Astronaut William Lenoir used this checklist for deployment of the Satellite Business Systems communications satellite on the STS-5 space shuttle mission on Columbia in 1982. This was the first of many shuttle missions that delivered satellites into orbit. Even though astronauts had extensive training in the tasks to be completed during their missions, they relied on checklists to ensure that all procedures were followed correctly and no steps were skipped. Releasing a satellite was a complex task that involved activating it, coordinating with the pilot to time the release at the proper altitude and orientation, and resolving any problems. The checklist covered these and other topics in detail.
NASA transferred this checklist to the Museum in 1983.
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
EQUIPMENT-Miscellaneous
Dimensions
3-D: 20.3 x 2.5 x 17.1cm (8 x 1 x 6 3/4 in.)
Materials
adhesive tape, cardstock, metal, plastic
Inventory Number
A19830261000
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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