Scientific Applications Satellite-A (SAC-A) is a space cooperation
between NASA and the Argentine National
Commission on Space Activities (CONAE) under the terms of the
memorandum of understanding (MOU).
The main objective
is to provide an engineering bench testing for new space science
technology instruments and equipment that will be used in a more
complex spacecraft for the Argentine space program. The SAC-A
satellite will be launched into either a 28.5 or 51.6 degree
inclination circular orbit at an altitude of at least 300km (162nm).
Depending on SAC-A's launch inclination and altitude, it will
have a 3.5-month to 12-month orbit life. SAC-A will be a 3-axis
spin stabilized satellite with the maximum moment of inertia
axis normal to the orbital plan. The total allocable mass is
68 kg (Shuttle ejectable Gas-Can satellite type). The primary
purpose of the flight of opportunity is to place into orbit various
Argentine technologies that will provide useful scientific information
in real world applications. The design, development, testing,
and operations of SAC-A will enable local aerospace engineers
to gain experience in spacecraft design and operations and will
give local scientist important information. The results of SAC-A
mission will be made available to the scientific community through
the publications of the investigators in appropriate journals
or other established channels.
Salient Features:
Project Start: 1st Quarter 1997
Spacecraft Weight: 68 kg
Planned Lifetime: 3.5 months to 12 months, depending on
inclination
Orbit: 28.5 or 51.6 degree inclination
Launch: Successfully Launched December 1998
Instrument
Complement:
Differential
Global Positioning System Receiver (DGPS)
Closed Circuit Digital (CCD) Earth Camera
Tri Axial Magnetometer (TAM)
Si Argentinian Cells
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