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Applications Technology Satellite 6 (ATS 6), active from 1974-1979, was the last in the ATS series of experimental satellites sponsored by NASA to test new technologies in space communications. ATS-6 operated from geostationary orbit and contained nineteen communications and technology experiments. The Museum's artifact is a full-scale Thermal Structural Model used as an engineering tool during development of the actual satellite to analyze and design for the effects of launch vibration and the extreme temperatures of space.

This is one of four support trusses that connected the spacecraft's Earth Viewing Module with its parabolic reflector antenna.

The Museum's artifact was transferred from NASA 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 Aircraft Corporation
 Dimensions Approximate: 25.4 x 458.47 x 165.1cm (10in. x 15ft 1/2in. x 5ft 5in.)
 Materials Aluminum, Kapton (Polymide), Plastic, Brass, Adhesive, Steel, Paint, Epoxy, Composite, Copper, Mylar (Polyester), Stainless steel, Aluminized Kapton
 Inventory Number A19780163010 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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