Object Details
- Manufacturer
- TRW Design Models Inc.
- Summary
- 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.
- Alternate Name
- Tracking and Data Relay Satellite
- Credit Line
- Gift of TRW, Inc.
- Inventory Number
- A19860098000
- Restrictions & Rights
- Usage conditions apply
- Type
- MODELS-Uncrewed Spacecraft & Parts
- Materials
- Wood, glass, capton, plastic
- Dimensions
- Overall (antennas and solar arrays deployed): 14 ft. tall x 43 ft. wide x 57 ft. deep, 1800 lb. (426.7 x 1310.6 x 1737.4cm, 816.5kg)
- Country of Origin
- United States of America
- See more items in
- National Air and Space Museum Collection
- Location
- Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA
- Hangar
- James S. McDonnell Space Hangar
- National Air and Space Museum
- Record ID
- nasm_A19860098000
- GUID (Link to Original Record)
- http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/nv931a14219-5b7c-4c2f-b1b3-3633bcbcb1f8
