NASA launched TDRS-M, 13th satellite in Tracking and Data Relay Satellite network, linking ground controllers with low-orbiting spacecrafts like Hubble and International Space Station

Briefing

NASA launched TDRS-M, 13th satellite in Tracking and Data Relay Satellite network, linking ground controllers with low-orbiting spacecrafts like Hubble and International Space Station

August 19, 2017

Briefing
  • TDRS-M Launch – NASA launched 13th and last longtime tracking and communications satellite TDRS-M aboard unmanned Atlas V Rocket on Friday, August 28, 2017, finishing TDRS satellite launching since 1983
  • Satellite Network – Links ground controllers with low-orbiting spacecrafts and the International Space Station
  • TDRS-M Satellite – TDRS-M and Atlas V Rocket cost $540 million, with TDRS-M being third generation equipped with tracking networks that rely on lasers, compared to six older TDRS satellites that NASA has in space
  • Next Steps – NASA hopes to start launching high-tech satellites with more advanced and robust method of relaying data by 2024

Accelerator
Space Commercialization

Sector
Government (excluding military)

Organization
NASA

Source

Original Publication Date
August 18, 2017

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