SURFSAT (Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship Satellite)
A small satellite built by undergraduate students and JPL (Jet Propulsion
Laboratory) to support experiments by NASA's Deep
Space Network. The satellite is designed to mimic signals from planetary
spacecraft, and radiates milliwatt-level radio frequency signals in the
X-, Ku-, and Ka-bands. These signals support research and development experiments
supporting future implementation of Ka-band communications, tests of new
11-m ground stations built to support the Space Very Long Baseline Interferometry
project, and training of ground station personnel. From conception through
launch, the spacecraft cost ~$3 million, including design, fabrication,
test, and launch integration.
| launch date |
Nov. 4, 1995 |
| launch vehicle |
Delta 7925 |
| launch site |
Vandenberg Air Force Base |
| orbit |
934 × 1,494 km × 100.6° |
| size |
0.8 × 0.3 m |
| mass |
55 kg |
Related category
• SATELLITES
AND SPACE PROBES
Also on this site:
Encyclopedia
of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living
Encyclopedia
of History
BACK TO TOP
|
