Tethered satellite systems - The 1991 STS-46 mission

The scope of a collaborative mission involving the implementation of a tethered satellite is described. The 1991 STS-46 mission, sponsored jointly by NASA, the ESA, and the Italian Space Agency involves the deployment of a tethered satellite on a Space Shuttle Discovery flight. The concept behind the tethered satellite is described, and extensive graphic descriptions of the mission profile and specifications are presented. The payload, the European Retrievable Carrier (Eureca), is explained in terms of its features and capabilities, as well as emergency considerations. A study of atmospheric composition will be the primary objective of the satellite project.