Category: Blog
-
What is an Atomic Clock?
An atomic clock is a clock that measures time by monitoring the resonant frequency of atoms where each atom that is used has naturally occurring oscillations. For any clock to function efficiently, oscillations produce a steady reproducible beat regularly. Clocks for displaying time predominantly use a quartz crystal that produces a low frequency (32,767 Hz)…
-
What do you mean by Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS)?
The Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS) is a network of geosynchronous satellites maintained by NASA to provide continuous and reliable communication for various space missions. Launched in 1983, TDRSS has been an essential asset in facilitating communication and data relay for numerous space missions, including the Space Shuttle program, the Hubble Space Telescope,…
-
What is NASA-STD-5019 Standard?
NASA-STD-5019 is a space standard developed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) that defines the requirements for designing and operating human spaceflight systems. This standard covers various aspects of crew safety, including environmental control, life support systems, emergency procedures, and crew interfaces. The purpose of NASA-STD-5019 is to ensure that human crews can…
-
What are Space Reflectors?
Space reflectors also known as space mirrors, a form of solar radiation management [SRM], are sun shields positioned in space to reduce the amount of solar energy reaching the earth. Space reflector is an idea that has been in constant development. The earth absorbs up to 70% of the solar rays that are emitted from…
-
NASA’s Electrical, Electronic and Electromechanical (EEE) Parts Selection Standards & Guidelines
NASA provides guidelines to developers, engineers, and manufacturers to choose and manage parts and equipment to facilitate several space explorations and missions. To qualify for certain specific missions, the parts or equipment to be used must be tested and approved by NASA under their specified regulations and instructions. All components used in space must meet the…
-
What are Satellite Transponders?
Satellite transponder provides a communication channel between the transmitting & the receiving antenna on the satellite with the base station on the ground. A transponder performs the function of both the transmitter and the receiver in a satellite. Transponders mainly perform the function of receiving a given signal and then processing, amplifying, and retransmitting the…
-
What is ECSS-E-ST-10 Standard?
ECSS-E-ST-10 is a European space standard that provides a framework for system engineering processes in space projects. It defines the processes, activities, and tasks that are required to develop and verify space systems, including requirements engineering, system architecture, and system integration. The standard applies to all types of space systems, including satellites, launch vehicles, and…
-
What is NASA-STD-1006A Standard?
NASA-STD-1006A also known as the Space System Protection Standard, serves as a comprehensive guideline for protecting space systems against a wide range of potential threats and hazards. The objectives of NASA-STD-1006A are multi-faceted and crucial for ensuring the success and resilience of space missions. Risk Identification and Assessment: This standard aims to identify and assess…
-
What are Satellite Antennas?
Satellite antennas are used to concentrate the satellite’s transmitting power towards a designated geographical region on earth and avoid interference from undesired signals that will deteriorate the overall quality of the signal. Antennas that are used onboard satellites are selected based on the requirements of their physical configurations, expected to have low volume, low cost,…
-
What is Second Generation Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRSS)?
The Second Generation Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRSS) showcases an array of advanced capabilities, designed to elevate space communication to new heights. Its Multiple Access Antenna is equipped with 32 receive antenna elements and 15 transmit antenna elements, enhancing its capacity for efficient communication. Utilizing S-band communications and Left Hand Circular (LHC) polarization, the…