NASA News Briefing Previews Launch of TDRS-M Communications Satellite | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

NASA's TDRS-M satellite is set to launch on an Atlas 5 rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, with the mission being critical for space communications.

Key Insights

• 🚀 Atlas 5 rocket has a successful track record, with 14 successful NASA missions launched.
• 🛰️ TDRS-M satellite is critical for space communication, providing real-time support to NASA missions and enabling scientific discoveries.
• 📡 The damaged TDRS-M antenna has been replaced, and the satellite is ready for launch.
• ☠️ NASA is focusing on developing laser communication technology for higher data rates and improved security.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: How was the TDRS-M antenna damaged?

The antenna was damaged when it bumped against a piece of ground support equipment during the pre-launch process. The damaged antenna has been replaced and retested.

Q: How many TDRS satellites are currently active and serving customers?

Currently, there are approximately seven active TDRS satellites, with six providing real-time support to NASA's customers, and one serving as a backup.

Q: What are the future capabilities that NASA wants to develop with laser communication technology?

The future capabilities include the use of optical communication, which offers higher data rates and more bandwidth for the same weight and power requirements. NASA is also working on quantum entanglement and quantum key distribution for enhanced security in communication.

Q: How long does the Atlas 5 rocket have to launch before considering a scrub?

The Atlas 5 rocket has a 97% success rate in launching on the first attempt, and if a scrub happens, the next possible launch window would be on August 19th. If further delays occur, the next opportunity would likely be in late August.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• NASA has successfully launched 14 missions on the Atlas 5 rocket, and TDRS-M will be the 15th NASA mission on Atlas 5.

• The TDRS-M satellite has gone through extensive processing and testing at AstroTech facility in Titusville, Florida.

• The launch preparations for the Atlas 5 rocket, including final checks and propellant loading, are underway for the launch on August 18th.