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Goddard Space Flight Center 6/1/92 [OA 7576] [1]
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Goddard Space Flight Center 6/1/92 [OA 7576] [1]
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Records of the White House Office of Speechwriting (George H. W. Bush Administration)
Speech Backup Chronological Files
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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S; 1999-0093-F
S
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Backup Files
Subseries:
Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13817
Folder ID Number:
13817-004
Folder Title:
Goddard Space Flight Center 6/1/92 [OA 7576] [1]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
26
22
5
7
Document No. 330733ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
5/29/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: TODAY, 5/29 5:00pm! !.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ENVIRONMENTAL ADDRESS
SUBJECT:
GODDARD SPACE CENTER - MONDAY, JUNE 1 - 2:00 p.m.
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROLLINS
CALIO
SMITH
DEMAREST
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
FINDLAY
GRAY
KAUFMAN
HOLIDAY
MCGROARTY
DELAND
ALBRECHT
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, RM. 122,
x2930, no later than 5:00 p.m., TODAY, FRI. MAY 29, with a copy
to this office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
EPA-
((260-4700) Admin 2/81.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
ENVIRONMENTAL
ADDRESSAY 29
GODDARD SPACE CENTER
allen POX-EPA
GREENBELT, MARYLAND
MONDAY, JUNE 1, 1992
Dept Adm. water
2:00 p.m.
Maatha
I
Thank you, Administrator Dan Goldin, for that
((Senator Mikulski) ( (Administrator Reilly)) :
You know, in just over a month on the job, Dan Goldin has
supervised the recovery of a satellite on Endeavor's maiden
voyage, won a vote to save the space station on the floor of the
House, and launched his own "cultural revolution" at NASA. I'd
say the "new NASA" is off to a flying start. //
1972(?)
Twenty years ago this month, the leaders of the world
gathered in Sweden to talk about the human environment.
The Stockholm Declaration they adopted had a simple
conclusion,
that:
through fuller knowledge and wiser action,
we can achieve for ourselves and our posterity a better life in
G
an environment more in keeping with human needs and hopes."
ESSer
donba
[
That meeting occurred when the environmental movement was in 1948,
1972-
its infancy. Later that year, the first Clean Water Act passed
Fed. water Pollution ContriblAct
pay
the United States Congress. Our EPA at the time was one year
old. America, like so many nations around the world, was just
beginning to face up to the consequences of unmitigated
americas Clean water
pollution.
I DDT
Back then, DDT levels showing up in wildlife around the
under nyme In md here it 95621 tany 1 my wymind
water contal Quirt Act
Great Lakes were eight times what they are today. PCBs were six
times as prevalent. Thousands of miles of rivers and streams
272, on
Ben Lesser- EPA
1972 stream miles
260-5692 OFFICE OF WATER
met
363 of total quality mut
758, 000
at
Michael Shapiro- 260 7403
Ben
Shinis ClearA were
EPA-Dat Air Quality
Cuyaho oga quart water
eeing lesser
SO2 #'s not that dramatic
and lead
irritate
clog
Lead very dranktic; btw 80-90 concentration
r in
Clev
of lead in air decreased by 90%-
dramatic
ing the
clog wong expression 100mg
song
Can say despite econ growth 80-90 air quaits
river, burn
has improved
on.
very
move
lead decrease 85%
2.44
accurate
present scutence trivializes
envi
1
effects on central nervous system
ned first
in t
toxic pollutant
we've
Environmentally pass air,
rotect our
doesn't work way expressed -
not same kind of problem
ral areas
legacy
air has gotten beter - good point
and
:es. Today,
89-91
Amer
e served as
a mc
of CFC
emissions by eliminating aerosol propellants, which we did in
1978. Other nations are now following suit as they meet their
obligations under an international agreement to phase out CFCs.
We were the first nation, back in 1975, to adopt catalytic
converters to reduce emissions from our cars and trucks --
European nations are now in the process of adopting them.
In 1982, we began phasing out lead from American gasoline.
Today, ambient levels of lead in our air have been cut by 95
percent. Now, several other nations are looking at the
possibility of cutting back on leaded gasoline as a means of
meeting their clean air objectives.
Jenn 3 all of page
Bengeser besser
Since 1977, carbon monoxide levels in our air have been cut
30 percent; ozone 20 percent; particulate 25 percent; and sulfur
dioxide 18 percent. The discharge of suspended solids into our
waterways was cut by over 80 percent. And as of 1988, 96 percent
of our lakes and reservoirs were found to be fishable and
swimmable.
Throughout these two decades since Stockholm, then, America
has been the leader in protecting the environment.
In the last four years, we have worked to extend that record
-- on every front. The 1990 Clean Air Act will cut emissions of
sulfur dioxide in half, emissions of toxic chemicals by ninety
percent, and the number of U.S. cities not meeting smog and
carbon monoxide standards from over a hundred to a handful by the
end of the decade.
We've signed new laws to prevent oil spills by requiring
double hulls on oil tankers, to protect the flyways of migratory
birds, and to help protect our largest rainforest -- the Tongass.
We have fined and jailed polluters in record numbers; placed a
moratorium on oil and gas drilling in precious areas of our
coasts; added over a billion dollars to our system of parks,
wildlife refuges, forests, and public lands; launched a
reforestation plan to plant a billion trees a year; and signed
international agreements on everything from the transboundary
movement of hazardous wastes to the protection of the African
elephant.
WASA's Mission to two acks: CONG/SENATE
Globe wording
Plant Earth - Rilly
for shiny
-Adm Gotdin your
- Klinibing
BRIAN PAY(S) -lor. Len Fisk associate NASA din
EXEC. SEC,
DESIGNATE
Bryan Daley- - guting title
, Mike Deland
OF THE NALT
4
Next week, dozens of heads of state will again gather -- in
Rio de Janeiro. I will join them, because the United States has
a stake -- indeed, every nation has a stake -- in a safer,
cleaner world.
And I suppose it is only fitting to come to this center, on
the eve of the Rio summit, to talk about my vision for building
such a world. To talk about what we have accomplished -- and
what we hope to accomplish. To talk about the lessons learned
since Stockholm, and about the road ahead.
Goddard, through its invaluable contributions to the
understanding and observation of our earth, has in a very real
sense made progress at the UNCED meeting possible.
Your work has revealed some fundamental truths about the
environmental
III TIROS-ONE challenges IN 1960 we PROVIDED face. THE Jan FIRST GIOBAL Ruff: PHOTO (April, 1960)
A spacecraft created at Goddard provided the world with its
managed by A
managed spacecraft
first image of Earth from space. In one breathtaking photo, you
VAN
underlined what volumes of words could not have described
GODD
RUFF
better -- that the earth and its atmosphere are our common
inheritance. That any solution to the problems facing the earth
must involve every nation -- because those problems are global in
scope.
It was Goddard scientists who developed the Upper
NASA FACT
9/12/91
SHEET
Atmospheric Research Satellite -- UARS --- launched last year,
are from
which is providing us new insight about the ozone layer. The
NAS
FACT
buildup of chlorine in the upper atmosphere, and the depletion of
SHEET
5
ozone, are long-term problems, built up over many years. They
will require sustained commitment to solve.
And the lion's share of the science that the world is using
to understand our climate comes from a program with its heart and
soul right here
the
U.S.
Global Change Research Program,
built
around the Earth Observing System that Goddard is developing. We
are still learning about the enormously complex challenges this
planet faces -- from global warming to El Nino, from biodiversity
Nasu
to desertification. To make the right decisions, we will need to
my
learn as we go. So we need a sustained investment in the
Bu
knowledge base that makes sound policymaking possible.
At the end of the day, that's what the Rio summit is all
about. Policy. Making decisions. And taking action.
Frankly, the United States of America has brought a very no-
nonsense approach to the preparations for Rio. We have made it
clear that what matters to us, what matters from the perspective
of the global environment, and what should matter to those who
care about its health, is action.
From the beginning of the climate change negotiations which
formed the centerpiece of this conference, we made clear this
bias for action.
We offered to host the first round of negotiations at
Chantilly, Virginia in 1991. And at that time, we laid on the
table an action agenda on climate change -- with specific policy
proposals we were implementing or prepared to implement, and with
our specific calculations concerning how much we expected to
6
reduce greenhouse gas emissions as a result of those policies.
The result was encouraging. We found that our expected year 2000
greenhouse gas emission levels were expected to be below our
current levels.
When the science changed, indicating that cutting CFCs would
not reduce warming as much as we had thought, we supplemented
that plan. Earlier this year, we added a whole range of
additional measures -- from EPA's Green Lights program to the
range of energy efficiency measures contained in my National
Energy Strategy. We again laid our plan on the table -- in
specific detail -- showing that our policies would reduce U.S.
net greenhouse gas emissions by 125 to 200 million tons a year by
the year 2000.
No other nation has laid out such a specific plan of action.
And that explains our strategy during the negotiations. That
every nation should have a plan of action, with a focus on
results -- not rhetoric.
It may not have been widely reported in the press, but in
area after area, the U.S. laid down specific proposals, and
worked for their adoption. Forests. Oceans. Living Marine
Resources. Public participation. Financing.
Make no mistake: America has not retreated, and will not
retreat from its leadership role in protecting the global
environment.
Today, the United States spends about two percent its Gross
National Product -- over 100 billion dollars per year --
7
protecting the environment from pollution. That investment is
scheduled to rise.
That continuing commitment of resources and national energy
reflects one central tenet of our policy -- that what counts is
performance over the long haul. We may not go to Rio with the
best words, but we will go with the best policies.
More importantly, the commitment to act must not end at
UNCED. If Rio is a one-shot deal, it will have been a failure.
So when I travel to Brazil next week, I will bring with me
several proposals to extend the commitment of the world community
into the future. We need not just the will to meet, but the will
to act.
-
To make sure that the process and the institutional capacity
for follow-up exists, we will endorse a continuing entity under
the auspices of the United Nations -- a Council on Sustainable
Development -- to help foster the international cooperation we
will need to tackle these global problems.
To strengthen the will to act, I will offer a four point
plan of cooperation.
First with respect to climate. The signing of a convention
that calls for action plans is just a first step. Now countries
must move quickly to develop them. So I will join in proposing a
"prompt start" to implementation of climate action plans.
The United States is already well along the road to not only
developing but implementing its action plan. But we stand ready
8
to assist others -- particularly the developing countries -- in
preparing theirs.
The participation of these developing countries is vital.
Over the next three decades, carbon dioxide emissions from the
developing countries are projected to triple. While today these
nations account for about one quarter of the world's emissions,
by the year 2025, they will contribute almost half. So any
agreement which ignores the need to include them is destined to
fail.
To begin this process, the United States has already
committed to help fund country studies that can help these
nations identify the sources of emissions and the best means of
curbing them.
We have insisted throughout the negotiations that any
solution to the climate change problem must be comprehensive --
that is, it should allow for the inclusion of all sources and
sinks of greenhouse gases. The agreement we have reached does
just this.
One of the most cost effective means of reducing net
emissions for many countries will be to enhance greenhouse
sinks -- in particular, forests.
So the second point which I will propose in Rio is a major
new initiative to protect and enhance the world's forests.
The benefits of forests are many -- they filter the air and
water; they provide products from timber and fuelwood to
9
ingredients for Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream; they sequester carbon;
and they provide habitat for all manner of living things.
Tropical forests cover just seven percent of the world's
surface -- yet they are home to more than half the world's
species. And forest loss today contributes about 20 percent of
net man made carbon dioxide emissions.
We can jump start progress on addressing global warming and
protecting the biological diversity of the earth with a single
forceful step on behalf of forests -- and we can do it today.
At the Houston Economic Summit two years ago, I proposed to
the leaders of the G-7 countries that we work for a global forest
convention. And it remains my hope that the principles leading
to such a convention will be agreed at Rio.
But I propose today to move ahead in advance of that formal
convention. At Rio, I will ask the other industrialized
countries of the world to join me in doubling worldwide forests
assistance. The goal of this initiative would be to stabilize
world forest cover by the end of this decade.
About $1.35 billion dollars a year are now provided
worldwide in forest assistance. I propose to double this amount
to $2.7 billion. As a downpayment, the U.S. will increase its
bilateral forest assistance by 150 million dollars next year.
Forests today are under stress. In the last decade,
tropical forests have disappeared at a rate of over 40 million
acres a year.
10
This initiative would reverse that trend. The assistance
can be provided through existing bilateral or multilateral
mechanisms. And recipient countries could propose new projects.
The plan is to encourage investor countries to in effect bid
on the most effective projects. This down payment on forests
will use a market mechanism to achieve the greatest environmental
return -- because investments will flow to the projects with the
greatest marginal benefit in terms of decreased net emissions or
critical habitat preserved.
( (We will also act to get our own house in order. We will
push Congress to fund our program -- the world's largest
reforestation effort -- to plant a billion trees a year. And
this week, the Forest Service will adopt new rules to end the
clearcutting of our national forests as an acceptable forest
practice.) )
Saving the forests may be the most effective immediate step
the world can take -- but it is not the only one.
The history of the world has been to benefit from
technology. Technology has made us more productive, and raised
our standard of living. In the U.S., technology has helped us
cut pollution, and become more energy efficient as well.
That's one reason that my budget includes an investment of
almost a billion dollars in developing the new energy and
efficiency related technologies of tomorrow.
It is time for a new generation of clean growth -- the
world over. We need a quantum leap in the world's develop,
11
fueled by new, more energy efficient technology -- and yes, I
hope much of it will be American technology.
In preparation for the UNCED summit, I met with the Business
Council for Sustainable Development -- businessmen from around
the world who sense the opportunity presented by a partnership
between businesses and governments oriented toward cleaner, more
efficient development.
I am pleased to note that hundreds of American businessmen
will be travelling to Rio for this conference. I want the
opportunities facing them -- and the benefits their goods and
services can provide to the rest of the world -- to be long
lasting.
-
So the third part of our plan is to support a broad program
of technology cooperation at Rio -- and afterwards.
Specifically, I propose to create a Technology Cooperation Corps.
This Corps would be teams of U.S. businessmen and women who, with
institutional support from the government, would investigate the
needs of countries around the world for environmentally sound
technology, and knock down the barriers to making it available.
The need for an ongoing program of technology cooperation
underscores the point that our ability to address global
environmental challenges is evolving -- as indeed is our
understanding of the challenges themselves.
So the fourth point of any program for a cleaner future must
involve a continued program of research and understanding. This
year, we are requesting over $1.4 billion for the U.S. Global
12
Change Research Program -- that's more than half the money spent
on climate research in the entire world.
We want to make sure that this work is useful. That was the
point behind our restructuring of the EOS program last year -- to
get results faster, cheaper, and better. That's what Dan Goldin
is driving for throughout NASA. Today, I am signing a National
Space Policy Directive, developed by Vice President Quayle's
Space Council, that will place us firmly on this path. By using
new technology and smaller satellites, we can move up the
timetable for obtaining critical data on global change.
The directive does something else -- it formalizes our
policy of making this data available and affordable for
scientists and researchers from the public and private sector
from all around the world.
We believe in sharing the benefits of our earth observation
system -- and I will take that message to Rio. To make that
message concrete, we will distribute at UNCED, at no cost,
thousands of copies of computer disks -- each with over a billion
bytes of data -- with our best information on greenhouse effects.
And upon our return, the U.S. will open this year a Global
Change Research Information Office to disseminate this
information to governments, businesses, and scientists.
UNCED not only holds out the promise of ushering in an era
of sustainable development; it gives us the chance to help launch
a new generation of clean growth.
13
These four steps -- the preparation of solid action plans; a
dramatic first step to protect and enhance forests; cooperation
in deploying cleaner, more efficient technology; and an ongoing
program to develop and share sound science -- can help us seize
that opportunity long after the speeches in Rio have been given
and the conference is over.
Our predecessors who met at Stockholm had the gift of
foresight. They explicitly called for the discussion at Rio to
be about both environment and development. They knew, back then,
that the two were inextricably linked.
Only a growing economy which provides hope for the future
can generate the resources and the will to manage natural assets
for the longer term and the common good. But only assets which
are so managed can support the growth on which so much human hope
is hinged. By definition, for development be successful in the
long-term, it must be sustainable.
They couldn't have known how clear the lessons of history
would be in the intervening two decades. How it would be
revealed for all to see, when the pollution spawned by
totalitarianism in Eastern Europe and for former Soviet Union was
exposed to the world, that only free markets and democratic
systems provide the accountability necessary for a clean
environment.
They couldn't have known that, as the leaders of the world
prepared to gather for this next earth summit, the specter of
14
nuclear war -- with its unthinkable destruction -- would be
calmed as never before in our postwar history.
They couldn't have envisioned that, with a world at peace, a
more knowledgeable public, and a commitment from the public and
private sectors of virtually every country, those who would be
coming to Rio would be poised to launch a new generation of clean
growth.
The signers of the Stockholm declaration called the
protection and improvement of the environment "the urgent desire
of all peoples." They could never have known how far we'd come
in these two decades -- and how much further we'd have the
potential to go.
Thank you, God bless you, and God bless the United States of
America.
######
To Dearnic
Date
Time 1150
WHILE YOU WERE OUT
M
Mark Koro
of
Phone
301) 286 - 6255
Area Code
Number
Extension
TELEPHONED
PLEASE CALL
CALLED TO SEE YOU
WILL CALL AGAIN
WANTS TO SEE YOU
URGENT
RETURNED YOUR CALL
Message
Bobby
Operator
AMPAD
EFFICIENCY@
23-021 CARBONLESS
Ocean Topography Experiment (TOPEX/POSEIDON)
Objective
The Ocean Topography Experiment (TOPEX/POSEIDON) is designed to: 1) gather information about the
global oceans' general circulation and their relationship to climate change using precise measurements of
ocean surface topography; 2) increase knowledge of the interaction between atmosphere and ocean,
including the exchange of heat and momentum; and 3) make detailed maps of currents, eddies and other
features of ocean circulation.
Description
TOPEX/POSEIDON is a joint NASA and French Space Agency (CNES) project that includes two French
and three NASA instruments. Using satellite radar altimetry, the mission will make substantial contributions
to the understanding of global ocean dynamics. TOPEX/POSEIDON is a vital contribution to two major
international ocean/atmosphere research programs: the World Ocean Circulation Experiment (WOCE) and
the Tropical Ocean Global Atmospheric (TOGA) program, both of which are components of the World
Climate Research Program.
Launch Date:
July 1992
Payload:
5 instruments
Orbit:
66 degree inclination; 1,336 km (721 nm) altitude,
nominally circular
Design Life:
3 years; expendables for 5 years total
Length:
5.5 m (18 ft)
Weight:
2,700 kg (5,940 lbs)
Diameter:
3.5 m (11 ft)
Launch Vehicle:
Ariane IV
International Participation:
France
Instruments/Investigations/Principa Investigators
NASA Altimeter (ALT) - (Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory)
Solid State Altimeter (SSALT) - (Toulouse Space Center - France)
TOPEX Microwave Radiometer (TMR) - (Jet Propulsion Laboratory)
Determination d'Orbite et Radiopositionement Integre par Satellite (DORIS) - (Toulouse Space
Center - France)
Global Positioning System Demonstration Receiver (GPSDR) Experiment - (Jet Propulsion Laboratory)
Mission Events
Program start: October 1986
Satellite contract award: June 1987
Preliminary Design Review: October 1988
Critical Design Review: May 1989
Start sensor integration: May 1991
Satellite delivery: April 1992
73
Ocean Topography Experiment (TOPEX/POSEIDON) (Continued)
Management
NASA Headquarters
L. Jones, Program Manager
W. Patzert, Program Scientist
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
C. Yamarone, Project Manager
L. Fu, Project Scientist
French Space Agency (CNES)
J. Fellous, Program Manager
A. Ratier, Program Scientist
M. Dorrer, Project Manager
M. Lefebuke, Project Scientist
Major Contractor
Fairchild Space Company
Status
A Memorandum of Understanding between NASA and CNES was signed March 1987. A contract was
awarded to Fairchild for satellite development. Significant progress was made in the manufacture of the
satellite subsystems and sensors during 1990. Flight hardware fabrication was completed in early 1991.
Integration of the spacecraft bus, instrument module and instruments began in September 1991 and is
expected to be completed by April 1992. The spacecraft will then undergo performance and environmen-
tal acceptance testing to support a May 1992 delivery of the satellite to the Kourou launch site in French
Guiana for integration with the Ariane IV launch vehicle. Launch of TOPEX/POSEIDON is scheduled
for July 1992.
Ocean Topography Experiment
74
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
28 May 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR DAVID DEMARAREST
THROUGH:
DAN MC GROARTY
FROM:
JEANNIE BUNTON B
SUBJECT:
GODDARD SPACE CENTER WALKTHROUGH
Event:
Monday, 1 June 1992
On site:
2-3 P.M.; arrive Greenbelt from David [30 min]
Location:
Goddard Space Center; Greenbelt, Md.
Two tiers: 1
Tour building 7: POTUS walks by static displays
and models relating to "Mission Planet Earth" --
visuals relate to ozone layer, deforrestation,
Earth observation system, oceanic circulation; no
press; background: sci-fi; right out of James Bond
as Mel put it [yes Mel was the lead today]
Tour building 10: POTUS photo opp with TOPEX
satellite [joint project with France] oceanography
satellite to be launched sometime July 92;
TOPEX/POSEIDON mission will define the surface
height of world oceans with an accuracy and
precision for studies of ocean circulation,
variability of circulation and tides
2
Remarks in Auditorium [Building 8]:
Off Stage Announce at 2:45 p.m.; backdrop 14'X 14'
photo of the planet earth [from Apollo 17]
Audience:
400 Goddard employees [civil service and
contract]; dignitaries: EPA Administrator Bill
Reilley; Cong. Connie Morella, Cong. Hoyer, Sen.
Mikulski, NASA Admin. Dan Goldin; Goddard Center
Dir. Dr. John Klineberg
Klineberg intro Goldin; Goldin intro POTUS
+++++Teleprompter ordered++++++
CONTACTS: LEAD - Mark Koro
PRESS Bobby Carr
TRIP Patty Conrad WHCA - Debbie McGhee
GODDARD PIO - Jan Ruff (301) 286-6255
Assistant - Carl Polesky ext. 8982
TAB E
GREENBELT, MARYLAND
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Building 8 - Auditorium
Overview Diagram
Monday, June 1, 1992
Back Drop - Picture of the Earth
Earth
Earth
Satellite
Model
0
Satellite
Model
1
2
3
4
Podium
Telepropmter
Off-Stage
Announce
Audience
Area
1. Administrator William Reilly
2. Administrator Daniel Goldin
3. THE PRESIDENT
Staff
4. Mr. John Kilberg
Seating
Dr. Klineberg [John]
Press
Platform
KEY:
THE PRESIDENT
GUESTS / STAFF
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
SCHEDULE OF THE PRESIDENT
FOR
WASHINGTON, D.C.
I
MONDAY, JUNE 1, 1992
EVENTS:
Tour and Briefing Goddard Space Flight Center
Address Goddard Space Flight Center Employees
DRESS:
Men
- Business Suit
Women
- Day Dress
CONTACTS:
Office of Presidential Advance
Ed Murnane
- 202/456-7565
Trip Coordinator
Patricia L. Conrad
- 202/456-7565
ADVANCE:
Mark Koro
- LEAD
Brad Edgar
- SITE
Bobby Carr
- PRESS
Lloyd Owens
- SITE
Gary Hollis
- USSS
Tina
Wayne Justice
- MIL. AIDE
Rosenblatt
- PRESS SITE
Debbie McGee
- WHCA
Lee Viverette
- HMX
WEATHER:
Partly Cloudy/Low 70's
SCHEDULE OF THE PRESIDENT
FOR
WASHINGTON, D.C.
MONDAY, JUNE 1, 1992
GUEST AND STAFF INSTRUCTIONS:
1:00 pm
Vans depart West Basement
en route Goddard Space Flight
Center.
Immediately following event,
Guests and Staff not manifested
on Nighthawk II will be
escorted to vans for return to
White House.
1:30 pm
THE PRESIDENT boards Marine One and departs
Camp David, Maryland en route Goddard Space Flight
Center.
(Flying Time: 30 Minutes)
2:00 pm
THE PRESIDENT arrives Goddard Landing Zone,
Goddard Space Flight Center and proceeds to
Motorcade.
Met by:
Mr. Daniel Goldin
Administrator, NASA
Mr. John Klineberg
Director, Goddard Space Flight Center
Mr. Peter Burr
Deputy Director, Goddard Space Flight Center
2:05 pm
THE PRESIDENT boards Motorcade and departs
Goddard Landing Zone en route Building Seven.
MOTORCADE ASSIGNMENTS:
Lead
M. Koro
Spare
Doctor
B. Farish
LIMO
THE PRESIDENT
Follow Up
Control
Mil. Aide
Support
M. Fitzwater
M. Lukens
Official Photographer
Medic
WHCA
Camera I
J. Herrick
Staff I
Guest I
Adm. Reilly
D. Goldin
J. Klineberg
Staff Van
All Remaining Staff
Press Van I
M. Busch
Press Van II
(Drive Time: 5 Minutes)
Page Two
2:10 pm
THE PRESIDENT arrives Building Seven and proceeds
to Tour Area.
Met by:
Mr. Len Fisk
Associate Administrator at NASA for Space Science
and Applications
EVENT:
TOUR AND BRIEFING OF GODDARD SPACE FLIGHT CENTER
EXPANDED POOL
TOUR
2:12 pm
THE PRESIDENT arrives Tour Area and begins
participation in Tour and Briefing.
2:32 pm
THE PRESIDENT concludes participation in Tour
and Briefing, departs Tour Area and proceeds to
Motorcade.
2:35 pm
THE PRESIDENT boards Motorcade and departs
Building Seven en route Building Eight.
MOTORCADE ASSIGNMENTS:
Same as on Arrival.
(Drive Time: 5 Minutes)
2:40 pm
THE PRESIDENT arrives Building Eight and proceeds
to Auditorium Off-Stage Announcement Area.
Page Three
2:42 pm
THE PRESIDENT arrives Auditorium Off-Stage
Announcement Area and holds briefly.
NOTE: Stage Guests will be announced at this
time.
EVENT:
ADDRESS GODDARD SPACE FLIGHT CENTER EMPLOYEES
OPEN PRESS
OFF-STAGE ANNOUNCEMENT
REMARKS
TELEPROMPTER
2:45 pm
THE PRESIDENT is announced onto Stage and
proceeds to Seat.
2:46 pm Mr. Goldin gives brief remarks.
2:50 pm
THE PRESIDENT is introduced for Remarks by
Mr. Daniel Goldin, NASA Administrator.
2:51 pm
THE PRESIDENT Remarks.
3:05 pm
THE PRESIDENT concludes Remarks, departs Stage
and proceeds to Motorcade.
NOTE: Six police photos will be taken at
this time.
3:10 pm
THE PRESIDENT boards Motorcade and departs
Building Eight, Goddard Space Flight Center
en route Goddard Landing Zone.
Page Four
MOTORCADE ASSIGNMENTS:
Same as on Arrival.
(Drive Time: 5 Minutes)
3:15 pm
THE PRESIDENT arrives Goddard Landing Zone
and proceeds to Marine One.
3:20 pm
THE PRESIDENT boards Marine One and departs
Goddard Landing Zone, Greenbelt, Maryland
en route White House.
MARINE ONE:
THE PRESIDENT
S. Skinner
Gen. Scowcroft
M. Fitzwater
D. Valdez
B. Farish
Doctor
Mil. Aide
2 USSS
NIGHTHAWK II
LCDR W. Justice
M. Lukens
6 USSS
WHCA T/O
Medic
(Flying Time: 10 Minutes)
3:30 pm
THE PRESIDENT arrives White House.
Page Five
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
VISIT OF THE PRESIDENT
TO
WASHINGTON, D.C.
MONDAY, JUNE 1, 1992
EVENT:
Tour and Briefing of Goddard Space Flight Center
DATE:
Monday, June 1, 1992
TIME:
2:10 pm - 2:30 pm
LOCATION:
Tour Area, Building Seven, Goddard
Space Flight Center
ATTENDEES:
5
PRESS:
Expanded Pool
SCENARIO:
THE PRESIDENT arrives Goddard Landing Zone,
Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland
and is met by: Mr. Daniel Goldin, Administrator, NASA; Mr. John
Klineberg, Director, Goddard Space Flight Center; and Mr. Peter
Burr, Deputy Director, Goddard Space Flight Center. Following
the greetings, THE PRESIDENT boards Motorcade and departs Landing
Zone en route Building Seven. Upon arrival at Building Seven,
THE PRESIDENT is met by Mr. Len Fisk, Associate Administrator at
NASA for Science and Applications. Following the greeting, THE
PRESIDENT proceeds to Tour Area. THE PRESIDENT arrives Tour Area
and begins participation in Tour and Briefing. THE PRESIDENT
concludes participation in Tour and Briefing, departs Tour Area
and proceeds to Motorcade. THE PRESIDENT boards Motorcade and
departs Building Seven en route Building Eight.
THE PRESIDENT will tour: a Thermal Chamber display; a SAMPEX
Satellite Payload, designed by three Laurel, Maryland High School
students which will be launched in a satellite in June 1992; a
series of static displays of NASA Earth Satellite missions
concerning deforestation and earth observation systems; and the
TOPEX Satellite which collects oceanographic information and will
be launched in July 1992.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
VISIT OF THE PRESIDENT
TO
WASHINGTON, D.C.
MONDAY, JUNE 1, 1992
EVENT:
Address Goddard Space Flight Center Employees
DATE:
Monday, June 1, 1992
TIME:
2:40 pm - 3:05 pm
LOCATION:
Auditorium, Building Eight, Goddard Space Flight
Center
ATTENDEES:
350
PRESS:
Open
SCENARIO:
THE PRESIDENT arrives Building Eight and proceeds
to Auditorium Off-Stage Announcement Area. THE
PRESIDENT arrives Auditorium Off-Stage Announcement Area and
holds briefly. THE PRESIDENT is announced onto Stage and
proceeds to Seat (Enter Stage Right). Mr. Daniel Goldin,
Administrator, NASA gives brief remarks and introduces THE
PRESIDENT for Remarks. THE PRESIDENT Remarks. THE PRESIDENT
concludes Remarks, departs Stage and proceeds to Motorcade (Exit
Stage Right). (NOTE: Six police photos will be taken at this
time.) THE PRESIDENT boards Motorcade and departs Building
Eight, Goddard Space Flight Center en route Goddard Landing Zone.
THE PRESIDENT arrives Goddard Landing Zone, boards Marine One and
departs Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland en route
White House.
The backdrop for Remarks will be a large photo from space of the
earth. The Press Platform is straight on at a 50 ft. throw.
TAB A
GREENBELT. MARYLAND
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Goddard Landing Zone
Arrival/Departure Diagram
Monday, June 1, 1992
Parking Lot
Marine One
XXX
Limo
Building
NH-2
NASA
Employees
KEY:
THE PRESIDENT
GUESTS / STAFF
X GREETERS
TAB B
GREENBELT. MARYLAND
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Building 7
Tour Site
Monday. June 1, 1992
Loading Dock
To Holding
and
Staff Viewing
Limo
X
Thermal
Chamber
Test
Equipment
Mr. Tom Huber X
Sampex
Satellite
X
Three Laurel
X
Payload
X
High School Students
and
X
Mr. Orlando Figueroa
Display
X Mr. Vince Salomonson
X
Mr. Gil Colon
KEY:
THE PRESIDENT
GUESTS / STAFF
1111111
PRESS POOL
X
GREETERS
TAB C
GREENBELT. MARYLAND
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Building 10
Topex Satellite Tour
Motorcade
Monday, June 1. 1992
Holding
Room
Limo
Loading
Dock
Space Shuttle
Mock-up
$8.00
I
Press
TOPEX Earth Satellite
X
Staff
Viewing,
Area
Workbenches
Space Environment
Simulator
KEY:
THE PRESIDENT
GUESTS / STAFF
@@@@@@
PRESS POOL
TAB D
GREENBELT. MARYLAND
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Building 8 - Auditorium
Arrival/Departure Diagram
Monday, June 1. 1992
Tent
Limo
Stairs to Auditorium
Staff
POTUS
Hold
Hold
KEY:
THE PRESIDENT
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 28, 1992
Hi!
MEMORANDUM FOR JEANE BUNTON
RESEARCH ASSISTANT
OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS
FROM:
JANE ASSOCIATE OFFICE BARNETT OF PUBLIC DIRECTOR LIAISON Jane
SUBJECT:
RIO SPEECH
Enclosed is some more information from Laurel Springs School about their
environmental efforts. I thought this might be useful for the upcoming Rio speech.
7
Laurel Springs Environmental Project
P.O. Box 1440
Ojai, CA 93024
May 22, 1992
Dear Ms. Leonard,
Thank you very much for your kind response
Our class was very excited to hear from you.
We have enclosed a blank Earth Treaty as wel
as some completed Earth Treaties for you to
look at. The blank one is for you to comple
of you so desire. The main purpose is for you
to make a promise - most importantly to yourse
to do certain things to help the earth, to talk ab
places in nature you love, or just feelings you
have about the earth in general.
We hope this will provide you with the
insight to our project that you needed.
If you need anything more, please feel free to
contact us.
Sincerely, Rivkeh Wolk
hudrest Administrator
EARTH
CREACY
Laurel Springs Environmental Project
P.O. Box 1003, Ojai, California 93024
Laurel Springs School
P.O. Box 1440
Ojai, CA 93024
5/20/92
Jane Barnett Leonard
The White House
Office of Public Liaison
Washington, DC
Dear Ms. Leonard,
Thank you for your letter and interest in the Laurel Springs School
Environmental Project. We are excited about the inspiring work that our students are
doing and appreciate your acknowledgement of them.
I have enclosed copies of "Earth Treaties" from 5 different schools we have
gone to. We have found that these Treaties (developed by the Center for International
Cooperation), give students a tremendous opportunity to make a commitment to
becoming responsible and involved individuals. The Earth Treaties give children from
different walks of life and racial backgrounds a chance to work together for a common
purpose. It has been a very moving experience to read the Treaties written by these
children.
The Laurel Springs students asked me to enclose a blank "Earth Treaty" for you.
They wanted me to tell you that these treaties are written by individuals of all ages and
they didn't want you to feel left out. Rivkeh Wolk, one of our students, has written you
a personal letter about this.
I have also enclosed a poster that was printed by the United Nations
Environmental Project in honor of the 1992 UN Youth Forum. We were one of only 11
schools from around the world that was highlighted.
We would be honored to travel to Washington, and personally give President
Bush the Earth Treaties we have collected this year, copies of which will be presented
at the Earth Summit in Brazil. I believe it would be very rewarding for our students to
talk with President Bush and this would send a message to all students that every child
counts and can make a difference.
Sincerely,
Marilyn Mosley, Director
EARTH
CREACY
Dear Wild life Yosemite Valley,
Next time I visit you I
will plant a tree & clean JP any garbage you might becau
my your Pine & rednood trees.. They are so beautifu
lave, Dad lives right next door to you,
I visit you about 4 times a year I love
I love nature & always will & will clean up your
envirment.
Sencerely, I
Laurel Springs Environmental Project
P.O. Box 1003, Ojai, California 93024
EARTH
CREACY
Dear Mother Earth,
I ponder NOW and think of that
special place iN the Mountians of Aspen,
Colorado. I think of the love I feel for that spot. The clean
air, freshly rained trees aNd abundant Nature surounding me. How
how these
I awed at how all of these Basalt rocks qiant boulders,
were put iN this ONe spot. I iN my inerperience with
Nature find myself rationalizing that perhaps a heli-copter,
or a large qas filled bulldozer pushed them down this
slope to my backyard. Ah, but NO, it is Nature. I
reall bounding down these redish rooks, like a skier. It
is truly a maze of boulders. The first time I climbed
up them it was a feat to reach the top.
Now the vendure of My mind recalls the first SNOW, aNd
the wonder it brings to me, and I thank you.
I feel my comittment iN persearving this for my.
children.
- jacob warayaN
Laurel Springs Environmental Project
P.O. Box 1003, Ojai, California 93024
EARTH
CREACY
Dear Friend,
I really love your beautiful beaches
and big waves. I dread the sight of
toxins and pollution in the Faces of your
waves. The death of all marine life
will surely follow. I refuse to let thi
happen, The action I will take will
be great. Too bad I dont know
where to begin. Never fear Friend, becaus
LUGGIE is hear to Save YOU.
your
Laurel Springs Environmental Project
P.O. Box 1003, Ojai, California 93024
EARTH
CREACY
para emejorar el mundo
ana recoder la basura
para que 4 odas partes
del mondo esten limpios
y tambien para que
no se coman la uasura
los animales of tambien
que este bien ImAa
la plalla y nos puedamos
vañar
Maritza
Laurel Springs Environmental Project
P.O. Box 1003, Ojai, California 93024
Amber Pape, Laura nado, Marc Holden,
EARTH Cody Adam Pape. Norton,
CREACY
Dear Mother Earth,
# Vernal Falls, Yosemite,
1/25/92
your rainbow mist
totaly inspired me,
360 stone steps in all,
your dew covered trees stood SO tall,
We promise to protect and provide,
Upon your future we must decide,
Pollution here will not reside,
we hope will result in your rebirth.
Sincerely,
Laurel Springs Environmental Project
Santa Ynez Valley Family Scho.
The children from the
P.O. Box 1003. Oiai. California 93024
Z6,
GLOBAL YOUTH FORUM YORK CITY
CASE MAY 14-15, 1992,
UNITED NATIONS, NEW
3
RELEASE: 92-64
EUVE SATELLITE TO EXPLORE NEWLY OPENED WINDOW
The extreme ultraviolet is one of the least-studied portions of the
electromagnetic spectrum. Now, with the launch of NASA's Extreme
Ultraviolet Explorer (EUVE) satellite, this new window on the
universe will be opened to detailed study.
EUVE, NASA's 67th Explorer mission, will be the first satellite to
make both spectroscopic and wide-band observations over the entire
extreme ultraviolet (EUV) region. It is scheduled for launch aboard a
McDonnell Douglas Delta II expendable launch vehicle from Cape
Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., on June 4, 1992. EUVE is designed
to operate for at least 18 months from a 340-mile Earth orbit and will
orbit the Earth every 96 minutes.
This unique satellite consists of four telescopes -- the most
powerful set of EUV telescopes ever flown. Three instruments will
map the entire sky to determine the existence, direction, brightness
and temperature of sources of extreme ultraviolet radiation. The
fourth instrument is designed to make spectroscopic observations to
determine the composition and temperature of the EUV sources
discovered during the sky mapping. Some of the objects EUVE is
likely to detect and study are white dwarf stars, binary star systems
and the hot outer atmospheres (coronae) of stars similar to the sun.
From the many objects of astronomical interest discovered during
the EUVE all-sky survey and other objects already thought to be
observable in the extreme ultraviolet, guest observers will propose to
study targets using the spacecraft's fourth instrument, the extreme
ultraviolet spectrometer.
The EUVE is one of a long line of relatively low-cost, small-to-
moderately sized missions that make up the Explorer program. Since
the Explorer Program began in 1958, these missions have given
scientists worldwide a new understanding of astronomy and
astrophysics, providing them an opportunity to probe nearly every
region of the electromagnetic spectrum from infrared radiation to
gamma rays.
Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md., is responsible for the
design, construction, integration, checkout and operation of EUVE.
The spacecraft's science instrumentation was designed, constructed
and calibrated by the Space Science Laboratories of the University of
California, Berkeley. The EUVE is managed by Goddard for NASA's
Office of Space Science and Applications.
- end -
Small-Class Explorers (SMEX)
Objective
The objectives of the Small-Class Explorers (SMEX) are to enable new areas of exploration and special
topic investigations in space astrophysics, and atmospheric and space plasma physics; and to provide a
quick reaction research capability, through small sized missions and frequent launch opportunities.
Description
SMEX payloads are modest size, modest capability payloads, up to 500 pounds, which make major
contributions a number of NASA's space science and applications disciplines.
The Solar, Anomalous, and Magnetospheric Particle Explorer (SAMPEX) will be a Zenith-pointing
satellite in near-polar orbit which will carry a payload of four particle detectors, each of which addresses
a subset of the required measurements. The instruments can measure the electron and ion composition
of energetic particle populations from approximately 0.4 million electron Volts (MeV)/nucleon to
hundreds of MeV/nucleon using a coordinated set of detectors of excellent charge and mass resolution,
and with higher sensitivity than previously flown instruments. SAMPEX will: 1) provide measurements
on how some ions from partially ionized plasmas such as the solar corona and the very local interstellar
medium are energized to nearly the speed of light by shocks or other means and reach the Earth; and,
2) monitor fluxes of fast electrons which come from space onto the Earth's atmosphere and are important
in the chain of chemical reactions leading to the formation and depletion of ozone.
The Fast Auroral Snapshot Explorer (FAST) will collect measurements of electrical and magnetic
fields and simultaneously correlate these with their effects on the electron and ions at altitudes of 350 to
4,200 kilometers with very high time resolution. These observations will be complemented by data from
other spacecraft at higher altitudes, which will be observing fields and particles and photographing the
aurora from above, thus placing FAST observations in global context. At the same time, auroral
observatories and geomagnetic stations on the ground will provide measurements on how energetic
processes that FAST observes affect the Earth.
The Submillimeter Wave Astronomy Satellite (SWAS) will be a three-axis stabilized, stellar-pointing
spacecraft launched into a 38 degree, 600 kilometer, circular orbit. It will have a 71 centimeter off-axis
Cassegrain antenna, state-of-the-art heterodyne receivers cooled to 150 degrees Kelvin (K) by passive
radiators, and the highest quality Acousto-Optical Spectrometer (AOS) to be provided by the Federal
Republic of Germany (FRG). In less than 20 minutes of integration, SWAS will be able to measure the
full range of predicted H2O, O2, C, 13CO, and H2₁₈O abundances in any giant molecular cloud core within
1 kiloparsec. Of particular importance, the AOS will permit simultaneous observation of four of these
lines at any one time, thus maximizing the observing efficiency and substantially increasing confidence
in the spatial coincidence of maps made in the various lines. Local clouds (diameter less than
1 kiloparsec), such as Orion, Taurus; Ophiuchi, and Perseus, will be mapped in each of the four lines. A
survey of galactic Giant Molecular Clouds will be performed, and a number of gas rich extra-galactic
sources, such as the Magellanic Clouds, will be observed.
82
Small-Class Explorers (SMEX) (Continued)
Description (Continued)
SAMPEX
FAST
SWAS
Launch Date:
June 1992
September 1994
June 1995
Payload:
4 particle detectors
4 instruments
telescope & receivers
Orbit:
82 degree inclination;
83 degree inclination;
38 degree inclination;
550 X 657 km
350 X 4,200 km
600 km
(297 X 355 nm)
(189 X 2,268 nm),
(324 nm) altitude
altitude, circular
altitude,
non-Sun synchronous
Design Life:
3 years
1 year
3 years
Length:
1.5 m (5 ft) (stowed)
0.86 m (3 ft) (stowed)
1.65 m (5 ft)
Weight:
158 kg (348 lbs)
162 kg (356 lbs)
218.6 kg (482 lbs)
Diameter:
0.86 m (3 ft) (stowed)
1.17 (stowed)
.97 m (3 ft)
Launch Vehicle:
SCOUT
Enhanced Pegasus
Pegasus
International Participation:
FRG
None
FRG
Instruments/Investigations/Principa Investigator
SAMPEX
Principal Investigator - G. Mason (University of Maryland)
Low Energy Ion Composition Analyzer (LEICA) - (University of Maryland)
Heavy Ion Large Telescope (HILT) - (Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics - FRG)
Mass Spectrometer Telescope (MAST) - (California Institute of Technology)
Proton-Electron Telescope (PET) - (California Institute of Technology)
FAST
Principal Investigator - C. Carlson (University of California-Berkeley)
Electric Field Plasma Experiment - (University of California-Berkeley)
Quadrispherical Electrostatic Electron Analyzer - (University of California-Berkeley)
Time-of-flight Energy Angle Mass Spectrograph - (University of New Hampshire and Lockheed Palo
Alto Research Laboratory)
Magnetometer - (University of California-Los Angeles)
SWAS
Principal Investigator - G. Melnick (Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory)
Antenna, Star Tracker, Instrument Integration - (Ball Aerospace)
Submillimeter Heterodyne Receiver (SHR) - (Millitech)
Acousto-Optical Spectrometer (AOS) - (University of Cologne - FRG)
Solar, Anomalous, and
Magnetospheric Particle Explorer
83
Small-Class Explorers (SMEX) (Continued)
Management
NASA Headquarters
D. Gilman, Program Manager
V. Jones, SAMPEX Program Scientist
L. Caroff, SWAS Program Scientist
E. Whipple, FAST Program Scientist
Goddard Space Flight Center
O. Figueroa, Project Manager
Submillimeter Wave
D. Baker, Project Scientist
Astronomy Satellite
G. Colon, SAMPEX Mission Manager
D. Betz, SWAS Mission Manager
G. Chin, SWAS Mission Scientist
T. Gehringer, FAST Mission Manager
Major Contractors
University of Maryland (SAMPEX)
California Institute of Technology (SAMPEX)
Max Planck Institute (SAMPEX)
Aerospace Corporation (SAMPEX)
Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SWAS)
Ball Aerospace (SWAS)
University of Cologne (SWAS)
Millitech (SWAS)
University of California-Berkeley (FAST)
Lockheed Palo Alto Research Laboratory (FAST)
Fast Auroral Snapshot
University of New Hampshire (FAST)
Explorer
Status
SAMPEX
Critical Design Review (CDR) was completed in June 1990. Instrument integration began in September
1991. Currently in flight integration for a June 1992 launch.
FAST
Preliminary Review completed in November 1991. Currently being developed and built for a 1994
launch.
SWAS
Concept Review was completed during June 1990. The instruments and spacecraft began development
in December 1991 for a 1995 launch.
84
NASA Facts
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
Goddard Space Flight Center
Greenbelt, Maryland 20771
AC 301 286-8955
Small Explorer (SMEX) Program
The Small Explorer Project (SMEX) is a NASA
By having a short development time and small
initiative to provide frequent flight opportunities for
size, the SMEX missions allow critical training
relatively inexpensive space missions. This
opportunities for the next generation of scientists
international program involves spacecraft which
and engineers.
weigh approximately 400 pounds (180 kg) each and
The SMEX program is managed by the
can be launched into Earth orbit by Scout and
Engineering Directorate of Goddard Space Flight
Pegasus launch vehicles.
Center in Greenbelt, MD, for NASA's Office of Space
In spite of their small size, SMEX missions will
Science and Applications. The project manager for
investigate some of the most important questions
SMEX is Orlando Figueroa. Project scientist is Dr.
raised in astrophysics and space physics. The
Daniel N. Baker. The Program Manager at NASA
program will conduct focused investigations which
Headquarters is Dr. David A. Gilman.
probe conditions in unique parts of space, comple-
ment major missions, prove new scientific concepts
or make significant contributions to space science in
Background
other ways.
The Small Explorers are part of NASA's Explorer
Capitalizing on availability of mature or developed
Program which since 1958 has launched small and
instrumentation to carry out scientific investigations
moderate-sized science mission payloads into
allows SMEX missions to be accomplished quickly
space. Explorer missions have served both to
and frequently. It is a goal of the SMEX Program to
pioneer new fields of space science and to inves-
bring each mission to launch readiness within three
tigate in detail one particular aspect of science.
years after the start of detailed design activities.
With the launch of the Japanese Solar-A mission
in August 1991, 68 U.S. and cooperative-
international scientific space missions have been
part of the Explorer Program
For example, the Goddard-managed International
Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE), continues to operate after
more than 13 years in Earth orbit. The Cosmic
Background Explorer (COBE), which is making
dramatic contributions towards the scientific
understanding of the origins of the universe, is
another example of an Explorer mission managed by
Goddard.
The Missions
Three SMEX missions are currently approved.
They are as follows:
SAMPEX - The Solar Anomalous Magneto-
spheric Particle Explorer, scheduled for launch in
June 1992, will collect data from unique parts of
the Earth's magnetic field in order to study solar
SAMPEX
energetic particles, anomalous cosmic rays,
galactic cosmic rays and magnetospheric
electrons. Of the four instruments on SAMPEX,
two were flown previously as Get Away Special
(GAS) experiments on the space shuttle. Dr.
Glenn M. Mason, University of Maryland, College
Park, is principal investigator and there are 10
Co-Investigators from American and German
institutions. The mission manager for SAMPEX is
Gilberto Colon.
FAST - The Fast Auroral Snapshot Explorer will
investigate the processes thought to be
responsible for producing the Earth's aurora. In
studying these processes, FAST will complement
investigations carried out simultaneously by
missions of the International Solar Terrestrial
Physics (ISTP) Program. FAST is scheduled for
launch in September 1994. There are five
instruments on FAST, four of which are similar to
SWAS
instruments that will be carried to other parts of
space by the ISTP missions. Dr. Charles W.
Carlson, University of California, Berkeley, is the
SWAS - The Submillimeter Wave Astronomy
principal investigator for FAST. There are four Co-
Satellite is scheduled for launch in 1995. It will
Investigators from U.S. institutions. Mission
investigate the physical conditions, chemical
manager for FAST is Timothy Gehringer.
composition, and energy release of immense,
interstellar clouds of molecules and will relate
these results to the formation of stars and
planetary systems. SWAS will prove a new
scientific concept by pioneering the investigation
of these clouds at important radio frequencies
that can only be seen from space. The principal
investigator is Dr. Gary J. Melnick, of the Harvard-
Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, Cambridge,
MA. Dr. Melnick will head a team of 11 Co-
Investigators from institutions across the U.S. and
Cologne, Germany. Both instruments on SWAS
are similar to instruments used in ground
observatories. The mission manager for SWAS is
David Betz.
An Announcement of Opportunity for future Small
Explorer missions is expected to be released in the
first half of 1992.
FAST
NASA
National
Aeronautics and
Photo Copy Preservation
Space
Administration
Goddard Space
Flight Center
NASA
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
Goddard Space Flight Center
Greenbelt, Maryland 20771
Working Together
You and Goddard Space Flight Center
NASA
NASA Facts
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
Goddard Space Flight Center
Greenbelt, Maryland 20771
AC 301 286-8955
D561.0
SSBUV In Orbit Calibration
SHUTTLE SOLAR BACKSCATTER ULTRAVIOLET (SSBUV) INSTRUMENT
The Shuttle Solar Backscatter Ultraviolet (SSBUV) instrument
was developed by NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center to compare the
observations of several ozone measuring instruments aboard the
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's NOAA-9 and NOAA-
11 satellites and the NIMBUS-7 satellite. The SSBUV data are used
to calibrate these instruments to ensure the most accurate readings
possible for the detection of atmospheric ozone trends.
The SSBUV will help scientists solve the problem of data
accuracy caused by calibration drift of Solar Backscatter
Ultraviolet (SBUV) instruments on these satellites. The SSBUV uses
the Space Shuttle's orbital flight path to assess instrument
performance by directly comparing data from identical instruments
aboard the NOAA spacecraft and the NIMBUS-7 as the space shuttle
and the satellite pass over the same Earth location within an hour.
These orbital coincidences can occur 17 times a day.
The satellite-based SBUV instruments estimate the amount and
height distribution of ozone in the upper atmosphere by measuring
the incident solar ultraviolet radiation and ultraviolet radiation
backscattered from the Earth's atmosphere. The SBUV measures these
parameters in 12 discrete wavelength channels in the ultraviolet.
Because ozone absorbs in the ultraviolet wavelengths, an ozone
measurement can be derived by comparing the amount of incoming
solar radiation to the amount backscattered by the atmosphere.
Working with Other Instruments
For STS-45, SSBUV is co-manifested with the ATLAS-1 payload
which carries a compliment of Earth and Space science experiments.
Currently, SSBUV is co-manifested with ATLAS on its next four
flights scheduled through 1996.
Among other measurements, several Upper Atmosphere Research
Satellite (UARS) instruments also will measure ozone. Simultaneous
measurements by SSBUV and ATLAS with the UARS instruments will be
a unique opportunity to tie in the detailed observations of the
physics and chemistry of the stratosphere being made by UARS with
the regular on-going SBUV ozone observations. These data sets can
then be used as a baseline for detecting long-term changes in the
stratosphere.
SSBUV's value lies in its ability to provide precisely
calibrated, or verified, ozone measurements. The instrument is
calibrated to a laboratory standard before flight, then is
recalibrated during and after flight to ensure its accuracy. These
laboratory standards are routinely calibrated at the National
Institute of Standards and Technology. The rigorous calibration
provides a highly reliable standard to which data from the SBUV
instruments can be compared.
Previous Flights
The three previous SSBUV flights occurred on STS-34 in October
1989, STS-41 in October 1990 and STS-43 in August 1991. NASA's
goal is to fly SSBUV missions approximately once a. year between
1989 and 2000 to provide precise calibration measurements across a
full 11-year solar cycle.
After SSBUV's flight last August, the instrument was checked
out at Kennedy Space Center, to make certain everything was
working. The tape recorders then had their information removed and
the data was sent to GSFC for processing. The payload was sent
back to Goddard where the instrument was checked out and
recalibrated. Then the payload was refurbished with new avionics,
which interfaces with the orbiter power, data and command systems.
Other repairs and hardware enhancement were made, SSBUV was
reassembled, requalified and sent back to Kennedy Space Center.
All of this happened in only four months. At the same time, data
from previous flights are being reprocessed. All of this is
accomplished with a team of only 12.
SSBUV's impact on our ability to accurately detect ozone
trends was expected after approximately four flights. Data. from
the first flight has already been used to estimate ozone trends in
the upper stratosphere since 1980. These results show a depletion
of about 8 percent over 10 years, which is consistent with
predictions of ozone depletion.
The SSBUV instrument and its flight support electronics,
power, data and command systems are mounted in the space shuttle's
payload bay in two flight canisters, that together weigh 900 pounds
(410 kilograms). The Instrument Canister holds the SSBUV
instrument, its aspect sensors and in-flight calibration system.
Once in orbit, a motorized door assembly opens the canister to
allow the SSBUV to view the Sun and Earth and closes to provide
contamination protection and to perform in-flight calibrations.
The Support Canister contains the avionics which includes the
power, data, and command systems.
SSBUV will now obtain power from the space shuttle and will
receive real-time ground commands and data acquisition which
overcomes many operational limitations SSBUV was under on previous
flights. This will allow enhanced SSBUV data gathering
capabilities and an ability to coordinate measurements with the
ATLAS and UARS instrument compliments. SSBUV commands will be sent
from a Payload Operations Control Center (POCC) at Johnson Space
Center, Houston, TX. SSBUV data will be received at Johnson and
the Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, AL. Marshall is
responsible for managing the ATLAS payload and for integrating
SSBUV science requirements into the mission timeline.
Ernest Hilsenrath of GSFC is the Principal Investigator, Don
Williams is the Mission Manager. SSBUV is managed by GSFC for
NASA's Office of Space Science and Applications.
#####
February 1992
NASA Status Report
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
NASA Headquarters
Washington, DC
March 1992
The Hubble Space Telescope:
Report on Plans for the HST Servicing Mission
Background
The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) was launched on
necessary to fix them. HST was designed for on-orbit
April 24, 1990. By June 1990, two problems were
servicing, to repair and refurbish the observatory and
discovered: spherical aberration of the primary mirror
to upgrade its capabilities by installing advanced
and jitter caused by the solar arrays. Image processing
instruments. On-orbit servicing will permit correction
and spacecraft control software have compensated
of the spherical aberration and the solar array jitter.
somewhat for both of these problems, but servicing is
Conceptual illustration of astronauts
replacing instruments during the
Hubble Space Telescope servicing
mission.
(Ball Aerospace Systems Group,
artist, Scott Kahler)
Mission Goals and Planning
and Kennedy Space Center, will continue working on
The primary objective of the first HST servicing
detailed and comprehensive procedures and time lines
mission is to correct for spherical aberration in HST's
for this challenging mission.
primary mirror and replace faulty solar arrays.
Mission Cargo
The major constraint on NASA's ability to service
Wide Field/Planetary Camera II
HST on this mission is the amount of work that can be
The Jet Propulsion Laboratory team that built HST's
completed during the planned Space Shuttle flight.
Wide Field/Planetary Camera (WF/PC) began devel-
The current plan provides for 3 days of extravehicular
oping a spare instrument in 1985. When the Hubble's
activity (EVA) servicing, a day to redeploy HST and
mirror was found to be flawed, NASA and the WF/PC
another day to assure the safe return of the Space
science team immediately began working on an optical
Shuttle (for example, by manually closing the cargo
correction that could be built into WF/PC II. The new
bay doors if necessary). This amount of on-orbit work
design incorporates an optical correction by the
time provides for two optical fixes-the Wide Field/
refiguring of relay mirrors already in the optical train
Planetary Camera II (WF/PC II) and the Corrective
of the cameras. Each relay mirror is polished to a new
Optics Space Telescope Axial Replacement
"prescription" that will compensate for the incorrect
(COSTAR); replacement of the solar arrays, two pairs
figure on HST's primary mirror. Small actuators will
of gyros and one gyro electronics box; and enough
fine-tune the positioning of these mirrors on orbit,
additional time to replace another subsystem that will
ensuring the very precise alignment that is required.
be identified at a later date.
Through a servicing bay door built into the side of
During the ongoing mission preparation, NASA is
HST, astronauts will slide out the 610-pound, wedge-
investigating methods to improve the efficiency of the
shaped WF/PC as they would a giant drawer, and
work, so that any extra EVA time would provide a
replace it with WF/PC II. The new instrument will
margin to assure the critical work required to restore
have three wide field cameras and one planetary
essential HST capabilities is completed.
camera instead of the original eight. The WF/PC II
team chose to reduce the number of cameras to four in
Mission Overview
order to develop a system to align the corrective relay
Currently scheduled for launch in late 1993-early
mirrors on-orbit remaining on schedule and within
1994, the orbiter will rendezvous with HST on the
budget. Improved Charged Coupled Devices (CCDs)
third day of the flight. HST will then be captured and
that were not available when the first WF/PC was built
secured in an upright position in the cargo bay for
will be incorporated in WF/ PC II to improve its
servicing. Working in pairs, on alternating days, the
sensitivity, particularly in the ultraviolet.
four EVA crewmembers will be spending three 6-hour
work days performing the repairs.
WF/PC II is proceeding within its budget and, despite
the complexity of the task, is on schedule to be deliv-
Development has begun on astronaut simulations of
ered from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory to NASA's
on-orbit servicing operations to rehearse and optimize
Goddard Space Flight Center in the spring of 1993.
EVA repair work at Johnson Space Center's Weight-
WF/PC II will be tested with spacecraft and ground
less Environment Training Facility and Marshall
system simulators there before being sent to Kennedy
Space Flight Center's Neutral Buoyancy Simulator
Space Center to be integrated with the Space Shuttle.
(these large water tanks simulate the weightless
environment of space). Early EVA training on indi-
Corrective Optics Space Telescope
vidual components began this March. Other key events
Axial Replacement (COSTAR)
that will affect planning for the mission include the
COSTAR was invented by the Hubble Space Tele-
selection of a flight crew and a Shuttle cargo integra-
scope Strategy Panel, a group of scientists and engi-
tion review in late 1992. Meanwhile, planning teams,
neers brought together at the Space Telescope Science
including representatives of NASA Headquarters,
Institute in the fall of 1990 to consider how to fix
Goddard Space Flight Center, Johnson Space Center,
HST. Being built by Ball Aerospace under contract to
2
Functional illustration of the
Corrective Optics Space
A-Latch
Telescope Axial Replacement
COSTAR
(COSTAR). It will use precisely
shaped mirrors to correct for
Deproyed
the spherical aberration.
Incoming Beam
COSTAR/Bench
(Ball Aerospace Systems Group)
GHRS
Corrected Beams
FOC
FOS
Deployed Corrector
Optics (MR Mirrors)
NASA, COSTAR has no detectors or cameras. It will
Solar Arrays
use precisely shaped mirrors to correct for the spheri-
cal aberration.
HST's deployable solar arrays, provided by the
European Space Agency (ESA), create a jitter problem
Through a servicing bay door, astronauts will pull out
that interferes with spacecraft stability. The arrays
the 487-pound, phone-booth-sized High Speed Pho-
were designed to accommodate the expansion and
tometer (HSP) and install in its place the identically
contraction caused by heating and cooling as the
sized COSTAR. Once in place, COSTAR will deploy
Hubble moves in and out of daylight in its 90-minute
a set of mechanical arms, no longer than a human
orbits. However, a compensation device that allows
hand, that will place corrective mirrors in front of the
for the expansion and contraction of the solar array
openings that admit light into three of HST's observ-
blankets does not expand and contract as smoothly as
ing instruments (the Faint Object Camera, Faint Object
expected. ESA has redesigned a set of spare solar
Spectrograph, and Goddard High Resolution Spectro-
arrays to reduce the jitter to an acceptable level. A
graph).
critical design review took place during January 1992.
All participants in the HST program were pleased with
COSTAR's corrective mirrors will refocus light
the redesign, and ESA is fully committed to its role as
relayed by HST's primary mirror before it enters these
a partner in the program.
instruments. COSTAR will restore the optical perfor-
mance of these instruments very close to the original
Gyros
expectations.
Three gyros are required to point and track HST; three
more gyros are on board as backups. One of HST's six
The HST team decided that COSTAR would displace
gyros failed in December 1990, and a second one
the High Speed Photometer because the photometer
failed in June 1991. Two of the four gyros contain
does proportionately less science than any one of
components that are suspected of causing the failures.
HST's other four instruments.
While these failures have not affected HST's perfor-
mance, replacing the failed hardware will increase
Less than a year after beginning development,
system reliability. If time permits on the servicing
COSTAR passed a major milestone-the critical
mission, astronauts will remove and replace two Rate
design review. The project remains within budget and
Sensor Units (RSU) and an Electronic Control Unit
on schedule, with no major technical problems.
(ECU)-each housing a pair of gyros. The replace-
ment units are flight-qualified spares that are being
3
rebuilt to replace the suspected point of failure (a
and 31 footholds to aid EVA crews in servicing tasks.
hybrid circuit). The first RSU and ECU are scheduled
More than 80 tools, ranging from screwdrivers to
to be delivered to Goddard Space Flight Center in the
special hardware designed specifically for HST
summer of 1992; the second RSU is to be delivered in
servicing, are available for use on this mission.
the spring of 1993.
Conclusion
Servicing/Support Equipment
The Hubble Space Telescope servicing mission is a
From the very beginning, HST was designed for
challenging and complex endeavor, but all elements of
servicing in space, and many of its subsystems were
mission planning are on schedule, and EVA simula-
designed to be modular, standardized, and accessible.
tions will begin in March 1992. The Astrophysics
HST has 49 different modular subsystems designed for
Division will continue to report on the evolution of
servicing, ranging from small fuses to scientific
plans for the HST servicing mission.
instruments. HST also features 225 feet of handrails
Instruments, batteries, computers, and
other essential components in the
equipments bays are accessible through
doors for easy removal and
replacement. These items, called
Orbital Replacement Units, are designed
for servicing in space.
(Gordan Raney, artist, Lockheed)
NASA
4
NASA Status Report
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
NASA Headquarters
Washington, DC
March 1992
The Hubble Space Telescope:
Report on Plans for the HST Servicing Mission
Background
The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) was launched on
necessary to fix them. HST was designed for on-orbit
April 24, 1990. By June 1990, two problems were
servicing, to repair and refurbish the observatory and
discovered: spherical aberration of the primary mirror
to upgrade its capabilities by installing advanced
and jitter caused by the solar arrays. Image processing
instruments. On-orbit servicing will permit correction
and spacecraft control software have compensated
of the spherical aberration and the solar array jitter.
somewhat for both of these problems, but servicing is
Conceptual illustration of astronauts
replacing instruments during the
Hubble Space Telescope servicing
mission.
(Ball Aerospace Systems Group,
artist, Scott Kahler)
Mission Goals and Planning
and Kennedy Space Center, will continue working on
The primary objective of the first HST servicing
detailed and comprehensive procedures and time lines
mission is to correct for spherical aberration in HST's
for this challenging mission.
primary mirror and replace faulty solar arrays.
Mission Cargo
The major constraint on NASA's ability to service
Wide Field/Planetary Camera II
HST on this mission is the amount of work that can be
The Jet Propulsion Laboratory team that built HST's
completed during the planned Space Shuttle flight.
Wide Field/Planetary Camera (WF/PC) began devel-
The current plan provides for 3 days of extravehicular
oping a spare instrument in 1985. When the Hubble's
activity (EVA) servicing, a day to redeploy HST and
mirror was found to be flawed, NASA and the WF/PC
another day to assure the safe return of the Space
science team immediately began working on an optical
Shuttle (for example, by manually closing the cargo
correction that could be built into WF/PC II. The new
bay doors if necessary). This amount of on-orbit work
design incorporates an optical correction by the
time provides for two optical fixes-the Wide Field/
refiguring of relay mirrors already in the optical train
Planetary Camera II (WF/PC II) and the Corrective
of the cameras. Each relay mirror is polished to a new
Optics Space Telescope Axial Replacement
"prescription" that will compensate for the incorrect
(COSTAR); replacement of the solar arrays, two pairs
figure on HST's primary mirror. Small actuators will
of gyros and one gyro electronics box; and enough
fine-tune the positioning of these mirrors on orbit,
additional time to replace another subsystem that will
ensuring the very precise alignment that is required.
be identified at a later date.
Through a servicing bay door built into the side of
During the ongoing mission preparation, NASA is
HST, astronauts will slide out the 610-pound, wedge-
investigating methods to improve the efficiency of the
shaped WF/PCI, as they would a giant drawer, and
work, so that any extra EVA time would provide a
replace it with WF/PC II. The new instrument will
margin to assure the critical work required to restore
have three wide field cameras and one planetary
essential HST capabilities is completed.
camera instead of the original eight. The WF/PC II
team chose to reduce the number of cameras to four in
Mission Overview
order to develop a system to align the corrective relay
Currently scheduled for launch in late 1993-early
mirrors on-orbit remaining on schedule and within
1994, the orbiter will rendezvous with HST on the
budget. Improved Charged Coupled Devices (CCDs)
third day of the flight. HST will then be captured and
that were not available when the first WF/PC was built
secured in an upright position in the cargo bay for
will be incorporated in WF/ PC II to improve its
servicing. Working in pairs, on alternating days, the
sensitivity, particularly in the ultraviolet.
four EVA crewmembers will be spending three 6-hour
work days performing the repairs.
WF/PC II is proceeding within its budget and, despite
the complexity of the task, is on schedule to be deliv-
Development has begun on astronaut simulations of
ered from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory to NASA's
on-orbit servicing operations to rehearse and optimize
Goddard Space Flight Center in the spring of 1993.
EVA repair work at Johnson Space Center's Weight-
WF/PC II will be tested with spacecraft and ground
less Environment Training Facility and Marshall
system simulators there before being sent to Kennedy
Space Flight Center's Neutral Buoyancy Simulator
Space Center to be integrated with the Space Shuttle.
(these large water tanks simulate the weightless
environment of space). Early EVA training on indi-
Corrective Optics Space Telescope
vidual components began this March. Other key events
Axial Replacement (COSTAR)
that will affect planning for the mission include the
COSTAR was invented by the Hubble Space Tele-
selection of a flight crew and a Shuttle cargo integra-
scope Strategy Panel, a group of scientists and engi-
tion review in late 1992. Meanwhile, planning teams,
neers brought together at the Space Telescope Science
including representatives of NASA Headquarters,
Institute in the fall of 1990 to consider how to fix
Goddard Space Flight Center, Johnson Space Center,
HST. Being built by Ball Aerospace under contract to
2
Functional illustration of the
Corrective Optics Space
A-Latch
Telescope Axial Replacement
COSTAR
(COSTAR). It will use precisely
shaped mirrors to correct for
Deployed
the spherical aberration.
incoming Beam
COSTAR/Bench
(Ball Aerospace Systems Group)
GHRS
Corrected Beams
FOC
FOS
Deployed Corrector
Optics (MR Mirrors)
NASA, COSTAR has no detectors or cameras. It will
Solar Arrays
use precisely shaped mirrors to correct for the spheri-
cal aberration.
HST's deployable solar arrays, provided by the
European Space Agency (ESA), create a jitter problem
Through a servicing bay door, astronauts will pull out
that interferes with spacecraft stability. The arrays
were designed to accommodate the expansion and
the 487-pound, phone-booth-sized High Speed Pho-
contraction caused by heating and cooling as the
tometer (HSP) and install in its place the identically
Hubble moves in and out of daylight in its 90-minute
sized COSTAR. Once in place, COSTAR will deploy
orbits. However, a compensation device that allows
a set of mechanical arms, no longer than a human
hand, that will place corrective mirrors in front of the
for the expansion and contraction of the solar array
openings that admit light into three of HST's observ-
blankets does not expand and contract as smoothly as
ing instruments (the Faint Object Camera, Faint Object
expected. ESA has redesigned a set of spare solar
Spectrograph, and Goddard High Resolution Spectro-
arrays to reduce the jitter to an acceptable level. A
graph).
critical design review took place during January 1992.
All participants in the HST program were pleased with
COSTAR's corrective mirrors will refocus light
the redesign, and ESA is fully committed to its role as
relayed by HST's primary mirror before it enters these
a partner in the program.
instruments. COSTAR will restore the optical perfor-
Gyros
mance of these instruments very close to the original
expectations.
Three gyros are required to point and track HST; three
more gyros are on board as backups. One of HST's six
The HST team decided that COSTAR would displace
gyros failed in December 1990, and a second one
the High Speed Photometer because the photometer
failed in June 1991. Two of the four gyros contain
does proportionately less science than any one of
components that are suspected of causing the failures.
HST's other four instruments.
While these failures have not affected HST's perfor-
mance, replacing the failed hardware will increase
Less than a year after beginning development,
system reliability. If time permits on the servicing
COSTAR passed a major milestone-the critical
mission, astronauts will remove and replace two Rate
design review. The project remains within budget and
Sensor Units (RSU) and an Electronic Control Unit
on schedule, with no major technical problems.
(ECU)-each housing a pair of gyros. The replace-
ment units are flight-qualified spares that are being
3
rebuilt to replace the suspected point of failure (a
and 31 footholds to aid EVA crews in servicing tasks.
hybrid circuit). The first RSU and ECU are scheduled
More than 80 tools, ranging from screwdrivers to
to be delivered to Goddard Space Flight Center in the
special hardware designed specifically for HST
summer of 1992; the second RSU is to be delivered in
servicing, are available for use on this mission.
the spring of 1993.
Conclusion
Servicing/Support Equipment
The Hubble Space Telescope servicing mission is a
From the very beginning, HST was designed for
challenging and complex endeavor, but all elements of
servicing in space, and many of its subsystems were
mission planning are on schedule, and EVA simula-
designed to be modular, standardized, and accessible.
tions will begin in March 1992. The Astrophysics
HST has 49 different modular subsystems designed for
Division will continue to report on the evolution of
servicing, ranging from small fuses to scientific
plans for the HST servicing mission.
instruments. HST also features 225 feet of handrails
Instruments, batteries, computers, and
other essential components in the
equipments bays are accessible through
doors for easy removal and
replacement. These items, called
Orbital Replacement Units, are designed
for servicing in space.
(Gordan Raney, artist, Lockheed)
NASA
4
NASA Facts
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
Goddard Space Flight Center
Greenbelt, Maryland 20771
AC 301 286-8955
NASA'S OZONE STUDIES
Barely half a decade ago, stratospheric ozone depletion was
mainly of interest to atmospheric scientists. Today it is a
worldwide environmental concern that has been addressed by
several international accords. Ozone depletion epitomizes the
environmental problems humans face today: it is global; it is the
direct but unintended result of human industry; and remedying it
will have direct and indirect economic consequences. Since the
mid-1970s, NASA has been in the forefront of research into why
and how the ozone layer in the stratosphere, or upper atmosphere,
undergoes regular dramatic changes.
Ozone, a molecule made up of three oxygen atoms, shields life on
Earth from the harmful effects of the ultraviolet radiation of
the Sun. The increased amounts of ultraviolet radiation that
would reach the Earth's surface because of ozone depletion could
increase the incidence of skin cancer and cataracts in humans and
may harm crops and interfere with marine life.
Because the risks of ultraviolet radiation are so serious,
scientists all over the world are working to determine how much
of the ozone-related change in the atmosphere is caused by humans
and how much is attributable to natural processes, such as the
shift in atmospheric dynamics, volcanic activity or the solar
cycle.
Studies have shown that ozone depletion is caused by
complex, coupled chemical reactions. Recent data has indicated
that man-made chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), used in refrigeration,
electronics and other industries, are capable of altering the
levels of atmospheric ozone. Continued build-up of CFCs is
expected to lead to additional ozone loss worldwide. Ongoing
studies are essential to provide the necessary understanding of
the causes of ozone depletion.
For decades, NASA has pioneered the study of the atmosphere
in order to improve life on Earth. The agency's commitment to
environmental research is continuing with Mission to Planet
Earth, a coordinated series of ground-based, airborne and "space-
based programs designed to study the Earth as a single, global
environmental system. By analyzing and collecting data from a
variety of experiments, missions and satellites, NASA scientists
hope to contribute to humanity's better understanding its
influences on the atmosphere and the rest of the environment.
Within Mission to Planet Earth, NASA's on-going commitment to
ozone studies includes current and future missions. Five of the
projects are detailed below.
TOMS
Since its launch aboard NASA's Nimbus-7 polar-orbiting
satellite in 1978, the Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS)
has provided reliable, high-resolution mapping of global total
ozone on a daily basis. TOMS, managed by NASA's Goddard Space
Flight Center (GSFC), Greenbelt, Md., is the primary source of
high-resolution global maps about the total ozone content of the
atmosphere.
Analyses of TOMS data have traced in detail the annual
development of the Antarctic "ozone hole," a large area of
intense ozone depletion that occurs between late August and
early October. The ozone hole was discovered through British
ground-based observations in the mid-1980s, but analysis of TOMS
data indicates it has existed since at least 1979.
Recent studies by Goddard scientists using more than 11
years of TOMS data have revealed that the reductions in ozone
over the mid-northern latitudes are approximately twice as
severe as previously believed. The possibility that increased
ultraviolet radiation could reach the Earth's surface during the
beginning of the growing season raises questions of significant
economic, environmental and health effects.
A long-term, consistent record of ozone levels is essential
to understanding and predicting ozone depletion. To ensure that
ozone data will be available throughout the next decade, NASA
will continue the TOMS program using U.S. and foreign launches.
On Aug. 15, 1991, the Soviet Union launched a Meteor-3 satellite
carrying a TOMS instrument. A third TOMS will be launched aboard
a Pegasus booster in 1993, and the Japanese Advanced Earth
Observations Satellite (ADEOS) will carry a fourth TOMS when it
launches in 1995.
UARS
Launched Sept. 12, 1991, the Upper Atmosphere Research
Satellite (UARS) will help scientist better understand the energy
input, chemistry and dynamics of the upper atmosphere and the
coupling between the upper and lower atmosphere. UARS, the first
satellite dedicated to studying stratospheric science, will focus
on the processes that lead to ozone depletion, complementing and
amplifying the measurements of total ozone made by TOMS.
Ten UARS instruments will provide the most complete data on
upper atmospheric energy inputs, winds, and chemical composition
ever gathered. Taken together these observations constitute a
highly integrated investigation of the nature of the upper
atmosphere. In its first two weeks of operation, UARS data
confirmed existing ozone-depletion theories by providing three-
dimensional maps of ozone and chlorine monoxide near the South
Pole during development of the 1991 ozone hole. UARS, developed
and managed by GSFC, ultimately will provide information
that nations around the world can use to make decisions on
environmental policies.
ATLAS
The Atmospheric Laboratory for Applications and Science
(ATLAS), a series of Space Shuttle-Spacelab missions, will carry
two instruments to measure ozone and other chemicals in the upper
atmosphere, complementing and expanding measurements made by
UARS. ATLAS will investigate how Earth's atmosphere and climate
are affected by the Sun and by the products of industrial
complexes and agricultural activities. Scientists from six
countries will conduct 12 investigations in atmospheric science,
solar physics, space plasma physics and astronomy.
ATLAS-1, scheduled to be launched aboard Space Shuttle
Atlantis in early 1992, will be the first in an 11-year series of
missions to study long-term interactions between the atmosphere
and the Sun. Later missions dedicated to Earth science are
planned at about one-year intervals. The series of flights will
return data from very highly calibrated instruments that will
help scientists study trends in the atmosphere and complement
long-term satellite measurements. The ATLAS missions are managed
by Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Ala.
AIRBORNE RESEARCH
Not all of NASA's ozone research is conducted from space.
Periodic expeditions that fly instruments through the atmosphere
aboard research aircraft have greatly expanded our understanding
of ozone depletion. Airborne expeditions over both the Arctic
and Antarctic have led scientist to conclude that chemical
reactions involving human-produced chlorine are the main cause
of ozone depletion in the upper atmosphere.
NASA, in conjunction with the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, the National Science Foundation
and industry, has conducted two airborne campaigns: over the
Antarctic (1987) and Arctic (1989). The second Airborne Arctic
Stratospheric Expedition began in October 1991, with ER-2 flights
over the North Pole from Fairbanks, Alaska. It will continue
through March 1992 with ER-2 flight out of Bangor, Maine, and
DC-8 flight from the Ames Research Center, Mountain View, Calif.
Ames in the managing center for NASA's airborne research
programs.
SSBUV
The Shuttle Solar Backscatter Experiment (SSBUV), a highly
calibrated instrument developed at Goddard for periodic flights
aboard the Space Shuttle, determines ozone levels by measuring
reflected ultraviolet light. SSBUV measures the total amount
and height distribution of ozone in the upper atmosphere and
collects data to calibrate ozone-measuring instruments on other
satellites. Scientists directly compare the SSBUV and satellite-
instrument data as the two pass over the same Earth location
within an hour. These orbital coincidences can occur 17 times a
day.
SSBUV has flown three times: on STS-34 (October 1989), STS-
41 (October 1990) and STS-4333 (August 1991). The next planned
mission is ATLAS-1/STS-45 (early 1992) and regular flights are
scheduled through the 1990s.
SAGE
The Stratospheric Aerosol and Gas Experiment (SAGE), was
first launched in 1979 aboard the Applications Explorer Mission B
spacecraft and provided ozone measurements using the solar
occultation technique until 1981. The application of this
technique represented the first global, high vertical resolution
data set for stratospheric ozone. It is the vertical measurement
orientation and self-calibrating feature which distinguishes SAGE
measurements from those of other space instruments.
SAGE II began operation with the Earth Radiation Budget
Satellite in 1984 and is still healthy today, making important
contributions to studies of the Antarctic ozone hole with high
resolution scrutiny of ozone, water vapor and polar stratospheric
clouds. Most recently, SAGE observed large changes in lower
stratospheric ozone in the northern polar region caused by
energetic protons released from the Sun during intense solar
flares.
The most important result of SAGE measurement has been the
combination of data from both missions, along with the data from
the SAM II experiment on Nimbus-7, which monitors long-term
changes in ozone.
SAGE is managed by Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA.
The Future--Mission to Planet Earth
These five complementary projects are important to
understanding the dynamic processes that can lead to ozone
depletion. As part of NASA's Mission to Planet Earth, the
agency's ozone depletion studies are designed to observe the
Earth of a global scale.
Mission to Planet Earth is NASA's contribution to the multi-
agency U.S. Global Change Research Program. The centerpiece to
Mission to Planet Earth is the Earth Observing System (EOS),
a series of environmental research satellites planned to begin
launches in 1998. The EOS program will continue and integrate the
measurement by TOMS, ATLAS, UARS and SSBUV, and will provide the
first coordinated, simultaneous measurements of the interactions
of the atmosphere, oceans, land surfaces and biosphere. Early
versions of the EOS Data and Information System will incorporate
existing ozone data for the widest possible distribution to
international researchers.
####
January 1992
Office of the Director
In 1959, the Goddard Space Flight
Center was established and, while
its charter has changed and grown,
its preeminence in space and Earth
sciences, communications and
tracking, data management,
development of spacecraft and
spacecraft-borne instruments,
operations, and management has
been demonstrated throughout its
history.
During its first three decades, the
Center developed more than 40
satellites in-house; managed the
development of more than 160
satellites for NASA; launched over
175 payload-carrying Delta rockets;
flew scientific payloads on over
2,500 sounding rockets and 550
balloons; and provided tracking,
communications, and data handling
for the Agency.
Goddard's scientific and
engineering activities literally
extend from the depths of the
oceans to the edge of the universe.
Goddard scientists have pioneered
the development of many of the
current space and Earth sciences
disciplines. Goddard space
scientists are involved in
astrophysical research, in space
physics, and in Solar System
exploration. Studies in these
technologies and engineer
The Goddard Space Flight Center is
disciplines reveal the nature of the
solutions to complex problems in
a national resource. Its facilities,
terrestrial environment and the
sensor development, optics, control
laboratories, and equipment provide
nature and evolution of planets,
systems, communication and data
the capability to build complex
stars, galaxies, and the universe.
systems for operations, and
scientific satellites in-house, such as
Goddard Earth scientists are
science data management.
the Cosmic Background Explorer,
exploring the causes of global
which examines the evolution of the
change by examining the
At any point in time, Goddard is
universe, and to manage satellite
dynamics, energetics, and
involved in the management and
development, mission operations,
chemistry of the atmosphere along
development of 14 to 16 major
data systems, and science.
with the interaction of land and
projects that include smaller
oceans and the geodynamics and
payloads, such as Hitchhiker,
The most significant resource of the
geophysics of the solid earth.
sounding rockets and research
Center is its 4,000 employees.
balloons, and major programs
These are the scientists, engineers,
Observations from space are made
that span decades, such as the
technicians, managers, and
possible by spacecraft and their
Tracking and Data Relay Satellite
administrative and support
instruments developed and
System and the Earth Observing
personnel whose creativity and work
operated at the Center. Goddard
System.
are synonymous with the Goddard
engineers and technicians develop
Space Flight Center.
Office of the Director
Code 100
Provides overall management and leadership
to the Center's programs and employees
Office of Human Resources
Code 110
Develops and operates the Center's
comprehensive human resources
program involving recruitment,
compensation, employee and labor
relations, work-force analysis, employee
and organizational development, and
awards and recognition
Office of Chief Counsel
Code 140
Provides legal counsel and
representation on all legal matters
affecting the Center and its programs
Management
Office of
Flight Projects
Mission Operations
Operations
Flight Assurance
Directorate
and Data Systems
Directorate
Directorate
Code 200
Code 300
Code 400
Code 500
Provides overall
Provides safety, relia-
Manages the Center's
Operates spaceflight
management of the
blility, and quality assur-
flight projects from
tracking and communi-
Center's physical plant
ance programs for flight
concept development
cation networks and
and administrative
and ground systems
through design, devel-
data systems for
support functions
Performs independent
opment, and launch
NASA's near-Earth
design reviews on tech-
spaceflight missions
nical and flight safety
aspects for spacecraft
and instruments
Equal Opportunity Programs Office
Office of Public Affairs
Code 120
Code 130
Coordinates and evaluates Centerwide
Disseminates information on Goddard
Equal Opportunity Programs
activites to the public and news media
Manages the EEO Complaint System
Conducts space-oriented education
Fosters Center involvement with
programs and teacher workshops
community and educational institutions
Office of the Comptroller
Office of University Programs
Code 150
Code 160
Provides the central overview of Center
Provides the focal point of Goddard
budgets and resource planning activities
program activities with colleges and
universities
Analyzes and forecasts program and
institutional resource requirements
Space Sciences
Engineering
Suborbital Projects
Earth Sciences
Directorate
Directorate
and Operations
Directorate
Directorate
Code 600
Code 700
Code 800
Code 900
Conducts scientific
Conducts a broad
Conducts NASA's
Conducts scientific
studies in high-energy
program of technical
Sounding Rocket
studies on Earth's
astrophysics, astronomy,
research, and design,
Program and Balloon
atmosphere; land,
solar physics, and
development, and test
Program, operates a
ocean, and atmosphere
extraterrestrial physics
for spaceflight pro-
research airport, and
interactions; and
grams, including in-
provides tracking and
geodynamics and
house engineering and
communications for
geophysics of the solid
fabrication of instru-
mission operations
earth
ments and satellites
Skill Needs
There are opportunities within the Office of the Director requiring general business, law, economics, or liberal
arts backgrounds, such as:
Office of Human Resources
Human Resource Specialists
- Staffing
- Classification
- Labor and Employee Relations
- Employee Development
- Organizational Development
Program Analysts
Computer Systems Analysts
Equal Opportunity Programs Office
EEO Specialists
Program Analysts
Office of Public Affairs
Public Affairs Specialists
Educational Specialists
External Liaison Specialists
Office of Chief Counsel
General Attorneys
Office of the Comptroller
Resource Analysts
Operations Research Analysts
Program Analysts
Management Operations Directorate
The Directorate serves as City
Divisions in our organization
The Facilities Engineering
Manager to the Center, providing
accomplish the following roles:
Division plans, designs, and
business and institutional support
constructs institutional and
services to accomplish Goddard's
The Financial Management
research facilities and is
mission at both the Greenbelt and
Division oversees billings,
responsible for all engineering
Wallops Island facilities. The
payments, and accounting
alterations to existing facilities.
organization prides itself on service
services for the Center.
to its customers and on finding
The Plant Operations and
ways to improve these services
The Patent Counsel staff provide
Maintenance Division
within a complex Federal
specialized legal advice.
maintains the Center's
environment.
buildings, roads, and grounds
and provides
power, heating,
and other utilities
support.
The Procurement
organizations
acquire the
supplies, services,
and hardware
necessary to
support the
Center's
programmatic and
institutional
activities.
The Logistics
Management
Division provides
complete logistics
support to the
Center including
transportation
services, property
management, mail
services, and
supply
management.
The Goddard Library, employing the latest
The Information Management
information technology, is considered a
valuable resource to the Goddard
Division provides computing
community.
support for all administrative
functions, as well as library
services, and a full range of
graphics and publication services.
The Health, Safety and Security
Office provides health, safety,
security, fire protection, and
emergency medical services, and
manages complex environmental
issues.
Patent Counsel
The office assists the Center's
scientists and engineers in
evaluating inventions for patent
potential, patent preparation, and
patent prosecution. We also
support procurement personnel in
the area of intellectual property
rights and contract monitoring to
ensure contractor compliance with
provisions in the NASA patent
rights clause and new technology
clause.
Health, Safety and Security
Our programs focus on the health
and safety of our employees, as
well as on Center security-from
the guards at the gate to national
security communications. A
unifying theme in all programs is
NASA
the management of risks consistent
with the "open campus"
environment enjoyed by Goddard
employees. As a major initiative,
we are implementing a keycard
access control system to heighten
security in an unobstructive
manner. Additionally, we have
taken a proactive role in dealing
with the complex environmental
issues that we are facing at
Greenbelt and Wallops.
Financial Management
The Division is responsible for
Logistics Management
Spacecraft Systems Development and
financial management activities and
We provide complete logistics
Integration Facility during contruction
associated budget and accounting
(top) and after completion (bottom). It is
support at Greenbelt and Wallops.
functions for the Center. We
the largest laminar flow clean room of its
Activities include logistics support
type.
support Goddard's programmatic
to the flight projects and technical
goals through accurate and timely
communities for procurement and
engineering, material handling,
financial information and guidance.
management of their technical
shipment of goods, a large vehicle
We have undertaken major efforts
parts stock, transportation of
fleet, and personnel travel
to enhance our accounting systems
scientific instruments and
arrangements. We also manage
capabilities, to streamline reporting
spacecraft, and storage of space-
the Greenbelt Mail Services Center,
capabilities for our customers, and
flight hardware. The Division
the furniture and carpet program,
to actively support the development
provides supply services, including
and office space planning and
of the NASA Financial Accounting
a 12,000-line-item supply system,
design.
Information System (NAFIS).
and has accountability for $1 billion
Improving communication and
of property. Transportation
Procurement
service delivery to our customers is
services include traffic
Eighty-eight percent of the Center's
a major organizational commitment.
management, package
budget is spent through the
contracting process. The
Ground Terminal, which is a
procurement function includes
second ground station for the
institutional acquisitions (facilities,
TDRSS, and the Spacecraft
construction, commercial, and small
Systems Development and
purchases), procurement policy,
Integration Facility, the largest
pricing and analysis, and acquisition
clean room of its kind. The Division
for Goddard's major space projects.
will undertake a major challenge in
Our procurements approach $2
constructing the Center's "Eastern
billion annually, including
Campus" to support the President's
approximately 4,800 large
"Mission to Planet Earth." These
contractual actions and 17,800
new facilities will greatly enhance
small purchases (under $25 K).
our effectiveness in processing
Goddard has led NASA in
data and in conducting complicated
simplifying the complex
global scientific research. At
procurement process, including
Wallops, we are constructing an
initiatives to reduce lead-time on
Project Engineer designing a building
integrated control center for airfield
Goddard's major procurements and
structural system on a Computer-Aided
and rocket launch operations and
to automate the small purchases
Design and Drafting workstation.
are restoring several miles of
system.
seawall on Wallops Island. The
and the computer graphics facility
Division is also in the process of
Information Management
produces full-color slides and
revitalizing our services for small
A broad scope of services is offered
transparencies. We operate
construction projects.
to Goddard customers. We support
Information Technology Centers-
all administrative computing, and
unique, computerized, self-paced
Plant Operations and
our systems analysts create
learning laboratories-at both sites.
Maintenance
automated systems best suited to
This Division maintains our
our customers' needs. The Library
Facilities Engineering
buildings, utilities, grounds, roads
is a state-of-the-art resource to the
The Division plans, designs and
and is responsible for the physical
technical communities at both
constructs Goddard's facilities.
plants at Greenbelt and Wallops.
Greenbelt and Wallops. Our
Recent major construction includes
We have undertaken major
photographers document each
the Second Tracking and Data
initiatives to improve Center
phase of spacecraft development,
Relay Satellite System (TDRSS)
maintenance and utility operations
including a multimillion-dollar effort
to renovate Goddard's aging
facilities and utility systems, and
plans to construct a "Cogeneration
Power Plant" at Greenbelt to
provide electricity and steam at
lower cost than at present. The
Division also will be expanding its
capabilities to include minor
alteration and modification services
to its customers at Greenbelt.
Preparing for contract negotiation.
Skill Needs
There are opportunities within the Management Operations Directorate requiring general business, economics,
liberal arts or backgrounds such as:
Engineers:
Accountants
Cost/Price Analysts
Environmental
Budget Analysts
Patent Attorneys
Civil
Financial Analysts
Legal Technicians
Mechanical
Systems Analysis and
Boiler Plant Operators
Electrical
Development Specialists
High-Voltage Electricians
Architects
Computer Science Specialists
Logistics Specialists
MANAGEMENT OPERATIONS
DIRECTOR
DEPUTY DIRECTOR
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR FOR
ACQUISITION
HEALTH,
INSTITUTIONAL
SAFETY
PATENT
SUPPORT
AND
COUNSEL
OFFICE
SECURITY
OFFICE
FINANCIAL
INSTITUTIONAL
PROCUREMENT
PROGRAM
MANAGEMENT
PROCUREMENT
SUPPORT
PROCUREMENT
DIVISION
DIVISION
DIVISION
DIVISION
PLANT
LOGISTICS
INFORMATION
FACILITIES
OPERATIONS AND
MANAGEMENT
MANAGEMENT
ENGINEERING
MAINTENANCE
DIVISION
DIVISION
DIVISION
DIVISION
Office of Flight Assurance
The technical flight safety aspects
of all Goddard's flight projects,
including spacecraft, launch vehicle
operational ground systems, and
scientific instruments, must be
reviewed before, during, and after
launches. This ensures that they
meet Center goals for mission
success and reliability. The Office
of Flight Assurance conducts those
reviews and provides technical
support and guidance to all flight
programs. We develop general
policy requirements for quality
assurance, parts and material
control, environmental testing,
verification, reliability, flight-system
safety, and software assurance.
Office activities include:
Ensure flight readiness through
identification and correction
of anomalies.
Work closely with flight project
teams to establish and implement
policy and requirements for test
verification, system safety,
reliability, product and software
assurance, and reliable parts and
materials.
Provide lab testing and analysis
for parts and materials.
Ascertain that the functional
requirements of NASA and
Goddard are met in purchasing
materials and supplies, and
prepare documentation for the
technical specifications and, if
necessary, the contract
provisions.
Evaluate plans, proposals, and
procedures for all flight projects to
ensure they meet requirements.
Conducting a tensile test in the Materials
Laboratory.
Systems Review Office
Director. All Center-managed
maintains expertise for EEE parts
Using a small cadre of the Center's
projects, as well as many other
and microelectronic devices while
more experienced technical
Government and international
the Parts Technology Section
experts, this Office reviews all flight
programs, are provided Flight
studies radiation effects and
projects beginning at the
Assurance support as required.
electronic packaging process
conceptual design stage and
technology, and provides expertise
progressing to the final flight
The Parts Branch
in EEE parts areas, such as
readiness review. Potential
Reliability engineers in the Parts
microcircuits and certain
problems are identified and
Branch develop and maintain plans
electromechanical parts.
resolved before we recommend
and procedures for assuring the
mission launch to the Center
procurement, testing, and use of
The Materials Branch
This Branch provides
technical support in
materials science,
technology, and
applications. These
experts are the Center's
focal point for
consultation, control, and
review of all materials,
materials systems, and
designs for flight
missions. As such, our
staff investigate all
spacecraft materials
ABOVE: Automated Test
problems and their
Equipment (ATE) semi-
resolution and assist
automatic setup for performing
management in arriving
test plots.
at materials policy goals
RIGHT: Working in the Parts
and guidelines for
Testing Laboratory, ATE room,
qualified flight hardware.
on a digital microcircuit tester.
We also support
cooperative ventures
with other Government
agencies, educational
flight-quality parts. We provide
institutions, and private industry to
parts expertise to determine
develop improved, more reliable
suitability, reliability, and quality of
materials.
parts.
The Metals Section provides
This Branch determines and
engineering expertise in metallurgy,
designates NASA standard
mechanical engineering, fracture
electrical, electronic, and
mechanics, tribology, and inorganic
electromechanical (EEE) parts and
chemical analysis. The Polymers
documents. We prepare the Parts
Application Handbook and
participate in the parts
standardization program. The
Parts Engineering Section
Section specializes in organic
safety, test levels, and durations at
chemical analysis, polymer
appropriate levels of assembly and
research, inorganic chemical
related analytical requirements.
analysis, polymer degradation,
Staff within the System Safety
modeling polymer processing, gas
Branch develop system safety
kinetics, materials outgassing
policies and requirements for
kinetics, and gaseous and
special missions.
particulate contamination in space.
The Ceramics Section focuses on
The Assurance Management
optical materials and coatings,
Office
electronic materials, measurements
Our Flight Assurance Managers
and instrumentation systems, and
and Product Assurance Engineers
environmental testing while the
are assigned to Goddard projects;
ABOVE LEFT: Polymer Section
Composites Section works with
employees conducting a Fourier
they manage all aspects of
Transform Infrared analysis on
composite and brittle materials.
performance assurance, from
organic material.
negotiating resources to garnering
The Assurance Requirements
support from other offices. They
ABOVE: Training center for
Office
constantly assess hardware and
soldering of electrical
connections.
Our senior safety and reliability
software quality and status and
experts develop and implement
provide feedback both for the
policies and requirements for
project and the Office. As part of
environmental testing, verification,
the ever-evolving Office of Flight
reliability system safety, and
Assurance, they provide feedback
software assurance for safe,
to the Director on the effectiveness
reliable space systems. We
of assurance programs.
establish test and design factors of
Skill Needs
There are opportunities within the Flight Assurance Office in the following disciplines:
Flight Assurance
Metallurgy
Product Assurance
Ceramics
Systems Review
Polymer Chemistry
Project Safety
Chemistry
Parts Engineering
Physics
Materials Engineering
OFFICE OF
FLIGHT ASSURANCE
DIRECTOR
DEPUTY DIRECTOR
SYSTEMS
ASSURANCE
REVIEW
REQUIREMENTS
OFFICE
OFFICE
SYSTEM
ASSURANCE
SAFETY
MANAGEMENT
BRANCH
OFFICE
ASSURANCE
TECHNOLOGIES
DIVISION
PARTS
PROJECT
OFFICE
ELECTRONIC
PARTS
PACKAGING AND
MATERIALS
BRANCH
PROCESSES
BRANCH
BRANCH
Flight Projects Directorate
Many dynamic and interesting
cooperative programs; and
years. We are responsible for the
projects are managed by this
expendable launch vehicle
overall management, development,
Directorate. Goddard flight projects
development and services. The
testing, and pre- and post-launch
range in complexity from small
lifetime of the projects and the
activities, including on-orbit
explorer-class satellites and
missions is up to 15 years.
checkout, of these important flight
attached Shuttle payloads to large
Because of this Directorate's
systems. Launches are scheduled
Earth-orbiting observatories; the
expertise in on-orbit satellite
aboard the Shuttle as well as on
Earth Observing System, which is
refurbishment and servicing, the
expendable launch vehicles. The
the centerpiece of NASA's Mission
Hubble Space Telescope is
Flight Projects Directorate
to Planet Earth; international
expected to transmit valuable
manages an annual budget in
astronomical data for 15
excess of $1 billion.
TIROS / NOAA
OSL
SPACE
STATION
SATELLITE
EUVE /
SERVICING
EXPLORER
EOS
PLATFORM
ROSAT
COBE
TOMS
GOES
FTS
UARS
TRMM
DELTA / OLS
ATTACHED
TDRSS
PAYLOADS
HST
GRO
ISTP / GGS
Current and future activities
Satellite Servicing Project
This project develops and produces
the NASA multimission modular
spacecraft and the explorer
platform. It also conducts on-orbit
servicing of Goddard spacecraft
and develops serviceable
spacecraft, airborne support
equipment, and new extravehicular
activity (EVA) support equipment.
The project team plans, prepares,
and conducts Shuttle-based
satellite repair missions, such as
the Solar Max Repair Mission and
Hubble Space Telescope repair
missions. The project team also is
developing EVA-unique equipment
and lightweight airborne support
equipment to support combination
deploy/retrieval missions.
Satellite servicing works on the
principle that repair and
refurbishment of satellites can
benefit the entire space program by
reducing spacecraft costs, allowing
the recovery of scientific
instruments, and using well-proven
space engineering technology in
the ever-changing and always
demanding space field. We are
always looking for fresh ideas and
innovative engineers eager to work
understanding of the components
instruments with the scientific
on the cutting edge of technology
of that system, their interactions,
power to produce significant parts
and looking to get more science for
and how the Earth system is
of the database needed for Mission
the dollar!
changing. The EOS mission will
to Planet Earth.
create an integrated scientific
The Earth Observing System
observing system that will enable a
Within the EOS organization, there
(EOS)
multidisciplinary study of the Earth,
are three major projects: the EOS
The goal of the EOS mission is to
including the atmosphere, oceans,
Platforms Project, which manages
advance the understanding of the
land surfaces, polar regions, and
and develops the large orbiting
solid earth. The Directorate
entire Earth system on a global
"platforms" needed to carry
scale by developing a deeper
manages and directs the mission;
instruments; the EOS Instruments
investigations will include
Project, which manages the design
developing and operating remote-
and development of the flight
sensing instruments. EOS is an
facility and principal investigator
international, coordinated effort that
instruments for flight; and the EOS
combines observational
Ground Systems and Operations
Resources Management staff
organize, plan, and direct the
business and financial operations
of the Project. Flight Systems
employees develop new, state-of-
the-art spacecraft hardware and the
scientific instruments to be used in
upgrading the Telescope during
servicing missions. Flight
Operations personnel provide day-
to-day operations capability to
command, monitor spacecraft
status, and provide science
program planning, real-time target
acquisition, acquisition of data, and
standard processing of data.
Mission Systems Engineering/
Analysis staff provide observatory-
level systems engineering and
analysis in support of Flight
Operations.
LEFT: Astronaut repairing Solar
ABOVE: Artist's concept of the Earth Ob-
Maximum Satellite aboard Shuttle
serving System (EOS) Polar Platform. The
(STS-41C).
EOS, as a whole project, will be largest
endeavor ever undertaken by Goddard.
Project, which designs and
initial complement of five scientific
develops a comprehensive data
instruments - is supported by a
system that includes observatory
combination of dedicated flight and
and instrument control, processing,
ground systems.
storage, and efficient retrieval of
EOS instrument data.
The project team here at Goddard
is dedicated to maintaining and
The EOS project is the largest ever
operating the Hubble Telescope for
undertaken by Goddard and will
approximately 15 years. This
provide data for more than 20
involves ground-systems operation
years. EOS will be the most
and data analysis; the
significant unifying effort of its time
development, fabrication, and
to understand the Earth as a
launch readiness of orbital
planet.
replacement units and instruments;
flight-systems performance
The Hubble Space Telescope
analysis; maintenance mission
Project
planning and execution; and
The Hubble Space Telescope,
management of flight and support
launched in April of 1990, is a
hardware.
Hubble Space Telescope launched April 24,
unique spaceborne observatory
1990, is scheduled for on-orbit servicing in
designed to conduct long-range
approximately 3 years.
astronomical research. This
orbiting facility - a 2.4-meter-
aperture telescope system with an
Skill Needs
There are opportunities within the Flight Projects Directorate in the following disciplines:
Project Management
Resource Management
Systems Management
Engineering
Instrument Management
Mathematics
Ground Systems and Data-
Accounting
Processing Management
Finance
Software Management
Resource Analysis
DIRECTOR
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR
FOR PLANNING
DEPUTY DIRECTOR
OFFICE OF ASSOCIATE
DIRECTOR FOR SSF
ADVANCED MISSIONS
DEPUTY DIRECTOR
ANALYSIS OFFICE
FOR PLANNING &
FLIGHTS PROJECTS
BUSINESS MGMT
RESOURCES OFFICE
CHIEF ENGINEER
FTS/DTF
OSL PROJECT
PROJECT
OFFICE OF ASSOCIATE
OFFICE OF ASSOCIATE
DIRECTOR FOR EOS
DIRECTOR FOR HST
DEPUTY ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR
DEPUTY ASSOCIATE
FOR EOS RESOURCES
DIRECTOR FOR HST
EOS
HST
HST
EOS
EOS
GRD. SYS. &
OPERATIONS
FLIGHT SYS.
PLATFORMS
INSTRUMENTS
OPERATIONS
& GRD. SYS.
& SERVICING
PROJECT
PROJECT
PROJECT
PROJECT
PROJECT
INTER-
ATDRS
ISTP
SSP
EAP
NATIONAL
PROJECT
PROJECT
PROJECT
PROJECT
PROJECTS
UARS
TOMS
OLS
METSAT
TRMM
PROJECT
PROJECT
PROJECT
PROJECT
PROJECT
Mission Operations and Data Systems Directorate
The goal of NASA's telecommuni-
cations and data processing
systems is to make the link
between scientists and their
experiments appear as direct and
transparent as possible. At the
heart of these systems is the
organization within the Goddard
Space Flight Center chartered to
provide advanced telecommunica-
tions and information systems
technology: the Mission Operations
and Data Systems Directorate
(MO&DSD).
The great strength of the MO&DSD
systems is that they provide a total
end-to-end tracking, data, and
communications service, an
interactive network that transports
commands to a satellite and returns
the scientific data to the user. The
major components of this two-way
service, to be discussed on the
following pages, are:
Flight Dynamics
Operations Control Centers
Space and Ground Networks
NASA Communications
Network
Data Processing
Technology Applications
Flight Dynamics
In addition to mission design, the
The engineers responsible for the
flight dynamics function within
orbital and attitude dynamics of
MO&DSD provides ongoing orbit
Goddard Space Flight Center
and attitude determination and
missions begin their work years
control. The Flight Dynamics
before a satellite is launched.
Facility, located at Goddard,
Analyzing the science objectives of
analyzes real-time tracking and
the mission, they determine the
telemetry data to generate
optimum orbit for fulfilling those
definitive and predictive orbits.
objectives. They must decide on
Definitive orbits are used by
launch window, number and type of
experimenters in processing and
orbital maneuvers, how much fuel
interpreting scientific data.
will be required, and when the
Predictive orbits are used to plan
satellite will reenter the Earth's
spacecraft operations and to
tracking stations and tracking
atmosphere.
produce acquisition data which
satellites must point their antennas
indicate precisely where and when
to acquire a particular satellite.
Spacecraft attitude is also
determined and evaluated by flight
TRACKING AND
DATA RELAY
engineers to control the pointing
EOS
SATELLITE
direction of the scientific satellite.
STELLAR
OBSERVATIONS
TRACKING AND
DATA RELAY
SATELLITE
Operations Control Centers
The commands that keep a satellite
on track and point or adjust its
SHUTTLE
onboard instruments emanate from
EARTH
OBSERVATORY
OBSERVATIONS
SPACE STATION
an operations control center.
FREEDOM
Control center personnel contribute
significantly to mission planning
and are responsible for on-line
execution of the spacecraft
JET
GODDARD
operations plan. Depending on the
PROPULSION
SPACE FLIGHT
LAB
CENTER
category of spacecraft (for
example, small explorer, Shuttle,
large platforms), different types of
WHITE
SANDS
control centers will be used. One
of the largest and most
sophisticated control centers ever
developed is located at Goddard
EUROPEAN
SCIENTIST
SPACE AGENCY
and supports the Hubble Space
JAPANESE
SPACE
Telescope.
AGENCY
Space and Ground Networks
Transmissions to and from
The MO&DSD provides end-to-end tracking and data system services to a broad range of
customers, as shown in the picture above. Data rates of up to 300 megabits per second will
spacecraft in low-Earth orbit are
allow tremendous volumes of data to be relayed between space-based scientific
controlled by NASA's Space and
instruments- such as those aboard NASA's polar orbiting platforms of the Earth
Ground Networks, both of which
Observing System - and analysts at widely distributed locations on the ground. In the
are managed by the MO&DSD's
1990s, MO&DSD will also support ongoing Shuttle operations, Space Station Freedom
Network Control Center at
and numerous scientific missions, including the three "Great Observatories": Hubble Space
Telescope, Gamma Ray Observatory and the Advanced X-Ray Astrophysics Facility. A
Goddard. NASA's early tracking
major challenge in this decade will be the development of the data distribution and
and data acquisition network, a
processing systems for programs such as Space Station Freedom and the Earth Observing
worldwide system of ground
System.
stations, provided satellite contact
limited by the Earth's horizon.
Today's Tracking and Data Relay
Satellite System (TDRSS) has -
LEFT: The Tracking and Data Relay
emergency backup for Shuttle
and provides data transport
Satellites (TDRSs) provide nearly full-orbit
orbital insertion communications.
switching and control facilities
coverage to spacecraft in low-Earth orbit,
relaying commands on the forward link and
Free-flyer pre-launch and launch
which link approximately 140
scientific data on the return link. The
activities are also supported at
domestic and foreign terminals.
TDRSs are the centerpiece of NASA's Space
these ground stations.
The primary switching center, which
Network and will be enhanced in the 1990s
operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a
to meet the increased data requirements of
NASA Communications Network
week, is located at Goddard.
the Space Station Freedom era.
After the Space and Ground
figuratively speaking - deployed
Networks have acquired and
Data Processing
those ground stations in space at
returned the spacecraft data to
The last step for the telemetry
geosynchronous altitude, thereby
Earth, the NASA Communications
information in the MO&DSD data
achieving
system is data
approximately 85-
processing. This
percent orbit coverage
function captures the
for spacecraft in low-
raw data from the
Earth orbit.
spacecraft and
processes them into
Space Network
usable products. These
The TDRSS is the key
products can be near-
element in NASA's
real-time data sets for
Space Network. The
scientific investigators,
TDRSS is composed of
long-term archived data
a space segment (the
stored for later research,
orbiting relay satellites)
or other products such
and a ground segment
as images and digital
(principally, the ground
computer tapes
terminals located at
distributed throughout
White Sands, New
the world. The
Mexico). The baseline
MO&DSD develops and
space configuration
MO&DSD's Microelectronics Laboratory is equipped to develop
operates a number of
systems in-house, from chip design to integration and test.
consists of two
central data handling
operational relay
facilities dedicated to
satellites and a spare in
(Nascom) Network reenters the
specific missions as well as
geosynchronous orbit. The
data system picture — Nascom:
facilities that provide multi-mission
satellites provide a relay for signals
was also responsible for transport
support.
between user spacecraft and the
services on the forward link. Once
ground terminals. The Phase-B
Nascom has assumed
Technology Applications
definition studies are underway for
responsibility for data transport at
Providing the essential control and
the Advanced TDRSS that will be
the point of ground reception, the
data links between scientists and
developed for a first launch in
data is routed via satellite, through
their instruments for increasingly
late 1996.
terrestrial or ocean cable links to
complex missions requires a
the required destinations, which
continuing effort to develop and
Ground Network
include project control centers,
apply information systems and
The implementation of the TDRSS
central data handling facilities, the
communications technology
has allowed many ground tracking
Flight Dynamics Facility, and
throughout the space operations
stations to be phased out. There
regional data handling/switching
systems described above.
remains a critical Shuttle support
centers for further distribution.
Research in automation
responsibility, however, at four
techniques, microelectronics, and
Ground Network facilities. The
The Nascom Network is a
system design and development
stations at Merritt Island and Ponce
worldwide complex of
are an integral part of the
de Leon, Florida and Cooper's
communications services that
Directorate's contribution in
Island, Bermuda, support Space
include data, voice, teletype, and
preparing for future missions as
Shuttle launches from the Kennedy
video systems. The network
mankind's quest for greater
Space Center. The facility at
consists of approximately 850
knowledge about the Universe
Dakar, Senegal functions as
satellite and terrestrial circuits,
grows.
Skill Needs
There are opportunities within the Mission Operations and Data Systems Directorate in the following disciplines:
Application Software
Digital Data Systems
Mission Operations Management
Data Base Management
Expert Systems
RF Communications
Data Systems Management
Flight Mechanics
Software Engineering
Digital Data Communications
Logic Design
Spacecraft Command and Control
Digital Data Processing
Mission Design
Systems Engineering
MISSION OPERATIONS AND DATA SYSTEMS
DIRECTOR
DEPUTY DIRECTOR
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR FOR SYSTEMS ENGINEERING
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR FOR SPACE STATION
FLIGHT MISSION SUPPORT OFFICE
SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT OFFICE
SPACE NETWORK PROJECT OFFICE
RESOURCES MANAGEMENT OFFICE
MISSION OPERATIONS
DATA SYSTEMS
NETWORKS
DIVISION
TECHNOLOGY DIVISION
DIVISION
NASA COMMUNI-
FLIGHT DYNAMICS
INFORMATION
CATIONS DIVISION
DIVISION
PROCESSING DIVISION
Space Sciences Directorate
The Space Sciences Directorate plays a leading role in
The major strength of the Space Sciences Directorate
conceiving and developing instruments and spacecraft
is its people. The majority of the professional staff of
for the scientific exploration of space through its three
the three laboratories are research scientists with
research organizations:
doctoral degrees. Administrative, clerical, computer,
Laboratory for Astronomy and Solar Physics
engineering, and technical employees have the
opportunity to participate in basic research while using
Laboratory for Extraterrestrial Physics
cutting-edge technology and working directly with
Laboratory for High Energy Astrophysics
world-recognized scientists.
Also, through its Orbiting Satellites Project, the
Directorate manages scientific spacecraft developed
by Goddard.
Our Milky Way galaxy, seen in infrared light from above the
Earth's atmosphere. The image is based on data from an
instrument built under the supervision of the Laboratory for
Astronomy and Solar Physics and launched in November 1989,
aboard NASA's Cosmic Background Explorer satellite.
Laboratory for Astronomy and
LEP conceives, develops, and
With few exceptions, the radiation
Solar Physics (LASP)
builds experiments and integrates
and particles studied by LHEA can
LASP researches a wide range of
them into Earth-orbiting, planetary
only be collected above the Earth's
subjects in astronomy, cosmology,
and interplanetary spacecraft, to
atmosphere. The LHEA seeks,
and solar studies. Astronomical
measure magnetic and electric
through space experiments and
and cosmological studies are done
fields and space plasmas. The
physical interpretation, to
primarily through observation of
staff also develops spectrometers
understand the origin and evolution
ultraviolet and infrared light. Solar
for observations of spectral lines
of high-energy phenomena in the
research includes measurements of
and continua in the infrared and
Sun and other ordinary stars; in
X rays, gamma rays, and radio
submillimeter spectral regions;
collapsed stars, supernova
waves, as well.
these devices are flown on aircraft,
remnants, and the interstellar and
balloons, and spacecraft, and are
intergalactic media; in galaxies and
LASP members help design and
mounted on ground-based
their central cores; and in huge
operate apparatus launched on
telescopes.
clusters of galaxies at great
satellites, sounding rockets,
distances from the Milky Way.
aircraft, and balloons. They study
Laboratory for High Energy
data obtained from this equipment
Astrophysics (LHEA)
to gain new knowledge of the
LHEA explores the fundamental
universe. They also develop
questions of astrophysics by
computer systems and programs to
gathering and interpreting the
aid in developing new instruments
information carried by photons and
and to process and analyze data.
subatomic particles with typical
Computer work is performed on a
energies that are much higher than
wide variety of systems ranging
those found in the atmospheres of
from personal workstations to
ordinary stars like the Sun. This
supercomputers.
field of research is called high
energy astrophysics and the
Laboratory for Extraterrestrial
information collected constitutes
Physics (LEP)
the "signatures" of the most
LEP performs experimental and
energetic processes in the
theoretical research on physical
universe.
properties and
dynamical processes
of solar, planetary,
and stellar objects, as
well as the interstellar
and interplanetary
media. LEP scientists
study the chemistry
and physics of
comets, planetary
atmospheres, and
solid objects in the
Solar System,
including meteorites,
asteroids, and
planets. They also
pursue a vigorous
program in astronomy,
especially at infrared wavelengths.
Chemistry in zero gravity. A high-
temperature refractory nucleation
experiment on board NASA's KC-135
Reduced Gravity Research Aircraft.
LEFT: Goddard High Resolution
Spectrograph (GHRS). Mounted on the
Hubble Space Telescope, the GHRS was
developed by the staff of LASP. It is the
most accurate and powerful ultraviolet
instrument ever flown in space.
RIGHT: Pegsat satellite chemical release
experiment over Canada, April 1990. The
whitish hemisphere is expanding,
electrically neutral barium, while the
magenta "tail" is barium ionized by
sunlight and trapped in the Earth's
magnetic field.
Current Activities in Space Sciences Directorate Laboratories
Laboratory for Astronomy and Solar Physics
Cosmic Background Explorer - satellite operations and research on
cosmology and the origin of galaxies
Goddard High Resolution Spectrograph - initial calibration and scientific
operations on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST)
Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph - advanced equipment to
enormously increase the spectroscopic capabilities of the HST
Laboratory for Extraterrestrial Physics
Voyager 1 and 2 - research on the outer planets and the interplanetary
medium with data from instruments developed in the Laboratory
Mars Observer - LEP hardware on this Mars-orbiting spacecraft will make
the first comprehensive study of Mars' magnetic field
International Solar Terrestrial Physics Project - LEP has a leading role in
this joint U.S. - Japan - European Space Agency program
Laboratory for High Energy Astrophysics
Broad Band X-Ray Telescope - research on supernovae, binary stars, and
galaxies on the Astro-1 mission of Space Shuttle Columbia
Energetic Gamma Ray Experiment Telescope - a major component of
NASA's Gamma Ray Observatory satellite, launched in 1991
Energetic Particle Acceleration, Composition, and Transport - cosmic ray
studies on the WIND satellite in interplanetary space
Supernova 1987A. Gamma rays from
nucleosynthesis in this cosmic explosion
were observed by LHEA's Gamma Ray
Imaging Spectrometer, on a balloon above
Australia. LHEA instruments on the Astro
mission, Gamma Ray Observatory, and
Astromag will investigate x rays, gamma
rays, and cosmic rays from supernovae
(photo: European Southern Observatory).
Skill Needs
There are opportunities within the Space Sciences Directorate in the following disciplines:
Astronomy
Aerospace Engineering
Finance
Astrophysics
Electrical Engineering
Business
Chemistry
Mechanical Engineering
Public Administration
Computer Science (design,
Magnetohydrodynamics
Procurement
operation, programming,
Mathematics (applied and
Accounting
systems analysis)
theoretical)
Physics (atomic, engineering,
high energy, nuclear plasma)
SPACE SCIENCES
DIRECTOR
DEPUTY DIRECTOR
ASSOCIATE
ASSOCIATE
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
FOR
FOR SPACE
OPERATIONS
TELESCOPE
ORBITING
ADMINISTRATION
SATELLITES
AND RESOURCES
PROJECT
MANAGEMENT OFFICE
LABORATORY FOR
LABORATORY FOR
LABORATORY FOR
HIGH ENERGY
ASTRONOMY AND
EXTRATERRESTRIAL
ASTROPHYSICS
SOLAR PHYSICS
PHYSICS
Engineering Directorate
The Engineering Directorate
missions. We design, develop, and
and discipline engineering support
supports NASA space and Earth
test components, subsystems,
for space- and Earth-science
sciences and applications
instruments, and spacecraft for
missions hardware such as the
programs through technical
multiple programs and projects.
Hubble Space Telescope.
research and development. Our
We oversee in-house development
enabling technology program
of flight hardware and software
increases knowledge and
including instruments, Attached
capabilities in areas necessary for
Shuttle Payloads and Small
the success of assigned NASA
Explorer Spacecraft, and system
Directorate Activities Include:
Technology research in laser
communications and sensing,
cryogenics, sensors, spaceborne
data systems, and robotics.
Small Explorer Satellite Program
for frequent astrophysics
missions.
Instrument development for the
Earth Observing System (EOS),
the Advanced X-ray Astronomy
Facility, the Space Infrared
Telescope Facility, and the Mars
Observer, among others.
Development of payload modules
and spacecraft for the Tropical
Rainfall Measuring Mission
and the X-ray Timing Explorer.
On-Orbit Cryogen Transfer Flight
Experiments.
Development of the Payload
Module flight hardware for the
Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer.
Development of advanced high-
capacity spaceborne data
systems.
Application of new materials and
manufacturing techniques.
These seven-degree-of-freedom robotic
arms are part of the engineering test bed
supporting the development of robotic
systems for space sciences and exploration.
Skill Needs
There are opportunities within the Engineering Directorate in the following disciplines:
Space Power Systems
Microwave Instruments
Flight Data Systems
Guidance and Control
RF Communications
Spacecraft and Instrument Systems
Cryogenics and Propulsion
Signal Processing
Spacecraft and Instrument
Mechanisms
Structures
Integration and Testing
Optics
Thermal Engineering
Experimental Fabrication
Photonics
Contamination Control
Verification and Environmental Test
Microelectronics and Detectors
Electrical and Electronic Systems
Engineering
ENGINEERING
DIRECTOR
DEPUTY DIRECTOR
CHIEF ENGINEER
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR FOR OPERATIONS
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR FOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
ENGINEERING
AND SPACE
OFFICE OF
OFFICE OF
TECHNOLOGY
TECHNICAL
COMMERCIAL
RESOURCES
MANAGEMENT
PROGRAMS
MANAGEMENT
OFFICE
SPACE
APPLIED
SPECIAL
ENGINEERING
TECHNOLOGY
INSTRUMENT
ENGINEERING
PAYLOADS
SERVICES
DIVISION
DIVISION
DIVISION
DIVISION
DIVISION
Suborbital Projects and Operations Directorate
Since 1945, work conducted at the
Wallops Flight Facility, located in the
coastal areas of Virginia, has
undergone many changes. In the early
years, the research focused on
obtaining aerodynamic data at very
high speeds as part of the effort to
penetrate the sound barrier and to
operate at supersonic speeds. The
hallmark of the Wallops Flight Facility
has been its suborbital research
projects. This Directorate, the only one
solely located at Wallops, manages
NASA's suborbital programs, and
supports the aeronautical programs.
The sounding rockets, scientific
balloons, and aircraft provide scientists
with unique avenues for conducting
science and research worldwide.
The sounding rocket program conducts
an average of 35 missions each year.
The sounding rocket fleet consists of
15 different vehicles, ranging from 10
to 64 feet in length. These 1- to 4-
stage vehicles fly vertical trajectories
carrying their payloads from 30 to 600
miles in altitude.
Throughout its history, the Suborbital
Projects and Operations Directorate
has adapted to the changing focus of
the country's aerospace research
endeavors and has maintained a
dedication to applying inexpensive and
innovative methods to scientific
research.
Current activities include:
Sounding Rocket Program
Aeronautical Research Programs
NASA-Owned Airport
Aircraft Operations and Maintenance
Project Management
Engineering Support
Flight and Ground Safety
Computer Operations and Software
Support
Balloon Program
Launch Range Operations
Wallops Orbital Tracking Station
Tracking and Data Acquisition
National Scientific Balloon Facility
Poker Flat Research Range
Off-Range Expeditions
Scientific balloon is prepared for flight at the
National Scientific Balloon Facility, Palestine, Texas.
Suborbital Resources
Management Office
This Office develops
budgetary plans and
operating plan
requirements; we monitor
the actual progress of the
plan throughout the year.
Resources personnel
assist technical managers
with developing and
executing plans using
financial and personnel
resources for institutional
needs and Research &
Development (R&D)
programs under the
cognizance of the
Directorate.
Engineering Division
The Division plans,
develops, fabricates,
integrates, and tests both
airborne and ground-based
Operations Division
mechanical and instrument
The Operations Division plans,
systems. This Division provides
manages, and conducts aerospace
management and engineering
and other project operations for
support to the Office of Space
Wallops personnel on-site, as well
Operations Tracking and Data
as at other locations. Radar and
Acquisition Program at Wallops,
optical tracking, communications,
engineering and fabrication support
acquisition of telemetry data, and
for the Sounding Rocket Program,
computing support for range
and software support for real-time
operations and data processing are
operations and post-flight data
as much a part of our work as are
processing, ground flight safety,
the preparation and launch of
Black Brant IX two-stage sounding rocket
and aeronautical research
rockets and airplanes. The Division
awaits launch from the pad at White Sands
programs. We have four branches:
plans and directs Wallops' efforts in
Missile Range, New Mexico.
Technical Support, Instrumentation
aeronautical research operations
Engineering, Electro-Mechanical
and airborne science support, as
Systems, and Safety and Quality
well as range operations and off-
Assurance. Our staff operate the
range expeditions. The most recent
mechanical and electronic
addition to operations is the
fabrication shops; design, engineer,
Wallops Orbital Tracking Station
integrate, and test sounding rocket
that operates around the clock,
payloads; design and procure
every day of the week. Our staff
ground tracking, telemetry, and
operate and maintain the many
support systems; provide flight and
facilities, instrument systems, and
ground safety analysis and support
aircraft required to support the
for rocket and balloon flights; and
programs. Staff members travel
provide off-site launch range
development.
Wallops personnel monitor
The Sounding Rocket and Balloon
mission operations from the
Programs provide low-cost, fast-
Range Control Center.
response flight platforms and
support basic scientific research.
including management of
The combined programs support
the National Scientific
scientific organizations from
Balloon Facility at
domestic and foreign universities,
Palestine, Texas. The
international and commercial
Division is composed of the
research institutions, and other
Sounding Rocket Projects
government agencies, as well as
Branch and the Balloon
various NASA field centers. The
Projects Branch. Sounding
experiments provide a variety of
rockets fly near-vertical
information, such as density and
paths carrying scientific
temperature of particles in the
instruments to altitudes
upper atmosphere, properties and
from 30 to approximately
changes in the ionosphere, the
600 miles (three to four
natural radiation surrounding the
times higher than the
Earth, and many other phenomena.
Space Shuttle). The
Approximately 40 sounding rockets
experiment time above the
and 45 balloons are launched each
Earth's atmosphere ranges
year from various locations around
up to 15 minutes.
the world. Financial support for
university investigators is provided
Parachutes are used to
by the Sounding Rocket and
frequently on mission support and
recover the instruments for reuse,
Balloon Programs, and many
expeditions. They provide
and special high-altitude
graduate students have earned
assistance and train foreign
parachutes sometimes are used for
degrees based on participation.
nationals. We have four branches:
science purposes.
Aircraft Programs, Range
Management, Data Acquisition, and
Launch Vehicles.
Projects Division
Since 1959, the NASA Sounding
Rocket Program has conducted
more than 2,400 launches with a
vehicle success rate of 95 percent
and a mission success rate of 86
percent. Balloons can travel up to
30 miles in altitude, and their flight
lifetime ranges from several hours
to several days. Since 1976, more
than 400 balloons have been
launched with an overall success
rate of 85 percent.
The Division plans, manages, and
conducts the NASA Sounding
Final preparations for a spin balance test
Wallops Orbital Tracking Station supports
Rocket Program, other Lighter-
are conducted on a Black Brant IX
such satellite programs as COBE, IUE, and
Than-Air Program activities, and
sounding rocket payload section.
Nimbus-7.
the NASA Balloon Program,
Skill Needs
There are opportunities within the Suborbital Projects and Operations Directorate in the following disciplines:
Aerospace Engineering
Computer Programming
Electrical Engineering
Aircraft Piloting
Electronics Engineering
Scientific and Technical Photography
Mechanical Engineering
Resources Analysis and Management
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
SUBORBITAL PROJECTS AND OPERATIONS
DIRECTOR
DEPUTY DIRECTOR
PROGRAM SAFETY OFFICER
RELIABILITY AND QUALITY ASSURANCE OFFICER
AVIATION SAFETY OFFICER
SUBORBITAL RESOURCES
MANAGEMENT
OFFICE
ENGINEERING
OPERATIONS
PROJECTS
DIVISION
DIVISION
DIVISION
Earth Sciences Directorate
Our goal is to develop a better
ground-based, airborne, and
areas such as global physical
understanding of processes
spaceflight observing activities.
system modeling, interactive
affecting global change and the
The Directorate is evidence that
process studies, and solar-
distribution of natural resources
Goddard is a center-of-excellence
terrestrial relationships are research
through research, development,
in research and a major location
topics.
and application of advanced space
and resource for Earth observation
technologies. The program ranges
activities.
from basic research, including
modeling and data analysis, to the
Related aspects of oceanography,
development of sensor systems for
hydrology, and climate research in
NASA/GSFC
Directorate activities, ongoing and
Conduct oceans research,
Representation of global biomass in the
future, include:
including development of remote-
oceans and on land as retrieved from the
sensing algorithms and analysis
Coastal Zone Color Scanner (CZCS) and
the Advanced Very High Resolution
Develop an understanding of
and interpretation of data.
Radiometer (AVHRR).
solar, anthropogenic, and natural
influences on the atmosphere and
Acquire and analyze data on plate
related systems that affect the
tectonics, continental and
habitability of the Earth.
regional crustal deformation, and
local earthquake hazards.
Study long-term global climate
change.
Develop, test, apply, and evaluate
algorithms for processing satellite
image and non-image data.
The Laboratory for Atmospheres
Our staff plan, manage, and
execute a comprehensive
theoretical and experimental
research program dedicated to
advancing our knowledge and
understanding of the atmospheres
of the Earth and other planets. A
large portion of the research
program is aimed specifically at
advancing our ability to predict the
weather and climate of Earth. The
Laboratory also identifies
requirements for observations of
atmospheric processes by satellite
or other techniques; conceives,
designs, develops, and analyzes
electronic, electromagnetic and
mechanical sensors operating in
the ultraviolet, infrared, optical, and
and soils and soil moisture.
combines analysis of
radio portions of the EM spectrum
Instruments and data systems are
comprehensive global data sets,
for remote and in-situ exploration
developed; new, one-of-a-kind
derived mainly from spacecraft
and examination of terrestrial and
ocean, atmosphere, and terrestrial
observations, with global models of
planetary atmospheres; and
remote-sensing instruments,
atmospheric, land surface, and
provides for analysis and
covering the visible and infrared
oceanic processes. The research
interpretation of data to further our
spectra, are designed, fabricated,
approach includes study of past
knowledge of atmospheric
calibrated, and tested by our staff.
changes on Earth such as
phenomena.
paleoclimate changes and study of
The Goddard Institute for Space
other planets as an aid to prediction
The Laboratory for Terrestrial
Studies (GISS)
of future evolution of the Earth on a
Physics
Located on the campus of
planetary scale.
This Laboratory researches
Columbia University in New York
applications of remote sensing and
City, GISS conducts a broad
other space technology to advance
program of research in space and
the state of knowledge in the Earth
Earth sciences for current and
sciences and to aid in the improved
future Goddard programs. Current
management of the resources of
research emphasizes a broad study
the Earth. Most of the effort is
of global change, an inter-
focused in specific research areas,
disciplinary research initiative
such as investigation of the Earth's
addressing natural and man-made
geoid, gravity, and magnetic fields
changes in our environment that
for application to crustal and ocean
occur on time scales of decades
dynamics, Earth structure, and
and affect the habitability of our
earthquake mechanisms;
planet. A key objective is
understanding motions and
prediction of atmospheric and
mechanics associated with plate
climate changes. The research
tectonics; studies of the spatial and
temporal dynamics of land features;
125
FAR LEFT: Researcher setting up
instrumentation on the Black Rapids
Glacier in Alaska.
LEFT: The CRAY YMP is a supercomputer
used to support NASA-funded researchers
in space and Earth sciences.
RIGHT: Scientists on an African field trip
measure plant spectral reflectance for later
comparison with satellite data.
systems and techniques associated
with remote and in-situ sensing.
IIIIII
The uses of remote sensing in
research on the Earth environment,
global habitability, global
biogeochemical cycles, and global
change are demonstrated through
flight programs and analyses.
The Laboratory for Hydrospheric
geodetic measurements of plate
Processes
The Crustal Dynamics Project
motion, plate deformation, regional
Our staff perform theoretical and
Project staff develop and apply
deformation, and polar motion.
experimental research on various
space geodetic techniques to study
components of the hydrological
the dynamic motions of the Earth.
The Space Data and Computing
cycle and its role in the Earth
An extensive measurement
Division
system. The program observes,
program is using both Very Long
This Division makes data from
understands, and models the global
Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) and
satellites and other sources
oceans and ice, surface hydrology,
Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR). The
accessible and useful to an
and mesoscale atmospheric
Crustal Dynamics Project's
international, multidisciplinary
processes. The Laboratory
developments of SLR and VLBI
research community. The Division
researches Earth observational
technology result in very accurate
operates three computational
facilities for analyzing data,
The appearance of the ozone hole as shown
simulating complex processes, and
by the Nimbus-7 Total Ozone Mapping
storing and distributing data. The
Spectrometer (TOMS). TOMS measures
NASA Center for Computational
the total column of ozone using back-
Sciences enables research in a full
scattered sunlight. Dobson units represent
range of space and Earth science
the number of ozone molecules in the
atmospheric column. One thousand
disciplines. The National Space
Dobson units is equivalent to a 1-cm-thick
Science Data Center staff develop
layer of pure ozone at standard pressures
state-of-the-art data management
and temperatures. Nimbus 7 was launched
systems, data visualization
in November 1978, and TOMS has been
techniques, distributed data bases,
taking data for 12 years. The data from
TOMS are analyzed at Goddard.
and new technologies for mass
storage. The Science Information
Systems Center researches
advanced data-systems
architectures and satellite
information-processing techniques.
obson
375
625
Skill Needs
There are opportunities within the Earth Sciences Directorate in the following disciplines:
Sensor/Instrument Engineering
Oceanography
Mathematics
Geophysics/Geodynamics/Geology
Meteorology/Climatology
Hydrology
Atmospheric Physics
Botany/Biology/Forestry/Agronomy
Computer Sciences
Glaciology
Data System Analysis/Data System Engineering
Resource Analysis
Geography
Administrative Operation Analysis
EARTH SCIENCES
DIRECTOR
DEPUTY DIRECTOR
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR FOR PROJECTS ENGINEERING
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR FOR SCIENCE
CHIEF SCIENTIST FOR METEOROLOGY
EARTH SCIENCES
CRUSTAL DYNAMICS
ADMINISTRATION
PROJECT
AND RESOURCES
MANAGEMENT OFFICE
LABORATORY
LABORATORY FOR
SPACE DATA
GODDARD
LABORATORY FOR
FOR
TERRESTRIAL
AND COMPUTING
INSTITUTE FOR
HYDROSPHERIC
ATMOSPHERES
PHYSICS
DIVISION
SPACE STUDIES
PROCESSES
Benefits
The Goddard Space Flight
Center recognizes that its
employees are its greatest
asset and is committed to
fostering an environment
that provides career
development, training,
attractive benefits, services,
and facilities.
prepare employees for complex
duties and increased responsibility.
Program activities include:
preparation of an Individual
Development Plan (IDP) by
each intern with the assistance
of the supervisor;
the establishment of a
mentoring relationship with a
senior staff member;
participation in various
orientation activities;
formal on-the-job training; and
the completion of a PIP project
and presentation of results to
a panel along with a final
written report.
Developmental Opportunities
Each year, the Center sponsors on-
The Center considers employee
site, 150-200 courses in science,
Part-Time Graduate Study
training and development to be
engineering, administration,
Program (PTGSP)
essential to its mission.
management, and computing. A
The PTGSP allows employees to
Center goals are to:
Learning Center with over 160
pursue graduate studies at local
keep employees abreast of
different courses, provides further
colleges and universities in areas
opportunity for independent
relevant to their work and the
knowledge and new
developments in their respective
learning through video and
mission of the Center. Participants
fields of specialization;
computer-based training.
may use a specific amount of work
hours for academic studies while
provide employees with the
Goddard's training programs
include:
the remaining work week is spent
necessary skills and
knowledge to deal effectively
Professional Intern Program
on regularly assigned duties.
The Center funds tuition, books,
with current and changing
(PIP)
programs, procedures,
The PIP Program is a
and related laboratory and
equipment fees.
technology, and mission
developmental program for entry-
requirements;
level scientists, engineers and
Masters of Science Program
professional administrative
The Masters of Science program is
meet future leadership
employees. This program is
a cooperative endeavor between
requirements through the
designed to acquaint employees
George Washington University's
systematic identification,
with NASA and Center missions
School of Engineering and Applied
selection, and development of
and operations, integrate
Science and the Goddard Space
supervisors and managers.
employees into the workforce, and
Flight Center. The program gives
qualified employees a chance to
increase their technical knowledge
and skills in areas relevant to the
work being performed at the
Center. Courses are held on-site
at Goddard after normal working
hours.
Masters of Engineering
Management (MEM)
The MEM is conducted on-site at
the Goddard Space Flight Center
by George Washington University.
The program provides an
opportunity for qualified employees
to further develop their skills to
The Learning Center provides employees the opportunity for independent study.
meet Center skill needs in
technical administration and
Flexitour provides employees
Washington's Birthday
management of Goddard's
the opportunity to establish start
Memorial Day
time between 6:30 and 9:00 a.m.
programs and projects. Tuition
Independence Day
Your work schedule will
costs for the program are Center-
Labor Day
funded. Courses are held on-site
be determined by yourself and
Columbus Day
at Goddard after normal working
your immediate supervisor, based
Veteran's Day
hours.
on your preferences and your
Thanksgiving
work unit needs.
Christmas
Federal Employment
Leave
Health Care
Benefits
Beginning your first day on the job,
You can enroll in one of several
you earn 13 days of annual leave
comprehensive health insurance
Paid Moving Expenses
each year. This is personal time
plans, with approximately 75
Concerned about the cost of
off that you schedule with the
percent of the cost paid by the
relocation? You may be eligible
approval of your immediate super-
Center. There are two major types
for reimbursement of certain travel
visor. You earn 20 days of leave
of plans:
expenses and the shipment of
after three years of employment;
Fee-for-Service Plans
household goods.
and a maximum of 26 days of
You may choose your own
Flexible Work Schedule
leave after 15 years of service.
physician, hospital, and other
Employees work a basic 40-hour
You also earn 13 days of sick
health care providers. These
work week, 8 1/2-hour workday,
leave each year. This leave may
plans reimburse you or the
with 1/2 hour for lunch.
be used for illness, doctor
health care provider for covered
appointments, or for maternity.
services.
Unused sick leave is accumulated
Prepaid Plans
indefinitely and thus provides
These are the Comprehensive
continuation of pay should an
Medical Plans/Health
employee have a long illness.
Maintenance Organizations
Other types of leave are available
that provide or arrange for health
for specific situations (e.g., jury
care by designated plan
duty or military service).
physicians, hospitals, and other
Paid Holidays
providers in particular locations.
Federal holidays are observed with
Life Insurance
pay:
In addition, you may elect low-cost
New Years' Day
life insurance. You are eligible
Martin Luther King's Birthday
to enroll in two group life
The Fitness Lab offers an array of
Inauguration Day
insurance plans:
exercise equipment.
Federal Employee Group Life
are eligible to receive periodic
An Exchange Store which offers
Insurance (FEGLI)
salary increases.
all employees and their families
available to all Federal
discounted tickets to theaters,
Accelerated Promotion
employees.
sporting events, and local area
Entry-level (GS-7) Engineers and
attractions. Items and mementos
NASA Employees Benefit
Scientists are eligible for promotion
are also available at reduced costs.
Association (NEBA)
to the GS-9 level in six months.
available to NASA
A Souvenir/Gift Shop located at
employees.
Career Promotion Eligibility
the Visitor Center offers reduced
The amount of coverage you elect
The career ladder is as follows:
prices on merchandise through
depends on your basic annual
To GS-9
6 months*
GEWA special discount privileges.
salary. Additional life insurance is
To GS-11
1 year*
also available.
To GS-12
1 year*
Club Activities
To GS-13
1 year*
A few of the over 50 clubs on
Awards and Recognition
Center sponsored by GEWA
Goddard's success is due to the
*Basic eligibility. Actual promotion may
include: Aerobics, Music and
creativity, innovation, and
vary at each grade level depending on
performance.
Drama, Photo, Softball,
performance of its employees. The
Toastmasters, and Travel.
Center's awards program
You and your supervisor will jointly
acknowledges and rewards
develop performance standards
employee contributions.
Other Facilities
that define your job requirements.
Employees are eligible to receive
Your performance will be evaluated
The Center also houses two
cash and honorary awards for
against these standards at least
cafeterias, a credit union, a child
superior work that contributes to
twice each year.
the productivity, economy, or
Informal performance
effectiveness of NASA or Goddard
discussions with your
programs. Awards can be for either
supervisor are
individual or group performance.
encouraged at any
An Employee Suggestion Program
time. This formal
also acknowledges and rewards
and informal
employees for their ideas.
feedback gives you a
Goddard Tour Bus
sense of your
Retirement
achievements and
As a new employee to the Federal
career development.
government, you are automatically
covered by the Federal Employees
Services and
Retirement System (FERS). FERS
is a three-tiered Retirement Plan
Facilities
consisting of:
GEWA
The Center's child care facility offers creative play and
Social Security
The Goddard
development to chidren ages 2 through kindergarten.
Basic Benefits
Employees Welfare Association
Thrift Savings Plan
care center, a full-service library,
(GEWA) offers activities that foster
Once you retire, after meeting basic
and a travel office for both official
and promote social, athletic,
eligibility requirements, you will
and personal travel.
educational, cultural, and welfare
receive a retirement pension in the
interests for the entire Center
The Goddard Health Unit provides
form of a paid monthly annuity for
workforce.
a wide range of physical programs
the rest of your life.
and counseling services.
Specific facilities and activities
Advancement
maintained and sponsored by
The Goddard Fitness Lab offers
GEWA include:
individual exercise programs,
Salary Increases
monitoring of employees' blood
All employees receive annual cost-
A Recreation Center available to
pressure, body-fat evaluations,
of-living increases, designed to
all GEWA members for on-site
and special programs. The Lab
keep salaries in pace with private-
organization functions such as
features a variety of physical fitness
industry salaries. In addition, you
picnics, dinners, award
equipment.
ceremonies, and parties.
An Employee Assistance
Program is also available to you to
help you deal with stress, financial,
marital, and other personal
problems.
Employees are also offered free
annual physical examinations.
Employee Services Area
The Center's Office of Human
Resources' Employee Services
Area houses brochures, pamphlets,
publications, and videos about a
wide range of personnel
information. Such information
includes job opportunities, health
The Washington Mall
and life insurance, retirement,
career development and training,
housing and relocation services,
and other items of interest to
employees and the public.
Goddard's Communication
The Center emphasizes
communication to its workforce.
The communication network
consists of daily bulletins,
newsletters and frequent
The Air and Space Museum
announcements that keep you
informed of current and future
The Washington D.C. metropolitan area
activities.
offers diverse cultural and recreational
activities to suit any lifestyle.
The Surrounding Area
Goddard is ideally located between
The Baltimore Inner Harbor
Washington, D.C. and Baltimore,
Maryland. We are surrounded by
outstanding cultural, recreational,
Goddard
and historical points of interest.
Space Flight
Baltimore
Center
The Washington, D.C. metropolitan
area offers a lifestyle for everyone.
Washington
Annapolis
Washington National
D.C.
Getting around the area is easier
Airport. Further, recreation
than one expects. There are five
and entertainment opportunities
MARYLAND
Metrorail stations that link the
are numerous and will enable you
county with the Nation's Capital
to fully pursue and enjoy your
and several others are under
personal interests.
construction. We have the historic
Union Station located near The
As for education, colleges and
U.S. Capitol, the Amtrak Metroliner,
universities in the commuting area
the Maryland Rail Commuter Line,
offer undergraduate and graduate
and Ride Sharers Matching
courses of study.
George Washington University
services. In addition, we are
They include:
Howard University
serviced by three major airports:
American University
The Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore-Washington International
The Catholic University of
Mary Washington College
Airport, Dulles Airport and the
America
University of Maryland
To WASH. BALT. PARKWAY
46
Baltimore Washington (BWI)
International Airport
To Hagerstown
Battimore
70
95
Greenbelt
NASA
CAPITOL BELTWAY
1
GODDARD
Greenbelt (3) Rd.
SPACE FLIGHT
MD
(MD.
CENTER
Exit 22A
DULLES INTL.
4955
AIRPORT
WASH. D.C.
50
To Annapolis
214
VA
Potomac River
NATIONAL AIRPORT
495
CAPITOL
To Richmond 95 South
The Maryland. Goddard To Space Flight Center (GSFC) is located on MD. 193 (Greenbeit Road) in
495) to exit 22A reach GSFC from Maryland or the Tysons Corner area, take the Greenbelt,
east to NASA. If the Baltimore-Washington (B-W) Parkway, North, and MD. 193 Beltway (Interstate
395 to New York you are coming from Washington, DC or other parts of Virginia, Greenbelt Road
(MD. 193). Avenue to the B-W Parkway. The first exit after the Beltway Is Greenbelt take Interstate Road
Take MD. 193 Greenbelt Road east and follow the signs to NASA/GSFC.
TO GATE NO. 3
PARKWAY GATE
SIMULATOR
DOME
POND
25
GODDARD RD.
28
29
15
GATE NO. 4
20
EAST GATE
10
19
90
26
RD TRACK The 7 INIW
TIROS RD.
27
5
16W
16
18
97
4
22
WT
31A
SUB
EXPLORER
23
STA
21
86
24
87
8
0
12
.UU
99
17
S.C.S. ROAD
31
11
-
98
6
DELTA
RD.
3
14
88
30
1
1A
2
AEROBEE RD.
MAIN GATE
9
13
GREENBELT
GREENBELT ROAD
+
N
500
0
500
GRAPHIC SCALE
NASA Facts
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
Goddard Space Flight Center
Greenbelt, Maryland 20771
AC 301 286-8955
Goddard Space Flight Center
Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland
History
Our Mission
On January 15, 1959, by action of the National Aero-
The mission of Goddard Space Flight Center is to
nautics and Space Administration (NASA) Administra-
expand knowledge of the Earth and its environment,
tor, four divisions (Construction Division, Space Science
the solar system and the universe through observations
Division, Theoretical Division and the Vanguard Divi-
from space. To assure that the Nation maintains lead-
sion) of NASA were designated as the new Beltsville
ership in this endeavor, the Center is committed to
Space Center on land which was originally part of the
excellence in scientific investigation, in the development
Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Beltsville,
and operation of space systems and in the advancement
Maryland. Later that year, the Center was formally
of essential technologies.
renamed the Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) "in
commemoration of Dr. Robert H. Goddard, American
pioneer in rocket research."
GSFC has played a major role in space progress almost
from its opening. Its first employees were the 157
people of the Vanguard project who were transferred
to Goddard from the Naval Research Laboratory. The
first satellite under the project control of Goddard was
Explorer VI, launched in August 1959, and it provided
the world its first image of Earth from space. This was
only the beginning of Goddard's long history in the
GSFC is responsible for the majority of NASA's near
Nation's space program.
Earth-orbiting spacecraft.
1
Organization
DIRECTOR
DEPUTY DIRECTOR
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR OF
COMPTROLLER
FLIGHT
ASSURANCE
OFFICE OF
EQUAL
NASA OFFICE OF
OFFICE OF
OFFICE OF
OFFICE OF
OPPORTUNITY
INSPECTOR
HUMAN
PUBLIC
CHIEF
UNIVERSITY
PROGRAMS
GENERAL
RESOURCES
AFFAIRS
COUNSEL
PROGRAMS
OFFICE
GSFC FIELD OFFICE
DIRECTOR OF
DIRECTOR OF
DIRECTOR OF
DIRECTOR OF
DIRECTOR OF
DIRECTOR OF
DIRECTOR OF
MISSION
SUBORBITAL
MANAGEMENT
FLIGHT
SPACE
EARTH
OPERATIONS AND
ENGINEERING
PROJECTS AND
OPERATIONS
PROJECTS
SCIENCES
SCIENCES
DATA SYSTEMS
OPERATIONS
Under the leadership of its Director, Dr. John M.
systems support for near-Earth spaceflight missions.
Dale L. Fahnestock is the Director.
Klineberg, the Center is managed by a system of direc-
torates. The directorates and their functions are:
Space Sciences (Code 600) Carries out research in
space sciences and provides scientific counsel to other
Office of the Director (Code 100) - Provides overall
directorates that are working on space science projects.
management and coordinates control over the diver-
Dr. Stephen S. Holt is the Director.
sified activities of the Center.
Engineering (Code 700) - Provides engineering exper-
Management Operations (Code 200) - Provides
tise and support for the design, development, and test-
business and institutional support and services necessary
ing of components, subsystems, systems and spacecraft
for the successful accomplishment of the Center's scien-
for a variety of projects. In addition, Goddard's en-
tific and technical missions. Sharon C. Foster is the
gineers consult with other NASA centers, other agen-
Director.
cies, industry, and other countries in the area of auto-
Office of Flight Assurance (Code 300) - Responsible
mated space systems and related technology. Thomas
for safety, reliability and quality assurance programs to
E. Huber is the Director.
ensure flight mission success. This includes the control
Suborbital Projects and Operations (Code 800), -
of electronic parts, materials and processes. The office
Responsible for the overall management, operation and
also is responsible for independent design reviews of
support of NASA's sounding rocket and balloon pro-
technical and flight safety aspects of spacecraft and
grams and the conduct of aeronautical research. This
instruments. Robert C. Baumann is the Director.
function is located at the Wallops Flight Facility, Wal-
Flight Projects, (Code 400) - Plans, organizes and
lops Island, Virginia. Joseph T. McGoogan is the Dir-
directs the management of the Center's major flight
ector.
projects, new start studies, international projects, and
Earth Sciences (Code 900) - Conducts scientific
the small and medium class expendable launch vehicles.
studies in the Earth sciences leading to a better under-
Vernon J. Weyers is the Director.
standing of processes affecting global change and the
Mission Operations and Data Systems (Code 500) -
distribution of natural resources through research, de-
Plans, designs, develops and operates spaceflight track-
velopment, and application of space technologies. Dr.
ing and communications networks and provides data
Vincent V. Salomonson is the Director.
2
Workforce
Almost 13,500 persons work at the Goddard Space
Major Contractors at Goddard,
Flight Center at all of its sites. This number includes
Greenbelt, Maryland
more than 4,000 civil servants and approximately 9,500
contract personnel (Greenbelt, Maryland - 3,722 civil
The following is a listing of those contractors perform-
servants and 8,654 contract personnel; Wallops Island,
ing work at the Goddard Space Flight Center, Green-
belt, Maryland, which employ more than 50 employees.
Virginia - 372 civil servants and 822 contract personnel;
Goddard Institute for Space Studies in New York, New
Advanced Computer Systems Inc.
York - 23 civil servants and 43 contract personnel). Of
Associate University for Research and Astronomy
this number, more than 3,600 civil servants and 7,500
Bendix FieldEngineering Corp.
contract personnel live in the State of Maryland (1,695
Centennial Contractors Inc.
civil servants and 3,061 contract personnel in Prince
Computer Sciences Corp.
George's County).
City Wide Security Services
Eagle Maintenance Service Inc.
Total GSFC Workforce
E.L. Hamm and Associates Inc.
Engineering and Economic Research Systems
Civil Servants
Contract Personnel
Fairchild Space and Defense
Clerical/typist
494
376
Jackson and Tull Inc.
Kenrob and Associates
Professional/
Lockheed Missiles and Space Corp.
administrative
825
1,949
McDonnell Douglas Space Systems
NSI Technology Services Corp.
NYMA Inc.
Scientist/engineer
2,264
4,519
Ogden Logistics Services
Raytheon Service Co.
Technician
489
1,836
Science Systems Applications Inc.
Swales and Associates Inc.
Wage Grade
74
829
ST Systems Corp.
Unisys
Facilities
Universities Space Research Associates
There are 30 major buildings, providing approximately
2,500,000 square feet of space, located at the Green-
belt, Maryland, site of the Goddard Space Flight Cen-
five-shift, 24-hours-a-day, 365-days-a-year basis.
ter, situated on approximately 1,200 acres.
EOSDIS will provide approximately 200,000 square feet
of office and data processing and archiving space.
Goddard's acreage includes four additional nearby
Occupancy is scheduled for 1994, with a full com-
facilities. Of these four facilities, Goddard owns the
plement on board by 1997. This facility will serve as a
Propulsion Research Facility and the Magnetic Test
key node in the Earth Observing System (EOS) com-
Facility. The Optical Research Facility and the Anten-
munications system as well as a distribution center for
na Range are held under revocable permit from the
Earth data from numerous sources such as the Total
Beltsville Agricultural Research Center (BARC). Soil
Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS) and Tropical
Conservation Service Road, which divides the space
Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM). The facility will
center's East Campus and West Campus, is owned by
house systems necessary for overall management of the
Goddard Space Flight Center and BARC.
EOS ground system and the largest of seven nationwide
Distributed Active Archive Centers necessary for
In the near future, Goddard plans the addition of three
archiving a significant portion of the EOS observational
major facilities to the Greenbelt campus. These in-
data. It also will house the Mission Operations and
clude the Quality Assurance and Detector Development
instrument control center functions needed to monitor
Laboratory (QUADDL) which will house approximately
and control the EOS space platforms and their suite of
40 civil servants and contract personnel in 58,800
instruments while in Earth orbit.
square feet of space. This building is scheduled for
completion in 1993 and will provide office and
The third facility is the proposed Earth Systems Science
laboratory space for the Materials Branch and a state-
Building (ESSB) which will house approximately 1,000
of-the-art Class 100 clean room laboratory for the
day shift civil servant and contractor personnel. The
Electron Device Development Section.
building will include 385,000 square feet of space and
will house the present complement of Goddard Earth
Another facility is the Earth Observing System Data
Science Directorate Laboratories, including the Labora-
Information System (EOSDIS), which will house up to
tory for Atmospheres, the Laboratory for Terrestrial
900 civil servants and contract personnel working on a
Physics, the Laboratory for Hydrospheric Processes, and
3
the Crustal Dynamics Project, all of which are at pre-
NOAA
sent scattered across the Center in seven different
Goddard Space Flight Center designs and builds weather
buildings. In addition, the ESSB will provide accom-
satellites for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Ad-
modations for guest investigators associated with the
ministration. NOAA weather satellites track storms, pin-
EOS program.
point temperature differences in the oceans, and warn of
early freezes and melting snow and ice from low-Earth
Budget
orbit.
Diffuse X-Ray Spectrometer
As illustrated in the pie chart below, the Goddard
Measuring the spectral distribution of near-by stars, the
budget was approximately $2.5 billion for fiscal year
Diffuse X-Ray Spectrometer (DXS) will help confirm or
1991.
disprove theories on how the present state of our galaxy
came to be and how galaxies evolve.
Space Station and
Geotail
Other Programs - 4.4%
Aeronautics and
Geotail will use lunar-swingby orbit adjustment to place it
Space Flight 7.0%
Space Technology .4%
in the region of Earth magnetotail, an extended region of
the Earth magnetic field on the side of Earth opposite
Institutional
Operations
the Sun. Here the spacecraft will study charged particles
14.5%
and plasma characteristic resulting from Solar activity.
Space Science
and Applications
LAGEOS-II
49.4%
The Laser Geodynamic Satellite II (LAGEOS-II) will pro-
mote research in Earth Sciences by providing very precise
Space
satellite geodetic measurements.
Operations
GOES
24.3%
Direct Funds
Acting as NOAA's agent under 1973 agreement, Goddard
Total Research & Development/Space Flight, Control & Data Communications $1893.4M
procures spacecraft and instruments for the National
Total Research & Program Management/Construction of Facilities
$339.6M
Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA). The Geosta-
Total Reimbursable Funds (Est.)
$250.0M
tionary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES)
Total $2483.0M
series provide observations of cloud cover, atmospheric
temperature and moisture profiles, as well as severe storm
Goddard Launches 1991 - 1993
warnings and Search and Rescue Operations.
GGS Wind
Gamma Ray Observatory
The Wind Mission of the Global Geospace Science
The second of NASA's "Great Observatories" the Gamma
(GGS) Program is designed to determine solar wind input
Ray Observatory (GRO) collects a broader range and
properties including plasma waves, energetic particles, and
higher quality gamma-ray data than ever before possible,
electric and magnetic fields for magnetospheric and iono-
providing information about the distribution and nature of
spheric studies.
gamma radiation throughout the Universe.
Advanced TDRS
Tracking and Data Relay Satellite
Using state-of-the-art space technology, the Advanced
The Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS)
Tracking and Data Relay Satellites will provide additional
permits movement of large volumes of data from near-
satellites to the Space Network for tracking and com-
Earth satellites with great speed. Consisting of four
munication relay for near-Earth orbiting satellites.
satellites in geostationary orbit (22,300 miles altitude) and
ASTRO-D
ground facilities at White Sands, New Mexico, the TDRS
In this cooperative mission with Japan, Goddard will pro-
spacecraft acquire data from other orbiting user-satellites
vide four mirrors for a shuttle-carried payload designed to
and relay that data to the ground station.
perform astronomical X-ray spectroscopy.
TOMS
GGS Polar
The Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS), identi-
The Polar Mission of the Global Geospace Science
cal to the instruments flown on the Nimbus-7 spacecraft
(GGS) Program will study the polar ionospheric region
launched in 1978, was launched aboard the Soviet space-
looking at energy input with a full range of plasma phy-
craft Meteor-3 in an international effort to gain more
sics fields and particles "in situ" and remote sensing
data on the depleting ozone layer.
instruments.
Upper Atmospheric Research Satellite
Hubble Space Telescope Servicing
Ten scientific instruments aboard the Upper Atmosphere
The instruments on the Hubble telescope are modular,
Research Satellite (UARS) will collect data to help scien-
tists better understand the mechanism controlling the
designed for quick and simple replacement, much like
upper atmospheric structure and its response to natural
changing tapes in a video cassette recorder. Because
replacing Hubble's mirror in space or bringing the tele-
and man-made variations.
scope back to Earth are not practical, scientists plan to
Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer
compensate for the mirror's imperfection with the "second
A group of four telescopes comprising the Extreme
generation" scientific instruments, replaced on orbit.
Ultraviolet Explorer (EUVE) are designed to produce a
highly-sensitive survey of the sky. The spacecraft will
look at bright extreme ultraviolet sources and be used to
study stellar evolution and the local stellar population.
September 1991
4
3
RELEASE: 92-64
EUVE SATELLITE TO EXPLORE NEWLY OPENED WINDOW
The extreme ultraviolet is one of the least-studied portions of the
electromagnetic spectrum. Now, with the launch of NASA's Extreme
Ultraviolet Explorer (EUVE) satellite, this new window on the
universe will be opened to detailed study.
EUVE, NASA's 67th Explorer mission, will be the first satellite to
make both spectroscopic and wide-band observations over the entire
extreme ultraviolet (EUV) region. It is scheduled for launch aboard a
McDonnell Douglas Delta II expendable launch vehicle from Cape
Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., on June 4, 1992. EUVE is designed
to operate for at least 18 months from a 340-mile Earth orbit and will
orbit the Earth every 96 minutes.
This unique satellite consists of four telescopes -- the most
powerful set of EUV telescopes ever flown. Three instruments will
map the entire sky to determine the existence, direction, brightness
and temperature of sources of extreme ultraviolet radiation. The
fourth instrument is designed to make spectroscopic observations to
determine the composition and temperature of the EUV sources
discovered during the sky mapping. Some of the objects EUVE is
likely to detect and study are white dwarf stars, binary star systems
and the hot outer atmospheres (coronae) of stars similar to the sun.
From the many objects of astronomical interest discovered during
the EUVE all-sky survey and other objects already thought to be
observable in the extreme ultraviolet, guest observers will propose to
study targets using the spacecraft's fourth instrument, the extreme
ultraviolet spectrometer.
The EUVE is one of a long line of relatively low-cost, small-to-
moderately sized missions that make up the Explorer program. Since
the Explorer Program began in 1958, these missions have given
scientists worldwide a new understanding of astronomy and
astrophysics, providing them an opportunity to probe nearly every
region of the electromagnetic spectrum from infrared radiation to
gamma rays.
Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md., is responsible for the
design, construction, integration, checkout and operation of EUVE.
The spacecraft's science instrumentation was designed, constructed
and calibrated by the Space Science Laboratories of the University of
California, Berkeley. The EUVE is managed by Goddard for NASA's
Office of Space Science and Applications.
- end -
Ocean Topography Experiment (TOPEX/POSEIDON)
Objective
The Ocean Topography Experiment (TOPEX/POSEIDON) is designed to: 1) gather information about the
global oceans' general circulation and their relationship to climate change using precise measurements of
ocean surface topography; 2) increase knowledge of the interaction between atmosphere and ocean,
including the exchange of heat and momentum; and 3) make detailed maps of currents, eddies and other
features of ocean circulation.
Description
TOPEX/POSEIDON is a joint NASA and French Space Agency (CNES) project that includes two French
and three NASA instruments. Using satellite radar altimetry, the mission will make substantial contributions
to the understanding of global ocean dynamics. TOPEX/POSEIDON is a vital contribution to two major
international ocean/atmosphere research programs: the World Ocean Circulation Experiment (WOCE) and
the Tropical Ocean Global Atmospheric (TOGA) program, both of which are components of the World
Climate Research Program.
Launch Date:
July 1992
Payload:
5 instruments
Orbit:
66 degree inclination; 1,336 km (721 nm) altitude,
nominally circular
Design Life:
3 years; expendables for 5 years total
Length:
5.5 m (18 ft)
Weight:
2,700 kg (5,940 lbs)
Diameter:
3.5 m (11 ft)
Launch Vehicle:
Ariane IV
International Participation:
France
Instruments/Investigations/Principa Investigators
NASA Altimeter (ALT) - (Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory)
Solid State Altimeter (SSALT) - (Toulouse Space Center - France)
TOPEX Microwave Radiometer (TMR) - (Jet Propulsion Laboratory)
Determination d'Orbite et Radiopositionement Integre par Satellite (DORIS) - (Toulouse Space
Center - France)
Global Positioning System Demonstration Receiver (GPSDR) Experiment - (Jet Propulsion Laboratory)
Mission Events
Program start: October 1986
Satellite contract award: June 1987
Preliminary Design Review: October 1988
Critical Design Review: May 1989
Start sensor integration: May 1991
Satellite delivery: April 1992
73
Ocean Topography Experiment (TOPEX/POSEIDON) (Continued)
Management
NASA Headquarters
L. Jones, Program Manager
W. Patzert, Program Scientist
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
C. Yamarone, Project Manager
L. Fu, Project Scientist
French Space Agency (CNES)
J. Fellous, Program Manager
A. Ratier, Program Scientist
M. Dorrer, Project Manager
M. Lefebuke, Project Scientist
Major Contractor
Fairchild Space Company
Status
A Memorandum of Understanding between NASA and CNES was signed March 1987. A contract was
awarded to Fairchild for satellite development. Significant progress was made in the manufacture of the
satellite subsystems and sensors during 1990. Flight hardware fabrication was completed in early 1991.
Integration of the spacecraft bus, instrument module and instruments began in September 1991 and is
expected to be completed by April 1992. The spacecraft will then undergo performance and environmen-
tal acceptance testing to support a May 1992 delivery of the satellite to the Kourou launch site in French
Guiana for integration with the Ariane IV launch vehicle. Launch of TOPEX/POSEIDON is scheduled
for July 1992.
Ocean Topography Experiment
74
Small-Class Explorers (SMEX)
Objective
The objectives of the Small-Class Explorers (SMEX) are to enable new areas of exploration and special
topic investigations in space astrophysics, and atmospheric and space plasma physics; and to provide a
quick reaction research capability, through small sized missions and frequent launch opportunities.
Description
SMEX payloads are modest size, modest capability payloads, up to 500 pounds, which make major
contributions a number of NASA's space science and applications disciplines.
The Solar, Anomalous, and Magnetospheric Particle Explorer (SAMPEX) will be a Zenith-pointing
satellite in near-polar orbit which will carry a payload of four particle detectors, each of which addresses
a subset of the required measurements. The instruments can measure the electron and ion composition
of energetic particle populations from approximately 0.4 million electron Volts (MeV)/nucleon to
hundreds of MeV/nucleon using a coordinated set of detectors of excellent charge and mass resolution,
and with higher sensitivity than previously flown instruments. SAMPEX will: 1) provide measurements
on how some ions from partially ionized plasmas such as the solar corona and the very local interstellar
medium are energized to nearly the speed of light by shocks or other means and reach the Earth; and,
2) monitor fluxes of fast electrons which come from space onto the Earth's atmosphere and are important
in the chain of chemical reactions leading to the formation and depletion of ozone.
The Fast Auroral Snapshot Explorer (FAST) will collect measurements of electrical and magnetic
fields and simultaneously correlate these with their effects on the electron and ions at altitudes of 350 to
4,200 kilometers with very high time resolution. These observations will be complemented by data from
other spacecraft at higher altitudes, which will be observing fields and particles and photographing the
aurora from above, thus placing FAST observations in global context. At the same time, auroral
observatories and geomagnetic stations on the ground will provide measurements on how energetic
processes that FAST observes affect the Earth.
The Submillimeter Wave Astronomy Satellite (SWAS) will be a three-axis stabilized, stellar-pointing
spacecraft launched into a 38 degree, 600 kilometer, circular orbit. It will have a 71 centimeter off-axis
Cassegrain antenna, state-of-the-art heterodyne receivers cooled to 150 degrees Kelvin (K) by passive
radiators, and the highest quality Acousto-Optical Spectrometer (AOS) to be provided by the Federal
Republic of Germany (FRG). In less than 20 minutes of integration, SWAS will be able to measure the
full range of predicted H2O, O2, C, 13CO, and H2₁₈O abundances in any giant molecular cloud core within
1 kiloparsec. Of particular importance, the AOS will permit simultaneous observation of four of these
lines at any one time, thus maximizing the observing efficiency and substantially increasing confidence
in the spatial coincidence of maps made in the various lines. Local clouds (diameter less than
1 kiloparsec), such as Orion, Taurus, Ophiuchi, and Perseus, will be mapped in each of the four lines. A
survey of galactic Giant Molecular Clouds will be performed, and a number of gas rich extra-galactic
sources, such as the Magellanic Clouds, will be observed.
82
Small-Class Explorers (SMEX) (Continued)
Description (Continued)
SAMPEX
FAST
SWAS
Launch Date:
June 1992
September 1994
June 1995
Payload:
4 particle detectors
4 instruments
telescope & receivers
Orbit:
82 degree inclination;
83 degree inclination;
38 degree inclination;
550 X 657 km
350 X 4,200 km
600 km
(297 X 355 nm)
(189 X 2,268 nm),
(324 nm) altitude
altitude, circular
altitude,
non-Sun synchronous
Design Life:
3 years
1 year
3 years
Length:
1.5 m (5 ft) (stowed)
0.86 m (3 ft) (stowed)
1.65 m (5 ft)
Weight:
158 kg (348 lbs)
162 kg (356 lbs)
218.6 kg (482 lbs)
Diameter:
0.86 m (3 ft) (stowed)
1.17 (stowed)
.97 m (3 ft)
Launch Vehicle:
SCOUT
Enhanced Pegasus
Pegasus
International Participation:
FRG
None
FRG
Instruments/Investigations/Principa Investigator
SAMPEX
Principal Investigator - G. Mason (University of Maryland)
Low Energy Ion Composition Analyzer (LEICA) - (University of Maryland)
Heavy Ion Large Telescope (HILT) - (Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics - FRG)
Mass Spectrometer Telescope (MAST) - (California Institute of Technology)
Proton-Electron Telescope (PET) - (California Institute of Technology)
FAST
Principal Investigator - C. Carlson (University of California-Berkeley)
Electric Field Plasma Experiment - (University of California-Berkeley)
Quadrispherical Electrostatic Electron Analyzer - (University of California-Berkeley)
Time-of-flight Energy Angle Mass Spectrograph - (University of New Hampshire and Lockheed Palo
Alto Research Laboratory)
Magnetometer - (University of California-Los Angeles)
SWAS
Principal Investigator - G. Melnick (Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory)
Antenna, Star Tracker, Instrument Integration - (Ball Aerospace)
Submillimeter Heterodyne Receiver (SHR) - (Millitech)
Acousto-Optical Spectrometer (AOS) - (University of Cologne - FRG)
Solar, Anomalous, and
Magnetospheric Particle Explorer
83
Small-Class Explorers (SMEX) (Continued)
Management
NASA Headquarters
D. Gilman, Program Manager
V. Jones, SAMPEX Program Scientist
L. Caroff, SWAS Program Scientist
E. Whipple, FAST Program Scientist
Goddard Space Flight Center
O. Figueroa, Project Manager
Submillimeter Wave
D. Baker, Project Scientist
Astronomy Satellite
G. Colon, SAMPEX Mission Manager
D. Betz, SWAS Mission Manager
G. Chin, SWAS Mission Scientist
T. Gehringer, FAST Mission Manager
Major Contractors
University of Maryland (SAMPEX)
California Institute of Technology (SAMPEX)
Max Planck Institute (SAMPEX)
Aerospace Corporation (SAMPEX)
Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SWAS)
Ball Aerospace (SWAS)
University of Cologne (SWAS)
Millitech (SWAS)
University of California-Berkeley (FAST)
Lockheed Palo Alto Research Laboratory (FAST)
Fast Auroral Snapshot
University of New Hampshire (FAST)
Explorer
Status
SAMPEX
Critical Design Review (CDR) was completed in June 1990. Instrument integration began in September
1991. Currently in flight integration for a June 1992 launch.
FAST
Preliminary Review completed in November 1991. Currently being developed and built for a 1994
launch.
SWAS
Concept Review was completed during June 1990. The instruments and spacecraft began development
in December 1991 for a 1995 launch.
84
NASA Facts
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
Goddard Space Flight Center
Greenbelt, Maryland 20771
AC 301 286-8955
NASA'S OZONE STUDIES
Barely half a decade ago, stratospheric ozone depletion was
mainly of interest to atmospheric scientists. Today it is a
worldwide environmental concern that has been addressed by
several international accords. Ozone depletion epitomizes the
environmental problems humans face today: it is global; it is the
direct but unintended result of human industry; and remedying it
will have direct and indirect economic consequences. Since the
mid-1970s, NASA has been in the forefront of research into why
and how the ozone layer in the stratosphere, or upper atmosphere,
undergoes regular dramatic changes.
Ozone, a molecule made up of three oxygen atoms, shields life on
Earth from the harmful effects of the ultraviolet radiation of
the Sun. The increased amounts of ultraviolet radiation that
would reach the Earth's surface because of ozone depletion could
increase the incidence of skin cancer and cataracts in humans and
may harm crops and interfere with marine life.
Because the risks of ultraviolet radiation are so serious,
scientists all over the world are working to determine how much
of the ozone-related change in the atmosphere is caused by humans
and how much is attributable to natural processes, such as the
shift in atmospheric dynamics, volcanic activity or the solar
cycle.
Studies have shown that ozone depletion is caused by
complex, coupled chemical reactions. Recent data has indicated
that man-made chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), used in refrigeration,
electronics and other industries, are capable of altering the
levels of atmospheric ozone. Continued build-up of CFCs is
expected to lead to additional ozone loss worldwide. Ongoing
studies are essential to provide the necessary understanding of
the causes of ozone depletion.
For decades, NASA has pioneered the study of the atmosphere
in order to improve life on Earth. The agency's commitment to
environmental research is continuing with Mission to Planet
Earth, a coordinated series of ground-based, airborne and space-
based programs designed to study the Earth as a single, global
environmental system. By analyzing and collecting data from a
variety of experiments, missions and satellites, NASA scientists
hope to contribute to humanity's better understanding its
influences on the atmosphere and the rest of the environment.
Within Mission to Planet Earth, NASA's on-going commitment to
ozone studies includes current and future missions. Five of the
projects are detailed below.
TOMS
Since its launch aboard NASA's Nimbus-7 polar-orbiting
satellite in 1978, the Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS)
has provided reliable, high-resolution mapping of global total
ozone on a daily basis. TOMS, managed by NASA's Goddard Space
Flight Center (GSFC), Greenbelt, Md., is the primary source of
high-resolution global maps about the total ozone content of the
atmosphere.
Analyses of TOMS data have traced in detail the annual
development of the Antarctic "ozone hole," a large area of
intense ozone depletion that occurs between late August and
early October. The ozone hole was discovered through British
ground-based observations in the mid-1980s, but analysis of TOMS
data indicates it has existed since at least 1979.
Recent studies by Goddard scientists using more than 11
years of TOMS data have revealed that the reductions in ozone
over the mid-northern latitudes are approximately twice as
severe as previously believed. The possibility that increased
ultraviolet radiation could reach the Earth's surface during the
beginning of the growing season raises questions of significant
economic, environmental and health effects.
A long-term, consistent record of ozone levels is essential
to understanding and predicting ozone depletion. To ensure that
ozone data will be available throughout the next decade, NASA
will continue the TOMS program using U.S. and foreign launches.
On Aug. 15, 1991, the Soviet Union launched a Meteor-3 satellite
carrying a TOMS instrument. A third TOMS will be launched aboard
a Pegasus booster in 1993, and the Japanese Advanced Earth
Observations Satellite (ADEOS) will carry a fourth TOMS when it
launches in 1995.
UARS
Launched Sept. 12, 1991, the Upper Atmosphere Research
Satellite (UARS) will help scientist better understand the energy
input, chemistry and dynamics of the upper atmosphere and the
coupling between the upper and lower atmosphere. UARS, the first
satellite dedicated to studying stratospheric science, will focus
on the processes that lead to ozone depletion, complementing and
amplifying the measurements of total ozone made by TOMS.
Ten UARS instruments will provide the most complete data on
upper atmospheric energy inputs, winds, and chemical composition
ever gathered. Taken together these observations constitute a
highly integrated investigation of the nature of the upper
atmosphere. In its first two weeks of operation, UARS data
confirmed existing ozone-depletion theories by providing three-
dimensional maps of ozone and chlorine monoxide near the South
Pole during development of the 1991 ozone hole. UARS, developed
and managed by GSFC, ultimately will provide information
that nations around the world can use to make decisions on
environmental policies.
ATLAS
The Atmospheric Laboratory for Applications and Science
(ATLAS), a series of Space Shuttle-Spacelab missions, will carry
two instruments to measure ozone and other chemicals in the upper
atmosphere, complementing and expanding measurements made by
UARS. ATLAS will investigate how Earth's atmosphere and climate
are affected by the Sun and by the products of industrial
complexes and agricultural activities. Scientists from six
countries will conduct 12 investigations in atmospheric science,
solar physics, space plasma physics and astronomy.
ATLAS-1, scheduled to be launched aboard Space Shuttle
Atlantis in early 1992, will be the first in an 11-year series of
missions to study long-term interactions between the atmosphere
and the Sun. Later missions dedicated to Earth science are
planned at about one-year intervals. The series of flights will
return data from very highly calibrated instruments that will
help scientists study trends in the atmosphere and complement
long-term satellite measurements. The ATLAS missions are managed
by Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Ala.
AIRBORNE RESEARCH
Not all of NASA's ozone research is conducted from space.
Periodic expeditions that fly instruments through the atmosphere
aboard research aircraft have greatly expanded our understanding
of ozone depletion. Airborne expeditions over both the Arctic
and Antarctic have led scientist to conclude that chemical
reactions involving human-produced chlorine are the main cause
of ozone depletion in the upper atmosphere.
NASA, in conjunction with the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, the National Science Foundation
and industry, has conducted two airborne campaigns: over the
Antarctic (1987) and Arctic (1989). The second Airborne Arctic
Stratospheric Expedition began in October 1991, with ER-2 flights
over the North Pole from Fairbanks, Alaska. It will continue
through March 1992 with ER-2 flight out of Bangor, Maine, and
DC-8 flight from the Ames Research Center, Mountain View, Calif.
Ames in the managing center for NASA's airborne research
programs.
SSBUV
The Shuttle Solar Backscatter Experiment (SSBUV), a highly
calibrated instrument developed at Goddard for periodic flights
aboard the Space Shuttle, determines ozone levels by measuring
reflected ultraviolet light. SSBUV measures the total amount
and height distribution of ozone in the upper atmosphere and
collects data to calibrate ozone-measuring instruments on other
satellites. Scientists directly compare the SSBUV and satellite-
instrument data as the two pass over the same Earth location
within an hour. These orbital coincidences can occur 17 times a
day.
SSBUV has flown three times: on STS-34 (October 1989), STS-
41 (October 1990) and STS-4333 (August 1991). The next planned
mission is ATLAS-1/STS-45 (early 1992) and regular flights are
scheduled through the 1990s.
SAGE
The Stratospheric Aerosol and Gas Experiment (SAGE), was
first launched in 1979 aboard the Applications Explorer Mission B
spacecraft and provided ozone measurements using the solar
occultation technique until 1981. The application of this
technique represented the first global, high vertical resolution
data set for stratospheric ozone. It is the vertical measurement
orientation and self-calibrating feature which distinguishes SAGE
measurements from those of other space instruments.
SAGE II began operation with the Earth Radiation Budget
Satellite in 1984 and is still healthy today, making important
contributions to studies of the Antarctic ozone hole with high
resolution scrutiny of ozone, water vapor and polar stratospheric
clouds. Most recently, SAGE observed large changes in lower
stratospheric ozone in the northern polar region caused by
energetic protons released from the Sun during intense solar
flares.
The most important result of SAGE measurement has been the
combination of data from both missions, along with the data from
the SAM II experiment on Nimbus-7, which monitors long-term
changes in ozone.
SAGE is managed by Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA.
The Future--Mission to Planet Earth
These five complementary projects are important to
understanding the dynamic processes that can lead to ozone
depletion. As part of NASA's Mission to Planet Earth, the
agency's ozone depletion studies are designed to observe the
Earth of a global scale.
Mission to Planet Earth is NASA's contribution to the multi-
agency U.S. Global Change Research Program. The centerpiece to
Mission to Planet Earth is the Earth Observing System (EOS),
a series of environmental research satellites planned to begin
launches in 1998. The EOS program will continue and integrate the
measurement by TOMS, ATLAS, UARS and SSBUV, and will provide the
first coordinated, simultaneous measurements of the interactions
of the atmosphere, oceans, land surfaces and biosphere. Early
versions of the EOS Data and Information System will incorporate
existing ozone data for the widest possible distribution to
international researchers.
####
January 1992
NASA Facts
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
Goddard Space Flight Center
Greenbelt, Maryland 20771
AC 301 286-8955
Small Explorer (SMEX) Program
The Small Explorer Project (SMEX) is a NASA
By having a short development time and small
initiative to provide frequent flight opportunities for
size, the SMEX missions allow critical training
relatively inexpensive space missions. This
opportunities for the next generation of scientists
international program involves spacecraft which
and engineers.
weigh approximately 400 pounds (180 kg) each and
The SMEX program is managed by the
can be launched into Earth orbit by Scout and
Engineering Directorate of Goddard Space Flight
Pegasus launch vehicles.
Center in Greenbelt, MD, for NASA's Office of Space
In spite of their small size, SMEX missions will
Science and Applications. The project manager for
investigate some of the most important questions
SMEX is Orlando Figueroa. Project scientist is Dr.
raised in astrophysics and space physics. The
Daniel N. Baker. The Program Manager at NASA
program will conduct focused investigations which
Headquarters is Dr. David A. Gilman.
probe conditions in unique parts of space, comple-
ment major missions, prove new scientific concepts
or make significant contributions to space science in
Background
other ways.
The Small Explorers are part of NASA's Explorer
Capitalizing on availability of mature or developed
Program which since 1958 has launched small and
instrumentation to carry out scientific investigations
moderate-sized science mission payloads into
allows SMEX missions to be accomplished quickly
space. Explorer missions have served both to
and frequently. It is a goal of the SMEX Program to
pioneer new fields of space science and to inves-
bring each mission to launch readiness within three
tigate in detail one particular aspect of science.
years after the start of detailed design activities.
With the launch of the Japanese Solar-A mission
in August 1991, 68 U.S. and cooperative-
international scientific space missions have been
part of the Explorer Program
For example, the Goddard-managed International
Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE), continues to operate after
more than 13 years in Earth orbit. The Cosmic
Background Explorer (COBE), which is making
dramatic contributions towards the scientific
understanding of the origins of the universe, is
another example of an Explorer mission managed by
Goddard.
The Missions
Three SMEX missions are currently approved.
They are as follows:
SAMPEX - The Solar Anomalous Magneto-
spheric Particle Explorer, scheduled for launch in
June 1992, will collect data from unique parts of
the Earth's magnetic field in order to study solar
SAMPEX
energetic particles, anomalous cosmic rays,
galactic cosmic rays and magnetospheric
electrons. Of the four instruments on SAMPEX,
two were flown previously as Get Away Special
(GAS) experiments on the space shuttle. Dr.
Glenn M. Mason, University of Maryland, College
Park, is principal investigator and there are 10
Co-Investigators from American and German
institutions. The mission manager for SAMPEX is
Gilberto Colon.
FAST - The Fast Auroral Snapshot Explorer will
investigate the processes thought to be
responsible for producing the Earth's aurora. In
studying these processes, FAST will complement
investigations carried out simultaneously by
missions of the International Solar Terrestrial
Physics (ISTP) Program. FAST is scheduled for
launch in September 1994. There are five
instruments on FAST, four of which are similar to
SWAS
instruments that will be carried to other parts of
space by the ISTP missions. Dr. Charles W.
Carlson, University of California, Berkeley, is the
SWAS - The Submillimeter Wave Astronomy
principal investigator for FAST. There are four Co-
Satellite is scheduled for launch in 1995. It will
Investigators from U.S. institutions. Mission
investigate the physical conditions, chemical
manager for FAST is Timothy Gehringer.
composition, and energy release of immense,
interstellar clouds of molecules and will relate
these results to the formation of stars and
planetary systems. SWAS will prove a new
scientific concept by pioneering the investigation
of these clouds at important radio frequencies
that can only be seen from space. The principal
investigator is Dr. Gary J. Melnick, of the Harvard-
Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, Cambridge,
MA. Dr. Melnick will head a team of 11 Co-
Investigators from institutions across the U.S. and
Cologne, Germany. Both instruments on SWAS
are similar to instruments used in ground
observatories. The mission manager for SWAS is
David Betz.
An Announcement of Opportunity for future Small
Explorer missions is expected to be released in the
first half of 1992.
FAST
NASA Facts
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
Goddard Space Flight Center
Greenbelt, Maryland 20771
AC 301 286-8955
SSBUV In Orbit Calibration
SHUTTLE SOLAR BACKSCATTER ULTRAVIOLET (SSBUV) INSTRUMENT
The Shuttle Solar Backscatter Ultraviolet (SSBUV) instrument
was developed by NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center to compare the
observations of several ozone measuring instruments aboard the
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's NOAA-9 and NOAA-
11 satellites and the NIMBUS-7 satellite. The SSBUV data are used
to calibrate these instruments to ensure the most accurate readings
possible for the detection of atmospheric ozone trends.
The SSBUV will help scientists solve the problem of data
accuracy caused by calibration drift of Solar Backscatter
Ultraviolet (SBUV) instruments on these satellites. The SSBUV uses
the Space Shuttle's orbital flight path to assess instrument
performance by directly comparing data from identical instruments
aboard the NOAA spacecraft and the NIMBUS-7 as the space shuttle
and the satellite pass over the same Earth location within an hour.
These orbital coincidences can occur 17 times a day.
The satellite-based SBUV instruments estimate the amount and
height distribution of ozone in the upper atmosphere by measuring
the incident solar ultraviolet radiation and ultraviolet radiation
backscattered from the Earth's atmosphere. The SBUV measures these
parameters in 12 discrete wavelength channels in the ultraviolet.
Because ozone absorbs in the ultraviolet wavelengths, an ozone
measurement can be derived by comparing the amount of incoming
solar radiation to the amount backscattered by the atmosphere.
Working with Other Instruments
For STS-45, SSBUV is co-manifested with the ATLAS-1 payload
which carries a compliment of Earth and Space science experiments.
Currently, SSBUV is co-manifested with ATLAS on its next four
flights scheduled through 1996.
Among other measurements, several Upper Atmosphere Research
Satellite (UARS) instruments also will measure ozone. Simultaneous
measurements by SSBUV and ATLAS with the UARS instruments will be
a unique opportunity to tie in the detailed observations of the
physics and chemistry of the stratosphere being made by UARS with
the regular on-going SBUV ozone observations. These data sets can
then be used as a baseline for detecting long-term changes in the
stratosphere.
SSBUV's value lies in its ability to provide precisely
calibrated, or verified, ozone measurements. The instrument is
calibrated to a laboratory standard before flight, then is
recalibrated during and after flight to ensure its accuracy. These
laboratory standards are routinely calibrated at the National
Institute of Standards and Technology. The rigorous calibration
provides a highly reliable standard to which data from the SBUV
instruments can be compared.
Previous Flights
The three previous SSBUV flights occurred on STS-34 in October
1989, STS-41 in October 1990 and STS-43 in August 1991. NASA's
goal is to fly SSBUV missions approximately once a year between
1989 and 2000 to provide precise calibration measurements across a
full 11-year solar cycle.
After SSBUV's flight last August, the instrument was checked
out at Kennedy Space Center, to make certain everything was
working. The tape recorders then had their information removed and
the data was sent to GSFC for processing. The payload was sent
back to Goddard where the instrument was checked out and
recalibrated. Then the payload was refurbished with new avionics,
which interfaces with the orbiter power, data and command systems.
Other repairs and hardware enhancement were made, SSBUV was
reassembled, requalified and sent back to Kennedy Space Center.
All of this happened in only four months. At the same time, data
from previous flights are being reprocessed. All of this is
accomplished with a team of only 12.
SSBUV's impact on our ability to accurately detect ozone
trends was expected after approximately four flights. Data from
the first flight has already been used to estimate ozone trends in
the upper stratosphere since 1980. These results show a depletion
of about 8 percent over 10 years, which is consistent with
predictions of ozone depletion.
The SSBUV instrument and its flight support electronics,
power, data and command systems are mounted in the space shuttle's
payload bay in two flight canisters, that together weigh 900 pounds
(410 kilograms). The Instrument Canister holds the SSBUV
instrument, its aspect sensors and in-flight calibration system.
Once in orbit, a motorized door assembly opens the canister to
allow the SSBUV to view the Sun and Earth and closes to provide
contamination protection and to perform in-flight calibrations.
The Support Canister contains the avionics which includes the
power, data, and command systems.
SSBUV will now obtain power from the space shuttle and will
receive real-time ground commands and data acquisition which
overcomes many operational limitations SSBUV was under on previous
flights. This will allow enhanced SSBUV data gathering
capabilities and an ability to coordinate measurements with the
ATLAS and UARS instrument compliments. SSBUV commands will be sent
from a Payload Operations Control Center (POCC) at Johnson Space
Center, Houston, TX. SSBUV data will be received at Johnson and
the Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, AL. Marshall is
responsible for managing the ATLAS payload and for integrating
SSBUV science requirements into the mission timeline.
Ernest Hilsenrath of GSFC is the Principal Investigator, Don
Williams is the Mission Manager. SSBUV is managed by GSFC for
NASA's Office of Space Science and Applications.
#####
February 1992
NASA Status Report
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
NASA Headquarters
Washington, DC
March 1992
The Hubble Space Telescope:
Report on Plans for the HST Servicing Mission
Background
The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) was launched on
necessary to fix them. HST was designed for on-orbit
April 24,1990. By June 1990, two problems were
servicing, to repair and refurbish the observatory and
discovered: spherical aberration of the primary mirror
to upgrade its capabilities by installing advanced
and jitter caused by the solar arrays. Image processing
instruments. On-orbit servicing will permit correction
and spacecraft control software have compensated
of the spherical aberration and the solar array jitter.
somewhat for both of these problems, but servicing is
Conceptual illustration of astronauts
replacing instruments during the
Hubble Space Telescope servicing
mission.
(Ball Aerospace Systems Group,
artist, Scott Kahler)
Mission Goals and Planning
and Kennedy Space Center, will continue working on
The primary objective of the first HST servicing
detailed and comprehensive procedures and time lines
mission is to correct for spherical aberration in HST's
for this challenging mission.
primary mirror and replace faulty solar arrays.
Mission Cargo
The major constraint on NASA's ability to service
Wide Field/Planetary Camera II
HST on this mission is the amount of work that can be
completed during the planned Space Shuttle flight.
The Jet Propulsion Laboratory team that built HST's
The current plan provides for 3 days of extravehicular
Wide Field/Planetary Camera (WF/PC) began devel-
oping a spare instrument in 1985. When the Hubble's
activity (EVA) servicing, a day to redeploy HST and
mirror was found to be flawed, NASA and the WF/PC
another day to assure the safe return of the Space
Shuttle (for example, by manually closing the cargo
science team immediately began working on an optical
correction that could be built into WF/PC II. The new
bay doors if necessary). This amount of on-orbit work
time provides for two optical fixes-the Wide Field/
design incorporates an optical correction by the
Planetary Camera II (WF/PC II) and the Corrective
refiguring of relay mirrors already in the optical train
Optics Space Telescope Axial Replacement
of the cameras. Each relay mirror is polished to a new
(COSTAR); replacement of the solar arrays, two pairs
"prescription" that will compensate for the incorrect
figure on HST's primary mirror. Small actuators will
of gyros and one gyro electronics box; and enough
additional time to replace another subsystem that will
fine-tune the positioning of these mirrors on orbit,
be identified at a later date.
ensuring the very precise alignment that is required.
During the ongoing mission preparation, NASA is
Through a servicing bay door built into the side of
investigating methods to improve the efficiency of the
HST, astronauts will slide out the 610-pound, wedge-
work, so that any extra EVA time would provide a
shaped WF/PC as they would a giant drawer, and
replace it with WF/PC II. The new instrument will
margin to assure the critical work required to restore
essential HST capabilities is completed.
have three wide field cameras and one planetary
camera instead of the original eight. The WF/PC II
team chose to reduce the number of cameras to four in
Mission Overview
order to develop a system to align the corrective relay
Currently scheduled for launch in late 1993-early
mirrors on-orbit remaining on schedule and within
1994, the orbiter will rendezvous with HST on the
budget. Improved Charged Coupled Devices (CCDs)
third day of the flight. HST will then be captured and
that were not available when the first WF/PC was built
secured in an upright position in the cargo bay for
will be incorporated in WF/PC II to improve its
servicing. Working in pairs, on alternating days, the
sensitivity, particularly in the ultraviolet.
four EVA crewmembers will be spending three 6-hour
work days performing the repairs.
WF/PC II is proceeding within its budget and, despite
the complexity of the task, is on schedule to be deliv-
Development has begun on astronaut simulations of
ered from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory to NASA's
on-orbit servicing operations to rehearse and optimize
Goddard Space Flight Center in the spring of 1993.
EVA repair work at Johnson Space Center's Weight-
WF/PC II will be tested with spacecraft and ground
less Environment Training Facility and Marshall
system simulators there before being sent to Kennedy
Space Flight Center's Neutral Buoyancy Simulator
Space Center to be integrated with the Space Shuttle.
(these large water tanks simulate the weightless
environment of space). Early EVA training on indi-
Corrective Optics Space Telescope
vidual components began this March. Other key events
Axial Replacement (COSTAR)
that will affect planning for the mission include the
COSTAR was invented by the Hubble Space Tele-
selection of a flight crew and a Shuttle cargo integra-
scope Strategy Panel, a group of scientists and engi-
tion review in late 1992. Meanwhile, planning teams,
neers brought together at the Space Telescope Science
including representatives of NASA Headquarters,
Institute in the fall of 1990 to consider how to fix
Goddard Space Flight Center, Johnson Space Center,
HST. Being built by Ball Aerospace under contract to
2
Functional illustration of the
Corrective Optics Space
A-Latch
Telescope Axial Replacement
COSTAR
(COSTAR). It will use precisely
shaped mirrors to correct for
Deproyed
the spherical aberration.
incoming Beam
COSTAR Bench
(Ball Aerospace Systems Group)
GHRS
Corrected Beams
FOC
FOS
Deployed Corrector
Optics (MR Mirrors)
NASA, COSTAR has no detectors or cameras. It will
Solar Arrays
use precisely shaped mirrors to correct for the spheri-
cal aberration.
HST's deployable solar arrays, provided by the
European Space Agency (ESA), create a jitter problem
Through a servicing bay door, astronauts will pull out
that interferes with spacecraft stability. The arrays
the 487-pound, phone-booth-sized High Speed Pho-
were designed to accommodate the expansion and
tometer (HSP) and install in its place the identically
contraction caused by heating and cooling as the
sized COSTAR. Once in place, COSTAR will deploy
Hubble moves in and out of daylight in its 90-minute
a set of mechanical arms, no longer than a human
orbits. However, a compensation device that allows
hand, that will place corrective mirrors in front of the
for the expansion and contraction of the solar array
openings that admit light into three of HST's observ-
blankets does not expand and contract as smoothly as
ing instruments (the Faint Object Camera, Faint Object
expected. ESA has redesigned a set of spare solar
Spectrograph, and Goddard High Resolution Spectro-
arrays to reduce the jitter to an acceptable level. A
graph).
critical design review took place during January 1992.
All participants in the HST program were pleased with
COSTAR's corrective mirrors will refocus light
the redesign, and ESA is fully committed to its role as
relayed by HST's primary mirror before it enters these
a partner in the program.
instruments. COSTAR will restore the optical perfor-
Gyros
mance of these instruments very close to the original
expectations.
Three gyros are required to point and track HST; three
more gyros are on board as backups. One of HST's six
The HST team decided that COSTAR would displace
gyros failed in December 1990, and a second one
the High Speed Photometer because the photometer
failed in June 1991. Two of the four gyros contain
does proportionately less science than any one of
components that are suspected of causing the failures.
HST's other four instruments.
While these failures have not affected HST's perfor-
mance, replacing the failed hardware will increase
Less than a year after beginning development,
system reliability. If time permits on the servicing
COSTAR passed a major milestone-the critical
mission, astronauts will remove and replace two Rate
design review. The project remains within budget and
Sensor Units (RSU) and an Electronic Control Unit
on schedule, with no major technical problems.
(ECU)-each housing a pair of gyros. The replace-
ment units are flight-qualified spares that are being
3
rebuilt to replace the suspected point of failure (a
and 31 footholds to aid EVA crews in servicing tasks.
hybrid circuit). The first RSU and ECU are scheduled
More than 80 tools, ranging from screwdrivers to
to be delivered to Goddard Space Flight Center in the
special hardware designed specifically for HST
summer of 1992; the second RSU is to be delivered in
servicing, are available for use on this mission.
the spring of 1993.
Conclusion
Servicing/Support Equipment
The Hubble Space Telescope servicing mission is a
From the very beginning, HST was designed for
challenging and complex endeavor, but all elements of
servicing in space, and many of its subsystems were
mission planning are on schedule, and EVA simula-
designed to be modular, standardized, and accessible.
tions will begin in March 1992. The Astrophysics
HST has 49 different modular subsystems designed for
Division will continue to report on the evolution of
servicing, ranging from small fuses to scientific
plans for the HST servicing mission.
instruments. HST also features 225 feet of handrails
Instruments, batteries, computers, and
other essential components in the
equipments bays are accessible through
doors for easy removal and
replacement. These items, called
Orbital Replacement Units, are designed
for servicing in space.
(Gordan Raney, artist, Lockheed)
NASA
4
Z6,
GLOBAL CASE YOUTH UNITED FORUM NATIONS, NEW YORK CITY
1992,
MAY
PEOPLE WORKING
FOR A BETTER WORLD TM
Corporate Patron
SC
ohnson
wax
S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
1992,
UNITED UNITED NATIONS. OUTH NATIONS, FORUM NEW YORK CITY '92
YORK
CITY
JW
Secondary School
BARROUALLIE SECONDARY
40 Students, aged 11-16,
SCHOOL
and 17 others
Barrouallie Post Office
Barrouallie, St. Vincent and the Grenadines
A WASTE MANAGEMENT AND
ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION PROGRAM -
Beach Protection
Issue:
Waste discarded on the beach and in the town; excessive exploitation of the beach's sand
and stones for use in building construction.
Action:
A march and a rally were held to heighten public awareness and a clean-up campaign was
organized. A sponsored island-wide competition was also held.
Outcome:
An increased public awareness of the need to protect the beach. A cleaner beach. A greater
awareness that involvement of youth in such an activity can create a great impact.
Youth Movement/
EARTH SAVERS MOVEMENT
250 Participants aged
Ninoy Aquino Hall
15 and over
Ninoy Aquino Park
Quezon Avenue
---
Quezon City, Philippines
A THEATER PRODUCTION WITH AN
ECOLOGICAL MESSAGE - Dreams ("Development
and Rehabilitation of the Environment Through Arts,
Media and Science")
Issue:
Global warming, recycling, pollution, waste management.
Action:
Young ecologically concerned volunteer artists trained youth including "street kids" and
disabled/disadvantaged children to participate in theater productions, e.g. "The Legend of
the Mango Tree," for international performance.
Outcome:
Messages urging everyone to help save the planet and regarding environmental problems
were dramatically conveyed to international audiences, helping them to internalize
ecological issues.
Other Earth Savers Movement Projects include a rehabilitation program that the Baguio
earthquake, ballets, conferences and "The Ten Commandments for Sustainable
Development." Their motto: "Sweep Clean, Keep Green."
Youth Movement
YOUTH TO YOUTH
BARBADOS
Foul Bay
15 Youth, aged 16-28
St. Phillip, Barbados
A SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
CARE PROGRAM
Issue:
The damaging effect of social problems on the environment.
Action:
Organized hikes and nature walks; enrolled young people in
environmental awareness workshops and seminars.
Outcome:
Youth were made aware of the link between social and physical environments;
they became more concerned for personal health; there was greater realization
of the damaging effects of drug abuse on the personal and physical environment.
First year
ANTARJATIK BESHAMARIK
Medicine Students
SHEBA SANGSTHA
c/o Chowdhury Anwar Husain
'Zohura Mansion' Rm. 18
27/1 Mymensingh Rd.
Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh
A SAFE DRINKING WATER PROGRAM
Issue:
Contaminated water sources, water diseases, inadequate knowledge of hygiene
requirements.
Action:
Environmental fair and cultural shows, public speeches, local council cooperation,
training in the use of simple methods of water purification.
Outcome:
Distribution and planting of tree saplings; managing of nursery beds for summer;
increased public awareness.
Global Youth Forum
United Nations Environment Programme
R
Youth Movement
THE BOY SCOUT AND
GIRL GUIDE ASSOCIATION
OF JORDAN
Amman, Jordan
TREE PLANTING AND WASTE
MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS —
The Greater Jordan Campaign and the
Plastic Bag Campaign
Issue:
The need for more trees in a mostly desert country; improper
waste disposal.
Action:
1. All Guides and Scouts nationwide have each planted one tree
every year since 1988. Trees are often planted in the desert land
which covers 75% of Jordan's surface area.
2. Dead Sea and Red Sea shores have been cleaned, as have national
parks. A flower is given to passersby with a card requesting them to
dispose of their litter properly. A booklet has been published
showing how plastic bags harm animals, are an eyesore and may
take years to decompose.
Outcome:
Hundreds of thousands of trees have been planted all over the country.
Over one million plastic bags have been picked up and much other litter.
Environmental awareness has been raised.
Future Plans:
Both campaigns will continue until the year 2000. Other projects are
also underway e.g. a paper recycling project in which paper is
collected from embassies and large corporations. In cooperation
with the Ministry of Water and Irrigation, a water preservation
project has also commenced.
*
Environmental Christian
THE DOLPHIN DEFENDERS
Stewardship Group
812 No. Union Blvd.
50 "inner city" children, aged 10-12
St. Louis, MO 63108 USA
A GLOBAL WARMING PROGRAM -
Operation Chill Out
Issue:
Global warming as a result of the excessive release of carbon dioxide.
Action:
Reducing energy consumption through use of low watt compact
fluorescent and "energy pincher" light bulbs to replace existing bulbs.
Recycling aluminum cans (recycling one can per day keeps 140 lbs. of
carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere each year), glass bottles and
newspapers. Letter writing campaign to Senators supporting legislation
regarding car mileage per gallon and signing of global warming petition.
Creation of wildlife habitats and bush and tree planting. Newsletter.
Reducing energy consumption by keeping air conditioners at 80 degrees F.
Walking to destinations up to 5 miles away. Campaign to stop the
destruction of ancient forests in northwestern USA.
Outcome:
Over 87,000 lbs. of carbon dioxide were kept out of the atmosphere.
Awareness raised through media coverage, newsletter and contact with adults.
Future Plans:
Developing more inner city wildlife habitats. Maintaining a focus on recycling
and the use of compact fluorescent bulbs to save energy. Completing a global
warming exhibition display.
School
SUNDIAL SCHOOL
11 Participants, aged 14-17
Chapeles Voges Street, No. 14
Phillipsburg, St. Maarten
Netherlands, Antilles
A TREE PLANTING PROGAM -
Greening of School Premises
Issue:
Soil erosion, over-development of land and deforestation.
Action:
Planting trees; lectures; group activities and excursions to different locations on the
island; media exposure.
Outcome:
A number of trees have been planted; the surroundings are more beautiful and
attractive; there is more shade.
It is well-kno
ongoing destruction
has affected children and youth
Like casualties in a war, we are often C
when the water disappears, the first to gc
suffer when nature turns her fury on our comm
YOUTH enthusiasm, but we do not have the tools to carry out our vision.
generation has had a new burden added to the alrea
Politicians and leaders have begun to tell us tha
future, is on our shoulders, that we are the ones who will h
on your part, it is also a frightening burden that we must carr
many more have been frightened into not caring, because carir
ridicule and to the despair that grows out of our nightmare visior
efforts cannot possibly save the planet. As hard as we try, you car
This fear that we may be defeated before we even begin affects
extinction. We are having to ask ourselves terrifying questions, like "Will th
Will there be a world left to live in?"
Above all, we are afraid of not being heard. If you really believe that
you must take to help us. The United Nations and all its member agencies mus
1. Give youth greater access to the decision-making processes at all levels. If
where we can make that difference. If you are leaving the future to us, then
2. Learn to understand youth. Governments always talk about the vision, th
us. But we're also frightened, confused and very disappointed. Looking arou
V
TO
wn that the
of our environment
hungry when famine EARTH
more than any other
n the frontlines - the first
unities. All this is certainly true, but today our
ave to make a difference. Not only is this a delaying tactic
/. Many of us are both ready and willing to do our part, but
ere be rainforests around in 20 years? Will there be SUNAMT clean water to drink?
heavy load.
the task of saving the environment, of protecting the
makes us vulnerable. It makes us vulnerable to criticism, to
is of tomorrow. As long as you control the reins of power, our
not expect us to do it alone. We have the energy, we have the
us deeply. Where previous generations feared war or disease, we fear
we are the ones who must act to save our future, then there are steps that
resolve to assist us in the following ways.
we are really going to make a difference, you must allow us into positions
please leave us the present as well. We can't build one without the other.
e enthusiasm and commitment of youth. And these things are true about
nd the world, most of us do not face a bright future.
YOUTH ORGANIZATION
KIDS FOR SAVING EARTH
30 Members, aged 6-15
213-8 Pushkinskaya St.
Rostov-on-Don 344022
Russia
A WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM -
The Dustbin Project
Issue:
The struggle for clean city streets.
Action:
Raising awareness by contacting TV stations, two newspapers and city
administration officials. School children drew pictures and wrote slogans on
dustbins (trash cans) around the city.
Outcome:
Major city streets become cleaner.
High School
LAUREL SPRINGS HIGH
SCHOOL
P.O. Box 1440
Aged 12 and over
Ojai, California 93024
USA
AN ENVIRONMENT EDUCATION AND
AWARENESS-RAISING PROGRAM -
Laurel Springs Environmental Project
Issue:
The need for greater awareness of environmental problems and issues and increased
commitment to help preserve the planet.
Action:
Produced videos "We Can Make a Difference" and "One Small Wish for This Earth" which
were presented to many nearby public schools and featured songs written, arranged and
sung by students. "Environmental Race" workshop. Encouraged participation in the "Earth
Treaty Process" in which children write a letter to mother Earth outlining their hopes and
fears, and a promise of all the things they will do to help save the earth. Participation in the
World Women's Congress for a Healthy Planet. Media coverage.
Outcome:
Greatly increased awareness of environmental issues and concerns which has motivated
many people to initiate recycling, conversation and other projects or activities.
Future Plans:
Preparing a new video focusing on the need for people to live life in harmony with nature
and showing the importance of Earth ethics. Discussion with the Disney channel about
three-minute "We Can Make a Difference" segments edited and hosted by children and aired
daily on the Disney channel.
Individual
CHRISTIAN MILLER
Aged 14
1, Leaman Lane
Palm Beach, Florida 33480
USA
A TURTLE PERSERVATION PROGRAM -
"Kids Can Save Sea Turtles"
Issue:
Many endangered species-listed sea turtle hatchlings die each day and need
protection/guarding from animal and human predators and poachers.
Action:
First, Christian underwent training and then obtained a Florida Department
of Natural Resources Permit. After a giant sea turtle has lumbered up on to
the beach and laid its batch of 100 to 150 eggs, Christian marks the nest,
watches and guards it; later the number of eggs, and other data are
recorded. After hatching, any baby turtles that are trapped in the nest are
released into the sea before they die from heat or attacks by predators such
as raccoons, dogs, or crabs. Christian started this project when eight years
old and is now fourteen.
Outcome:
The date over 12,000 baby sea turtles have been saved. Research studies have
been carried out and data and reports are regularly provided to the Department of
Natural Resources. Christian has received a number of honorable mentions and
awards and has been featured extensively in the local media.
Youth Movement/
SOUTH AFRICAN YOUTH
Networking Agency
COORDINATION ON
Youth aged 12-30
DEVELOPMENT AND
ENVIRONMENT (SAYCODE)
P.O. BOX 67067
South Africa
Netherlands, Antilles
A PROGRAM TO CREATE A NETWORK OF YOUTH
INVOLVED IN THE ENVIRONMENT —
Claystomping Network
Issue:
Lack of unity and friendship amongst youth involved in the environmental activities.
Action:
Creation of a Networking agency and adoption of claystomping as a means for getting youth
together in a fun and non-threatening way. Youth mix dry clay and water with their feet and
form tiles which are used to create a mural as a symbol of goodwill amongst its creators.
Outcome:
This simple and inexpensive project is within the capacity of nearly everyone and can help
create peace and unity; clay is a universal substance that goes beyond borders or boundaries.
our planet will require new and often disturbing solutions. Don't be
for progress, and less for survival. Far-reaching problems like global
All your decisions must endure the test of time and embrace the
centuries from now.
ffective organizations. Don't work against us, work with us. When you
by the principle that "By youth, for youth" will build the strongest
not by us, and it therefore cannot be for us.
today. They must not feel that their lives and their futures are controlled
mpower the disempowered. We must pay special attention to the needs
our nations, as well as to those of youth.
history, but to move beyond the past, as well. The United Nations
repeat the decisions and mistakes of the past. 1992 must not be
where we can embrace our Southern neighbors in new
We hope that the South will be able to learn from the
the governments of the world come to recognize youth as
fullest potential.
progress. We are frightened by our responsibilities in
oth in solving the problems and in convincing our
wever. Such a course of action will be difficult
It is, however, a challenge worth the effort.
and are more than willing to help out
AL YOUTH FORGAME
GLOBAL MAY
3. Be prepared to make real change in the world. The disturbing events affl
afraid to make those difficult decisions. Without them, there can be little r
warming, ozone depletion and the debt crisis cannot be solved by small SO
lessons of history. Build a world that we'll be happy to live in decades or even
4. Respect our own structures. As youth, we have built many large and E
establish new projects, you often undermine our old ones. Always be gu
partnerships. If we do not have a controlling voice in an organization, it is
It is our great hope that future generations will be spared the fear that we fe
by the slips of paper that cross your desks. We must all work together to e
We have many other hopes. We hope to learn the lessons of
WRITEN and rights of women, the poor, the landless, and the indigenous peoples 0
Conference on Environment and Development in Brazil should not
1972. We hope the nations of the North will mature to the P
attempts to link our environment and development concerns
mistakes of the North, and not repeat them. We hope that
the greatest of renewable resources, helping us to reach O
As youth, we commit ourselves to change and
dealing with these issues, but we will do our best, b
peers to help us. We expect no less from you, ho
to follow. No one knows this better than us.
youth
recognize
that
challenge,
UNITED RATIFIED NATIONS common this challenge efforts GLOB is for our change. greatest greates
ENVIR
High School
BROMLEY HIGH SCHOOL
Students aged 11-17
Blackbrook Lane, Bickley
Bromley, Kent, BR1 2TW
England
A WASTE MANAGEMENT AND
TREE PLANTING PROGRAM
Issue:
Irresponsible waste disposal, environmental neglect and abuse.
Action:
Neglected area was cleared of hazardous substances, rusty cans, glass, polystyrene
and an abandoned motorbike. Ascertained who was responsible for this improper
waste disposal and agreed to more suitable alternative means of disposal, e.g.
recycling of cans. Established habitat "corridor" between park land and school,
and planted hedges and trees. Sponsorship obtained for local supermarkets.
Outcome:
School grounds enhanced and environment club committed to on-going planting
and watering of trees and maintenance of weed-free area. Long-term field studies
possibility established.
School
VROOM LEARNING CENTER
560 Children aged 4-14
18 WEST 26th Street
Bayonne, N.J. 07002
USA
ADOPT-A-PARK PROGRAM — A Reforestation
and Park Ecosystem Maintenance Project
Issue:
The need to reforest and recondition a neglected 100 acre urban park, encourage
greater stewardship and overall global environmental concern.
Action:
Each child is assigned a 50' X 50' plot of land, plants a tree on it every spring and maintains
an ecological stewardship of it for 10 years. Fifteen sponsors are recruited by every child to
support that stewardship and are encouraged to lobby government officials to support
environmental issues.
Outcome:
Over 3,000 trees have been planted and the park has been beautified. The school has
earned the National Arbor Day Project Award and President Bush's Take Pride in America
Award. Youth have gained a sense of stewardship and an advocacy/lobbying group has
been established.
HUBBLE
SPACE
TELESCOPE
UPDATE: 18 Months in Orbit
"From our home on the Earth, we look out into the distances and strive to imagine the sort of world
into which we are born. Today we have reached far out into space. Our immediate neighborhood we know
rather intimately. But with increasing distance our knowledge fades rapidly, until at the last dim horizon we
search among ghostly errors of observations for landmarks that are scarcely more substantial.
T he search will continue. The urge is older than history. It is not satisfied and it will not be suppressed."
— Edwin P. Hubble
(1889-1953)
In April 1990, Space Shuttle Discovery launched
HUBBLE
Hubble Space Telescope - perhaps the most
SPACE
ambitious scientific mission NASA has ever
undertaken.
TELESCOPE
T
hen, in June 1990, came the disappointing news
of spherical aberration in the HST primary mirror.
Many concluded prematurely that the project had
no future.
But now, after 18 months in orbit, HST is in
routine operation and has surprised its early critics
by producing results at the forefront of science.
Regular Shuttle servicing missions should permit
the telescope to achieve its original scientific goals
over a planned 15-year observing lifetime.
UPDATE: 18 Months in Orbit
CONTENTS
The First 18 Months
2
"I Thought It Was Broken"
4
Achievements Amid Challenges
6
Breakthroughs In Technology
8
Current Capabilities
10
Servicing Plan
12
The Great Observatories
14
The First 18 Months
R136: Star birth in nearby galaxy
Saturn: Planet-wide atmospheric storm
M14: Old globular star cluster
in Milky Way Galaxy
Supernova 1987A: Exploding star in
the Large Magellanic Cloud, a nearby galaxy
Imaging
Begins
RELATIVE INTENSITY
First Light:
European
Faint Object
Camera
1270
First Light:
NGC 7457: Distant galaxy
Wide Field/
with black-hole candidate
Planetary Camera
at center
R Aquarii: Matter ejected
from young, evolving star
Einstein Cross: Quasar quadruply
imaged by gravitational-lens galaxy (center)
1990
APRIL
JUNE
AUGUST
OCTOBER
2
1,000
450 New
1.5
IUE High Resolution
Observing
Chi Lupi
Proposals
Normalized Flux
1.0
Received
890
Gell
Mn II
Fe III
0.5
Fel
Fe III
Mn II
Fe II
Cr #
Fell
Co ll
Jupiter: Atmospheric
NI #
VII
GHRS High Resolution
NI #
NI II
circulation patterns
800
Fe III
Cr #
Formal
0.0
1937.0
1937.5
1938.0
1938.5
1939.
Science Program
Wavelength
Begins
790
Chi Lupi: Chemistry of stellar
atmosphere (ultraviolet spectrum)
710
610
600
Spectroscopy
Begins
CUMULATIVE
Mars: Finest surface
detail ever seen from
460
NUMBER OF
vicinity of Earth
OBJECTS
400
OBSERVED
360
More than 1,900 observations
260
of nearly 900 astronomical objects
1280
1290
1300
have already been carried out by HST. Obser-
200
WAVELENGTH (angstroms)
vations began with imaging but now include
Intergalactic gas: Surprising number of
spectroscopy. Scientists obtain information on
clouds found near Milky Way Galaxy
170
(ultraviolet spectrum)
the temperature, composition, and motion of an
object by analyzing the spectrum of radiation
emitted or absorbed by the object. Observing
100
time is in great demand by astronomers world-
30
60
wide.
DECEMBER
1991 FEBRUARY
APRIL
JUNE
AUGUST
OCTOBER
3
"I Thought It Was Broken"
Pluto and its close satellite Charon, barely distinguishable as separate bodies in a ground-based image (left),
are clearly separated in the HST image (right). Because Charon is half the size of Pluto, this system is often called
the "double planet."
Ring of gas around Supernova 1987A, shown in this HST image, was ejected many thousands of years prior to the
blast. In combination with spectroscopy by NASA's International Ultraviolet Explorer satellite, HST measurements
of the ring's angular size yielded the distance to the supernova.
4
Q:
What's the real story with HST? I thought it was broken.
A:
Hubble Space Telescope is the most capable optical telescope available to astronomers
today, despite the mirror problem. It is producing images and spectral observations that
place HST programs at the forefront of astronomy.
Q:
How is that possible?
A:
First of all, HST has greater clarity of view than any ground-based optical observatory,
both because of the substantial light-gathering power of its 94-inch mirror and because of its
location in space above the distorting effects of Earth's atmosphere. In addition, its location
in space permits HST to observe ultraviolet radiation that does not penetrate the atmosphere.
Q:
But what about the mirror problem?
A:
Because the mirror was so perfectly polished - albeit to a slightly incorrect shape -
the effects of the spherical aberration can often be removed by computer processing. Many
processed images reveal breathtaking detail never before seen from the ground.
Q:
What is the long-range future of Hubble Space Telescope?
A:
Bright. Through Shuttle servicing missions, which were planned from the beginning,
we can achieve the capabilities intended for HST early in the observatory's 15-year mission
lifetime. Over this period, HST should be able to achieve its original scientific objectives.
In Fact,
Hubble Space Telescope is the most
powerful optical telescope in the world today:
it offers unmatched ability to image fine detail
and to study ultraviolet radiation from
astronomical objects.
5
Achievements Amid Challenges
HST image
Ground-based
image
Star Regeneration in 47 Tucanae. In the cores of old globular clusters like 47 Tucanae, thousands of stars are crowded into
a region less than one light-year across. Could these ancient stars ever be regenerated by stellar mergers or collisions?
Ground-based telescopes have not been able to answer this question; their images of such cluster cores (top left) are smeared
out by atmospheric turbulence. But in the core of 47 Tucanae, HST's clear view from space (above) has revealed dozens of
hot blue luminous stars radiating away energy so rapidly that they cannot have survived since the birth of the cluster itself.
These observations provide the first convincing evidence of recent star regeneration in old clusters.
HST images of Saturn, recorded at quarterly intervals of the planet's 10-hour rotation period, show successive quadrants of
the surface. Hundreds of such images, computer processed to bring out fine detail, were assembled into a 1991 film to
illustrate the progress of a giant storm across Saturn's turbulent atmosphere.
6
Q:
Have you had to meet other challenges, besides the mirror?
A:
Yes - which is not surprising for a complex system with 400,000 different parts. For
example, the solar-power arrays supplied by the European Space Agency make HST "jitter",
or shake, every time the spacecraft orbits into and out of daylight. But we have fixed most of
the problem by writing special computer programs for the HST pointing system.
Q:
Is HST especially vulnerable to malfunctions?
A:
Quite the opposite. HST, as well as being serviceable in space, was designed to
provide high redundancy and extensive backup capabilities. For example, two gyroscopes
used for pointing control have stopped functioning; but we've activated two spare gyros to
continue normal operation, and another spare is still available. Overall, very few of HST's
reserve capabilities have been needed so far.
Q:
So the capability for forefront science remains high?
A:
Yes. Consider scientific papers presented at the January 1992 meeting of the
American Astronomical Society. Of the papers reporting space science observations -
which represented 25 percent of all the observational papers - one out of four described
HST results. And demand for observing time remains strong. In 1991, some 450 scientific
groups submitted new proposals to use the telescope.
The storm was revealed in September 1990 by ground-based observations. The HST observing schedule was quickly
modified to permit HST to track the disturbance, which by November had spread to cover most of the planet. The white
areas in these images are believed to be immense clouds of ammonia ice crystals, lofted to high altitudes by violent winds.
7
Breakthroughs In Technology
"
4
ZUA
Hubble Space Telescope, the creation of ten
thousand people over two decades of inspired
effort, is by far the most complex and advanced
space observatory ever built. The HST project
team produced major technological break-
throughs in order to meet the most demanding
observing requirements in space-science history.
Support Structure:
Constructed of lightweight, low-expansion,
hand-formed graphite-epoxy tubes, the struc-
ture holds HST optical components aligned
within 1/10,000 of an inch during two abrupt
temperature changes every 96 minutes as HST
orbits into and out of sunlight.
Pointing Control System:
The most accurate ever devised for astronomy,
incorporating unique, high-spin-rate gyroscopes
shielded against vibration and electromagnetic
disturbances caused by space radiation and solar
flares - reduces pointing instability to an angle
less than the width of a dime seen 200 miles
away.
Ultraviolet Performance:
The ultraviolet optical system is the most capable
ever launched for astronomical observations in this
region of the electromagnetic spectrum. It has
reflecting surfaces of unprecedented cleanliness
and smoothness to maximize the amount of ultraviolet
radiation available for imaging and spectroscopic
analysis.
Serviceability:
This is the first NASA space mission designed
for regular Space Shuttle maintenance and
upgrading over a planned 15-year mission
lifetime. Forty-nine types of key components,
including gyroscopes, are accessible and readily
replaceable on orbit to maintain and expand
HST capabilities.
9
Current Capabilities
Q:
What was HST designed to do?
A:
HST was designed to provide three capabilities:
1
High angular resolution - the ability to image fine detail;
2
Ultraviolet performance - the ability to produce ultraviolet images and spectra; and
3
High sensitivity - the ability to detect very faint objects.
Q:
What can HST currently do?
A:
HST currently provides the first two capabilities. First of all, for the brighter sources:
1
Computer processing can be used to bring out much finer image detail than can be
provided by ground-based telescopes. In addition,
2
Ultraviolet spectroscopy has been exceptionally productive, helping astronomers to
understand the composition and dynamics of objects in our Galaxy and to map the
distribution of intergalactic gas clouds.
Q:
How will you be able to study faint objects?
A:
Computer processing can't be used for very faint objects - too much light is scattered
by the aberration to permit reliable image reconstruction. But,
3
Corrective optics, to be provided by the first Shuttle servicing mission, will bring this
scattered light back into focus, allowing HST to achieve its original design goal and
reach very distant stars and galaxies.
Capabilities Checklist:
High angular resolution - ability to image fine detail.
Ultraviolet performance - imaging and spectroscopy.
High sensitivity - ability to detect very faint objects (after first servicing mission).
10
1
High angular resolution of HST is illustrated by comparison of a ground-based image of the globular cluster M14
(left) and an image recorded by HST (right) after computer processing. The ground-based image is heavily blurred by
atmospheric turbulence and cannot reveal individual stars in the cluster center.
2
Ultraviolet spectroscopy of the star
Photospheric Absorption
Beta Pictoris by HST reveals streams of
circumstellar gas (CS) falling into the
2500
star. From earlier optical and infrared
observations, Beta Pictoris is known to
2000
be surrounded by an orbiting disk of
the process of formation. The HST
ultraviolet observations probe the central
regions of the system and provide new
insights into its dynamics.
Total Net Counts/Data Point
CS
CS
matter that may be a planetary system in
1500
1000
Infalling CS
Infalling CS
Gas
Gas
500
0
2598
2598.5
2599
2599.5
2600
2600.5
Uncorrected Wavelength (Å)
3
High sensitivity will be achieved through correction of
spherical aberration by the first Shuttle servicing
mission. The current HST image of a star (illustrated
schematically at left) is broadened by the effect of the
aberration. The corrected stellar image (illustrated
schematically at right) will meet the HST design goal
by concentrating 60 to 70 percent of the light within a
small region near the image center, enabling HST to
study much fainter objects.
11
Servicing Plan
Q:
How does Shuttle servicing fit into your plans?
A:
HST is designed to be serviced by Space Shuttle crews. It has 49 different types of key
components readily replaceable in space, and 74 replacement parts are available right now. We
have always planned servicing missions, at roughly 3-year intervals, to maintain HST's opera-
tional capability and to upgrade its scientific performance as new technologies become available.
Q:
What will you do on the first mission?
A:
Our current baseline planning calls for replacement of the solar arrays, correction of
the spherical aberration, and replacement of other components as necessary - for example,
gyroscopes - in late 1993 or early 1994.
Understand
Define
Problem
Software Fixes
Replace
Design Optical
Wide Field/
Correction for WF/PC
Planetary
Camera
Use Computer
Define COSTAR
3 Years
Processing
(Corrective Optics for
after
to Sharpen
European Faint Object
Launch
Images
Camera and Spectrographs)
Servicing
Science
Plan
Jitter
Aberration
Verification
Developed
Launch
Discovered
Discovered
Begins
PRE-LAUNCH
1990 APRIL
JUNE
AUGUST
OCTOBER
DECEMBER
Q:
And on later missions?
A:
We'll replace remaining first-generation instruments, which represent earlier technology,
with much more advanced second- and third-generation instruments to provide even greater
capability, particularly for ultraviolet and infrared observations.
12
Wide Field/Planetary Camera, workhorse of the HST observing program, will be replaced by an optically
corrected camera by astronauts on the first Shuttle servicing mission in late 1993 or early 1994.
FIRST SERVICING MISSION
Install First
Software Fix
REPLACE SOLAR ARRAYS
CORRECT OPTICS WITH WF/PC II
AND COSTAR
Use
REPLACE 2 GYROSCOPES
Use
Spare
Spare
First Gyro
Second Gyro
Routine
Failure
Failure
Operation
1991 FEBRUARY
JUNE
OCTOBER
1993 or 1994
1995 2005
LATER SERVICING MISSIONS
INSTALL SECOND-GENERATION INSTRUMENTS TO BROADEN INFRARED AND ULTRAVIOLET CAPABILITIES
INSTALL THIRD-GENERATION INSTRUMENTS TO INCREASE SENSITIVITY AND PROVIDE FINER
IMAGING AND SPECTRAL DETAIL
BOOST HST SPACECRAFT TO HIGHER ALTITUDE AS REQUIRED
SERVICE OTHER HST COMPONENTS AS NECESSARY
1995
2000
2005
13
The Great Observatories
Compton Gamma Ray Observatory, launched in 1991, is now investigating the most energetic
systems and violent events in the Universe. Compton has already shown that
the puzzling gamma-ray "bursts" observed by earlier satellites are distrib-
uted uniformly across the sky, rather than concentrated toward the plane of
our Galaxy - challenging current theories of burst origin in neutron stars
and suggesting that some other mechanism must be responsible. In op-
eration.
Advanced X-Ray Astrophysics Facility (AXAF) will use specially
designed mirrors to image X rays from supernova remnants, high-temperature
stellar atmospheres, galactic "halos" and nuclei, and other high-energy objects.
In September 1991, the initial pair of AXAF mirrors passed a series of stringent
performance tests at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center.
In development.
14
Hubble Space Telescope (HST), launched in 1990, is
already making discoveries at the forefront of science,
including clouds of high-velocity gas spiraling into
the center of an accretion disk around Beta Pictoris
and a stellar "fountain of youth" in the ancient
globular cluster 47 Tucanae. HST will receive
upgrades through Shuttle servicing missions over
its 15-year mission lifetime. In operation.
Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF) will use
optics cooled to extremely low temperatures in order to
detect millions of faint infrared sources across the sky.
Particular targets include the dense, warm clouds of dust and
gas that pervade star-forming regions in our own and other
galaxies. SIRTF will build upon the extraordinary success of
NASA's Explorer-class Infrared Astronomical Satellite, which
carried out the first all-sky survey of infrared sources between 1983
and 1985. Technology under development.
15
Space Telescope
Neil Boyle
NASA Art Program
NASA
National
Aeronautics and
Space
Administration
Illustration by George Ladas
WED-101:11/91
Panel 7
HST Cut-away
13
b
26
a
6
25
4a
16
1
4b
3
30
b
5b
32
10
a
2
4c
27
31
17
24
28
W
Secondary
23
11
d
b
22
e
a
C
19
21
Incoming
20
Scientific Primary Mirror
5a
Axinstruments
c
18
12
b
15
14
29
8
a
Plane
Insiruments
13
Formed
Light Entering
a
12
a
b
Total Length: 13m
b
c
Total Mass: 11,600 kg
c
d
Compare with wallsheet front to see details
9
d
7
e
more clearly. Explanations on panels 8-9.
Primary Mirror
axis; they can be pulled out like large
age on 4 (for the 4 parts of the beam)
blocks the large aperture when the small
Panel 8
Construction
Front Facesheet
drawers for replacement. Four other
CCD-containing cameras (e).
aperture is in use. A relay mirror (b)
instruments, each the size of a telephone
8. Faint Object Camera (FOC): (pro-
reflects light to a grating and mirror
booth, mount axially (parallel to the tele-
vided by European Space Agency) for
carousel (c) that disperses light into a
scope axis); large, hinged doors allow
Key to
imaging with higher resolution, but nar-
spectrum and reflects it to "cross-dispers-
astronauts to reach them for replacement.
rower field-of-view, than WF/PC. Light
er" gratings (d); these help to sort the
Inner Edgeband
paths are shown, in blue, for each of its 2
spectra and reflect the light to the 2
Detailed
Lightweight
independent, side-by-side camera sys-
Digicon detectors (e), optimized for either
6. Fine Guidance Sensor (FGS): 3
Core
identical FGSs (1 shown) track stars very
tems (different fields-of-view). In each,
shorter or longer ultraviolet wavelengths.
Cutaway
accurately. Information from 2 FGSs is
entering light goes through 3 reflections
Outer
needed to point the telescope in space,
(a) that direct it through a selectable filter
Edgeband
since there are 2 coordinate directions on
carousel (b) to be recorded by an image-
Support Systems Module (SSM)
Rear
the sky (e.g., east-west and north-south);
intensifying, television-type camera
The SSM is like the Observatory building
HST is a high-quality telescope with sci-
Facesheet
the third can be used for astrometry. An
tube (c).
of a ground-based telescope, containing
entific instruments - the Optical
FGS measures how far, in angle (e.g.,
9. Faint Object Spectrograph (FOS):
all of the systems (e.g., electronics,
Telescope Assembly (OTA) - housed
seconds of arc), a star is located from the
for moderate- to low-resolution, visible
power, etc.) necessary to support the tele-
inside of a spacecraft, or Support Systems
telescope axis by looking for interference
and ultraviolet spectroscopy. Entering
scope. It is built in 4 main sections,
Module (SSM). Numbers below go with
between light waves from the star that
light, shown in green, is deflected toward
stacked like cannisters (see diagram next
labeis on panel 7. Colors, where indicat-
strike opposite sides of the primary mir-
the detectors by a prismatic mirror (a);
panel).
ed, refer to the full-color diagram on the
ror. (If the star is precisely aligned with
passes through a filter on a filter/grating
front of the wallsheet.
826 kg, its mass is about 1/4 that of a
the telescope axis, starlight from either
carousel (b); reflects off a mirror (c) back
12. Solar Arrays: (provided by
solid mirror of the same size.
side of the mirror will travel exactly the
to the carousel; where a selected grating
European Space Agency) main source of
The Telescope
same distance to reach the FGS; any devi-
disperses light into a spectrum and
2. Secondary mirror: 0.3-meter diam-
power for the telescope; collected solar
ation measures how far the star is off the
reflects it to either of 2 "Digicon" detec-
Light entering the telescope first strikes
eter, convex hyperboloid shape; ultra-
energy can be stored in batteries until
telescope axis.) The light path is shown in
tors (d), optimized for either shorter
the primary mirror, from which it is
low-expansion glass with same coatings
needed. Each measures 2.4 by 12.1
green on wallsheet front. Light enters an
(bluer) or longer (redder) wavelengths. (A
reflected toward the smaller, secondary
as primary. Mass 12.3 kg.
meters, together they provide an average
FGS via a pick-off mirror (a); bounces
Digicon is a special type of detector that
mirror. The secondary reflects the light
3. Mirror Support Structure: a lattice
power of 5,000 watts.
among a set of (not labelled) prisms,
amplifies the signal from faint objects.)
back through a hole in the center of the
of lightweight, but rigid, graphite-epoxy
beam splitters, and mirrors; and ultimate-
13. Communications Antennas: the
primary, allowing the light to reach the
10. High Speed Photometer (HSP):
tubes that hold the primary and secondary
ly is recorded by detectors called photo-
main link between the ground and the
scientific instruments. This basic tele-
mirrors in precise alignment.
a very sensitive light meter that measures
multiplier tubes (b).
spacecraft; signals are relayed through
scope design is called Cassegrain, after
the intensity and color of light, and rapid
4a, 4b, 4c. Light Baffles: prevent
NASA's Tracking and Data Relay Satellite
its 17th century inventor; HST uses the
7. Wide Field/Planetary Camera
fluctuations in brightness. HSP has no
stray light from interfering with observa-
System (TDRSS).
Ritchey-Chrétien modification of
(WF/PC): primarily for visible and
moving parts. It has 4 light-entrance
tions. Main baffle (4a) lines walls of tele-
Cassegrain's design, in which hyper-
ultraviolet imaging. In "wide field" mode
holes (not shown), each with a filter/aper-
14. Star Trackers: 3 of these detec-
scope; central baffle (4b) extends from the
the field-of-view is 2.7 minutes of arc
boloid-shaped mirrors are used to
ture assembly consisting of 13 color fil-
tors locate and track bright stars for
hole in the primary mirror; secondary baf-
improve the optical performance.
across; in "planetary" mode it is 1.2 min-
ters and 3 apertures; the desired
course positioning of the telescope.
fle (4c) surrounds the secondary mirror.
utes across. Light (path shown in blue)
hole/filter/aperture combination is select-
15. Gyroscope Units: 3 of these each
1. Primary mirror: 2.4-meter diame-
5a, 5b. Mirror Actuators: computer-
enters via pick-off mirror (a); passes
ed by slightly maneuvering the spacecraft.
contain 2 gyroscopes (for a total of 6
ter, with a 60-cm central hole. Shape is a
controlled rods that can make slight
through a shutter (not labelled); through a
Light is shown, in orange, emerging from
gyroscopes) that sense changes in the
concave hyperboloid. Ultra-low-expan-
changes to the mirror shapes. 24 actua-
selection of 50 filters - used to block
each of 3 apertures; reflecting off el-
telescope's orientation in space (i.e., the
sion glass, kept at nearly constant tem-
tors (5a) can manipulate the primary mir-
unwanted wavelengths of light - on a
lipsoidal relay mirrors (a); and entering
direction in which the telescope is point-
perature (21°C), prevents thermal
ror; 6 actuators (5b) for the secondary.
"filter carousel" (b); and bounces off 1 of
the tube-shaped detectors (b) that mea-
ing).
warping. Visible and ultraviolet reflectivi-
2 (for the 2 operating modes) pyramidal
sure the absolute brightness of the light.
ty provided by an 80-nanometer (nm)
mirrors (c) that split the beam into 4
16. Reaction Wheels: 4 large wheels
thick layer of aluminum, overcoated with
11. Goddard High Resolution
Scientific Instruments
parts, each representing 1/4 of the final
(2 shown), each 59 cm in diameter, 45 kg
30-nm of magnesium fluoride.
Spectrograph (GHRS): for high-reso-
image. A. "relay" mirror (not labelled)
in mass, and spinning at up to 3,000 rpm,
Construction is a "sandwich" of 2 glass
HST carries a total of 8 instruments: 4 (3
lution ultraviolet spectroscopy. Light,
directs light back through a "mini-
control the telescope's orientation in
plates joined by glass honeycomb ribs; at
FGSs and WF/PC) mount radially, in bays
shown in white, enters through either a
Cassegrain telescope" (d) to form an im-
space. Changing the spin rates of the
that lie at right angles to the telescope
small or large aperture; a shutter (a)
a
B
N
M
L
O
C
A
E
K
r
a
F
H
L
G
-
P
21-24. Electronic boxes: for com-
Panel 9
mand and control of the mirror actuators
Information For Educators
(21), Fine Guidance Sensors (22), and
optical telescope assembly (23, 24).
wheels causes the spacecraft to rotate
25. Science Computer: controls the
(through transfer of angular momentum);
science instruments.
Many books and magazine articles,
service. The toll-free number for
Lewis Research Center
HST can turn up to 90 degrees in 18 min-
too numerous to list here, can give
CompuServe is 1-800-848-8990.
Mail Stop 8-1
26. Telescope (Aperture) Door:
utes.
more information about HST or
Cleveland, OH 44135
closes only when necessary for telescope
astronomy. In addition, NASA is con-
NASA Teacher Resource
17. Magnetic Torquer Bars: 4 large
protection.
(216-433-2017)
bar-shaped electromagnets (1 shown)
tinually developing educational pro-
Centers
27. Insulating Blanket: 15 layers of
Alabama Space and Rocket Center
react against Earth's magnetic field to
grams and materials, including
For additional information, contact
aluminized Kapton, and an outer layer of
National Teacher Resource Center
generate torque that helps to control the
classroom activities, related to HST
the NASA Teacher Resource Center
Teflon, help maintain thermal stability.
Huntsville, AL 35807
reaction wheel speeds.
and other NASA missions.
(TRC) nearest you. TRCs are located
28. Grapple Fixture: attachment point
(205-544-5812)
18. Batteries: 6 nickel-hydrogen bat-
at:
for Shuttle's Remote Manipulator System
teries (3 shown) provide power when the
NASA CORE
("robotic arm").
Ames Research Center
About this Wallsheet
telescope is in the Earth's shadow;
CORE is a center established for the
Mail Stop T025
29. Hand Rails: for use by visiting
We have designed this wallsheet pri-
recharged with power from the solar
national and international distribution
panels.
astronauts.
Moffet Field, CA 94035
marily for educational use. The front
of NASA produced educational mate-
(415-604-3574)
shows an artist's rendition, in full-
19. Spacecraft Computer: controls
30. Shuttle Support: points of sup-
rials in audiovisual format. Educators
the systems of the SSM.
port for telescope in Shuttle cargo bay.
can obtain a catalogue of these mate-
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
color, of the inner workings of the
rials and an order form by written
4800 Oak Grove Drive
Hubble Space Telescope. The back
20. Data Management Unit: decodes
31. Hooks: used to anchor replacement
parts during astronaut servicing.
request, on school letterhead, to:
Mail Stop CS-530
contains explanatory text and illustra-
commands passed between ground and
NASA Central Operation of Resources
Pasadena, CA 91109
tions, arranged for easy reproduction
spacecraft computers.
32. Gas Purge Vents: to expel con-
taminating gasses.
(818-354-6916)
on copying machines.
for Educators (CORE), Lorain County
Joint Vocational School, 15181 Route
Kennedy Space Center
Panels 1-3 provide an introduction
58 South, Oberlin, OH 44074.
Mail Stop ERL
to HST and space astronomy.
Kennedy Space Ctr, FL 32899
Panels 4-6 provide an introduction
Support Systems
Light Shield
NASA Spacelink
(407-867-4090)
to the different ways that
Module (SSM)
Spacelink is a computer service of
Langley Research Center
astronomers analyze starlight.
NASA for educators containing NASA
Mail Stop 146
information and educational materi-
Panels 7-9 provide detailed infor-
Equipment Section
Hampton, VA 23665-5255
als. The service includes current
mation about how HST works.
(804-864-3293)
NASA news, data about America's
Panel 7 is a miniature reproduction
aerospace program, classroom mate-
Johnson Space Center
of the full-color wallsheet image;
rials, and other information useful to
Mail Stop AP-4
its numbered call-outs, explained
teachers and students. Spacelink
Houston, TX 77058
on panels 8-9, identify important
Telescope Shell
may be accessed by a computer with
(713-483-8696)
components of HST.
a modem through a long distance
Stennis Space Center
phone line or the Internet. The data
Building 1200
Please Send Comments
line number for Spacelink is
Stennis Space Ctr, MS 39529
In such a limited amount of space, we
(205) 895-0028.
(601-688-3338)
cannot provide all of the information
Goddard Space Flight Center
we would like. To help us in design-
HST Information on CompuServe
Mail Stop 130.3
ing future wallsheets, please send
Instrument Section
In addition to Spacelink, NASA makes
Greenbelt, MD 20771
comments or criticisms, to:
HST materials available through the
(301-286-8570)
Mail Code FEP, NASA Headquarters,
CompuServe electronic information
Washington, D.C. 20546.
Photometry
Astrometry
Panel 6
Photometry is the measurement of the
Astrometry is measuring the precise
The Search for Planets
total amount of light received from an
location of stellar positions in the sky.
Do other stars have planets? Though most astronomers believe that planets
object. All of HST's instruments are
Astrometric studies can reveal the
should be common throughout the universe, no direct proof of planets
Further HST
capable of photometry, but the High
orbital motions of binary stars, and
beyond our solar system has yet been obtained. The problem is one of
Speed Photometer (HSP) is dedicated
are critical to measuring distances in
scale: to see a planet like the Earth around even a nearby star is equivalent
to the measurement of rapid changes
the universe. As the Earth orbits the
to searching for a speck of dust a few meters from a bright light bulb -
Capabilities
in brightness. The HSP can measure
Sun, nearby stars appear to shift their
viewed from a distance of thousands of kilometers! Even with HST, it is a
changes in brightness occurring in as
positions against the more distant
near-impossible task.
short a time as 10 microseconds.
background allowing direct calcula-
Among the objects HSP studies are
tion of their distances; this stellar par-
There is somewhat greater hope that astrometry with HST might reveal larg-
the disks of material spiraling into
allax is the basis upon which all
er planets, the size of Jupiter or larger. The gravitational effect of an orbit-
black holes and rapidly rotating neu-
greater distances are estimated. HST
ing planet should cause tiny shifts in the position of a star; the shifts can be
tron stars, or pulsars. The Crab
carries three Fine Guidance Sensors
detected through astrometry. In
Nebula, for example, contains a pul-
(FGS) that can be used for astrometry
addition, HST's spectrographs are
sar whose rotation makes it seem to
in addition to their primary function of
being used to study disks of mate-
blink on and off 30 times each sec-
helping the telescope to point accu-
rial around some nearby stars, like
ond.
rately in space.
Beta Pictoris, which may be solar
systems in the process of forma-
tion.
Artist's conception of Beta Pictoris
gas disk, based on HST
spectroscopy.
Nearby star
Polarimetry
tant object. Light is polarized if all of
Every photon of light is a travelling
its photons have their electric and
Parallax
Angle
electromagnetic wave, in which alter-
magnetic fields oriented the same
nating electric and magnetic fields are
way. The polarization of light can
oriented in fixed, perpendicular direc-
reveal subtle details about cosmic
tions in space. Polarimetry is the
structures, such as the existence of
study of the orientations of those
dust clouds or magnetic fields.
fields - called the polarization - in
WF/PC, FOC, FOS, and HSP are all
On and off:
Stellar parallax is the
the many photons coming from a dis-
capable of some polarimetry.
pulsar in the
apparent annual shift
Crab Nebula,
in the position of a
Electric
Field
a supernova
nearby star. The
remnant.
smaller the parallax
Earth
Earth
angle, the more
Direction of Travel
distant the star.
July
Jan.
Sun
Magnetic
Field
Light is a travelling
electromagnetic wave.
NASA. From its vantage point beyond
our planet's turbulent and obscuring
atmosphere, the Hubble Space
Telescope views the cosmos with
unprecedented clarity.
A. Primary mirror
B. Secondary mirror
C. Solar Arrays
D. Communications Antennas
E. Wide Field/Planetary Camera
F. ESA Faint Object Camera
G. Faint Object Spectrograph
H. High Speed Photometer
I. Goddard High Resolution Spectrograph
J. Fine Guidance Sensor (1 of 3)
K. Fixed Head Star Trackers (3)
L. Nickel Hydrogen Batteries (3 of 6)
M. Spacecraft Computer
N. Data Management Unit
0. Science Computer
P. Modular Replacement
Instrument
C
<<<<
What is spectroscopy?
lengths. By analyzing the spectrum,
Panel 5
Spectroscopy is the study of light
and the sizes and shapes of the spec-
Measuring Velocity With the Doppler Effect
split into its component colors - its
tral lines, astronomers can infer a
The Doppler effect allows astronomers to measure how fast a distant object
spectrum - by a prism or by a finely-
wealth of information about a distant
is moving toward or away from the Earth. If an object is moving toward us,
Spectroscopy:
etched grating. Ordinary light is a
object including its temperature, den-
all of its characteristic spectral "fingerprints" will be shifted from their nor-
mixture of many individual "pieces"
sity, chemical composition, rotation
mal (i.e., measured in a lab on Earth) wavelengths to shorter, or bluer,
of light, or photons, each of which is
rate, and structure.
wavelengths; if it is moving away, its spectrum will be shifted to longer, or
What are
characterized by its wavelength (see
Chemical Fingerprints
redder, wavelengths. The greater the amount of the "blueshift" or "red-
electromagnetic spectrum diagram on
shift," the faster the object is approaching or receding, respectively. (The
Every chemical element emits or
things
panel 2). A prism or grating sorts the
absorbs light at specific wavelengths,
expansion of the universe was first inferred from Edwin P. Hubble's dis-
photons by wavelength; with visible
forming a chemical "fingerprint" in its
covery that the spectra of distant galaxies always show redshifts, and more
light, this produces a rainbow of
distant galaxies show greater redshifts.)
made of?
spectrum. The spectrum of light from
color.
pure hydrogen, for example, can be
easily distinguished from that of heli-
The Doppler effect can be understood simply by considering the wave
A spectrograph is an
um, or of any other chemical. By
nature of light. If the source of the light is moving toward us, the waves will
instrument, contain-
studying the many "fingerprints" in
seem "bunched up" to shorter wavelengths. If the source is moving away,
Red :
Orange
ing prisms or grat-
the waves will seem stretched out to longer wavelengths. The Doppler
Yellow
the spectrum of a star, astronomers
Green
ings, that records
can deduce its chemical composition.
effect also occurs with sound waves, manifested by the familiar change in
Blue
Light
VIORI
the intensity of light
pitch as a vehicle "whizzes" by.
at each wavelength;
Spectrographs on HST
Glass Prism
two recorded spectra
The detail seen in a spectrum
are shown below.
depends on its spectral resolution, or
This observer sees
This observer sees
While a perfect "rainbow" would make
how widely the colors (wavelengths)
source moving away.
source approaching.
of the light are dispersed. Although
Light is Redshifted.
Light is Blueshifted.
a smooth curve, the examples show
that astronomical spectra usually
astronomers always desire high-reso-
reveal many spectral lines: dips, or
lution spectra, dispersing light widely
absorption lines, where some wave-
makes it difficult to see faint objects.
lengths of light have been absorbed
HST carries two spectrographs: the
by material in the distant object or
Goddard High Resolution
HST spectrum of quasar 3C273 (GHRS). The many hydrogen absorption lines,
between the object and the Earth; and
Spectrograph (GHRS) for detailed
each with a different redshift, prove that many giant clouds of hydrogen gas lie
bumps, or emission lines, where the
study of the spectra of bright objects,
between Earth and the quasar.
object has emitted specific wave-
and the Faint Object Spectrograph
(FOS) for lower spectral resolution
study of dim objects.
Hydrogen emission from quasar is red shifted to 1406 À
Arrows indicate hydrogen absorption lines from
gas clouds between Earth and quasar
HST spectrum of the star Chi Lupi
Intensity
Ge
Fe
Mn
Fe
(GHRS). Absorption lines are caused
Fe
Co+
Fe
by chemical elements in the star's
Mn
N
Fe
outer layers. Standard chemical
V
Fe
Ni
Ni
abbreviations are used; each "+" indi-
1216 A: Normal (non-moving) wavelength for this hydrogen line
cates a missing electron in the
1200
1250
1300
1350
1400
1450
1937.0
1937.5
1938.0
1938.5
1939.0
Wavelength (Angstroms)
absorbing atoms.
Wavelength (A)
Panel 4
Images Distorted by Gravity
The four images that make up the "Einstein Cross" (gravitational lens
G2237+0305) all are of the same quasar, yet no optical magic was worked
Imaging:
by human astronomers. How, then, does nature give us a picture showing
four distinct images of the same thing? The answer lies with Einstein's gen-
eral theory of relativity. According to this theory, the very structure of space
What do
and time (space-time) is "warped" by matter to produce the effect of gravity.
In a sense, the presence of a large mass causes space to be curved in much
Things Look
the same way that a bowling ball lying on a trampoline causes the stretched
fabric to bend; the difference is that the trampoline is 2-dimensional, while
Like?
space is 3-dimensional. (And space-time is 4-dimensional.)
Light travelling through curved space will be bent; in analogy with lenses
made of glass, this bending of light by gravity is called gravitational
lensing. The exact number and
arrangement of the multiple images of
Images reveal structure
HST reveals detail in a one light-year
an object seen in a gravitational lens
Although images are the most familiar
square region of the Orion Nebula.
depends on the particular geometry
method of portraying astronomical
(WF/PC)
and alignment of the background and
observations, imaging is just one of
foreground objects, in this case a dis-
five basic observational techniques
tant quasar and a much closer galaxy.
used by astronomers. The others -
be transmitted by radio to
In the Einstein Cross, four images
spectroscopy, photometry, astrome-
astronomers on the ground. One type
(astronomers believe a fifth may be
of detector, used in HST's Wide
try, and polarimetry - will be dis-
hidden by the galaxy) are distributed
cussed in the following panels.
Field/Planetary Camera, is the
around the image of the lensing
Images reveal the structure of distant
"charge coupled device," or CCD.
galaxy.
objects. In the Orion Nebula, a star
Besides a wide variety of applications
The Einstein Cross. (FOC)
forming region about 1,500 light-
in astronomy, CCDs are used in many
years away, HST has revealed intri-
camera and video technologies.
cate patterns of gaseous clumps and
Cameras On HST
tivity at short wavelengths (blue and
filaments; the colors of the structures
(not seen in this black and white
HST's first generation of instruments
ultraviolet light), but has a smaller
reproduction) reveal that they contain
includes two cameras designed
field-of-view. The WF/PC will be the
hydrogen, oxygen, and sulfur.
specifically for astronomical imaging.
first scientific instrument to be
INCHES
The Wide Field/Planetary Camera
replaced on HST; its successor,
(WF/PC) studies objects like planets,
WF/PC-2, will include corrective
Recording Images
clouds of dust and gas, and galaxies.
optics to counteract the spherical
A modern CCD is
Instead of using photographic film,
a small silicon
which responds to light by changing
The European-built Faint Object
aberration of HST.
chip.
chemically, HST uses detectors that
Camera (FOC) offers slightly higher
respond to light electronically. This
spatial resolution and greater sensi-
allows data to be directly recorded
HST image of
and analyzed with computers, and to
Jupiter. (WF/PC)
and
MA
MM
I
M
An Observatory In Space
Servicing HST
Panel 1
The Hubble Space Telescope (HST)
The scientific capability of any tele-
was placed into a 610-kilometer,
scope depends not only on its mirror,
95-minute orbit around the Earth by
but also on its instruments for record-
Introduction
the Space Shuttle Discovery in April
ing the collected light. HST was
1990.
designed to allow new instruments to
be easily installed as old ones
to the
Communication with the unmanned
become obsolete. Servicing missions
observatory is maintained through a
by the Space Shuttle, planned
Hubble
series of ground stations and through
approximately every three years, will
the specialized communication satel-
include repairs and other necessary
lites known as NASA's Tracking and
maintenance in addition to instrument
Space
Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS).
replacement.
Deployment of the Hubble Space
Telescope
Telescope from the Space Shuttle
Artist's conception of astronauts
Discovery.
replacing HST's Wide Field/Planetary
Exciting Science
Camera.
Despite its well-publicized primary
mirror flaw, HST has established itself
as a uniquely powerful astronomical
observatory. Among its first-year
Edwin P. Hubble, 1889-1953
achievements are: the study of a rare
storm on Saturn; the first image clear-
Once offered a chance to box as a professional heavyweight, the namesake
ly resolving Pluto and its moon
of HST opted instead to pursue a career in astronomy. Among his many
Charon; a new understanding of the
contributions were the first definitive proof that other galaxies exist beyond
dynamics in galactic cores, revealing
our own Milky Way, and his subsequent discovery that the entire universe
evidence of massive black holes; the
is expanding. The latter discovery led astronomers, soon thereafter, to theo-
first detailed images of the expanding
rize that our universe had a beginning some 10 to 20 billion years ago in
cloud from the stellar explosion
what we now call the Big Bang.
Supernova 1987A; the surprising dis-
"From our home on the Earth, we look out into the distances
covery of vast clouds of intergalactic
and strive to imagine the sort of world into which we were born.
gas; and much more.
Today we have reached far out
into space. Our immediate
neighborhood we know rather
Guide to The Hubble
Saturn, viewed from a
intimately. But with increasing
Space Telescope.
distance of 1.4 billion
distance our knowledge fades,
This 9-page guide to
kilometers by HST.
and fades rapidly, until at the
the Hubble Space
WideField/Planetary
last dim horizon we search
Telescope, printed on
Camera
among ghostly errors of obser-
the back of a NASA
vation for landmarks that are
wallsheet, may be
scarcely more substantial.
copied and distributed
"The search will continue. The
freely for educational
urge is older than history. It is
purposes.
not satisfied and it will not be
suppressed. - Edwin P. Hubble
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star
NASA's Great Observatories
Panel 2
"Twinkling" is not a property of stars
Space Infrared
themselves, but is a result of distor-
Telescope
tions caused by atmospheric turbu-
Facility
lence. This same turbulence blurs
Space
celestial images recorded by
ground-based telescopes. In con-
Astronomy
trast, the ability of a space tele-
Advanced X-ray
scope to distinguish fine detail
Gamma Ray
Astrophysical
- its spatial resolution - is
Observatory
Facility
theoretically limited only by its
size. (New technologies are
Pluto and its moon Charon,
enabling substantial improvements in
clearly resolved for the first
Mirror Trouble
ground-based resolution, but they are
Hubble Space Telescope
time.
still unlikely to match the resolving
Shortly after launch, HST was discovered to suffer from spherical aberra-
power of HST in the foreseeable
cal studies, including follow-ups to
tion, a slight blurring caused by a manufacturing error: the curvature of the
future.)
HST discoveries, often require far
primary mirror was made too shallow by about 1/50th the width of a human
more observing time than can be
hair (2 micrometers). In a perfect telescope mirror, all reflected light rays
Beyond visible light
made available on a single space tele-
from a star converge to a single focal point. With spherical aberration, light
The visible light that our eyes can see
scope, demand on ground-based
from different parts of the mirror focuses at different points, causing the
is only a very tiny part of the complete
telescopes will continue to grow for
image in the focal plane to be smeared. In an HST image, only about 15%
electromagnetic spectrum. Each por-
many years to come.
of the light from a star forms a sharp, "core" image; the rest forms a fuzzy
tion of the spectrum reveals new
"halo" around the core.
insights into the cosmos but only vis-
The Great Observatories
ible light, radio, and parts of the
NASA designed HST as only the first
How does this impact the science of HST? For studies of bright objects, like
Ground-based image.
infrared spectrum can penetrate our
in a series of four Great Observatories
planets or nearby star clusters, computer image processing to remove the
atmosphere; the rest of the electro-
that, together, will span a wide por-
fuzzy "halos" can overcome the distortion caused by the spherical aberra-
magnetic spectrum can be studied
tion of the electromagnetic spectrum.
tion. Many important scientific studies, however, particularly those requir-
only from space. HST's mirrors can
The Gamma Ray Observatory (GRO),
ing high-resolution imaging of faint objects,
collect infrared, visible, and ultravio-
second of the Great Observatories,
cannot be accomplished by HST in its current
let light; though its first generation of
was launched in April 1991. The
state. Fortunately, it is believed that corrective
instruments includes only visible and
third and fourth Great Observatories,
optics - "glasses" for the HST - - can be
ultraviolet detectors.
instruments for studying X-rays and
placed aboard the observatory during routine
infrared radiation, respectively, are
servicing missions by Shuttle astronauts.
Despite many superior capabilities,
planned for launch in the late 1990's.
HST's observing schedule has been reshuffled
HST will not make ground-based tele-
SO that those scientific programs most severely
scopes obsolete. Because astronomi-
affected can be postponed until the corrective
optics are in place.
HST image (Faint Object Camera).
7x10⁻⁷ 4x10⁻⁷
Red
Visible
Blue
Comparison of the sharp focus of a perfect
telescope mirror (top) with the diffuse focus of
Radio
Infrared
Ultra
X-ray
Gamma
a mirror with spherical aberration (bottom).
Ray
The electromagnetic
spectrum.
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
10⁶ 10⁵ 10⁴ 10³ 10² 10 1 10⁻¹ 10² 10³ 10⁴ 10⁻⁵ 10⁻⁶ 10⁻⁷ 10⁻⁸ 109 10¹⁰ 10" 10⁻¹² 10¹³ 10⁻¹⁴ 10¹⁵ 10¹⁶
Wavelength (meters)
FA
A technological marvel revealed
Five stories tall, with a mass of 11,000
kilograms, orbiting the Earth at 28,000
kilometers an hour, the Hubble Space
Telescope is the most technologically
complex satellite ever launched by
Seeing Into the Past
HST image of
younger than it is today. Thus, we
Panel 3
Perhaps the most remarkable fact
quasar "PKS 021-
can directly observe conditions in the
about any astronomical telescope is
36," which has
early universe simply by looking to
its ability to peer not only into the
ejected a gigantic
great distances in space. We learn
Time and
depths of space, but into the depths
"jet" of material.
how our universe has evolved by
of time. Because it takes time for
(Faint Object
comparing objects from the young
light to cross the vast expanses of
Camera)
universe (i.e., at great distances) with
Space
space, the light that reaches us shows
similar objects from the universe of
objects as they were in the past, when
today (i.e., nearby). Quasars, for
their light first left. For example, if we
example, are sources of extreme ener-
study a star whose light travelled for
gy buried in the cores of some galax-
ten years to reach US (i.e., it is ten
ies; because the most energetic
light-years distant), then we are
Images of Time
Observing the Early Universe
quasars are found only at great dis-
studying the star as it was ten years
As we look to distant galaxies, we
Because light from very distant
tances in space, they must represent
ago. The further distant an object
realize that astronomical images are
objects takes SO long to reach us, we
a stage in galactic evolution that is
lies, the further back in time we see.
pictures of both space and time. The
see them as they were in the distant
eventually outgrown.
Andromeda galaxy, for example, is a
past - when the universe was much
vast conglomeration of stars that lies
A light-year is the distance (it is not
over 2 million light-years away and
a unit of time) that light can travel in
stretches some 100,000 light-years in
The Big Bang
one year. Since all light travels at
diameter. As a result, we not only see
Astronomers believe that the Universe, meaning both space and time,
the speed of light, 300,000 km/s, a
the galaxy as it looked more than 2
simple unit conversion shows light
began with an event called the Big Bang. The foundation of the Big Bang
million years ago, but light from the
travels about 9.5 trillion km in one
theory rests on Edwin P. Hubble's discovery that the entire Universe is
year (multiply the speed of light by
near edge in this image left some
expanding: if the Universe is growing bigger, then it must have been small-
the number of seconds in a year):
100,000 years later (because it is
er in the past. Extrapolating the expansion rate back in time yields an age
100,000 light years closer to us) than
for our Universe of between 10 and 20 billion years; the uncertainty reflects
300,000 km S X 60 min S X 60 min hr
light from the far edge! The image
the difficulty astronomers have in accurately measuring cosmic distances, a
Light from the Sun
X 24 day hr X 365 day yr = 9.5 trillion km yr
spans 100,000 years of history that
problem which HST may help overcome.
takes about 8
occurred over 2 million years ago. In
minutes to reach
Thus, saying "one light-year" is just
fact, time and space are deeply inter-
The universal expansion is not the only evidence for the Big Bang, however.
the Earth.
a special way on saying "9.5 trillion
twined, as demonstrated by Einstein
Today, the Big Bang theory is supported by a vast array of theoretical pre-
km".
in his Theory of Relativity.
dictions that have been verified by observation. The foremost example is
the cosmic background radiation, the remnant radiation from the heat of the
Big Bang, which was theoretically predicted over a decade before its dis-
The Great Galaxy
covery in 1963. NASA's Cosmic
in Andromeda.
Background Explorer (COBE) extensive-
ly studied the cosmic background radia-
tion in 1989-1991, lending further
support to the Big Bang
theory.
NASA's Cosmic
Background Explorer.
Hubble Space Telescope,
launched in April 1990, is now in routine operation, chalking up a succession
of scientific accomplishments despite a number of technical challenges.
The tracking of a rare, giant storm on Saturn, the unexpected detection of
numerous clouds of hydrogen gas near our Galaxy, and the discovery of a
stellar "fountain of youth" in 47 Tucanae, together with the exciting
spectroscopy of Beta Pictoris, are only some of the triumphs recorded to date.
HST's current scientific capabilities are outstanding, and its future
capabilities will be even better. The first Shuttle servicing mission, in late
1993 or early 1994, will end the "jitter" caused by the solar arrays and give
HST the high sensitivity needed to observe very distant stars and galaxies.
Later servicing missions will install the powerful second- and third-generation
instruments that have been planned from the start. With these scheduled
performance enhancements, HST will be able to achieve its original scientific
goals over a planned 15-year observing lifetime.
We choose to go to the Moon in this decade, and do the other things, not because they are
easy, but because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best
of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one that
"
we are unwilling to postpone, and one that we intend to win.
- President John F. Kennedy
September 12, 1962
VSVN
VSVN
Monitoring and Measuring Ozone
The Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS).
Volcanic Sulfur Dioxide Observations
TOMS has also proven valuable in monitoring sulfur dioxide
(SO2) emissions resulting from volcanic eruptions. TOMS'
SO₂ mapping capability makes it possible to observe all the
world's volcanoes daily, then track the plumes and measure
SO₂ output during the infrequent eruptions. Such a set of
observations, extended over a few decades, will result in
more accurate assessment of global volcanic sulfur flux.
TOMS reading of sulfur dioxide resulting from the eruption of El Chichon. The highest
levels are shown in the greenish-yellow areas over the Gulf of Mexico and the Western Pacific.
Future Missions
Plans for future missions include placing a TOMS on the
Soviet Meteor-3 satellite in the early 1990s. TOMS has been
selected to fly on NASA's Small Explorer Mission and a
TOMS is also being considered for flight on the Japanese
Advanced Earth Observations Satellite (ADEOS). These
three missions would ensure a continuation of the TOMS
data set into the mid-1990s.
The TOMS aboard the Nimbus polar-orbiting satellite takes ozone measurements from north
to south along its orbit path, in "swaths" such as that shown at right.
For further information:
Robert D. Hudson/Arlin J. Krueger
George F. Esenwein/Robert T. Watson
Laboratory for Atmospheres
National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Space and Earth Sciences Directorate
Earth Science and Applications Division
Goddard Space Flight Center
600 Independence Ave., S.W.
Greenbelt, MD 20771
Washington, D.C. 20546
(301) 286-5485
(202) 453-1723/453-1681
Front Panel: Low levels of ozone over the South Pole, October 1987
TOMS' Role in
Ozone Measurement
Ozone Monitoring
Using TOMS
Ozone acts as a shield against harmful
The TOMS instrument is a second-
ultraviolet radiation from the sun. The
generation backscatter ultraviolet ozone
well-known ozone "hole" over Antarctica
sounder. It consists of a modified Ebert-
and the distribution of ozone over the
Fastie polychromator with fixed exit slits
globe have been mapped in detail by
at six wavelengths for the measurement
measurements taken by a NASA-
of total ozone under all daytime observing
developed ozone sounding instrument,
and geophysical conditions. TOMS'
the Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer
spectral region covers the near ultraviolet
(TOMS). Since it was launched aboard
wavelengths where sunlight is only
NASA's Nimbus-7 polar-orbiting satellite
partially absorbed by the total column of
in 1978, TOMS has provided reliable,
ozone. In order to provide the mapping
high-resolution mapping of global total
capability, the field of view of the
ozone on a daily basis.
polychromator is modified by a foreoptics
system and swept across the flight path
of the spacecraft, producing a swath of
observations that bridges the region
between adjacent orbits to produce daily
global coverage.
1979
1985
TOMS derived map of global ozone for February 1, 1989. The
pink- and purple-shaded area over Scandinavia represents
low-ozone levels (125-175 Dobson units). The red, orange, and
black areas over Canada and northeast Asia represent high levels
(425-475 Dobson units).
1988
October mean ozone
TOMS is vital to the continuing effort to
distribution over
understand the dynamics of ozone
Antarctica for the years
1979,1985, and 1988.
depletion. Having measured and mapped
With the support of
the decrease in global ozone, the crucial
TOMS, scientists have
now assembled a
problem now facing researchers is to
10-year database of
determine how much of the change in
ozone decline.
(such as chlorofluorocarbon [CFC]
production) and how much is attributable
TOMS measures total ozone by observing
to natural atmospheric processes.
both incident solar irradiance and
Separating these causative factors
backscattered ultraviolet radiation at six
requires a data record that is long
wavelengths between 310 and 380 nm.
compared to a solar cycle (11 years) of
Backscattered radiation consists of solar
observations. Having already completed
radiation that has penetrated through the
10+ years of observations, TOMS has
stratosphere to the troposphere, where it
proven invaluable in meeting this
is scattered by air molecules and clouds
requirement, and mission planning is
back through the stratosphere to the
underway to extend the TOMS record
satellite sensors. Along that path, a
through the 1990s.
fraction of the UV is absorbed by ozone.
By comparing the amount of
backscattered radiation with periodic
observations of the incident solar
irradiance at identical wavelengths, the
Earth albedo can be calculated. By
determining the change in albedo at the
selected wavelengths, the amount of
ozone above the surface can be derived.
The
On the left is the now-famous TOMS south polar plot for October
TOMS
5, 1987, showing historically low ozone distribution over
instrument.
Antarctica. Juxtaposed on the right is a plot for September 15,
1988, showing dramatic differences in Antarctic springtime ozone
from year to year.
Prior to the development of TOMS and
its predecessor, the Nimbus-4 Backscatter
Ultraviolet (BUV) instrument, ozone
measurements were obtained via ground-
based Dobson Spectrophotometer
In addition to various "housekeeping"
stations (named for a pioneer in ozone
sensors to monitor the well-being of the
studies). These data, while reliable, are
instrument, TOMS uses several in-flight
limited because the stations only measure
calibration modes to assess system
ozone in the atmosphere directly above
performance. These include a wavelength
them, and most of the 90+ Dobson
calibration system to check the stability
stations are located in the northern
of the spectrometer, and a gain calibration
hemisphere and mid-latitudes. The global
system to check system output-input
observational capability afforded by
ratios during the radiance and irradiance
TOMS eliminates these obstacles.
measurement modes.
NASA
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
18 Administrative Support Building, Information Technology Center
19 Technical Support Building
Goddard Space Flight Center
20 Technical Support Building, Mailroom
Greenbelt, Maryland 20771
&
21 Meteorological Systems Development Laboratory, Cafeteria, Library,
Credit Union
22 Space & Terrestrial Applications Facility
23 Data Interpretation Laboratory
24 Central Heating & Refrigeration Plant
25 Networks Text & Training Facility & Hydromechanical Laboratory
26 NASA Space Science Data Center
27 Transportation Facility, Hazardous Waste Chemical Storage Facility
28 Technical Processing Facility
29 Spacecraft Systems Design & Integration Facility
30 Quality Assurance & Detector Development Laboratory
87 Gas Cylinder Storage Building
88 Visitor Center
89 Ordnance Building
90 Day Care Center
Goddard
97 Plant Maintenance Support Facility, Health Unit
98 Center Management Building
99 Center Management Facility
Space Flight
Center
SIMULATOR
DOME
25
L
29
15
GATE NO. 4
EAST GATE
INIW
10
7
TIROS RD
27
TRACK
16W
RD
16
22
WT
23
RADOME
89
87
12
C.S. ROAD
17
14
88
9
13
GREENBELT ROAD
N
"Leading the world
500
0
500
into the future"
GRAPHIC SCALE
Godd:
Goddard Facilities
"Spac
For more
In addition to the primary facility in Greenbelt, Maryland,
A sounding rocket is readied for launch at
(GSFC) h
Goddard has management responsibility for the Wallops
Wallops Flight Facility. These rockets fly
Goddard Space Flight Center
explorati
Flight Facility on the Eastern Shore of Virginia near
near-vertical paths carrying scientific
Main Site Buildings
Chincoteague; for the Goddard Institute for Space Studies in
instruments to altitudes from 40 miles to
1 Space Projects Building, Cafeteria, Personnel, Travel, Security
ments an
hundreds of miles.
ID; GEWA
Earth and
New York City, and for the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite
2 Research Projects Laboratory
people fro
System ground terminals at White Sands, New Mexico. The
Wallops aircraft research also
3 Central Flight Control & Range Operations Building
4 Plant Operations Building
Today, th
Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore is operated
includes runway traction studies, a
5 Instrument Construction & Installation Laboratory
site contr
under contract to Goddard, and the National Scientific
project involving a Microwave
6 Space Sciences Laboratory
Center, lo
Balloon Facility in Palestine, Texas, is managed by Goddard
Landing System (MLS)-the
7 Payload Testing Facility
8 Administration Building
rolling M
through its Wallops Flight Facility.
instrument landing system of the
9 Main Gatehouse
future, and investigations into the
10 Environmental Testing Laboratory
One of ni
11 Applied Sciences Laboratory
stall/spin characteristics of general
(NASA)
12 Tracking & Telemetry Laboratory
aviation aircraft.
13 Network Control Center Facility
nel with 1
14 Spacecraft Operations Facility
missions
Goddard Institute for Space Studies (GISS)
15 High Capacity Centrifuge Facility
commun
Basic research in space and Earth sciences in support of GSFC's
16 Logistic & Supply Facility Shipping & Receiving
16W Logistic & Supply Facility
analyze (
programs is carried out at the Goddard Institute for Space Studies
17 Administrative Support Building, Safety Office, Bid Room
stretchin
(GISS). Since 1961, GISS has fulfilled its research mission in coop-
position
eration with Columbia University and other institutions of higher
ultraviole
learning.
astrophy
Current research at GISS is aimed at a broad study of global change,
TO GATE NO. 3
name a f
PARKWAY GATE
an interdisciplinary research initiative addressing natural and human-
That scie
made changes in our environment. Recent studies have focused on
staff that
the "greenhouse effect," which refers to the ability of certain gases in
POND
instrume
the atmosphere to trap heat radiation and warm the Earth's surface.
sensors,
As carbon dioxide, released by burning fossil fuels, and other trace
gases are added to the atmosphere, significant changes in global
GODDARD
28
Goddard
The TDRSS network, with its constellation of satellites, beams
20
climate are expected. Related studies are aimed at understanding
RD.
work pri
messages from space to Earth and from Earth to orbiting
satellites.
humanity's impact on the stratospheric ozone layer, which shields us
19
where th
from harmful ultraviolet radiation.
90
5
ing the i
26)
Wallops Flight Facility
conducti
Space Spinoffs
18
Wallops is a special facility for suborbital research, including
97
and the :
Among the greatest benefits of America's space exploration and
a launch range and complete research airfield, wholly owned
4
aeronautics research programs are spinoffs. Goddard's Office of
SUB
and operated by NASA. Wallops is responsible for projects
Commercial Programs has generated thousands of secondary
EXPLORER
STA
21
using sounding rockets, scientific balloons and aircraft which
24
RIGHT:
applications that adapt new aerospace technology to an almost
Center is
provide simple, flexible and inexpensive methods of conduct-
endless list of fields, including public safety, transportation, industrial
rocket pr
ing scientific investigations.
OH
processes and pollution control, medicine, energy systems, construc-
Russia, a
Sounding rockets carry scientific instruments several hundred
tion and law enforcement.
99
envisione
insight, G
miles into space while balloons, as huge as 28 million cubic
As we move toward the 21st century, Goddard looks forward to
98
COVER:
feet, take payloads of up to 6,000 pounds (2,700 kg) to
11
DELTA
RD.
playing a continuing, significant role in our Nation's effort to expand
Goddard
altitudes as high as 30 miles (48 km). The sounding rockets
knowledge of the Earth and its environment, the Solar System and the
30
1
Center th
and balloons are launched from locations all over the world,
1A
Universe. As it has done in the past, the Center will concentrate all its
2
one of G
AEROBEE
RD.
with recent launches having been carried out in the Antarctic,
Center: :
resources to assure that NASA and the United States remain number
MAIN GATE
GSFC en
New Zealand, Norway, Canada and Alaska. The scientific
one in space!
orbiting 1
balloon program is considered number one in the world.
GREENBELT
Backgrou
designed
Aircraft at Wallops are used as platforms for instruments to
Directions: From Washington, take the Baltimore-Washington
and techi
collect data at altitudes up to 40,000 feet (12,200 m).
Parkway north; from Baltimore, take the Baltimore-Washington
1989 on
Parkway south to Route 193 East. Remain on 193 for 2 miles.
Goddard Space Flight Center is on the left.
Goddard's Mission:
Pioneering Missions to Study Our World
"Space Research and Exploration"
For more than 32 years, NASA's Goddard Space
Flight
Center
Looking at the past, the Goddard team has compiled a mountain of
(GSFC) has been at the forefront of space research
and
scientific knowledge that has brought significant advancements to
exploration, carrying out many milestones in space chieve-
the world. Historically, the Center has been at the forefront of
ments and helping lead the world to new knowled bout the
space progress. During its first three decades, the Center developed
Earth and the universe. The Center started in 1959 with 157
more than 40 satellites in-house, managed approximately 160
people from the Naval Research Laboratory Vanguard group.
satellites for NASA, launched more than 170 payloads on Delta
Today, there are more than 4,000 civil servants and 8,000 on-
rockets, flew scientific payloads on more than 2,500 sounding
site contractor personnel directly involved in the
work
of
the
rockets and 550 balloons and provided tracking, communications
Center, located on a campus-like setting on 1,100 acres of
and data handling for all low Earth-orbiting satellites operated by
rolling Maryland countryside just outside of Washington, D.C.
NASA, including the space shuttles. It has had an active part in a
number of significant space "firsts" including the first true
One of nine National Aeronautics and Space Administration
meteorological satellite (TIROS) in 1960; the first passive
(NASA) centers, Goddard is a unique facility that
has
person-
communications satellite (Echo-1) in 1960; the first commercial
nel with the expertise that encompasses all phases
of
space
satellite (Telstar) in 1962, and the first operational geosynchronous
missions: that is, to design, build and test spacecraft; to
satellite (Syncom II) in 1963.
communicate with, track and operate satellites in orbit, and to
analyze data from them. With its activities and facilities
RIGHT: The Gamma Ray
ABOVE: Goddard's Cosmic Background Explorer (COBE) provided this
stretching literally around the world, Goddard has grown
to
a
Observatory (GRO) hangs
spectacular edge-on view of the Milky Way Galaxy.
position of preeminence in a variety of scientific disciplines
from the Remote
RIGHT: The Microelectronics Laboratory of the Mission Operations and
ultraviolet and infrared astronomy, solar physics,
Manipulator System
Data Systems Directorate is equipped with the latest technology,
(RMS) arm on Space
computer-aided design tools, an array of commercial processor boards
astrophysics, planetology, climatology and Earth sciences -
to
Shuttle Atlantis during
and components. It provides the capability to develop systems in-house,
name a few.
mission STS-37 in April
from chip design to integration and test.
1991.
That scientific expertise is supported by a strong engineering
Goddard personnel were responsible for the first satellite to
staff that has generated many technological advancements in
intercept a comet (International Cometary Explorer, 1985). Also,
instruments, spacecraft and ground data systems, cryogenic
Goddard has launched the Landsat satellites that have resulted in
sensors, lasers and spacecraft thermal systems.
a better understanding of Earth; Nimbus-7, which with its Total
Goddard has more scientists than any NASA center, and they
Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS), has brought revealing new
work primarily in six laboratories on the Center
information about the world's ozone; and the NOAA (National
where they specialize in everything from measur-
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) and GOES (Geostation-
ing the impact of a volcano on the atmosphere to
limit of balloon; 20 miles
Moon
ary Observational Environmental Satellite) weather satellites that
conducting basic research on astronomy, the Earth
bring the pictures of the Earth's weather patterns to TV screens
and the space environment.
around the globe.
limit of atmosphere;
International Participation
200miles
In addition, Goddard always has enjoyed a close working relation-
RIGHT: Dr. Robert Hutchings Goddard, for whom the
Center is named, is considered to be the father of modern
rocket propulsion. Along with Konstantin Tsiolkovsky, of
miles/s
200,00
ship with foreign nations. As a result, Goddard specialists have
been involved with scientists and engineers from all countries with
Russia, and Hermann Oberth, of Germany, Goddard
envisioned the exploration of space. A physicist of great
H
a space program of their own, providing advisory support in some
cases or participating in joint ventures in others.
insight, Goddard also had a unique genius for invention.
COVER: From concept to scientific data return,
Recent Missions
Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) is the NASA
Some of the more recent Goddard missions include the Hubble
Center that can do it all. Top: A team studies data from
Space Telescope (HST), the Gamma Ray Observatory (GRO), the
one of Goddard's six scientific laboratories.
Center: This antenna is one of the many that allow
Cosmic Background Explorer (COBE), and the Upper Atmosphere
GSFC employees to communicate with the many satellites
Research Satellite (UARS). In addition, Goddard manages the
orbiting Earth. Bottom: Pictured is the Cosmic
Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS), a constellation
Background Explorer (COBE) one of the many satellites
of communications satellites that maintains communications
designed, built and tested by GSFC engineers, scientists
and technicians. COBE was launched November 18,
through a Goddard-operated ground terminal at White Sands, New
1989 on a Goddard-managed Delta rocket.
Mexico, with Earth-orbiting satellites.
LEFT: The Tracking and Data Relay
Earth Observing System (EOS)
Satellite (TDRS), shown here in the
The EOS mission is the centerpiece of NASA's Mission to
space shuttle cargo bay just prior to
deployment, is part of the Goddard-
Planet Earth program, which, in turn, is part of a national
managed space tracking system that
effort involving a number of government agencies known as
has significantly enhanced NASA's
the Global Change Research Program.
data communications capability.
To understand what impact natural and human activity will
have on our planet, scientists must develop a better
knowledge of how the Earth works as a system-the
atmosphere, the oceans and the land. These forces now are
recognized to be closely associated in shaping the Earth's
weather and climate. However, the fundamental questions
of how the system works remain unanswered.
Goddard will manage the EOS, a series of orbiting plat-
ABOVE: NASA's Mission to Planet Earth
forms or observatories launched over a 15-year period to
is a program designed to produce the
understanding needed to predict changes in
collect data on a wide variety of environmental components;
the Earth's environment. The centerpiece of
and the Earth Observing System Data and Information
Mission to Planet Earth is Goddard's Earth
System (EOSDIS) which will gather and process the data
Observing System (EOS) project and its
from EOS for subsequent use by scientists worldwide. The
Earth Observing System Data and
first launch of an EOS observatory is scheduled for 1998.
Information System (EOSDIS).
Goddard also will participate in an Earth Probes program,
complementary to EOS, which will use smaller platforms to
make critical observations not made by the larger EOS
observatories.
ABOVE RIGHT: The first polar orbiting platform for the Earth
In the meantime, Goddard missions planned for earlier
Observing System (EOS) will carry a number of scientific instruments.
launch are expected to collect data that will play a signifi-
This spacecraft will help scientists better understand the physical,
cant role in providing information for the more comprehen-
chemical and biological processes that shape our global environment.
sive EOS data collections in the late 1990s.
The EOS platform will be managed by Goddard for NASA.
RIGHT: The Mission Operations Room (MOR) of the Space Telescope
EOS Missions
Operations Control Center (STOCC) at Goddard links astronomers on
Among these missions are the Upper Atmosphere Research
Earth with the orbiting Hubble Space Telescope (HST). As NASA's
Satellite (UARS), the Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer
largest and most complex control center for a scientific satellite, the
(EUVE), Laser Geodynamic Satellite (Lageos II), the Total
STOCC enables astronomers to obtain research data with HST much
as they would from a large ground observatory.
Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS) and the Tropical
Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM).
Goddard serves as the heartbeat of space communications, as
a matter of fact, sending commands to and receiving data
The Hubble Space Telescope and the Gamma Ray Observa-
UARS will provide a detailed study of the Earth's atmo-
from up to as many as 20 orbiting spacecraft 24-hours-a-day,
tory, along with the Advanced X-Ray Astrophysics Facility
sphere and establish a comprehensive data base for an
seven days a week, 365-days-a-year.
(AXAF) and the Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF)
understanding of the ozone depletion. EUVE will map the
comprise NASA's four "Great Observatories," which are
universe to determine the existence, direction, brightness
Hubble Space Telescope
designed to provide scientists with unprecedented information
and temperature of numerous objects which are sources of
The Hubble Space Telescope's Operations Control Center,
about our universe from the entire electromagnetic spectrum.
extreme ultraviolet radiation. Lageos II, a joint venture with
where engineers control the orbiting observatory, is located at
Italy, is designed to improve measurements of the Earth's
Goddard. The HST, in a 380-mile-high (611 km) orbit,
In the past, Goddard's work has been involved primarily with
motions and to help understand earthquakes.
permits astronomers to view the universe unobscured by the
space studies. In the future, the concentration will be more on
Earth's atmosphere. Designed to operate for 15 years, the
Earth studies. As a matter of fact, because of a program that
Several TOMS missions are planned to supplement the
HST has produced a number of significant images with
Goddard will manage known as the Earth Observing System,
TOMS that was recently launched aboard a Soviet Space-
unprecedented clarity and has provided astronomers with
or EOS, Goddard quite likely will become the focus of the
craft and the TOMS on Nimbus-7. TRMM will make
exciting scientific data.
world's attention on Earth sciences.
important measurements of variations in precipitation and
evaporation in the tropics.