Research relative to the development of a cryogenic microwave cavity gradiometer for orbital use
Abstract
The noncryogenic, single axis, gravity gradiometer which is characterized by a sensitivity of the order of 10 to the minus 2 power Eovos Units in a few sec integration time was investigated. The prototype of testing gradiometer on the earth surface by the free fall in vacuo method was expanded. An existing free fall tower facility and the possibility of adding inside the falling elevator cabin an air tight, sealed, cylindrical container with inside pressure or = -0.001 Torr were examined to test the gradiometer in free fall conditions inside this evacuated container. Earth's gravity anomalies are simulated with masses of suitable shape, weight, and location. The attitude of the falling gradiometer is monitored by a three axis gyro package mounted on the instrument package. It is concluded that the free fall testing of the gradiometer is both feasible and practical.
- Publication:
-
Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory Report
- Pub Date:
- December 1984
- Bibcode:
- 1984sao..reptV....G
- Keywords:
-
- Cavity Resonators;
- Drop Tests;
- Free Fall;
- Gravity Gradiometers;
- Microwave Tubes;
- Planetary Gravitation;
- Satellite Instruments;
- Attitude Indicators;
- Drop Towers;
- Feasibility Analysis;
- Simulation;
- Weightlessness;
- Instrumentation and Photography