Sensor development in the Shuttle eraThe use of the Space Shuttle in the development of earth observation sensors is examined. Two sensor classes are selected for case histories: infrared temperature sounders and microwave radiometers. The most significant finding in each of the developmental studies of these two sensor classes is considered to be the feasibility and value of using the Shuttle/Spacelab as a test vehicle for the operation in space of a versatile multimode experimental sensor. The Shuttle Electrically Scanned Microwave Radiometer and the Shuttle Infrared Interferometer are found to be the most effective instruments in this context. The Shuttle/Spacelab Sortie mission characteristics provide opportunities for new approaches to the development of sensors, using the Shuttle as a test vehicle to improve the efficiency of the process with respect to time, cost, and/or quality of the final product. As for crew functions, the short-term Spacelab mission requires some near real-time evaluation of data quality and sensor function in order to insure efficient data collection.
Document ID
19750049721
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Gerding, R. B.
Mantarakis, P. Z.
Webber, D. S. (TRW Systems Group Redondo Beach, Calif., United States)
Date Acquired
August 8, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1975
Subject Category
Instrumentation And Photography
Meeting Information
Meeting: Scanners and imagery systems for earth observation; Seminar