EP-165 Spacelab

 

Diagram shows how the new Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) when completed will allow the Orbiter and Spacelab to maintain nearly uninterrupted communications with the Mission Control Center in Houston during orbital flights. Only one of the satellites was in operation in time for the first Spacelab flight. In earlier orbital flights crews could usually communicate with ground stations for only about 20 percent or less of each orbit.

Diagram shows how the new Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) when completed will allow the Orbiter and Spacelab to maintain nearly uninterrupted communications with the Mission Control Center in Houston during orbital flights. Only one of the satellites was in operation in time for the first Spacelab flight. In earlier orbital flights crews could usually communicate with ground stations for only about 20 percent or less of each orbit.

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