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Launched in 1974, Applications Satellite Technology 6 (ATS 6) was the last of a series of NASA experimental satellites designed to test new communications, meteorological, and other technologies. The spacecraft used three-axis stabilization to maintain a constant orientation toward Earth, especially important for ATS 6's principal mission of communications.

These momentum wheels (two of three on the spacecraft) helped ATS 6 maintain this stabilization.

These artifacts are flight spares, which NASA transferred 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-Guidance & Control Manufacturer Bendix Corp.
 Dimensions Approximate: 35.6 × 33 × 10.2cm (14 × 13 × 4 in.)
Storage: 48.3 × 48.3 × 29.5cm (19 × 19 × 11 5/8 in.)
 Materials Magnesium
Paint
Cadmium Plating
Steel
Non-magnetic Metal
Copper Alloy
Plastic
Adhesive
Glass
 Inventory Number A19780218001 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.