Orbiting Solar Observatory Satellite: OSO I - The Project Summary

This document describes the work performed in connection with the Orbiting Solar Observatory and the scientific data and results obtained therefrom. Supplementary information has also been added to provide the reader with a background in solar-oriented equipment. Basically, this project was an effort to develop a solar observatory capable of operation in space for approximately six months. Ball Brothers Research Corporation conducted a research and development program to resolve methods for enabling the solar observatory to perform as required. Acting as subcontractors, Electronic Specialties Company designed the antennas, AVCO designed and manufactured the receiver and decoders, while Vector Manufacturing designed and manufactured the transmitter and diplexer. All of these items were prepared in accordance with BBRC specifications. The Orbiting Solar Observatory, designated OSO I, was launched March 7, 1962 from AFMTC at Cape Canaveral, Florida. The successful observatory flight provided a wealth of scientific data concerning both the sun and the portion of space through which the observatory orbits. The NASA Project Manager was Dr. J. Lindsay. The BBRC project directors were Mr. F. P. Dolder for spacecraft systems and Mr. R. H. Gablehouse for communications systems.