Flight operations and DSN programming
Computer programs for calculating trajectories to Mars and Jupiter
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Computer programs for calculating trajectories to Mars and Jupiter
The prototype system for Deep Space Network clock synchronization by VLBI has been demonstrated to operate successfully over intercontinental baselines in a series of experiments between Deep Space Stations at Madrid, Spain, and Goldstone, California. As predicted by analysis and short baseline demonstration, the system achieves reliable synchronization between 26m and 64m antenna stations with 17 and 37K nominal system temperatures using under one million bits of data from each station. Semi-real-time operation is feasible since this small amount of data can be transmitted to JPL and processed within minutes. The system resolution is 50 to 400ns, depending on the amount of data processed and the source intensity. The accuracy is believed to be comparable to the resolution, although it could be independently confirmed to only about 5 microseconds using LORAN C.
The objectives, functions, and organization of the Deep Space Network were summarized. Deep space station, ground communication, and network operations control capabilities are described.
Key characteristics of the Deep Space Network Test and Training System were presented. Completion of the Mark III-75 system implementation is reported. Plans are summarized for upgrading the system to a Mark III-77 configuration to support Deep Space Network preparations for the Mariner Jupiter/Saturn 1977 and Pioneer Venus 1978 missions. A general description of the Deep Space Station, Ground Communications Facility, and Network Operations Control Center functions that comprise the Deep Space Network Test and Training System is also presented.
The activities at the Venus Station (DSS 13) and the Microwave Test Facility, both operated by the Development Support Group, during the 6-month period ending October 15, 1975, were discussed and progress noted. Successful remote operation of the Venus Station from Pasadena during a pulsar observing track was described, along with significant tracking of the planet Venus in an interferometric planetary radar mode. Completion of the first phase of the demonstration of long-distance (1.6-km) transmission of microwave power was reported, with an RF-to-dc conversion efficiency of better than 80% and 30 kW of dc recovered. Routine transmission of clock synchronization signals to the overseas complexes with 64-m antenna stations was also discussed, and extensive analysis of a reported problem with the DSS 14 HV dc power supply which resulted in excessive ripple voltage interfering with transmitter operation was described.
The rationale for a Water Vapor Radiometer (WVR) as an aid in predicting tropospheric delay correction is presented. Included is a block diagram and a description of the present developmental WVR with the semiautomated operating sequence outlined. A brief summary of field tests at El Monte airport and Pt. Mugu is given.
Viterbi decoding tests were carried out at DSS 62, Madrid, Spain. Results of bit error rate, burst statistics, and estimation of signal-to-noise ratio are presented.
The Level-4 Prepass Readiness Test (PRT) (the load and go countdown) provides an effective and low risk method of improving network productivity. A carefully controlled trial period preceded the full-scale application of the Level-4 PRTS to Pioneer, Helios, and Viking cruise tracking operations. Use of this load and go concept to count down a station brings about a substantial increase in the proportion of total station hours devoted to spacecraft tracking.
An assessment was made of telecommunications capability between the radio frequency subsystem on the Mariner Jupiter-Spacecraft and the Deep Space Network.
Deep Space Network activities in the development of the Helios B mission from planning through entry of Helios 2 into first superior conjunction (end of Mission Phase II) are summarized. Network operational support activities for Helios 1 from first superior conjunction through entry into third superior conjunction are included.
A comparison is made with the Mark III-75 System Configuration to explain the implementation required to establish the Mark III-77 System Configuration.
An overall hierarchical automation philosophy along with the results of the radio frequencies automation effort undertaken 2 years ago are summarized. A brief description of each subassembly controller's salient features, the software development process, and the common software used by these controllers will be presented. Comments will be made with respect to the relative advantages of high-level language and assembly language, the operational effectiveness of operator Macro commands, and the program development, and a list of suggested future effort will be given.
The development status of the decoder and the factors which were considered in defining the specific functional requirements are described. The design is discussed to the block diagram level. A description of the detailed design is provided, along with a description of the test software developed and a brief summary of the performance evaluation testing completed so far.
New-generation recorder/reproducers are being installed in the Pre/Post-Detection Recording Subsystem at DSSs 14 (Goldstone), 43 (Australia), 63 (Spain), and the JPL Compatibility Test Area CTA 21. The performance of these new-generation machines is discussed, and representative corroborating data acquired at CTA 21 are presented.
The newer model for variance, the Allan technique, now adopted for testing, is analyzed in the subject mode. A model is generated (including considerable contribution from the station secondary frequency standard), and rationalized with existing data. The variance model is definitely sound; the Allan technique mates theory and measure. The mean-frequency model is an estimate; this problem is yet to be rigorously resolved. The unaltered defining expressions are noncovergent, and the observed mean is quite erratic.