The TIROS Operational Satellites (TOS) were developed after the ten experimental spacecraft from the TIROS (Television Infrared Observation Satellite) series proved the feasibility of space-based weather observation. In operation from 1966 to 1976, the TOS series of satellites provided continuous observation of global weather conditions and generated over one million images from the nine spacecraft launched during the program.
TOS used two satellite types. One carried the APT (Automatic Picture Transmission) camera system that allowed real-time transmission of images to small ground stations. The other carried the AVCS (Advanced Vidicon Camera System) that could store images and then send them to Command and Data Acquisition (CDA) stations.
The Museum's artifact is a flight qualified spare of an APT version of the TOS spacecraft and was transferred to the Museum from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in 1965.
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
Date
1966-1976
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
SPACECRAFT-Uncrewed
Manufacturer
RCA Astro Electronics
Dimensions
Overall: 23 in. tall x 41 in. wide (58.4 x 104.1cm)
Other (Satellite Bus): 41 in. diameter (104.1cm)
Materials
Aluminum
Magnesium
HAZMAT: Cadmium Plating
Mixed Metals
Electronics
Solar Panels
Inventory Number
A19751344000
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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