnel that will work 2, or all 3, of these launches?

Thank you in advance!

1. 48 or less

2. correct

3. yes, but not going to happen

4. yes

5.  yes
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August, 2017
Post by: zubenelgenubi on 07/25/2017 10:03 pm
NSF experts, please correct if I'm wrong:
<snip>
3.  Launching TDRS-M from Canaveral on 8/10, followed by NROL-42 from Vandenberg, on 8/14, both on Atlas V's, is eminently do-able, yes?
<snip>
Thank you in advance!
<snip>
3. yes, but not going to happen
<snip>
Seeking clarification on 3., if you are free to comment:

Will the TDRS-M launch be further delayed? Or will the NROL-42 launch be delayed?

And a further question:
6. What is the approximate least amount of time possible between 2 ULA launches: 1 on the east coast, 1 on the west coast?

Thank you!
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 10, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 07/26/2017 03:22 pm
Status on TDRS-M request for the 10th and how that's impacted Dragon, etc. By Chris Gebhardt:

https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2017/07/tdrs-priority-crs-12-dragon-launch-dates-realign/
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 10, 2017
Post by: gongora on 07/26/2017 07:11 pm
SpaceflightNow just updated their launch schedule and it has this on August 20, did it slip some more?
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 10, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 07/26/2017 07:56 pm
I don't have a further slip yet, but it was always the risk, especially if NASA thinks they've (AstroTech I assume) really messed this up they want even more work doing.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 10, 2017
Post by: Jim on 07/26/2017 08:41 pm
I don't have a further slip yet, but it was always the risk, especially if NASA thinks they've (AstroTech I assume) really messed this up they want even more work doing.

Astrotech has no involvement in the delays.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 10, 2017
Post by: ChrisGebhardt on 07/26/2017 09:25 pm
I don't have a further slip yet, but it was always the risk, especially if NASA thinks they've (AstroTech I assume) really messed this up they want even more work doing.

Astrotech has no involvement in the delays.

I thought Astrotech was responsible for the damage and now the replacement of the omni antenna?
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 10, 2017
Post by: Jim on 07/26/2017 09:35 pm
I don't have a further slip yet, but it was always the risk, especially if NASA thinks they've (AstroTech I assume) really messed this up they want even more work doing.

Astrotech has no involvement in the delays.

I thought Astrotech was responsible for the damage and now the replacement of the omni antenna?

Boeing spacecraft and only Boeing does the work on it.
Astrotech only provides facilities.  They do not perform work on spacecraft.

That is the conop no matter where a spacecraft is launched from, the spacecraft contractor does all the work on the spacecraft.  So when LM, Loral, Boeing, Orbital, NG, etc send a spacecraft to Kourou, Baikonur, CCAFS/KSC, VAFB, etc, they all send a team to work on their spacecraft.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August, 2017
Post by: Newton_V on 07/26/2017 10:15 pm
Or will the NROL-42 launch be delayed?

L-42 is in September now.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 10, 2017
Post by: gongora on 07/26/2017 10:31 pm
SpaceflightNow just updated their launch schedule and it has this on August 20, did it slip some more?

Now the 20th
Tweet from @NASAKennedy (https://twitter.com/NASAKennedy/status/890337418351661057)
Quote
We are now targeting Aug. 20 for launch of the TDRS-M spacecraft. A 40-minute launch window would open at 7:56 a.m. EDT.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 20, 2017
Post by: ChrisGebhardt on 07/26/2017 10:59 pm
SpaceflightNow just updated their launch schedule and it has this on August 20, did it slip some more?

Now the 20th
Tweet from @NASAKennedy (https://twitter.com/NASAKennedy/status/890337418351661057)
Quote
We are now targeting Aug. 20 for launch of the TDRS-M spacecraft. A 40-minute launch window would open at 7:56 a.m. EDT.

Article updated to reflect the 20th confirmation.  Note on this: NASA did request the 10th yesterday.  So something has clearly happened/become a lot clearer in the last 24hrs to cause an additional 10 day slip.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 20, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 07/26/2017 11:01 pm
Quote
TDRS-M Status Update - July 26, 2017

NASA has provided Boeing concurrence to remove and replace the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite’s (TDRS-M) Omni S-band forward antenna. Pending Eastern Range approval, NASA, Boeing, and United Launch Alliance (ULA) are now targeting Aug. 20 for launch. A 40-minute launch window would open at 7:56 a.m. EDT. This new date allows for time to replace the antenna, which was damaged earlier this month while Boeing was conducting final spacecraft closeout activities at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Florida. TDRS-M will launch atop an ULA Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

https://www.nasa.gov/feature/goddard/2017/tdrs-m-status-update-july-21-2017
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 20, 2017
Post by: ChrisGebhardt on 07/26/2017 11:06 pm
Quote
TDRS-M Status Update - July 26, 2017

NASA has provided Boeing concurrence to remove and replace the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite’s (TDRS-M) Omni S-band forward antenna. Pending Eastern Range approval, NASA, Boeing, and United Launch Alliance (ULA) are now targeting Aug. 20 for launch. A 40-minute launch window would open at 7:56 a.m. EDT. This new date allows for time to replace the antenna, which was damaged earlier this month while Boeing was conducting final spacecraft closeout activities at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Florida. TDRS-M will launch atop an ULA Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

https://www.nasa.gov/feature/goddard/2017/tdrs-m-status-update-july-21-2017

Interesting.  Yesterday at the NASA Advisory Council meeting, Greg Williams, Deputy Associate Administrator for Policy and Plans in NASA’s Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate, said that replacement of the Omni antenna occurred Monday.  Wonder if this statement from NASA PAO means that replacement didn't start Monday as stated to NAC?
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 20, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 07/27/2017 12:14 pm
Confirmation via our notes repair work started Monday too.

And per my previous post, as Jim noted, this is all on Boeing, not Astrotech.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 20, 2017
Post by: zubenelgenubi on 08/03/2017 08:17 pm
TDRS-M mission overview PDF attached.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/07/2017 10:47 pm
18th confirmed:
https://blogs.nasa.gov/kennedy/2017/08/07/tdrs-m-flight-ready-aug-18-launch-date-approved/


TDRS-M Flight Ready, Aug. 18 Launch Date Approved

The Omni S-band antenna on NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS-M) has been successfully removed and replaced at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Florida.  An unrelated electrostatic discharge incident has also been resolved, and launch processing has resumed.  The spacecraft has been moved from the fueling stand and is now mated to the launch vehicle adapter as part of integrated operations with ULA.

The TDRS-M spacecraft is flight ready, and the Eastern Range has recently approved Aug. 18 as the launch date.  NASA, Boeing, and United Launch Alliance (ULA) are targeting a 40-minute launch window that would open at 8:03 a.m. EDT. TDRS-M will launch on an ULA Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/09/2017 11:39 am
Quote
#TDRSM is at the pad for integration. Looking forward to taking her to space soon

https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/895247567755149312
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/11/2017 01:06 pm
Quote
TDRS-M Spacecraft Secured in Payload Fairing, Delivered to Launch Complex
Posted on August 11, 2017 at 8:31 am by Anna Heiney.

NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite-M (TDRS-M) has passed two more milestones as preparations continue toward liftoff. Launch of the newest addition to the agency’s TDRS constellation is slated for Aug. 18 at 8:03 a.m. EDT from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

Processing activities at the Astrotech payload processing facility in nearby Titusville wrapped up with the TDRS-M spacecraft safely encapsulated in the payload fairing that will protect it through the early minutes of liftoff. The fairing arrived at the launch complex Aug. 9 after an early morning move from Astrotech. Now in position atop the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket, the vehicle and spacecraft will undergo additional testing ahead of launch.

https://blogs.nasa.gov/kennedy/2017/08/11/tdrs-m-spacecraft-secured-in-payload-fairing-delivered-to-launch-complex/

Photo caption:

Quote
Inside the Astrotech facility in Titusville, Florida, the payload fairing for NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, TDRS-M, is moved into position to encapsulate the spacecraft. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/14/2017 04:58 pm
Launch forecast 70% GO

Quote
Launch day overall probability of violating weather constraints: 30%
Primary concern(s): Thick Clouds, Cumulus Clouds
24-hour delay overall probability of violating weather constraints 30%
Primary concern(s): Thick Clouds, Cumulus Clouds
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/15/2017 03:10 am
ULA:

Everything is progressing toward the ULA Atlas V launch carrying the TDRS-M spacecraft for NASA. The mission is set to lift off on a ULA Atlas V rocket on Friday, Aug. 18 from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Today’s L-4 forecast shows a 70 percent chance of favorable weather conditions for launch. The Aug. 18 launch window is 8:03-8:43 a.m. ET.


Launch Forecast Summary:

Overall probability of violating weather constraints: 30%

Primary concerns: Cumulus Clouds and Thick Clouds


Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24 hour delay: 30%

Primary concern: Cumulus Clouds and Thick Clouds

 
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/15/2017 12:16 pm
Quote
#TDRSM

https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/897429894170161152 (https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/897429894170161152)
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: russianhalo117 on 08/15/2017 03:10 pm
Atlas V TDRS-M Mission Profile

United Launch Alliance
An Atlas V 401 rocket will launch the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite-M (TDRS-M) into a geosynchronous transfer orbit. Liftoff will occur from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida. ULA is proud to partner with NASA to deliver these vital space communication satellites to orbit. ULA’s Atlas rocket was used for the second generation series and will complete the three satellite third generation series with the launch of TDRS-M.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNe3PpfDqBs
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/15/2017 03:23 pm
Launch forecast issued on L-3 still 70% GO

Quote
Launch day overall probability of violating weather constraints: 30%
Primary concern(s): Thick Clouds, Cumulus Clouds
24-hour delay overall probability of violating weather constraints 30%
Primary concern(s): Thick Clouds, Cumulus Clouds
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 08/16/2017 08:12 am
August 15, 2017
MEDIA ADVISORY M14-17

NASA Television to Air Launch of Next Communications Satellite

NASA is targeting 8:03 a.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 18, for the launch of its next Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) mission atop a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The launch, and related activities that begin Thursday, Aug. 17, will air live on NASA Television and the agency’s website.

TDRS-M, built by Boeing, will provide NASA’s Space Network the ability to support critical space communication into the mid-2020s, ensuring scientists, engineers and control room staff can readily access data for missions like the Hubble Space Telescope and the International Space Station.

Media badges will be issued at the Press Accreditation Office located on State Road 3, Merritt Island. For more information about media accreditation, send inquiries to [email protected].

Please Note that RSVPs will be required for the following events:

-L-1 Media Tour

-L-1 Remote Camera Setup and Pad Photo Opportunity

-Launch (NASA Causeway and VAB)

When you RSVP, please indicate in the subject line your name, affiliation and specific area(s) related to your RSVP. RSVPs must be sent to [email protected] no later than 9 a.m., Aug. 16

L-2 Day (Wednesday, Aug. 16)

Press Site Hours of Operation: 7 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Badging Hours of Operation: 6:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Atlas V Rollout (8 a.m.)

On Wednesday, Aug. 16, media may observe rollout of the Atlas V rocket from the Vertical Integration Facility to the launch pad. Media should meet in the Kennedy Press Site parking lot at 8 a.m. for transportation to the viewing location near Space Launch Complex 41.

Media Tour (10:30 a.m.)

Launch Equipment Test Facility

The facility tests all the launch umbilicals for the mobile launcher of NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. This site is a versatile test and development area that supports the entire spectrum of operational programs. It was upgraded and refurbished to support SLS and is used to test a wide variety of large-scale hardware and ground support equipment components. Equipment at the facility can recreate liftoff and operational conditions to test component performance, and can supply cryogenics, hydraulics, electrical and other commodities to enable "test-as-you-fly."


L-1 Day (Thursday, Aug. 17)

Press Site Hours of Operation: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Badging Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Prelaunch News Conference on NASA TV (9 a.m.)

A prelaunch news conference will be held at Kennedy’s Press Site TV Auditorium at 9 a.m. and air live on NASA Television and the agency's website.

Press conference participants include:
•Tim Dunn, launch director at NASA Kennedy Space Center, Florida
•Badri Younes, deputy associate administrator for Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) at NASA Headquarters in Washington
•Dave Littmann, project manager for TDRS-M at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland
•James Wilson III, Boeing program manager for NASA/Civil Space Programs
•Scott Messer, ULA program manager for NASA missions
•Clay Flinn, launch weather officer with the 45th Space Wing at Cape Canaveral

Media may participate with questions via a phone bridge by calling the newsroom at Kennedy at 321-867-2468 no later than 15 minutes before the briefing begins. Media also can post questions during the briefings via Twitter by using the hashtag #askNASA.

Sonic Booms in Atmospheric Turbulence Flight Series (SonicBAT) Media Briefing (11 a.m.)

NASA’s Kennedy Space Center is partnering with NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California; NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia; and Space Florida for an aeronautics research flight series expected to produce some sonic booms over Kennedy through late August. Media will hear from representatives of NASA, Space Florida and the Canaveral National Seashore concerning the upcoming supersonic flight series. The flight series is an agency aeronautical research effort to quiet the sound of sonic booms. The press conference will not be carried live on NASA Television; however, media unable to attend in person may participate with questions via a phone bridge by calling the newsroom at Kennedy at 321-867-2468 no later than 15 minutes prior to the briefing.

Media Tour (12:45 p.m.)

Kennedy Uplink Station/Launch Communications System Briefing 

The Kennedy Uplink Station (KUS) antenna is part of a new S-band ground tracking system that will provide crucial launch communications capabilities to SLS and Orion in their early launch stages. Part of the larger Launch Communications Stations, the project is jointly funded by the Ground Systems Development and Operations (GSDO) program and the Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) program. With this new antenna, SLS will be able to transmit at high data rates, as well as provide an S-band uplink capability to communicate with astronauts aboard Orion.

Ka-Band Objects Observation and Monitoring (KaBOOM) Briefing

NASA has embarked on a path to implement a high power, higher resolution radar system to track Near Earth Objects or NEOs such as asteroids and comets 100,000 times more accurately than optical telescopes as part of a system to defend the Earth from major impacts. The system will determine the size, shape, spin rate and surface properties of these NEOs to determine which are suitable for potential visits by astronaut crews. KaBOOM also will track orbital debris to ensure crew and spacecraft safety

Remote Camera Setup and Pad Photo Opportunity

On Thursday, Aug. 17, photographers will be transported to Space Launch Complex 41 to set up remote sound-activated cameras at the Atlas V launch pad. Media should meet in the Kennedy Press Site parking lot at 2 p.m.

L-0 Day (Friday, Aug. 18)

Press Site Hours of Operation: 5:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Badging Hours of Operation: 5:30 a.m. – 7 a.m.

Launch Viewing

News media wanting to view the launch from either the NASA Causeway or the Vehicle Assembly Building roof (space is limited) need to arrive to the Press Site by 6 a.m. Media also may view the launch from the Press Site.

NASA TV Launch Coverage

NASA TV live coverage will begin at 7:30 a.m. Coverage will conclude after spacecraft separation. There is no planned post-launch news conference. A post-launch news release will be issued as soon as the state-of-health of the spacecraft can be verified. For NASA TV downlink information, schedules and links to streaming video, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/ntv

Audio only of the news conferences and launch coverage will be carried on the NASA "V" circuits, which may be accessed by dialing 321-867-1220, -1240, -1260 or -7135. On launch day, "mission audio," the launch conductor’s countdown activities without NASA TV launch commentary, will be carried on 321-867-7135. Launch coverage also will be available on local amateur VHF radio frequency 146.940 MHz heard within Brevard County on the Space Coast.

NASA Web Prelaunch and Launch Coverage

Prelaunch and launch day coverage of the TDRS-M flight will be available on http://www.nasa.gov. Coverage will include live streaming and blog updates beginning at 7:30 a.m. as the countdown milestones occur. For questions about countdown coverage, contact the newsroom at 321-867-2468. You can follow countdown coverage on our launch blog at: https://blogs.nasa.gov/tdrs/   

Learn more about the TDRS-M mission by visiting:

http://www.nasa.gov/tdrs

Join the conversation and follow the TDRS-M mission on social media by using Twitter and Facebook at:

https://twitter.com/NASA_TDRS

https://www.facebook.com/NASA.TDRS/
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/16/2017 01:49 pm
Quote
Final preps underway for MLP roll to the pad. #TDRSM

https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/897797099781185536
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/16/2017 01:56 pm
Quote
The view from the top. #AtlasV with @NASA_TDRS as it prepares to roll to the pad. #TDRSM

https://twitter.com/ulalaunch/status/897805396412203009

Quote
Rolling out to the launch pad. Launch is Aug. 18. 40-min window opens at 8:03amET. bit.ly/av_tdrsm

https://twitter.com/ulalaunch/status/897811567688859649
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 08/16/2017 06:44 pm
Quote
Safely arrived at the pad, getting ready for launch Friday morning.


https://www.instagram.com/p/BX3AiG6Ayyc/
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/16/2017 10:19 pm
Couple more ULA rollout pics
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/16/2017 10:22 pm
Launch forecast issued on L-2, no real change still 70% GO

Quote
Launch day overall probability of violating weather constraints: 30%
Primary concern(s): Thick Clouds, Cumulus Clouds
24-hour delay overall probability of violating weather constraints 30%
Primary concern(s): Thick Clouds, Cumulus Clouds
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/16/2017 11:03 pm
Quote
Ops going well. Taking a brief pause for lightning condition at the pad. #Florida #TDRSM

https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/897938598149763073
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Lars-J on 08/17/2017 12:36 am
Is there a reason this Atlas V core is much more gray than the usual copper tone? Is there a new protective surface treatment being used?

EDIT: I guess it is the light conditions... I looked at older Atlas V rollouts, and most do show a more copper color but some look more gray.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/17/2017 10:44 am
Quote
RP1 tanking completed. Minor challenges from lightning and tornados overcome. Mighty Atlas Can't wait to go to space. #TDRSM

https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/898117948744769536
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/17/2017 12:46 pm
Quote
Planning on some excitement tomorrow
#TDRSM

https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/898156232652935168
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/17/2017 01:39 pm
Retweeted by Tory Bruno:

Quote
Weather now 80% Go for Friday's launch of ULA #AtlasV 401 from Cape Canaveral AFS carrying #NASA #TDRSM satellite to orbit.
T-0: 8:03 am EDT

https://twitter.com/military_flight/status/898170244157648896
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/17/2017 11:17 pm
https://youtu.be/Nc2ZoTzP5gg (https://youtu.be/Nc2ZoTzP5gg)
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: catdlr on 08/18/2017 12:30 am
NASA Goddard
Published on Aug 17, 2017

The Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, TDRS, project is building the follow-on and replacement spacecraft necessary to maintain and expand NASA’s Space Network. The third satellite of the third generation, TDRS-M, is set to launch in August 2017. TDRS-M will launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida aboard an Atlas V rocket. This satellite will join a constellation of space-based communications satellites providing tracking, telemetry, command and high-bandwidth data return services.

This video is public domain and along with other supporting visualizations can be downloaded from the Scientific Visualization Studio at: https://svs.gsfc.nasa.gov/12201

Credit: NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center/Stu Snodgrass

If you liked this video, subscribe to the NASA Goddard YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/NASAExplorer

https://youtu.be/WEk8E6FL4wc?t=001

https://youtu.be/WEk8E6FL4wc

TDRS Network 360

NASA Goddard
Published on Aug 17, 2017

Take a 360-degree look at the network of satellites that help more than 40 NASA missions transmit their data to Earth. The Tracking and Data Relay Satellites (TDRS) form a constellation around Earth and work together with ground stations in White Sands, New Mexico, and Guam to communicate data.

The TDRS project is building the follow-on and replacement spacecraft necessary to maintain and expand NASA’s Space Network. The third satellite of the third generation, TDRS-M, is set to launch in August 2017. TDRS-M will launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida aboard an Atlas V rocket. This satellite will join a constellation of space-based communications satellites providing tracking, telemetry, command and high-bandwidth data return services.

This video is public domain and along with other supporting visualizations can be downloaded from the Scientific Visualization Studio at: https://svs.gsfc.nasa.gov/12201

Credit: NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center/Stu Snodgrass

If you liked this video, subscribe to the NASA Goddard YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/NASAExplorer

https://youtu.be/5S0p8LsRwuc?t=001

https://youtu.be/5S0p8LsRwuc



TDRS Network 360 - for Virtual Reality Headsets

https://youtu.be/Ss0CNxlafO8?t=001

https://youtu.be/Ss0CNxlafO8
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 01:14 am
Moved for live coverage
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Targeteer on 08/18/2017 02:01 am
The linguistic gymnastics performed by the Boeing and NASA reps performed to prevent admitting Boeing broke the S band antenna with a crane component in prep for lifting were entertaining, disappointing, and expected.  Kudos to Bill Harwood whose persistence finally got Boeing to admit it wasn't equipment failure on the crane and to Irene Klotz for getting NASA to admit Boeing covered the repair costs.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 02:41 am
William Graham's feature article!
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2017/08/ula-atlas-v-loft-tdrs-m-cape-canaveral/
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 08/18/2017 09:07 am
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Michael Baylor on 08/18/2017 09:37 am
Seeing lightning on the drive into KSC. My guess is that it's a bit off the coast but hard to estimate.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Galactic Penguin SST on 08/18/2017 09:51 am
Seeing lightning on the drive into KSC. My guess is that it's a bit off the coast but hard to estimate.

Seems to be quite a bit offshore:
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Michael Baylor on 08/18/2017 11:08 am
Sunrise from the LC-39 observation gantry.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 11:13 am
ULA webcast link is to NASA TV, so it's all on NASA TV today.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:21 am
Florida Today live feed.

https://livestream.com/accounts/20522137/events/7660320
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:24 am
T-40 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:31 am
Leo is quite interested in this launch!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:31 am
NASA coverage has begun.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:33 am
Everything is going well. Weather briefing soon.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:34 am
L-30 minutes. Standing by for weather briefing.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 11:36 am
Nice and venty.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:37 am
90% go for launch.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:37 am
Talking about TDRS-M.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:39 am
Vehicle preparations.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:40 am
TDRS-M in the Astrotech facility.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:42 am
Talking about TDRS-M.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:44 am
L-20 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:45 am
L-19 minutes or T-4 minutes to make it confusing.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:49 am
L-15 minutes. Talking about LSP (Launch Services Program).
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:52 am
Mission overview.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:54 am
L-10 minutes. Range is go. Not working any issues.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:55 am
L-9 minutes. Standing by for launch readiness poll.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:56 am
L-8 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 11:56 am
Final polling to come out of the BIH.....

....sounds like delay of T-0.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:57 am
L-7 minutes. Evaluating a thermal issue with Centaur.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 11:57 am
Remaining in the BIH due to a "thermal issue" on the Centaur Upper Stage. Engine chilldown not meeting requirements.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: fvandrog on 08/18/2017 11:59 am
Remaining in the BIH due to a "thermal issue" on the Centaur Upper Stage. Engine chilldown not meeting requirements.

40 minutes launch window, Till 8:43
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 11:59 am
Think I heard the problem is getting the chilldown temperature for the engine. Hold extended by five minutes. Launch at 12:08 UTC.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: fvandrog on 08/18/2017 12:00 pm
Think I heard the problem is getting the chilldown temperature for the engine. Hold extended by five minutes. Launch at 12:08 UTC.

Extended for 5 more minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:01 pm
L-8 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 12:01 pm
Apparently trending the right way.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:02 pm
Temperatures trending in the right direction.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:04 pm
Launch extended to 8:13 local (12:13 UTC).
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:06 pm
L-8 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:08 pm
New T0 of 8:18 local (12:18 UTC).
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:11 pm
L-8 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:12 pm
Problem with LOX chilldown system. Trending in right direction. New T-0 of 8:23 local.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 12:13 pm
NASA TDRS‏Verified account @NASA_TDRS 
More
 Mission managers expect to be able to resolve the issues with engine chill during the launch window today. #TDRSM
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:16 pm
L-8 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:17 pm
L-7 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:18 pm
New T-0 of 8:28 local (12:03 UTC).
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 12:18 pm
29 mins past the hour is the new T-0.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: fvandrog on 08/18/2017 12:19 pm
12:29
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:19 pm
New T-0 of 12:29 UTC.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:20 pm
L-10 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:21 pm
L-9 minutes. New T-0 approved by range. Both temperatures are in range.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:22 pm
L-8 minutes. Concur with proceeding with the count.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 12:23 pm
Polling is GO to come out of the BIH.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:23 pm
L-7 minutes. Performing poll.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: fvandrog on 08/18/2017 12:23 pm
All systems are GO!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:24 pm
L-6 minutes. Go for launch.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:25 pm
L-5 minutes. Propellants at flight levels.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 12:25 pm
NASA TV's commentators doubleteaming by saying a line each is freaking me out. ;D

Anyway, issue resolved. Atlas V now out of the Built In Hold. Launching 29 mins past the hour.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:26 pm
T-4 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:27 pm
T-3 minutes. FTS internal.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:28 pm
T-2 minutes. Vehicle is internal.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:29 pm
T-1 minute. Range is go.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 12:29 pm
LAUNCH!!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:30 pm
Liftoff!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 12:31 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:31 pm
T+1 minute.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:32 pm
T+2 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:33 pm
T+3 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 12:34 pm
Staging.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:34 pm
BECO!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:34 pm
Fairing separation.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:35 pm
T+5 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 12:35 pm
"Booster performance was near nominal. "

"Near"?
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:36 pm
T+6 minutes
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:37 pm
T+7 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:38 pm
T+8 minutes. Making slight modifications to the propellant utilisation.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:39 pm
T+9 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:40 pm
T+10 minutes. All going well.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:41 pm
T+11 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:42 pm
T+12 minutes. Near nominal mixture ratio.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:43 pm
T+13 minutes. About five minutes left in burn.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 12:43 pm
LSP seem happy enough:

"The NASA Engineering team is monitoring various parameters during flight. No issues or concerns."
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:44 pm
T+14 minutes. Centaur performing well.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:45 pm
T+15 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:46 pm
T+16 minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:47 pm
T+17 minutes. Now its orbital!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 12:47 pm
MECO-1.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:48 pm
Centaur cutoff!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 12:49 pm
Coverage resumes at 9:45 local.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 12:57 pm
Replays....
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 01:03 pm
Launch replays.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 01:07 pm
Upcoming events.

Centaur Second Main Engine Start (MES-2)    01:48:03.7  (14:17:03 UTC)
Centaur Second Main Engine Cutoff (MECO-2)  01:49:00.1  (14:18:00 UTC)
TDRS-M Separation                           01:53:46.1  (14:22:46 UTC)

Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Mapperuo on 08/18/2017 01:09 pm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XeGkY676JEg
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: John44 on 08/18/2017 01:21 pm
TDRS M - Launch and Replays
http://www.space-multimedia.nl.eu.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10079

TDRS M - Prelaunch News Conference
http://www.space-multimedia.nl.eu.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10077

TDRS M - NASA Social
http://www.space-multimedia.nl.eu.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10078

Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:06 pm
Live coverage starting soon.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:11 pm
Coverage has started. Six minutes to second ignition.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:12 pm
Showing a video on TDRS.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:15 pm
Back to Josh and Mike. About two minutes to go.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:16 pm
About one minute to second ignition.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 02:17 pm
Second burn underway.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:18 pm
Ignition!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:18 pm
Oxidiser rich mixture.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:19 pm
MECO!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:20 pm
Centaur rotating into position.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:21 pm
Five minutes between MECO and spacecraft separation, so about two minutes from now.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:22 pm
Performing spinup. About one minute to spacecraft separation.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 02:23 pm
S/C Sep! Congrats to all.

Thanks to Steven for the coverage and to all who helped out.

William Graham's article post launch:
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2017/08/ula-atlas-v-loft-tdrs-m-cape-canaveral/
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:24 pm
Separation!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:24 pm
Handshakes going around.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:25 pm
Launch control centre. Standing by for interview with Tim Dunn.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:28 pm
ULA posted a nice high resolution image of the separation.

https://twitter.com/_r_ULA/status/898550879137263616
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 02:29 pm
They probably took that from the pre-launch overview video. Clever idea. Wish I had thought of that! ;D
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:29 pm
Interview with Tim Dunn. Talking about LOX chilldown issue.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: LouScheffer on 08/18/2017 02:31 pm
Congrats to ULA on another successful launch!

The apogee is not as high as GEO, though the perigee is higher than a typical GTO misson at just over 4000 km.  This was expected according to the mission overview.  I'd assume the reason is that they wanted a higher perigee, to reduce the final deficit to GEO.  But I think if you try this, you are supposed to have a perigee of at least 4000 km, to avoid space junk problems.  So I'd guess they designed the mission to have a perigee of 4000 km, then raised the apogee as far as they could given the total performance available.

EDIT:  My mistake.  I did not notice they quoted the apogee in nautical miles, not the more common statute miles.   Apogee is almost exactly GEO after accounting for this conversion.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:32 pm
TDRS-M pins for Josh and Tim.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Steven Pietrobon on 08/18/2017 02:38 pm
NASA wrapping up coverage.

Congratulations to ULA and NASA for the successful launch!

I well remember watching TDRS-C being launched on the Shuttle return to flight in South Bend, Indiana where I was doing my Ph.D. Part of that was designing a rate 5/6 8PSK trellis code Viterbi decoder. The decoder was built by myself back here in Adelaide and then successfully tested at White Sands over the TDRS satellites (after fixing an embarrassing wiring error!). Its great to see the last of the third series of TDRS satellites making orbit!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: ZachS09 on 08/18/2017 02:45 pm
Congrats to ULA and NASA for the successful execution of TDRS-M's launch!

It's about time we had another Atlas V go off; it's been four months since the last one (Cygnus OA-7).
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Newton_V on 08/18/2017 02:53 pm
The apogee is not as high as GEO.

Apogee is exactly GEO altitude, when propagated out to apogee.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Graham on 08/18/2017 02:54 pm
I'm late, but congratulations to all involved teams. Glad to see Atlas back into the swing of things after her sabbatical
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Star One on 08/18/2017 02:57 pm
Congratulations to NASA & ULA on this successful launch.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/18/2017 03:00 pm
Pics from ULA:
United Launch Alliance Successfully Launches
NASA’s TDRS-M Satellite
Final Mission in Series Completes Third Generation Space Communication Satellites

Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., (Aug. 18, 2017) – A United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket carrying the NASA’s Tracking Data and Relay Satellite-M (TDRS-M) lifted off from Space Launch Complex-41 Aug. 18 at 8:29 a.m. EDT. The TDRS-M is the third and final mission in the series of these third generation space communication satellites to orbit, as part of the follow-on fleet being developed to replenish NASA’s space Network.

“ULA uses the TDRS system as a primary means of receiving and distributing launch vehicle telemetry data during every flight.  In fact, the TDRS-K and TDRS-L spacecraft, launched by ULA in 2013 and 2014 tracked today’s launch” said Laura Maginnis, ULA vice president of Government Satellite Launch. “We are absolutely honored to have delivered this core NASA capability and critical national resource for our country.”

All six of the newest TDRS satellites have been delivered to orbit on Atlas V vehicles.

       This mission was launched aboard an Atlas V 401 configuration vehicle, which includes a 4-meter extended payload fairing. The Atlas booster for this mission was powered by the RD AMROSS RD-180 engine, and the Centaur upper stage was powered by the Aerojet Rocketdyne RL10C engine. This is ULA’s 5th launch in 2017 and the 120th successful launch since the company was formed in December 2006.

            “Congratulations to our entire ULA team and mission partners at NASA on another successful launch that will enable so many to explore and operate in space,” said Maginnis.

The Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS) is a space-based communication system used to provide tracking, telemetry, command and high-bandwidth data return services. Microwave communications equipment and gimbaled antennae are the primary payload of each TDRS. The system is capable of providing near continuous high-bandwidth telecommunications services for Low Earth orbiting spacecraft and expendable launch vehicles including the International Space Station.

With more than a century of combined heritage, United Launch Alliance is the nation’s most experienced and reliable launch service provider. ULA has successfully delivered more than 115 satellites to orbit that aid meteorologists in tracking severe weather, unlock the mysteries of our solar system, provide critical capabilities for troops in the field and enable personal device-based GPS navigation.

For more information on ULA, visit the ULA website at www.ulalaunch.com, or call the ULA Launch Hotline at 1-877-ULA-4321 (852-4321). Join the conversation at www.facebook.com/ulalaunch, twitter.com/ulalaunch and instagram.com/ulalaunch.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: LouScheffer on 08/18/2017 03:07 pm
The apogee is not as high as GEO.

Apogee is exactly GEO altitude, when propagated out to apogee.
Right you are.  I made this mistake since the perigree is quoted in nautical miles, not statute miles or kilometers.  The mission press kit  (http://www.ulalaunch.com/uploads/docs/Mission_Booklets/AV/av_tdrsm_mob.pdf)  quotes the apogee at separation of 19,324 nm.   I recalled that GEO has apogee of 20,000+ miles, as in this from Wikipedia:
Quote
A geostationary equatorial orbit (GEO) is a circular geosynchronous orbit in the plane of the Earth's equator with a radius of approximately 42,164 km (26,199 mi) (measured from the center of the Earth). A satellite in such an orbit is at an altitude of approximately 35,786 km (22,236 mi) above mean sea level.
So when I saw the apogee begin with '1' and not '2', I thought it was sub-GEO.  But the two radii are very nearly the same after unit conversion.

My personal preference would be to use metric for these figures.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Michael Baylor on 08/18/2017 03:31 pm
Congrats to ULA. Heading home now after a very successful Florida trip. Saw my first SpaceX landing and first Atlas V launch. Here is my video from today at the LC-39 observation gantry. It's just on my phone as I prefer to focus on watching the launch with my eyes. 😉

If anyone is interested in watching a launch from the LC-39 gantry it gives a good perspective of the distance. Only 2.3 miles! I would highly recommend paying for the ticket as the view is amazing.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5EJZmPiiiATMTFBLUdKTnllMm8/view?usp=drivesdk
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Mark McCombs on 08/18/2017 04:01 pm
Congrats to ULA, NASA, Range and all others.    8)

Thanks to Steven and Chris for the coverage.

 :)
Title: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Star One on 08/18/2017 05:53 pm
From the SN article covering the launch concerning the next generation of TDRS satellites.

Quote
“The deployment of the satellites depends on the requirements. At this moment, there is no need a TDRS-N,” said Badri Younes, deputy associate administrator for Space Communications and Navigation at NASA Headquarters. “We are seeing a need for additional data relaying capability around the 2025 time frame.”

Those future needs will be met by a later generation of communications satellites. Younes, at the press conference, said those future spacecraft will likely incorporate new technologies, including laser communications, which he said can offer up to 100 times the bandwidth for the same amount of power. “We have declared the next decade to be the decade of light, as we intend to light up the communications highways over the solar system,” he said.

Other technologies he said NASA was considering incorporating on future satellites include disruption tolerant networking and quantum entanglement, which would provide essentially unbreakable encryption for satellite communications. China has been testing quantum entanglement for communications using a satellite launched last year.

Younes suggested that those future data relay satellites might be owned and operated by commercial entities rather than NASA. “NASA’s optimum goal is to push the technology to enable the commercial sector such that these services can be provided by commercial providers, and NASA will not need in the future to build these kinds of capabilities,” he said. “They can become a user, like any other user.”

http://spacenews.com/tdrs-launch-marks-end-of-an-era/
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Rocket Science on 08/18/2017 07:22 pm
I had to go out and buy a new monitor so I missed it live, but what a way to inaugurate it with a beautiful Atlas V launch on YouTube! 8) Congratulations to all the teams and especially to those at NSF that allowed me to catch-up on the excitement! :)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/18/2017 09:16 pm
Congratulations to ULA and NASA:

Quote
120

https://twitter.com/torybruno/status/898551062629556224
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/18/2017 09:19 pm
Quote
Space fans, tourists, and beach-goers watch the liftoff of Atlas V and TDRS-M! Photo by me from Playalinda Beach. cc: @ulalaunch @torybruno

https://twitter.com/johnkrausphotos/status/898525289130610688
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/18/2017 10:14 pm
https://youtu.be/LwOmJRZQfmw (https://youtu.be/LwOmJRZQfmw)

Quote
Third Generation Satellite Joins NASA's Communication Network
NASA

Published on 18 Aug 2017
On Friday, August 18, NASA launched the third in a series of three advanced, Tracking and Data Relay Satellites, known as TDRS-M, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, in Florida. This latest addition to the fleet will augment a space communications network that provides the critical path for high data-rate communication to a host of spacecraft including the International Space Station and its resupply vehicles, the Hubble Space Telescope and many of NASA’s Earth-observing fleet spacecraft.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Kim Keller on 08/19/2017 12:14 am
Really glad we got this off on the first attempt. I love working with rockets, but showing up for console duty at 0130 is not my idea of fun!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: catdlr on 08/19/2017 03:03 am
Atlas V TDRS-M Launch Highlights

United Launch Alliance
Published on Aug 18, 2017

An Atlas V rocket lifts off from Cape Canaveral’s Space Launch Complex-41 with NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite-M (TDRS-M). The addition of TDRS-M to the Space Network (SN) provides the ability to support space communication for an additional 15 years.

https://youtu.be/yzW_b1tC5eE?t=001

https://youtu.be/yzW_b1tC5eE
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Lewis007 on 08/19/2017 06:57 am
Some TDRS-M artwork which has not been posted yet, I believe
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: input~2 on 08/19/2017 08:15 am
2 objects have been cataloged by USSTRATCOM

2017-047A/42915 in 4647 x 35753 km x 26.21°
2017-047B/42916 in 4404 x 34754 km x 26.39°
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/19/2017 06:53 pm
Quote
#TDRSM will continue its deployment over the next few weeks until the spacecraft is fully unfolded and ready for testing. What comes next?

https://twitter.com/nasa_tdrs/status/898977125444857856
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: catdlr on 08/19/2017 08:47 pm
Remote Pad Camera Views Of Atlas V / TDRS-M Launch


Matthew Travis
Published on Aug 19, 2017

Video Credit: ©2017 Matthew Travis / Zero-G News

NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite-M (TDRS-M), which is the third and final in a series of next generation communications satellites, has successfully been placed into orbit following separation from a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket. TDRS-M launched Friday at 8:03 a.m. EDT from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

Ground controllers report the satellite is in good health at the start of a four-month check out in space by its manufacturer, Boeing. NASA will conduct additional tests before putting TDRS-M into service early next year. When ready, TDRS-M will become part of NASA’s Space Network providing navigation and high-data-rate communications to the International Space Station, NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope, rockets and a host of other spacecraft.

"The TDRS fleet is a critical connection delivering science and human spaceflight data to those who can use it here on Earth," said Dave Littmann, the TDRS project manager at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. "TDRS-M will expand the capabilities and extend the lifespan of the Space Network, allowing us to continue receiving and transmitting mission data well into the next decade."

https://youtu.be/6sr5kPc2LlQ?t=001

https://youtu.be/6sr5kPc2LlQ
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: jacqmans on 08/20/2017 02:21 pm
August 18, 2017
RELEASE 17-073

NASA Successfully Launches Latest Communications Satellite


NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite-M (TDRS-M), which is the third and final in a series of next generation communications satellites, has successfully been placed into orbit following separation from an United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket. TDRS-M launched Friday at 8:29 a.m. EDT from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

Ground controllers report the satellite is in good health at the start of a four-month checkout in space by its manufacturer, Boeing. NASA will conduct additional tests before putting TDRS-M into service early next year. When ready, TDRS-M will become part of NASA’s Space Network providing navigation and high-data-rate communications to the International Space Station, NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope, rockets and a host of other spacecraft.

“The TDRS fleet is a critical connection delivering science and human spaceflight data to those who can use it here on Earth,” said Dave Littmann, the TDRS project manager at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. “TDRS-M will expand the capabilities and extend the lifespan of the Space Network, allowing us to continue receiving and transmitting mission data well into the next decade.”

The mission of the TDRS project, established in 1973, is to develop, launch and deliver data communications relay spacecraft to support NASA's Space Network, which provides high-data-rate communications and accurate navigation. The TDRS-M spacecraft is effectively identical -- in both function and performance -- to the TDRS-K and -L spacecraft launched in 2013 and 2014, respectively.

The TDRS fleet began operating during the space shuttle era with the launch of TDRS-1 in 1983. Of the TDRS spacecraft launched to date, only two have been retired and five of the nine operational satellites have exceeded their design life and continue to provide essential communications and navigation services.

Boeing conducted spacecraft integration and testing earlier this year at its satellite factory in El Segundo, California. After testing and confirming the spacecraft was ready for shipment, launch processing began following TDRS-M’s arrival in Florida June 23.

NASA's Space Communications and Navigation program, known as SCaN, is part of the Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate at the agency's Headquarters in Washington, and is responsible for the Space Network. The TDRS project office at Goddard manages the TDRS development program. Management of the launch service for TDRS-M is the responsibility of NASA’s Launch Services Program based at the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. ULA provided the Atlas V rocket launch service.

For more information about TDRS, visit:

http://nasa.gov/tdrs
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Targeteer on 08/22/2017 03:48 pm
TDRS-M   2017-047A        842.25min        17.55deg   35766km     10564km
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/22/2017 08:55 pm
Posted to YouTube 22 Aug:

https://youtu.be/hz5YI08wDAA (https://youtu.be/hz5YI08wDAA)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Targeteer on 08/24/2017 07:34 pm
TDRS-M   2017-047A    1099.18min   10.59deg   35798km   22008km
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: FutureSpaceTourist on 08/24/2017 10:38 pm
https://youtu.be/T-JI70F0-DE (https://youtu.be/T-JI70F0-DE)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Targeteer on 08/25/2017 07:47 pm
TDRS-M   2017-047A        1341.12min     7.67deg       35765km   32047km
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Targeteer on 08/27/2017 10:57 pm
42915   TDRS-M   2017-047A        1423.46min     7.11deg      35786km   35291km
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Targeteer on 08/28/2017 08:10 pm
42915   TDRS-M   2017-047A        1423.46min     7.11deg      35786km   35291km

Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (Facebook)
19 mins ·

#TDRSM has reached its geosynchronous orbit at 22,300 miles above Earth's surface! Tomorrow the spacecraft components will begin to deploy.

To learn more about TDRS, visit: https://tdrs.gsfc.nasa.gov

Planned 7 deg inclination???
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Targeteer on 08/29/2017 12:32 pm
Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (Facebook)
18 mins ·

Today's the day! #TDRSM's antennas and components will deploy over the next 24 hours so it can begin on-orbit testing.

Follow along - throughout the day, we'll be posting the sequence of deployments so you can see the order in which the components unfold.

To learn more about TDRS, visit: https://tdrs.gsfc.nasa.gov
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Targeteer on 08/31/2017 08:01 pm
In Geo-synch at the testing location?

42915   TDRS-M   2017-047A        1436.17min    7.01deg     35802km   35774km
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: hvdh on 08/31/2017 08:24 pm
Yes probably, TDRS-L was tested near 149.8°W, TDRS-M is now near 149.7°W.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Targeteer on 08/31/2017 11:49 pm
Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (Facebook)
3 hrs ·

In case you missed it, the parts that make TDRS-M work have all successfully deployed. But what do they all do? Check it out!

For more about TDRS, visit: https://tdrs.gsfc.nasa.gov
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Targeteer on 09/04/2017 08:32 pm
Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (Facebook) Page Liked · 1 hr ·
 
On #LaborDay, we honor the contributions of the many American working people, both NASA and contractors, who built, tested, launched and operate TDRS. Thank you!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: Targeteer on 02/17/2018 03:43 am
https://www.nasa.gov/feature/goddard/2018/last-nasa-communications-satellite-of-its-kind-joins-fleet


Feb. 15, 2018
Last NASA Communications Satellite of its Kind Joins Fleet
TDRS-M
An artist concept of TDRS-M, now named TDRS-13.
Credits: NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center
launch of TDRS-M aka TDRS-13
TDRS-M, now named TDRS-13, launched on Aug. 18, 2017, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Following a period of in-orbit testing, the spacecraft has been accepted into NASA’s Space Network.
Credits: NASA Kennedy/Tony Gray and Sandra Joseph

NASA has begun operating the last satellite of its kind in the network that provides communications and tracking services to more than 40 NASA missions, including critical, real-time communication with the International Space Station. Following its August launch and a five-month period of in-orbit testing, the third-generation Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS), referred to as TDRS-M until this important milestone, was renamed TDRS-13, becoming the tenth operational satellite in the geosynchronous, space-based fleet.

“With TDRS-13’s successful acceptance into the network, the fleet is fully replenished and set to continue carrying out its important mission through the mid-2020s,” said Badri Younes, NASA’s deputy associate administrator for Space Communications and Navigation at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “Now, we have begun focusing on the next generation of near-Earth communications relay capabilities.”

The 10 TDRS spacecraft comprise the space-based portion of the Space Network, relaying signals from low-Earth-orbiting missions with nearly 100 percent coverage.

“The acceptance of this final third-generation TDRS into the Space Network is the result of many years of dedication and hard work by the TDRS team,” said Dave Littmann, the TDRS project manager at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. “As a result, critical space communication and tracking services that enable NASA human spaceflight and scientific discovery will continue well into the next decade.”

​TDRS-13 launched on Aug. 18, 2017, aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Built by Boeing in El Segundo, California, TDRS-13 and its nearly identical third-generation sister spacecraft are performing well. TDRS-K and -L launched in 2013 and 2014, respectively.

NASA established the TDRS project in 1973, and the first satellite launched 10 years later, providing NASA an exponential increase in data rates and contact time communicating with the space shuttle and other orbiting spacecraft, such as the Hubble Space Telescope.  Since then, NASA has continued to expand the TDRS constellation and advance the spacecraft capabilities.

“NASA looks forward to the future, developing even better ways to meet missions’ communications needs,” said Younes. “We will leverage NASA’s success in optical communications and other innovative technologies, as well as significantly increase our partnership with industry, as we envision a shift to increased reliance on commercial networks for most, if not all, of our communications needs in the near-Earth environment.”

Goddard is home to the TDRS project, which is responsible for the development and launch of these communication satellites. Boeing, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, is the private contractor for the third-generation TDRS spacecraft. TDRS is the space element of NASA’s Space Network, providing the critical communication and navigation lifeline for NASA missions. NASA’s Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) program, part of the Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate at the agency’s Headquarters in Washington, is responsible for NASA’s Space Network.
For more information about NASA’s TDRS satellites, visit:
https://www.nasa.gov/tdrs

For more information about SCaN, visit:
https://www.nasa.gov/SCaN
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: zubenelgenubi on 08/24/2018 07:43 pm
Another end of an era re: HS-601/BSS-601:
Quote
TDRS-M also marks the end of the line for the Boeing 601 family of communications satellites. The 601 was introduced in 1987 by Hughes Space and Communications, which was acquired by Boeing in 2000. The companies built more than 80 spacecraft using the Boeing 601 bus for commercial and government customers.

“I started out on 601s when I was a young engineer,” said Boeing’s [James Wilson III]. “It’s incredibly exciting for me, as an engineer and now as a manager, to have gone through that and see the final launch.”

From the SN article covering the launch concerning the next generation of TDRS satellites.
http://spacenews.com/tdrs-launch-marks-end-of-an-era/
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 - TDRS-M - August 18, 2017
Post by: TripleSeven on 08/24/2018 07:50 pm
Another end of an era re: HS-601/BSS-601:
Quote
TDRS-M also marks the end of the line for the Boeing 601 family of communications satellites. The 601 was introduced in 1987 by Hughes Space and Communications, which was acquired by Boeing in 2000. The companies built more than 80 spacecraft using the Boeing 601 bus for commercial and government customers.

“I started out on 601s when I was a young engineer,” said Boeing’s [James Wilson III]. “It’s incredibly exciting for me, as an engineer and now as a manager, to have gone through that and see the final launch.”

From the SN article covering the launch concerning the next generation of TDRS satellites.
http://spacenews.com/tdrs-launch-marks-end-of-an-era/

they are amazing birds...I have the "joy" of being part of the South Pole com project which uses a number of "old sats" and have a TDRS down link facility on my farm...(among other old sats) ...I get access to a lot of Government hardware for near free for doing it but really it is something that I have done since a child on amateur radio and MARS stuff

It will be interesting to see what the next gen looks like...lasers maybe...but really big dishes and one day sats around the moon...