Data from a synchronous altitude satellite quartz crystal microbalance monitor

Results of one year's operation in orbit of the Quartz Crystal Microbalance Monitor on the ATS-6 satellite are presented. The data indicate a general decreasing trend for the first four and one-half months in orbit. At that time, a sudden increase in beat frequency occurred; this correlates in time with the firing of the North Cesium Ion Engine. A general increase in beat frequency is evidenced since that time. Laboratory tests conducted to investigate the phenomenon are described.