The Earth Viewing Module of Applications Satellite Technology 6 (ATS-6) housed three separate sections of equipment in support of spacecraft operations. The module's "bottom" contained experiments and antennas which required a continuous view of the Earth for communications. Three-axis stabilization ensured that the module always pointed in this direction. The middle section of the spacecraft contained house-keeping systems--attitude control, propulsion, telemetry, and power. The upper portion consisted of communications equipment, principally transponders and antenna feeds designed to work in concert with the thirty-foot antenna located above.
This artifact is a back-up spacecraft structure, partially outfitted with equipment and instrumentation. NASA transferred it to the Museum in 1978.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
SPACECRAFT-Uncrewed-Parts & Structural Components
Manufacturer
Fairchild
Dimensions
Overall: 5ft 5in. x 4ft 6in. x 4ft 6in., 1560lb. (165.1 x 137.2 x 137.2cm, 707.6kg)
Materials
Aluminum, copper, plastic
Inventory Number
A19780218000
Credit Line
Transferred from NASA
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.