Television cameras employing solid-state imaging sensors for manned spacecraft applications

The Space Shuttle television system incorporates a versatile complement of TV equipment which allows the positioning, quantity, and performance capabilities of the multiple TV cameras to vary as dictated by the particular mission. However, current TV camera technology employing glass enclosed, vacuum processed image sensors results in a bulky device that restricts its location and versatility. Problems and potential solutions that can be achieved through the employment of solid-state image sensors for both monochrome and color applications are discussed.