CLAES cryostat on-orbit performance versus ground test predictions

The paper describes the Cryogenic Limb Array Etalon Spectrometer (CLAES) launched on September 12, 1991 aboard the NASA Goddard's Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite the purpose of which is to measure the global concentrations of stratospheric species and their temperature, as a function of altitude. Particular attention is given to the design-level thermal predictions and their correlation to the results of ground tests, and to the on-orbit performance of CLAES. Also presented are data on the cryostat's thermal performance during ground operations, at spacecraft integration and during launch preparations. The CLAES functional block diagram and the cryostat schematic diagram are included.