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Ganoung, J. K.

Publications and source records attributed to Ganoung, J. K..

Exosat/Delta - Demonstrated short-term backup launcher capability through international cooperation

The instrumentation, performance parameters, Delta launch implementation, and development program of the Exosat, launched in February 1983 are described. The X ray satellite was integrated into the Delta vehicle over a three month period, and will survey mainly previously observed X ray objects by directing its detectors at them just before they are occulted by the moon. The 120 kg science package, powered by 260 W of power from solar panels, include low- and medium-energy imaging devices. The spacecraft was originally intended for Ariane launch, but scheduling conflicts, plus the need for a polar-type orbit, dictated the use of the Western Space and Missile Center. Maintenance of Delta compatibility throughout the development of the Exosat facilitated the transfer of launch vehicles, as did full existing documentation of the spacecraft and familiarity between the ESA and NASA managers of the development and launch programs, respectively.

Ganoung, J. K.↗

The Delta improved second stage - First flight results

On July 16, 1982 the successful launch of the Landsat-D spacecraft marked a significant step in the evolutionary growth of the Delta launch vehicle. This growth is related to the development of the Improved Second Stage (ISS). The second utilization of the ISS occurred August 26, 1982 with the successful launch of the Canadian Telesat-F communications satellite. Used in conjunction with the PAM third stage, this spacecraft was placed in a geosynchronous transfer orbit with extremely high accuracy. The various steps in the 22-year history of the Delta launch vehicle are briefly examined. In mid-1979 it became apparent that the expendable-to-Shuttle transition time would increase over that previously planned. In connection with this development, it was decided to design the ISS. Attention is given to design details, a system description, the development schedule, aspects of performance capability, first flight results, and future performance improvements.

Grimes, D. W.↗

Delta's role in reaching the fourth environment

The Delta launch vehicle has played a significant role in spaceand airborne studies since its first launch in 1960, and a high volume period of service is planned for the 1980s. The historical role played by Delta in launching satellites from 1960 to the present is discussed, and vehicle modifications made during this period are summarized. It is shown that out of 154 launches, 143 proved successful for an overall reliability of 93%. The forecasted launch schedule through 1985 is also presented. Various modifications are now under way to provide spacecraft interchangeability with the Shuttle: a Payload Assist Module (PAM) is proposed to provide an orderly transition from the Delta expendable vehicle to the Shuttle reusable vehicle; the new Delta 3920 Improved Second Stage is the result of a need for improved Delta performance to meet 3910 payload capabilities; the firing sequence of the solid rocket motors was altered from five at liftoff and four during ascent to a sequence of six and three, thereby increasing spacecraft weight in geosynchronous transfer orbit. Potential future improvements discussed include the Delta 4920, 9-ft-diam fairing, booster engine performance, PAM solid motor performance, a universal second stage, a hydrogen-oxygen second stage, and large strap-on solids.

Grimes, D. W.↗