Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Spear, E. E..
Configurations for a Land Mobile Satellite System Spacecraft are discussed. It is a preliminary concept of a quad aperture reflector spacecraft capable of relaying radio messages to land mobile units throughout the United States.
It is concluded that both the wrap/rib and hoop/column antenna designs are feasible for the Land Mobile Satellite System. Additional configuration design iterations are necessary.
The production of the Space Telescope's Metering Truss Structure (MTS) and Focal Plane Structure (FPS), which are of graphite/epoxy, is described. Graphite/epoxy laminates were chosen because of their high strength and stiffness, low weight, and a controlled coefficient of thermal expansion approaching zero. Photocopy masters, which are dimensionally accurate and stable photographic reproductions of full size engineering drawings, allowed the exact assembly of bonded or bolted parts by assembly mechanics, cutting costs and speeding production. While moisture absorption, high through-the-thickness coefficient of thermal expansion effects, and labor-intensive layup costs are potentially problematic in some cases, it is expected that solutions can be found through analytical and developmental programs.
Analytical technique for unmanned spacecraft sizing for planetary missions, considering scientific objectives, characteristics and requirements
Analytical technique for unmanned spacecraft sizing for planetary missions, considering scientific objectives, characteristics and requirements