On-orbit operation of the Spacelab Instrument Pointing System /IPS/
Abstract
The design concept of on-board control and operations implemented in the Spacelab Instrument Pointing System (IPS) is reviewed. The IPS major components include integrated gimbal structure, payload clamp assembly, data and power electronics comprising a minicomputer, and attitude measuring sensors. Each of the four operational modes (activation/deactivation, stellar, solar, and earth modes) can be exercised in all of their options (e.g., star identification, hand controller) using one alphanumeric display, which provides a flexible and responsive operator interface. In contrast to its predecessor, the Apollo Telescope Mount on Skylab, which was operated from a dedicated panel through a dedicated computer, IPS uses the data acquisition, processing, and distribution capability of the Spacelab Command and Data Management Subsystem.
- Publication:
-
Automatic Control in Space
- Pub Date:
- 1980
- Bibcode:
- 1980aucs.proc..353H
- Keywords:
-
- Instrument Orientation;
- Pointing Control Systems;
- Satellite Instruments;
- Space Shuttle Orbiters;
- Spacecraft Control;
- Spacelab Payloads;
- Display Devices;
- Earth Observations (From Space);
- European Space Agency;
- Man Machine Systems;
- Satellite Attitude Control;
- Space Flight;
- Stars;
- Spacecraft Instrumentation