NASASpaceFlight.com Forum
Commercial and US Government Launch Vehicles => ULA - Delta, Atlas, Vulcan => Topic started by: Ronsmytheiii on 10/24/2012 09:11 pm
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United Launch Alliance barge Delta Mariner arrives at Port Canaveral, Fla. delivering the Centaur stage of the launch vehicle that will boost the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite-K, or TDRS-K, into Earth orbit atop an Atlas V rocket. After off-loading, the Centaur will be transported to the Atlas Spaceflight Operations Center, or ASOC, at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station to begin processing. The TDRS-K spacecraft is part of the next-generation series in the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System, a constellation of space-based communication satellites providing tracking, telemetry, command and high-bandwidth data return services
http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/detail.cfm?mediaid=63041
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Boeing on Schedule to Deliver Next-Gen Tracking and Data Relay Satellite
Satellites extend NASA's ability to transmit information among spacecraft and ground terminals
Key performance tests and work with General Dynamics on ground segment complete
EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Oct. 29, 2012 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] is on schedule to deliver the next-generation series of Tracking and Data Relay Satellites (TDRS), which will increase NASA’s signal processing and transmission capabilities among the Hubble Space Telescope, the International Space Station and dozens of unmanned scientific satellites in low Earth orbit.
TDRS K, the first to offer that increase in operational effectiveness, will be delivered for launch by the end of this year.
The satellite successfully completed all environmental, functional and performance tests, including vibration and acoustic tests and final flight functional testing. It soon will be packaged for transport to Cape Canaveral, Fla., where it will complete its final integration and test and be prepared for launch.
"The TDRS satellites provide NASA with crucial crosslink communications between orbiting spacecraft and control and data processing facilities on Earth," said Craig Cooning, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space & Intelligence Systems. "TDRS K is a major step toward improving how high-resolution images, video, voice and data are transmitted."
TDRS K is one of three TDRS satellites in production. TDRS L, which is scheduled to launch in 2014, is in final space vehicle testing at the Boeing Satellite Development Center in El Segundo. Production of TDRS-M is expected to begin this month.
Boeing and General Dynamics also upgraded existing ground terminals to be compatible with the TDRS K series. The team recently completed the final course of ground segment testing and delivered the ground segment to NASA.
Boeing built the TDRS H, I and J satellites that are currently in operation.
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FROM KSC Facebook page:
The first stage booster of the Atlas V that is to launch the TDRS-K satellite into orbit is to arrive later today at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Arriving from the United Launch Alliance manufacturing plant in Decatur, Ala., the Atlas V stage is flying aboard a Ukrainian Antonov-124 transport aircraft, one of the largest airplanes in the world. It will be taken on Tuesday to the hangar at the Atlas Spaceflight Operations Center at Cape Canaveral. Launch of the TDRS-K Tracking and Data Relay Satellite on the Atlas V rocket is planned for January 2013 from Space Launch Complex 41.
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That is odd, why did the RBSP Atlas V LV and only the TDRS-K Centaur arrive by the Delta Mariner, yet the TDRS-K CCB is going back to the AN-124? I would imagine that shipping by barge is cheaper.
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That is odd, why did the RBSP Atlas V LV and only the TDRS-K Centaur arrive by the Delta Mariner, yet the TDRS-K CCB is going back to the AN-124? I would imagine that shipping by barge is cheaper.
Both has been done in past. Also Delta Mariner is on west coast at moment.
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That is odd, why did the RBSP Atlas V LV and only the TDRS-K Centaur arrive by the Delta Mariner, yet the TDRS-K CCB is going back to the AN-124? I would imagine that shipping by barge is cheaper.
Mariner only makes sense if there is more than one launch vehicle being transported.
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So are you working this launch?
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So are you working this launch?
In a minor role.
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Booster image finally ready:
http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=4
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Wait, they still deliver Atlas V CCB's on An-124s? Do they fly them out of Huntsville?
See above posts for answer.
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Are there any civilian US transport 'planes that could do the job instead of the An-124? I'm not sure if the 747F has a tall enough cabin.
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Are there any civilian US transport 'planes that could do the job instead of the An-124? I'm not sure if the 747F has a tall enough cabin.
Possibly C-5M
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Are there any civilian US transport 'planes that could do the job instead of the An-124? I'm not sure if the 747F has a tall enough cabin.
Possibly C-5M
Civilian version (L-500) was planned but never sold. I don't think there are any C-5s outside the military.
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Are there any civilian US transport 'planes that could do the job instead of the An-124? I'm not sure if the 747F has a tall enough cabin.
Possibly C-5M
Any C-5, any version, A, B, M or C could. But they are not civilian.
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Are there any civilian US transport 'planes that could do the job instead of the An-124? I'm not sure if the 747F has a tall enough cabin.
Even if it fit, offloading would be an issue.
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Are there any civilian US transport 'planes that could do the job instead of the An-124? I'm not sure if the 747F has a tall enough cabin.
Even if it fit, offloading would be an issue.
how about strapping the AV to the 747 like the shuttle 747 transport?
Can I ask why, seems like there is already two methods of delivery, why a third that exposes the booster to the risk of bird strikes...
If we want to consider other options:
1. Several C-5's are currently being retired. Maybe a commercial operator could buy and operate a few of them.
2. Convince Atlas to offer it's Dream Lifter's for Atlas booster transport.
But seriously, why do we need alternative transportation methods again? This Booster is already at the cape, it's not like NASA will decide to suddenly launch it from Texas or something.
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Are there any civilian US transport 'planes that could do the job instead of the An-124? I'm not sure if the 747F has a tall enough cabin.
Even if it fit, offloading would be an issue.
how about strapping the AV to the 747 like the shuttle 747 transport?
same still applies
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Are there any civilian US transport 'planes that could do the job instead of the An-124? I'm not sure if the 747F has a tall enough cabin.
Possibly C-5M
Civilian version (L-500) was planned but never sold. I don't think there are any C-5s outside the military.
Nope not the plan anymore since DoD received funding to convert all remaining C-5A,B,C aircraft to C-5M version.
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Are there any civilian US transport 'planes that could do the job instead of the An-124? I'm not sure if the 747F has a tall enough cabin.
Possibly C-5M
Civilian version (L-500) was planned but never sold. I don't think there are any C-5s outside the military.
Nope not the plan anymore since DoD received funding to convert all remaining C-5A,B,C aircraft to C-5M version.
I believe all the C-5As are being retired due to age and flight hours. Only the -B and the 2 -C models (which might be -As but are critical because they were modified to carry select satellites--primarily intelligence plus Hubble) will be upgraded to -M status.
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Launch Team Notes Atlas V Ready for TDRS-K
Fri, 07 Dec 2012 08:53:19 PM UTC
The Launch Vehicle Readiness Review was held today at Kennedy Space Center for the Atlas V rocket launching NASA’s TDRS-K Tracking and Data Relay Satellite. Prelaunch preparations have been cleared to proceed toward the first launch of 2013 which will occur from Cape Canaveral’s Space Launch Complex 41. The TDRS-K spacecraft is scheduled to arrive at KSC for the start of processing on Dec. 18. The activities for stacking the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket on Launch Complex 41 are currently scheduled to begin on Jan. 3. The Eastern Range has now approved the Jan. 29 launch date. The liftoff is targeted for 8:52 p.m. at the opening of a 40-minute launch window.
http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/rss_feed_collex_archive_1.html (http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/rss_feed_collex_archive_1.html)
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NASA Hosts Social Media Event at TDRS-K Launch in Florida
RELEASE : 12-431 Dec. 12, 2012
WASHINGTON -- NASA will give 70 of its social media followers an insider's look at America's space program and the opportunity to see a launch in-person. The NASA Social, scheduled for Jan. 28-29 to coincide with the launch of NASA's Tracking and Data Relay Satellite-K (TDRS-K), will be held at the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
NASA Socials are in-person meetings with people who engage with the agency through Twitter, Facebook, Google+ and other social networks.
TDRS-K is targeted to launch at 8:52 p.m. EST Jan. 29 on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket.
Registration for the NASA Social opens at 3 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, and closes at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec.19. Participants will be selected from online registrations. Because portions of this event may take place in restricted areas, registration is limited to U.S. citizens.
Participants will have unique behind the scenes experiences with NASA, which they are encouraged to share with others through their favorite social networks. Guests will view the launch, tour facilities at Kennedy, speak with representatives from NASA and the Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) Office, visit the Atlas V launch pad, and meet fellow space enthusiasts who are active on social media and members of NASA's social media team.
The Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System is a space-based communication system used to provide tracking, telemetry, command, and high bandwidth data return services to its many customers. A major component of the system is the spacecraft itself, TDRS. Currently, there are 7 operational satellites that provide in-flight communications with spacecraft operating in low-Earth orbit. Aboard each satellite are multiple antennae that send and receive signals both to and from the ground to multiple satellites simultaneously. As a result, TDRS provides a wide variety of services to meet customers' needs and demands.
For more information on the NASA Social and to register, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/social (http://www.nasa.gov/social)
To find all the ways to connect and collaborate with NASA, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/connect (http://www.nasa.gov/connect)
To learn more about TDRS, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/tdrs (http://www.nasa.gov/tdrs)
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Are there any civilian US transport 'planes that could do the job instead of the An-124? I'm not sure if the 747F has a tall enough cabin.
Possibly C-5M
Civilian version (L-500) was planned but never sold. I don't think there are any C-5s outside the military.
Nope not the plan anymore since DoD received funding to convert all remaining C-5A,B,C aircraft to C-5M version.
I believe all the C-5As are being retired due to age and flight hours. Only the -B and the 2 -C models (which might be -As but are critical because they were modified to carry select satellites--primarily intelligence plus Hubble) will be upgraded to -M status.
As a military dependent whose father pilots C-5A/C aircraft he is positively sure that C-5As are to be converted to C-5Ms albeit with some with restrictions added on top but they are still considered an irreplaceable asset at this time although there has been talk amongst his wing that C-5As converted to C-5M will eventually be replaced one for one with a next Gen version of C-5M variant in the early 2020. C-5A's graveyard date is to be scheduled in 2013 Legislative session. The previous defense budget requires a 1:1 replacement ratio when the aircraft start retiring.
That is all I know to date.
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http://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/c5/
"In February 2008, the USAF approved the upgrade under the C-5 RERP for 49 additional aircraft – 47 C-5Bs used for intra-theatre lift and two C-5Cs used for support of the US space programme. C-5A aircraft are being upgraded under the AMP but are not scheduled to receive the RERP upgrade."
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TDRS-K Satellite Arrives at Kennedy
Tue, 18 Dec 2012 02:51:33 PM UTC
NASA's newest Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, referred to as TDRS-K, arrived at 8:29 a.m. today at the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida in preparation for a Jan. 29 launch to a location in geostationary orbit. TDRS-K flew aboard a U.S. Air Force C-17 from the Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems assembly facility in El Segundo, Calif., for final preparation to launch aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket.
http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/rss_feed_collex_archive_1.html
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RELEASE: 12-439
NASA'S NEXT-GENERATION COMMUNICATIONS SATELLITE ARRIVES AT KENNEDY
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- NASA's newest Tracking and Data Relay
Satellite, known as TDRS-K, arrived Tuesday at the agency's Kennedy
Space Center in Florida in preparation for a Jan. 29 launch. TDRS-K
arrived aboard a U.S. Air Force C-17 from the Boeing Space and
Intelligence Systems assembly facility in El Segundo, Calif.
For almost 30 years, the TDRS spacecraft have provided a reliable
communications network for NASA, serving numerous national and
international space missions. The TDRS fleet is a space-based
communication system used to provide tracking, telemetry, command,
and high bandwidth data return services. The satellites provide
in-flight communications with spacecraft operating in low-Earth
orbit. It has been 10 years since NASA's last TDRS launch.
"This launch will provide even greater capabilities to a network that
has become key to enabling many of NASA's scientific discoveries,"
says Jeffrey Gramling, project manager for TDRS at NASA's Goddard
Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md.
TDRS-K will launch to geostationary orbit aboard an Atlas V rocket.
The spacecraft is the first of three next-generation satellites
designed to ensure vital operational continuity for NASA by expanding
the lifespan of the fleet. The launch of TDRS-L is scheduled for 2014
and TDRS-M in 2015.
Each of the new satellites has a higher performance solar panel design
to provide more spacecraft power. This upgrade will return signal
processing for the S-Band multiple access service to the ground --
the same as the first-generation TDRS spacecraft. Ground-based
processing allows TDRS to service more customers with different and
evolving communication requirements.
The TDRS fleet began operating during the space shuttle era and
provides critical communication support from several locations in
geostationary orbit to NASA's human spaceflight endeavors, including
the International Space Station. The fleet also provides
communications support to an array of science missions, as well as
various types of launch vehicles. Of the nine TDRS satellites
launched, seven are still operational, although four are already
beyond their design life. Two have been retired. The second TDRS was
lost in 1986 during the space shuttle Challenger accident.
NASA's Space Communications and Navigation Program, part of the Human
Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate at the agency's
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 launch
service.
To join the online conversation about TDRS on Twitter, follow the
hashtag #TDRS. To learn more about all the ways to connect and
collaborate with NASA, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/connect
For more information about TDRS, visit:
http://tdrs.gsfc.nasa.gov/
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And images of the C-17 arriving with TDRS-K
http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=266
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TDRS: Communicating Critical Data
Published on Dec 26, 2012
As a vital information pipeline for space-based research and exploration ambitions, the TDRS constellation fulfills NASA's broadest communication demands. Now into it's fourth operational decade, the TDRS legacy continues to be communications excellence. The addition of the third generation of spacecraft will replenish the constellation and ensure that the critical lifeline of space-to-ground communication support will be available for many years to come.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6EAOU2msE7k
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From KSC facebook page:
Preparations are under way to begin the build-up of the Atlas V 401 rocket for NASA’s TDRS-K At Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The Atlas V booster stage will be hoisted into position in the Vertical Integration Facility near the pad Thursday and the Centaur upper stage will be hoisted atop the booster Friday. Meanwhile, at the Astrotech payload processing facility located near Kennedy Space Center, work to prepare TDRS-K for launch is going well. Electrical testing of the spacecraft is complete and fueling of the satellite is scheduled to occur this weekend. Liftoff is scheduled for Jan. 29 at 8:52 p.m. EST.
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Does anyone know how much extra time is available to work any issues and keep the launch on schedule? Also how long will the range be available? Thanks!
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Does anyone know how much extra time is available to work any issues and keep the launch on schedule? Also how long will the range be available? Thanks!
All weekends are available and they will get the standard two days on the range.
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I dont know why the KSC media page has not posted any pictures, but the CCB for TDRSS-K has been stacked at the VIF.
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Update from Friday.
TDRS-K and Atlas V Preparations Continue Toward Jan. 29 Launch
Fri, 04 Jan 2013 09:52:29 PM UTC
At the Astrotech payload processing facility near Kennedy Space Center, prelaunch preparations continue to go well on NASA's Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS-K). Charging of the spacecraft's battery has been completed and preparations to fuel the satellite with its attitude control propellant have begun. The fueling operation is scheduled to start Sunday and conclude Tuesday. Meanwhile, at Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Centaur upper stage was unable to be hoisted atop the Atlas V booster stage today due to weather. This activity has been rescheduled for Saturday, weather permitting.
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Techs Complete Fueling of TDRS-K Spacecraft
Tue, 08 Jan 2013 05:12:36 PM UTC
Technicians finished fueling the TDRS-K spacecraft today inside the Astrotech payload processing facility near Kennedy Space Center as processing operations move ahead for a Jan. 29 launch of the satellite. The spacecraft will be connected to an Atlas V payload adapter next week before it is encapsulated inside a fairing or nosecone. The Atlas V rocket that will loft the satellite into an orbit 22,300 miles above Earth is also taking shape as launch day nears. The Centaur upper stage was placed atop the booster stage during the weekend. Workers are testing the United Launch Alliance rocket's various systems.
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MEDIA ADVISORY: M13-007
NASA OFFERS NEWS MEDIA ACCESS TO TDRS-K SPACECRAFT JAN. 11
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- NASA's Tracking and Data Relay Satellite-K
(TDRS-K), set to launch this month, will be the focus of a media
opportunity at 10 a.m. EST Friday, Jan. 11, at the Astrotech Space
Operations facility in Titusville, Fla. Media representatives will be
able to photograph the TDRS-K spacecraft and interview project and
launch program officials.
The spacecraft is the first of three next generation satellites
designed to ensure vital operational continuity for NASA by expanding
the lifespan of the fleet, which consists of 7 satellites in
geostationary orbit. The spacecraft provide tracking, telemetry,
command, and high bandwidth data return services for numerous science
and human exploration missions orbiting Earth. These include NASA's
Hubble Space Telescope and the International Space Station. TDRS-K
has a high-performance solar panel designed for more spacecraft power
to meet the growing S-band communications requirements.
Spokespersons representing NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in
Greenbelt, Md.; the Launch Services Program at the agency's Kennedy
Space Center in Florida; and United Space Alliance will be available
for questions and interviews.
Full clean room attire must be worn and will be furnished. Journalists
should not wear perfume, cologne or makeup. Long pants and closed-toe
shoes must be worn. No shorts or skirts will be permitted.
Contamination control specialists may identify some camera equipment
to be cleaned before taken into the high bay facility. Alcohol wipes
will be provided. All camera equipment must be self-contained and no
portable lights can be allowed. Flash photography will not be
permitted; however, the facility has adequate metal halide lighting
for pictures. Wireless microphones also are prohibited inside the
high bay.
On Jan. 11, U.S. news media representatives may proceed directly to
Astrotech, which is located in the Spaceport Florida Industrial Park,
1515 Chaffee Drive, Titusville. Access will be available starting at
9:45 a.m., and the event will begin at 10 a.m.
Only news media who are United States citizens may attend this event.
A government issued photo identification, such as a driver's license
or permanently-issued NASA news media accreditation badge from
Kennedy will be acceptable. In addition, proof of U.S. citizenship
such as a passport or birth certificate also is required.
TDRS-K is scheduled to liftoff aboard an Atlas V 401 rocket from Cape
Canaveral Air Force Station on Jan. 29 in a launch window that
extends from 8:52 to 9:32 p.m. EST.
Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems in El Segundo, Calif., built the
TDRS-K. 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.
Media representatives should call Kennedy's media update phone line at
321-867-2525 on Thursday evening to confirm the event is on schedule.
For more information about TDRS-K, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/tdrs
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MEDIA ADVISORY: M13-009
NASA MEDIA ACCREDITATION NOW OPEN FOR TDRS-K LAUNCH
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- NASA's Tracking and Data Relay Satellite-K
(TDRS-K) launch media accreditation now is open. Liftoff will be
aboard an Atlas V rocket from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape
Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff is targeted for
Tuesday, Jan. 29, at 8:52 p.m. EST at the opening of a 40-minute
launch window.
International media without U.S. citizenship must apply for
credentials to cover the prelaunch and launch activities by noon on
Thursday, Jan. 17. For U.S. media, the deadline to apply is 4 p.m. on
Wednesday, Jan. 23.
All media accreditation requests need to be submitted online at:
https://media.ksc.nasa.gov
For questions about accreditation or additional information, contact
Jennifer Horner at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida at
321-867-6598.
TDRS-K is the first of three next-generation satellites designed to
ensure vital operational continuity for NASA by expanding the
lifespan of the fleet, which consists of 7 satellites in
geostationary orbit. The spacecraft provide tracking, telemetry,
command and high bandwidth data return services for numerous science
and human exploration missions orbiting Earth. These include NASA's
Hubble Space Telescope and the International Space Station. TDRS-K
has a high-performance solar panel designed for more spacecraft power
to meet the growing S-band communications requirements.
Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems in El Segundo, Calif., built
TDRS-K. 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 the mission, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/tdrs
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http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=266
KSC-2013-1028 (01/03/2013) --- CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Space Launch Complex 41 in Florida, operations are underway to erect the first stage of the Atlas V rocket that will carry the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, TDRS-K, into orbit. Launch of the TDRS-K on the Atlas V rocket is planned for January 29, 2013. The TDRS-K spacecraft is part of the next-generation series in the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System, a constellation of space-based communication satellites providing tracking, telemetry, command and high-bandwidth data return services. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/tdrs/index.html Photo credit: NASA/ Ben Smegelsky
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From KSC facebook page:
At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Space Launch Complex 41, United Launch Alliance technicians support operations to mate the Centaur stage to the Atlas V rocket that will carry the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, TDRS-K, into orbit.
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MEDIA ADVISORY: M01-13
NASA SETS TDRS-K/ATLAS V LAUNCH EVENTS COVERAGE
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- News conferences, events and operating hours
for the news center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida are set
for the launch of Tracking and Data Relay Satellite-K, or TDRS-K,
aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V 401 rocket Jan. 29. The
40-minute launch window extends from 8:52 to 9:32 p.m. EST. Liftoff
will occur from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force
Station in Florida.
Launch commentary coverage, as well as prelaunch media briefings, will
be carried live on NASA Television and the agency's website.
TDRS-K is the first of three next-generation satellites designed to
ensure vital operational continuity for NASA. Each of the new
satellites has a higher performance solar panel design for more
spacecraft power to meet the growing S-band communications
requirements. The TDRS system provides critical support from several
locations in geostationary orbit for an array of science and human
exploration missions orbiting Earth. These include the Hubble Space
Telescope and the International Space Station.
Prelaunch News Conference
A prelaunch news conference on NASA TV will be held at NASA Kennedy
Space Center's Press Site at 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 28.
Briefing participants are:
-- Badri Younes, deputy associate administrator, Space Communications
and Navigation (SCaN)
NASA Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate, Washington
-- Tim Dunn, NASA launch director
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
-- Vernon Thorp, program manager, NASA Missions
United Launch Alliance, Denver, Colo.
-- Jeffrey Gramling, NASA TDRS-K project manager
Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.
-- Joel Tumbiolo, launch weather officer, 45th Weather Squadron
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Accreditation and Media Access Badges for Kennedy Space Center
Media who want to cover the TDRS-K prelaunch news conference and the
launch must apply for credentials at:
https://media.ksc.nasa.gov
Accreditation requests by foreign media must be received by noon on
Jan. 17. U.S. media request must be received by 4 p.m. on Jan. 23.
Media may obtain their access badge at the Gate 2 Pass and
Identification Building for the news media on State Road 3. Two forms
of government-issued identification, one with a photo, will be
required in order to receive a badge to cover the prelaunch news
conference, the Atlas V launch vehicle rollout to the pad and the
launch. For further information about accreditation, contact Jennifer
Horner at 321-867-6598 or 321-867-2468.
The press accreditation office (PIDS) for the news media on State Road
3 will be open on Jan. 28 between 7:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. On Jan. 29,
the hours are from 7:30 a.m. until noon and from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m.
Atlas V Launch Vehicle Rollout
Monday, Jan. 28: There will be a media opportunity to observe rollout
of the Atlas V rocket from the Vertical Integration Facility to the
launch pad. Media should be at Kennedy's Press Site at 9 a.m. for
transportation to the viewing location near Space Launch Complex 41.
Remote Camera Placement at Space Launch Complex 41
Monday, Jan. 28: Photographers who wish to set up remote
sound-activated cameras at the Atlas V launch pad will be transported
to Space Launch Complex 41 after the prelaunch news conference. Media
should meet in the Kennedy Press Site parking lot at 2 p.m.
Launch Day Press Site Access
Tuesday, Aug. 29: Media will cover the TDRS-K launch from Kennedy's
Press Site. Access will be through Gate 3 on State Road 405, east of
Kennedy's visitor complex and through Gate 2 on State Road 3.
Kennedy News Center Hours
Monday, Jan. 28: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 29: 8 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.
NASA Television Coverage
On Monday, Jan. 28, NASA Television will carry the TDRS-K prelaunch
news conference and mission science briefing live beginning at 1 p.m.
EST.
On Tuesday, Jan. 29, NASA Television coverage of the launch will begin
at 6:15 p.m. and conclude after the TDRS-K spacecraft has separated
from the Atlas V, which occurs one hour, forty-six minutes after
launch. Live launch coverage will be carried on all NASA Television
channels.
A post-launch news conference will not be held. A post-launch news
release will be issued as soon as the state-of-health of the TDRS-K
spacecraft is known. Spokespersons also will be available at the
press site to answer questions.
For NASA Television downlink information, schedule information and
streaming video, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/ntv
Audio only of the press conferences and the launch coverage will be
carried on the NASA "V" circuits, which may be accessed by dialing
321-867-1220 or -1240 or -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 starting at 5:30
p.m. Launch also will be available on local amateur VHF radio
frequency 146.940 MHz heard within Brevard County.
NASA Web Prelaunch and Launch Coverage
Extensive prelaunch and launch day coverage of the liftoff of the
TDRS-K spacecraft aboard an Atlas V rocket will be available on
NASA's home page on the Internet at:
http://www.nasa.gov
A prelaunch webcast for the TDRS-K mission will be streamed on NASA's
website at noon on Monday, Jan. 28. Live countdown coverage through
NASA's Launch Blog begins at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 29. Coverage
features live updates as countdown milestones occur, as well as
streaming video clips highlighting launch preparations and liftoff.
For questions about countdown coverage, contact Jeanne Ryba at
321-867-7824.
To view the webcast and the blog or to learn more about the TDRS-K
mission, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/tdrs
Social Media
Join the conversation and follow the TDRS-K mission online by using
the #TDRS on Twitter and Facebook at:
http://www.twitter.com/nasa_tdrs
https://www.facebook.com/NASA.TDRS
Throughout the launch countdown, the NASAKennedy Twitter and Facebook
accounts will be continuously updated at:
http://www.twitter.com/NASAKennedy
https://www.facebook.com/NASAKennedy
Recorded Status
Recorded status reports and updates to the media advisory on the
TDRS-K launch will be provided through the Kennedy media phone line
starting Friday, Jan. 25. The telephone number is 321-867-2525.
Wireless Capability
Wireless capability for news media is available at Kennedy's Press
Site.
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. The TDRS
spacecraft project is managed by the agency's Goddard Space Flight
Center in Greenbelt, Md. NASA's Launch Services Program at Kennedy
Space Center is responsible for launch management. United Launch
Alliance is the provider of the Atlas V launch service.
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From KSC facebook site:
Here's a great image of the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite-K that was taken today during media day at Astrotech Space Operations.
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http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=266
KSC-2013-1028 (01/03/2013) --- CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Space Launch Complex 41 in Florida, operations are underway to erect the first stage of the Atlas V rocket that will carry the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, TDRS-K, into orbit. Launch of the TDRS-K on the Atlas V rocket is planned for January 29, 2013. The TDRS-K spacecraft is part of the next-generation series in the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System, a constellation of space-based communication satellites providing tracking, telemetry, command and high-bandwidth data return services. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/tdrs/index.html Photo credit: NASA/ Ben Smegelsky
Could someone kindly advise what the bulge is on the lower left hand side of the Atlas-401 booster from the image in reply # 37 posted by Jacqmans?
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http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=266
KSC-2013-1028 (01/03/2013) --- CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Space Launch Complex 41 in Florida, operations are underway to erect the first stage of the Atlas V rocket that will carry the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, TDRS-K, into orbit. Launch of the TDRS-K on the Atlas V rocket is planned for January 29, 2013. The TDRS-K spacecraft is part of the next-generation series in the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System, a constellation of space-based communication satellites providing tracking, telemetry, command and high-bandwidth data return services. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/tdrs/index.html Photo credit: NASA/ Ben Smegelsky
Could someone kindly advise what the bulge is on the lower left hand side of the Atlas-401 booster from the image in reply # 37 posted by Jacqmans?
That's the avionics tray if I remember right.
(googling to see if I am right - and I get, of course, sent back to NSF...
see http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=30436.msg983543#msg983543 and message below it. )
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Apologies ...somewhat weird question...I'm "Snowbirding"...in Boca Raton these days ...any chance for me to see any part of the launch by going outside the condo at liftoff and looking up in the general direction of the KSC??...thanks
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Apologies ...somewhat weird question...I'm "Snowbirding"...in Boca Raton these days ...any chance for me to see any part of the launch by going outside the condo at liftoff and looking up in the general direction of the KSC??...thanks
Yep
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Look North and East about 1 1/2 min. after lift off and on a clear day or night you should see an object moving in the sky.
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Rocket Tests and Payload Preps on Today's TDRS-K Agenda
Mon, 14 Jan 2013 10:17:28 PM UTC
At Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, various electrical and mechanical systems on United Launch Alliance's Atlas V rocket are being tested today as teams march toward the Jan. 29 launch of NASA's TDRS-K spacecraft.
Inside the Astrotech payload processing facility near Kennedy Space Center, TDRS-K was installed onto the launch vehicle's payload adapter today. The Atlas V payload fairing will be cleaned tomorrow in preparation for encapsulation of the satellite, which currently is planned for Wednesday.
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TDRS-K Going into Protective Covering Ahead of Move
Wed, 16 Jan 2013 08:51:35 PM UTC
At the Astrotech payload processing facility located near Kennedy Space Center, technicians are encapsulating TDRS-K into its payload fairing, or vehicle nose cone, today. The fairing will house and protect NASA's Tracking and Data Relay Satellite during liftoff and flight through the atmosphere atop a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket.
On Saturday, TDRS-K will be transported from Astrotech to the Vertical Integration Facility at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Space Launch Complex 41 where it will be hoisted atop the Atlas V.
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The mission booklet is now available:
http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/docs/missionbooklets/AV/av_tdrsk_mob.pdf
The orbital parameters at Centaur - TDRS separation are given.
Does anyone know the orbital parameters after MECO-1 during the coast?
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http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=4
enclosed in the PLF
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High Winds Delay TDRS-K Rollout
Fri, 18 Jan 2013 06:31:22 PM UTC
Saturday's rollout from Astrotech of NASA’s TDRS-K Tracking and Data Relay Satellite to Launch Complex 41 has been postponed 24 hours because of high winds at the launch site. The forecast calls for improving wind conditions Sunday that would allow workers to hoist the satellite and payload fairing into place atop the Atlas V rocket. This delay will not impact the Jan. 29 launch date for the TDRS-K mission.
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TDRS-K Spacecraft Hoisted Atop Atlas V
Sun, 20 Jan 2013 05:54:20 PM UTC
NASA's Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS-K) enclosed in the payload fairing and riding atop its transporter, rolled out of the Astrotech payload processing facility at 2:15 a.m. EST on Sunday. It arrived before dawn at the Vertical Integration Facility at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Space Launch Complex 41. Work then began to attach lifting equipment to hoist the spacecraft atop the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket. Hoisting was complete at 10:40 a.m.
Launch remains on track for Tuesday, Jan. 29 at 8:52 p.m.
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TDRS-K Launch Rescheduled to Jan. 30
Wed, 23 Jan 2013 06:00:49 PM UTC
The launch of NASA's TDRS-K Tracking and Data Relay Satellite aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket is being rescheduled to Jan. 30. The launch window is 8:48 to 9:28 p.m. EST, a duration of 40 minutes. The one-day postponement allows technicians additional time to replace an Ordnance Remote Control Assembly (ORCA) that gave an anomalous signal indication prior to planned ordnance connections.
The standard Launch Readiness Review is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 28. At the conclusion of this review, the go is given for the Atlas V rollout to the launch pad. The prelaunch news conference will then be held at 1 p.m. Rollout is targeted for 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 29. News media should be at the KSC Press Site at 9 a.m. for transportation to view the rollout.
Launch coverage on NASA Television and the Web will begin at 6:15 p.m. on Jan. 30.
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SC transfer to SLC 41, photo's now being uploaded to the KSC Media Archives.
LINK: http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=266 (http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=266)
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SC transfer to SLC 41, photo's now being uploaded to the KSC Media Archives.
LINK: http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=266 (http://mediaarchive.ksc.nasa.gov/search.cfm?cat=266)
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The Flight Readiness Review for TDRS-K was held Thursday at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, Fla., and managers determined that the Atlas V rocket and the TDRS-K satellite are ready to proceed toward launch Jan. 30.
The Ordnance Remote Control Assembly, or ORCA, unit on the Atlas V has been successfully removed, replaced and retested. A countdown dress rehearsal is scheduled for Friday. On Monday, the Launch Readiness Review will cover any action items from the Flight Readiness Review. It also will give a go for the rollout of the Atlas V to the launch pad at 10 a.m. on Tuesday.
The prelaunch new conference is scheduled for 1 p.m. Monday at Kennedy and will be carried live on NASA Television.
At this time, the launch is scheduled for 8:48 p.m. Wednesday at the opening of a 40-minute launch window.
Vertaling bekijken
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For MEDIA:
TDRS-K Launch. The launch is scheduled for January 30. The launch window is 8:48 to 9:28 p.m. EST, a duration of 40 minutes.
Included is information regarding badge pickup, hours of operation and the credentialing events home link. This will provide details on badge pick-up, briefing and events, directions, and hours of operation.
http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/news/mediaresources/media-accreditation.html
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A short article noting the two ULA Atlas V launches upcoming:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2013/01/atlas-v-duo-key-nasa-launches/
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ULA:
All launch preparations are progressing well in support of NASA’s TDRS-K launch on a ULA Atlas V set for Wednesday, Jan. 30 from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The 40-minute launch window opens at 8:48 p.m. EST. Today’s L-4 forecast shows a 70 percent chance of favorable weather conditions for launch.
Weather Forecast
Overall probability of violating weather constraints: 30%
Primary concern(s): Cumulus Cloud, Disturbed Weather, Ground Winds
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24 hour delay: 40%
Primary concern(s): Ground Winds, Thick Cloud
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Any reporting on where TDRS-K will be operating?
Here are the locations of the operating satellites according to http://spaceflightnow.com/atlas/av036/tdrss.html
TDRS-3 49W
TDRS-5 167W
TDRS-6 62W
TDRS-7 275W (TDRS-Z)
TDRS-8 271W
TDRS-9 41W
TDRS-10 174W
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Unfortunately today's forecast at:
http://www.patrick.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-070716-027.pdf
shows a 40% probability of LCC violations on Wednesday evening.
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TDRS-K Launch Forecast: 60 Percent 'Go'
Mon, 28 Jan 2013 03:07:24 PM UTC
Forecasters predict a 60 percent chance of acceptable weather Wednesday night for the launch of the TDRS-K spacecraft from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Meteorologists are closely watching a cold front that is expected to move through Central Florida Wednesday night. The concern is for showers or thunderstorms developing ahead of the front. The launch teams affiliated with the TDRS mission are conducting a Launch Readiness Review at Kennedy Space Center this morning. The LRR, as it is known, is one of the standard, pre-launch sessions they take part in to make sure everything is ready for space.
The prelaunch news conference will air on NASA Television, www.nasa.gov/ntv at 1p.m. today. At 10 a.m. Tuesday, the Atlas V rocket will roll out of the Vertical Integration Facility to the launch pad at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station’s Space Launch Complex 41.
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Launch Team Declares TDRS-K Ready for Liftoff
Mon, 28 Jan 2013 04:46:57 PM UTC
The Launch Readiness Review gave a "go" to rollout the Atlas V rocket Tuesday and launch the TDRS-K mission Wednesday evening at 8:48 p.m. EST as planned. The review, one of the standard sessions undertaken prior to each NASA launch, was conducted this morning at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Forecasters predict a 60 percent chance of acceptable weather Wednesday night for the launch of the TDRS-K spacecraft from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, which is adjacent to Kennedy. Meteorologists are closely watching a cold front that is expected to move through Central Florida Wednesday night. The concern is for showers or thunderstorms developing ahead of the front.
A prelaunch news conference will air on NASA Television, www.nasa.gov/ntv (http://www.nasa.gov/ntv) at 1p.m. today.
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Lot's of good information on the networks.
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nice assembly video
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Record processing time for 27 days Atlas V
===============
Some nice Astrotech video couple of screen grabs
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TDRS-K Prelaunch News Conference
http://www.space-multimedia.nl.eu.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=8044
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kaRGZkB9Sjc&feature=youtu.be
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Any reporting on where TDRS-K will be operating?
Here are the locations of the operating satellites according to http://spaceflightnow.com/atlas/av036/tdrss.html
TDRS-3 49W
TDRS-5 167W
TDRS-6 62W
TDRS-7 275W (TDRS-Z)
TDRS-8 271W
TDRS-9 41W
TDRS-10 174W
174W, answered during the presser, at least temporarily for several months of testing with actual users. May then go into storage.
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The rollout of TDRS @NASAKennedy begins!
https://twitter.com/NASA_TDRS/status/296273833663541248
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https://twitter.com/NASA_TDRS/status/296278333396750338
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@ulalaunch's Atlas V is in position with TDRS-K for Wednesday's launch
http://instagram.com/p/VEqbUnlYua/
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[Atlas V] Rollout of Atlas Rocket with NASA's TDRS-K Onboard
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4Z7yhaidYc
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Pad shot from our own Larry Sullivan who is able to be on scene for today's activities.
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TDRS-K/Atlas V Rolls to Launch Pad
Tue, 29 Jan 2013 05:46:27 PM UTC
The Atlas V carrying NASA's TDRS-K spacecraft rolled out of the Vertical Integration Facility to the launch pad this morning at 10 a.m. at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station’s Space Launch Complex 41 in Florida. Prelaunch activities remain on pace for a liftoff Wednesday evening at 8:48 p.m. EST at the beginning of a 40-minute-long launch window. The weather forecast continues to call for a 60 percent chance of acceptable conditions at launch time. Launch coverage on NASA TV is scheduled to begin at 6:15 p.m. Wednesday. Live countdown coverage through NASA's Launch Blog also begins at 6:15 p.m., Wednesday, featuring live updates as countdown milestones occur, as well as streaming video clips highlighting launch preparations and liftoff.
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Cool video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6zMfNCooak&feature=player_embedded
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Any there NSFers part of the NASA tweeters?
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Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. (Jan. 29, 2013) - A United Launch Alliance Atlas V stands ready for launch at Space Launch Complex-41 with NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS-K) payload. Launch is set for Wednesday, Jan. 30 at 8:48 p.m. EST. NASA established the TDRS project in 1973 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 other orbiting spacecraft.
Photo by Pat Corkery, United Launch Alliance
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Moved for live coverage
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Media kit is available:
http://tdrs.gsfc.nasa.gov/assets/files/TDRSKMediaGuide_FINAL.pdf (http://tdrs.gsfc.nasa.gov/assets/files/TDRSKMediaGuide_FINAL.pdf)
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So I infer from the spaceflightnow.com URL that this is AV-036, do we have independent confirmation of that?
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So I infer from the spaceflightnow.com URL that this is AV-036, do we have independent confirmation of that?
I can confirm it.
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So I infer from the spaceflightnow.com URL that this is AV-036, do we have independent confirmation of that?
I can confirm it.
Thanks!
Glad to see this one reach the pad. Go TDRS!
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"Now it is night. Night is not a time for play." --P.D. Eastman
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So I infer from the spaceflightnow.com URL that this is AV-036, do we have independent confirmation of that?
Hello JCM, if you check the picture in reply 37 in this thread, AV-036 is on a label on the rocket at the bottom left.
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The weather forecast has improved to 70 percent “go” for the @ulalaunch carrying @NASA_TDRS-K from Cape Canaveral.
https://twitter.com/NASAKennedy/status/296642279505010688
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TDRS-K/Atlas V at Launch Pad for Liftoff Tonight
Wed, 30 Jan 2013 03:37:21 PM UTC
The Atlas V carrying NASA's TDRS-K spacecraft rolled out of the Vertical Integration Facility to the launch pad yesterday at 10 a.m. at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station’s Space Launch Complex 41 in Florida. Prelaunch activities remain on pace for a liftoff tonight at 8:48 p.m. EST at the beginning of a 40-minute-long launch window. The weather forecast has improved and calls for a 70 percent chance of acceptable conditions at launch time. Launch coverage on NASA TV is scheduled to begin at 6:15 p.m. Live countdown coverage through NASA's Launch Blog also begins at 6:15 p.m., featuring live updates as countdown milestones occur, as well as streaming video clips highlighting launch preparations and liftoff.
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TDRS-K/Atlas V Launch Countdown Under Way
Wed, 30 Jan 2013 07:04:29 PM UTC
At 1:33 p.m. EST, countdown clocks began ticking backward from six hours and 20 minutes toward the planned launch of NASA's Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS)-K at 8:48 p.m.
TDRS-K is perched atop a two-stage United Launch Alliance Atlas V 401 rocket at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Space Launch Complex 41 in Florida.
There is a 70 percent chance of favorable weather for liftoff during a 40-minute window.
Launch coverage is scheduled to begin at 6:15 p.m. on NASA Television online at www.nasa.gov/ntv (http://www.nasa.gov/ntv) and the NASA launch blog at http://go.nasa.gov/WxGY2r (http://go.nasa.gov/WxGY2r)
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Another great preview article by William Graham, with a great amount of historical content on this type of satellite (with its own Shuttle heritage):
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2013/01/ula-altas-v-launch-tdrs-k/
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ULA employs tall Spanish women?
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two hours and holding for 30 minutes per scanner
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Webcast Feed - http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Multimedia_Webcast.shtml
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not getting out of hold, staying at 2-hr hold per feed
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go to proceed with tanking, going to pick up, l02 chill down starting
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Starting Centaur LO2 tanking
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centaur LO2 at 10%
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Per PAO, SC is checked out
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view inside the LCC
checking comm on countdown net
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centaur LO2 at 30%
pressurizing LH2 centaur line for chill down
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Starting booster LO2 loading
90 minutes to go
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centaur lo2 at 60%
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valve indicators on booster failed on booster LO2 start, starting an anomaly team examination.
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processing review
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TDRSS-L will go up next year, and -M the year after that
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Going over the LOX drain valve issues, did not provide proper close indications, did get proper response from other source, calling to disable those sensors and proceed with the count.
Recommend to proceed and use virtual indications.
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Atlas LO2 into fast fill
t minus one hour
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test capture
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LH2 chilldown complete, starting fueling
Booster LO2 at 10%
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NExt hold will be at t-40 minutes for about 20 minutes, 30% O2 on booster, 30% on Centaur LH2
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Webcast Feed - http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Multimedia_Webcast.shtml
Web Cast is Live now. (copy of NASA TV feed).
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Booster LO2 at 40%, Centaur LH2 60%
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t minus 45 minutes
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Booster LO2 at 50%, Centaur LH2 at 90%
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Starting final FTS open loop test, Centaur LH2 into topping
Booster LO2 at 60%
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flight level
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Resuming Centaur LH2 topping to flight level
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weather data
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t minus 30 minutes
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Booster at 80% LO2, FTS check complete
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Booster LO2 at 90%
edit: now 97%, into topping
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VLC link please?
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t minus 20 minutes, booster LO2 at 99%
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t minus 15 minutes
disabling malfunctioning sensors as other two are working nominally
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t minus 10 minutes
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fuel fill sequence complete
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starting t-5 minute weather briefing
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10% chance of violation, weather is GO!
in BIH at T-4 minutes for 25 minutes
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reviewing mission profile
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launch on time verified
and a view from where crews will one day cross to go to ISS ;D
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spacecraft to internal power
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NASA team ready
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per pao, about 4 minutes left in BIH
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performing status check
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Go for launch
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L-5 mins.
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"spacecraft on external power"
"verifying spacecraft on INTERNAL power"
"roger, spacecraft on internal power"
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l minus 4 minutes
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vehicle on internal, launch sequencer start
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Launch enable. FTS Armed.
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T-60 seconds.
Range Green.
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Go Atlas. Go Centaur.
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LAUNCH!!
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Loving that rumble.
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Closed loop control.
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Mach 1. MaxQ.
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Nominal first stage.
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Coming up on staging.
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5G Throttling.
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STAGING.
Centaur ignition.
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12,000mph.
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Coming up on 1,000 miles downrange.
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Marty's happy with the performance so far.
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13,900 mph.
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Coming up on orbital velocity.
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Five mins to go in the burn.
160 miles altitude.
2,160 miles downrange.
16,400 mph
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My absolute favorite part of watching ELV launches is the little data they show in the upper left of the simulation view. Usually it shows current apogee and perigee, and it's very cool to watch the perigee increase from deeply negative numbers to slightly positive, which represents the moment that the vehicle has achieved orbit.
Sadly, they aren't showing that data this time. They're showing downrange data. :(
EDIT: Oh, wait they just changed it, just as I was typing this. Just achieved orbit. Hooray! Now I can watch the apogee scream up to its own high value for the transfer orbit prior to the Centaur MECO-1.
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Centaur is now orbital.
Two mins to engine cut off.
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Vehicle now being tracked by what the commentator called TDRS East...according the the press kit it is actually using the TDRS-East backup satellite, TDRS-3.
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Already getting close to the East Coast of Africa.
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End of the burn. Now for a long coast phase.
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82 mins to go until a one minute second burn.
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Blast-Off! Next-Gen Communication Satellite Launched By NASA | Video
Published on Jan 30, 2013
The Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System is getting an upgrade. The TDRS-K spacecraft launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida on January 30th, 2013 at 8:48pm EST.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mWZKltwu5ic
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82 mins to go until a one minute second burn.
Can anyone actually read those orbital params? I wish they would use just
a slightly larger font... (or higher res streaming)
I think it's something like 98 x 13410 nautical miles x 26.4 deg ??
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82 mins to go until a one minute second burn.
Can anyone actually read those orbital params? I wish they would use just
a slightly larger font... (or higher res streaming)
I think it's something like 98 x 13410 nautical miles x 26.4 deg ??
Justin Ray at spaceflightnow.com is saying 99 x 15445 statute miles x 26.5 deg
[edit] corrected to 99 x 13420 nautical miles x 26.5 deg
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Well I tried to go full size for a screenshot for the article and the resolution was pretty awful. So I doubt they are readable per the webcast's quality.
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82 mins to go until a one minute second burn.
Can anyone actually read those orbital params? I wish they would use just
a slightly larger font... (or higher res streaming)
I think it's something like 98 x 13410 nautical miles x 26.4 deg ??
Justin Ray at spaceflightnow.com is saying 99 x 15445 statute miles x 26.5 deg
[edit] corrected to 99 x 13420 nautical miles x 26.5 deg
They are actually readable on the NASA satellite feed :D
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Some replays. I liked the glow over the fairing at ignition here:
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Saw it through the binoculars on the other side of the state. Perfectly clear (for once!)
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82 mins to go until a one minute second burn.
Can anyone actually read those orbital params? I wish they would use just
a slightly larger font... (or higher res streaming)
I think it's something like 98 x 13410 nautical miles x 26.4 deg ??
Justin Ray at spaceflightnow.com is saying 99 x 15445 statute miles x 26.5 deg
[edit] corrected to 99 x 13420 nautical miles x 26.5 deg
They are actually readable on the NASA satellite feed :D
Planned parameters at this point aren't in the ULA launch kit. Release parameters are listed as
Perigee: 4,312.7 km (2,328.7 nmi)
Apogee: 35,788.9 km (19,324.5 nmi)
Eccentricity: 0.6°
Inclination: 25.9°
Argument of Perigee: 180.0°
Did anyone catch the burn time--i.e. was it as planned?
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Always a very nice plume effect.
I should tweet "Rockets R pwetty!! #TDRS" cause I know whoever is behind @ULALaunch will probably fall over themselves to retweet that! :D
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The Centaur safing orbit was interesting, below Geo but above the ISS. I hadn't heard of that (either re-entry or escape previously), am I wrong?
Was there not enough delta-v left to do the other two?
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George Diller's gone to get himself a coffee and a sandwich.
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another version:
Launch of NASA's New Tracking & Data Relay Satellite, TDRS-K on Atlas V
Published on Jan 30, 2013
A brand new generation of Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, TDRS-K, launched today January 31st 2013 at 01:48 UTC from Cape Canaveral in Florida on an Atlas V 401 rocket.
TDRS-K is one of three new craft to be launched that relay data back to Earth from hundreds of missions including the International Space Station.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9h-Wm5QkuQE
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82 mins to go until a one minute second burn.
Can anyone actually read those orbital params? I wish they would use just
a slightly larger font... (or higher res streaming)
I think it's something like 98 x 13410 nautical miles x 26.4 deg ??
Justin Ray at spaceflightnow.com is saying 99 x 15445 statute miles x 26.5 deg
[edit] corrected to 99 x 13420 nautical miles x 26.5 deg
They are actually readable on the NASA satellite feed :D
Yeah, I should have gone into work and fired up the satellite dish, but
it's cold and rainy outside ;-)
And Chris, I wasn't casting aspersions on your screenshots, it's definitely the internet feed itself that is problematic.
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The Centaur safing orbit was interesting, below Geo but above the ISS. I hadn't heard of that (either re-entry or escape previously), am I wrong?
Was there not enough delta-v left to do the other two?
Most GTO upperstage stay in basically a GTO orbit with the apogee reduced. Re-entry or escape is the exception vs the rule. Those were only on missions with excess propellant
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Second burn about to start.
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Got a bit of rotation on it (planned).
Five mins to the second burn.
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Centaur is an amazing beast.
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Second burn:
60 seconds.
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MECO 2
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Attitude change for S/C Sep shortly.
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Now in the correct attitude.
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Spin up to 30 degrees per second.
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S/C sep. Congrats ULA and all the teams!!
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S/C Sep!
(And they cut away to show the control rooms).
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Congrats to all concerned!
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Just Close-UP's
Close-up Views of TDRS-K Launch
Published on Jan 30, 2013
See multiple views of the Atlas V launch of the TDRS-K spacecraft.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPaVOR5zCjE
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Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. (Jan. 30, 2013) – A United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket blasts off from Space Launch Complex-41 at 8:48 p.m. EST with NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS-K) payload. This was the first of 13 ULA launches scheduled for 2013, the 35th Atlas V mission, and the 67th ULA launch.
Photo by Pat Corkery, United Launch Alliance
United Launch Alliance Successfully Launches NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite Payload
Atlas V Rocket Processed at Launch Site in Just 27 Days
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., (Jan. 30, 2013) – A United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket successfully launched NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS-K) payload at 8:48 p.m. EST today from Space Launch Complex-41. This was the first of 13 ULA launches scheduled for 2013, the 35th Atlas V mission, and the 67th ULA launch.
"ULA and our mission partners are honored to work with the outstanding NASA team and we are proud of the vitally important data relay capabilities that were safely delivered today,” said Jim Sponnick, ULA vice president, Mission Operations.
This mission was launched aboard an Atlas V 401 configuration vehicle, which includes a 4-meter diameter 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 a single Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne (PWR) RL10A-4 engine.
NASA established the TDRS project in 1973 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 science information from the Hubble Space Telescope and other orbiting spacecraft.
“With this team’s innovative and ever-present focus on delivering mission success and best value through Perfect Product Delivery, final work at the Cape to prepare the Atlas V rocket that launched today was completed in record time – 27 days from when the vehicle was first erected to launch,” said Sponnick. “The ability for ULA to reduce its processing time both during manufacturing and at the launch sites, offers our customers added manifest flexibility as well as additional launch opportunities to ensure their payloads are delivered reliably and on-time.”
ULA's next launch is the Atlas V LDCM mission for NASA scheduled for Feb. 11, 2013 from Space Launch Complex-3 at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.
ULA program management, engineering, test, and mission support functions are headquartered in Denver, Colo. Manufacturing, assembly and integration operations are located at Decatur, Ala., and Harlingen, Texas. Launch operations are located at Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla., and Vandenberg AFB, Calif.
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William Graham's excellent article, realigned post launch:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2013/01/ula-altas-v-launch-tdrs-k/
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My congratulations! 8)
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A good 24 hours for NPO Energomash. Two launch successes with KSLV and Atlas 5.
Almost four months now since the last U.S.-first-stage-powered orbital launch, and seven since the last reportedly flawless such U.S. powered orbital launch.
- Ed Kyle
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Ed, other than the flaw in last Delta IV launch (10-4-2013) was in the upper and not first stage. Oddly, this is the second successful RL-10 flight since that launch. Your point again?
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RELEASE: 13-035
NASA LAUNCHES NEXT-GENERATION COMMUNICATIONS SATELLITE
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The first of NASAs three next-generation
Tracking and Data Relay Satellites (TDRS), known as TDRS-K, launched
at 8:48 p.m. EST Wednesday from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in
Florida.
"TDRS-K bolsters our network of satellites that provides essential
communications to support space exploration," said Badri Younes,
deputy associate administrator for Space Communications and
Navigation at NASA Headquarters in Washington. "It will improve the
overall health and longevity of our system."
The TDRS system provides tracking, telemetry, command and
high-bandwidth data return services for numerous science and human
exploration missions orbiting Earth. These include the International
Space Station and NASA's Hubble Space Telescope.
"With this launch, NASA has begun the replenishment of our aging space
network," said Jeffrey Gramling, TDRS project manager. "This addition
to our current fleet of seven will provide even greater capabilities
to a network that has become key to enabling many of NASA's
scientific discoveries."
TDRS-K was lifted into orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V
rocket from Space Launch Complex-41. After a three-month test phase,
NASA will accept the spacecraft for additional evaluation before
putting the satellite into service.
The TDRS-K spacecraft includes several modifications from older
satellites in the TDRS system, including redesigned
telecommunications payload electronics and a high-performance solar
panel designed for more spacecraft power to meet growing S-band
requirements. Another significant design change, the return to
ground-based processing of data, will allow the system to service
more customers with evolving communication requirements.
The next TDRS spacecraft, TDRS-L, is scheduled for launch in 2014.
TDRS-M’s manufacturing process will be completed in 2015.
NASA's Space Communications and Navigation Program, part of the Human
Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate at the agency's
Headquarters in Washington, is responsible for the space network. The
TDRS Project Office at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in
Greenbelt, Md., manages the TDRS development program. Launch services
were provided by United Launch Alliance. NASA's Launch Services
Program at the Kennedy Space Center was responsible for acquisition
of launch services.
For more information about TDRS, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/tdrs
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Boeing TDRS-K Relay Satellite Sends 1st Signals from Space
Provides critical communications links for NASA, US space programs
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla., Jan. 30, 2013 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] has received the first on-orbit signals from the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS)-K, demonstrating that the vehicle is functioning and ready to use its internal engine to boost it to its operational geosynchronous orbit. After reaching final orbit, it will undergo three months of tests and calibration before being put into operation by NASA to provide critical communications relay services to NASA and other U.S. space programs.
TDRS-K joins three other Boeing TDRS satellites in NASA's system. It is the first of a new series of those satellites, featuring improved payload, power and propulsion, and will help provide users with enhanced, reliable communications bandwidth at the lowest cost.
"TDRS-K is another example of the vital space communication services Boeing has been providing to NASA for more than four decades," said Craig Cooning, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space & Intelligence Systems.
The satellite launched on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V vehicle today at 8:48 p.m. Eastern time from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. Controllers in Australia confirmed initial contact with it two hours and three minutes later.
TDRS-K's design is based on electronics from the highly successful 702 class of satellites and previous TDRS spacecraft.
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Ed, other than the flaw in last Delta IV launch (10-4-2013) was in the upper and not first stage. Oddly, this is the second successful RL-10 flight since that launch. Your point again?
That US powered launches are rare.
Ed Kyle
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Congrats to all the teams involved! Thanks for the great coverage. :)
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http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2013/01/ula-altas-v-launch-tdrs-k/
ULA employs tall Spanish women?
Altas... Anyone?
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http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2013/01/ula-altas-v-launch-tdrs-k/
ULA employs tall Spanish women?
Altas... Anyone?
Sorry, not a Spanish speaker; it literally went over my head. :D
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Sorry, not a Spanish speaker; it literally went over my head. :D
I think most launches are supposed to do that, if they're working right. :D
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I have a question about the BSS 601 spacecraft bus that the satellites use - with only one non-TDRS order of the 601 platform since 2003 (and that is for a partially completed spacecraft!), does it mean that these three satellites would be more expensive than, say, when ordering with other US communication satellite builders (LM / Orbital /SSL), which has more recent medium-class comsat orders?
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I have a question about the BSS 601 spacecraft bus that the satellites use - with only one non-TDRS order of the 601 platform since 2003 (and that is for a partially completed spacecraft!), does it mean that these three satellites would be more expensive than, say, when ordering with other US communication satellite builders (LM / Orbital /SSL), which has more recent medium-class comsat orders?
These were basically copies of the 3 previous spacecraft.
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Cool video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6zMfNCooak&feature=player_embedded
I am in there somewhere
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http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2013/01/ula-altas-v-launch-tdrs-k/
Probably a dumb question, but the article talks about TDRS-3 being in a (relatively) high inclination orbit. Are the TDRS satellites not in equatorial GSOs or is there a specific reason TDRS-3 is not?
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http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2013/01/ula-altas-v-launch-tdrs-k/
Probably a dumb question, but the article talks about TDRS-3 being in a (relatively) high inclination orbit. Are the TDRS satellites not in equatorial GSOs or is there a specific reason TDRS-3 is not?
Just normal drifting after the satellite lost its attitude control ability.... (in this case "(relatively) high inclination" is only about 14 degrees)
Keep in mind that satellite is now 24 years old....
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Ah. Thanks!
Which brings up the next question: what do sats without attitude control tend to drift to? 23° inclination? Erratic?
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http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2013/01/ula-altas-v-launch-tdrs-k/
ULA employs tall Spanish women?
Altas... Anyone?
It's a whooosh from me too!
I'm sure there's a "An Atlas V, Delta IV and Falcon 9 went to a bar..." joke there somewhere ;D
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Cool video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6zMfNCooak&feature=player_embedded
I am in there somewhere
Hehe! (Hand Raised!!!) ;D
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http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2013/01/ula-altas-v-launch-tdrs-k/
ULA employs tall Spanish women?
Altas... Anyone?
It's a whooosh from me too!
I'm sure there's a "An Atlas V, Delta IV and Falcon 9 went to a bar..." joke there somewhere ;D
I'm not sure if you're still missing his point or not, but he's talking about the typo in both the article heading and the URL to it.
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Cool video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6zMfNCooak&feature=player_embedded
I am in there somewhere
Yes you are! Right on.
Great keepsake.
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for anyone wishing to re-live the entire TDRS-K launch to deployment, here you are:
NASA TDRS-K Complete launch coverage
Published on Jan 31, 2013
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTejzcCM_0I
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Yes, I am interested as I missed most of the launch. Thanks Catdlr for providing this link to the whole broadcast!
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Any updates on the progress of TDRS-K after separation?
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Any updates on the progress of TDRS-K after separation?
4 Feb 2013:
http://spaceflightnow.com/atlas/av036/status.html
--- CHAS
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According to JSR 674...
"By Feb 10, TDRS K was in a 35422 x 35787
km x 7.1 deg orbit over 150 deg West, drifting east at 2 deg/day..."
Isn't it odd to be at GEO distance yet still have 7 degrees of inclination? I thought the final burn to GEO usually zeroed out the inclination.
Is there still one more burn left?
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According to JSR 674...
"By Feb 10, TDRS K was in a 35422 x 35787
km x 7.1 deg orbit over 150 deg West, drifting east at 2 deg/day..."
Isn't it odd to be at GEO distance yet still have 7 degrees of inclination? I thought the final burn to GEO usually zeroed out the inclination.
Is there still one more burn left?
Probably not. Data relay satellites like TDRS does not require such a stringent requirement of north-south keeping, as the signal beams receivers are very large antennas (unlike those small satellite dishes that communication satellites users have), so it is better to conserve fuel and let the oblate Earth do the job of lowering the inclination over the next few years.
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According to JSR 674...
"By Feb 10, TDRS K was in a 35422 x 35787
km x 7.1 deg orbit over 150 deg West, drifting east at 2 deg/day..."
Isn't it odd to be at GEO distance yet still have 7 degrees of inclination? I thought the final burn to GEO usually zeroed out the inclination.
Is there still one more burn left?
Probably not. Data relay satellites like TDRS does not require such a stringent requirement of north-south keeping, as the signal beams receivers are very large antennas (unlike those small satellite dishes that communication satellites users have), so it is better to conserve fuel and let the oblate Earth do the job of lowering the inclination over the next few years.
Doesn't inclination usually INCREASE with time on orbit? It usually becomes an issue as satellites run low on fuel to maintain a low inclination--or so I thought... ???
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According to JSR 674...
"By Feb 10, TDRS K was in a 35422 x 35787
km x 7.1 deg orbit over 150 deg West, drifting east at 2 deg/day..."
Isn't it odd to be at GEO distance yet still have 7 degrees of inclination? I thought the final burn to GEO usually zeroed out the inclination.
Is there still one more burn left?
Probably not. Data relay satellites like TDRS does not require such a stringent requirement of north-south keeping, as the signal beams receivers are very large antennas (unlike those small satellite dishes that communication satellites users have), so it is better to conserve fuel and let the oblate Earth do the job of lowering the inclination over the next few years.
Doesn't inclination usually INCREASE with time on orbit? It usually becomes an issue as satellites run low on fuel to maintain a low inclination--or so I thought... ???
I'm not familiar with the math, but I understand the inclination oscillates between 0 and some value i-max. If you start at 0, it will start heading away from 0. If you start at some other part of the cycle, whether it heads up or down depend on the detailed parameters.
And isn't it mostly lunisolar rather than oblateness?
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Boeing Communications Relay Satellites Complete Space, Earthly Testing
NASA accepts 1st orbiting TDRS satellite in 10 years
TDRS-L clears ground performance tests, awaits delivery
EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Aug. 20, 2013 -- Two Boeing [NYSE: BA] Tracking and Data Relay Satellites (TDRS) have completed testing milestones – one in space and the other on Earth – marking more progress in enhancing the tracking and communications network used by NASA and its customers.
The orbiting TDRS-K satellite has completed all testing since its January launch and has officially been handed over to NASA, providing another vital information link between low-Earth-orbiting spacecraft and NASA’s satellite control centers.
The next satellite in the program, TDRS-L, completed performance testing at the Boeing satellite facility in El Segundo and is ready for shipment to Kennedy Space Center, Fla., later this year in advance of a 2014 launch.
TDRS-K and TDRS-L are the first two of a set of three next-generation satellites that features improved payload capacity and enhanced communications bandwidth at the lowest cost.
"These state-of-the-art satellites represent a major step forward in improving high-resolution image, video, voice and data transmission," said Craig Cooning, Boeing Space & Intelligence Systems vice president and general manager.
The third satellite in the series, TDRS-M, completed a critical design review with NASA and is now in the production phase and available for launch in 2015. Boeing built the previous set of three TDRS satellites – H, I and J – which have been in use since 2000 and 2002.