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STPSat-2

Jump to: Mission Objectives, Mission Instrumentation, Mission Parameters, Additional Information

Mission Photos:


STPSat-2

Courtesy of Ball Aerospace


 

Mission Objectives:

The US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has flown a hollow retroreflector on the STPSat-2 mission. It is a commercial item that is lightweight and allows for testing at any laser wavelength. AFRL will post temperature data for the cube and provide satellite orientation. Temperature effects on the cross-section and angular (off-axis) performance will be documented and participating SLR sites will be acknowledged.

The SLR role of the mission is to gather data on changes in optical cross section over a period of 4 months. Monitor passes ( >45 degree elevation angle). The cube temperature will be recorded during the experiments as well as satellite orientation to assist in the off-axis analysis. The data will be used to determine the utility of this device to provide AFRL with an inexpensive means for carrying out tracking of small satellites.

Mission Instrumentation:

Mission Parameters:
Sponsor: AFRL
Expected Life:  
Primary Applications: Spacecraft development
Primary SLR Applications: Study new cube technology
COSPAR ID: 1006201
SIC Code: 1075
Satellite Catalog (NORAD) Number: 37222
Launch Date: 20-Nov-2010
RRA Diameter: 0.5 inches
RRA Shape: Single cube
Reflectors: 1
Inclination: 72 degrees
Eccentricity:  
Altitude: 650 km
Weight:  

Additional Information:

Documents: