Meteoroid-detector deployment and pressurization systems

The Explorer 46 Meteoroid Technology Satellite (MTS) launched from Wallops Island, Va., August 13, 1972, was configured to fit within the Scout heat shield, 86.36 cm in diameter. In order to package within this envelope, the meteoroid bumper detector panels had to be rolled up unpressurized and secured to the spacecraft main structure. After the spacecraft was placed in orbit the panels were unrolled by a deployment system and inflated by a pressurization system.