ATS-6 - Description and performance

The Applications Technology Satellite-6 embodies a geosynchronous technology that is sensitive enough to receive signals from simple inexpensive earth-based terminals and is powerful enough to relay color television and other high-quality signals to these terminals. This was accomplished by deploying a 9.1-m parabolic reflector antenna in space, by performing precision attitude maneuvers on commands from the earth to point the reflector to selected spots on the earth's surface, and by providing communications links and necessary power to receive and rebroadcast signals transmitted from the ground. All major objectives of the ATS program have been satisfied, with specifications being met or exceeded.