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
Whale Tracker