The effect of long-term storage orbit on a bipropellant pressure regulation system
Abstract
The INTELSAT 603 satellite was stranded in a low earth orbit for 797 days, awaiting Space Shuttle rescue. During this time, the pressure regulation panel of the bipropellant propulsion subsystem was engaged. Early evidence of primary regulator leakage was observed, eventually followed by leakage through the backup regulator. Flight pressure telemetry and accompanying analyses of the extent of the leakage are presented. Also discussed is a special regulator test used to partially characterize the leaky regulator. The malfunction of the oxidizer and fuel side pneumatic check valves followed Space Shuttle deployment, evidenced by failure of the propellant tanks to maintain regulated pressure during liquid apogee thruster firing. The details of that anomaly, and possible causes, are presented.
- Publication:
-
Joint Propulsion Conference and Exhibit
- Pub Date:
- June 1993
- Bibcode:
- 1993jpmc.confQY...P
- Keywords:
-
- Intelsat Satellites;
- Liquid Rocket Propellants;
- Pressure Regulators;
- Space Shuttles;
- Telemetry;
- Transfer Orbits;
- Hydrazines;
- Leakage;
- Malfunctions;
- Nitrogen Tetroxide;
- Propellant Tanks;
- Spacecraft Propulsion and Power