Which version GPS satellite is this?
Alan Browne
Ed M.
wrote:
> http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/5/5b/GPS_Washington_Smithson...
Apparently a TDRS satellite:
http://collections.nasm.si.edu/media/full/A19860098000CP03.jpg
"Model, Communications Satellite, Tracking and Data Relay Satellite
(TDRS)
During the first decades of the Space Age, NASA required a worldwide
network of ground stations to communicate with satellites and human-
operated spacecraft. The Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS)
system, a constellation of three spacecraft placed into geosynchronous
orbit beginning in 1983, was designed to replace this expensive, far-
flung system. Positioned equidistant in orbit, they provide nearly
continuous contact with spacecraft in low Earth orbit-an especially
crucial capability for ensuring the safety of Space Shuttle crews. A
TDRS transmits both voice and data communications. Under optimum
conditions, it can transfer in a second the equivalent of a 20-volume
encyclopedia.
This artifact is a high-fidelity model built by Design Models, Inc.,
under the direction of TRW, which manufactured the first several TDRS
spacecraft. TRW donated the model in 1986.
Gift of TRW, Inc."
Alan Browne
Thx. I'll fix the Wiki article. My error.