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Delta IV EELV -- Testing TDRSS
A NASA engineer installs a prototype S-Band radio transmitter to test hardware modeling a section of a Delta IV launch vehicle, currently under development by The Boeing Company in Huntington Beach, Calif.
The test set-up validates acquisition of signals to the Air Force's Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS), which will be used for Delta IV telemetry and tracking.
TDRSS will enable Boeing support personnel to monitor the Delta IV flight through a single satellite. On Delta II and III, communication from the launch vehicle to the ground stations is transmitted via land-based receivers and aircraft.
TDRSS shows that a system of telecommunication satellites operated from a single ground station could better support the space shuttle and scientific application mission requirements planned for the Nation's space program. In addition, the system is seen as a means of halting the spiraling costs of upgrading and operating a network of tracking and communications ground stations located around the world.
TDRSS offers detailed telemetry and avionics information of Delta IV from a single source, improving communication and productivity while reducing costs.
The Delta IV, which will lift up to 29,100 pounds to geosynchronous transfer orbit, combines proven Delta launch vehicle components with innovation to provide government and commercial customers with an affordable, reliable, and flexible launch services.
Photo Credit: Boeing Photo - Reg Inman