Experience with the Applications of Radio Command Guidance to Satellite Launch Vehicles

Abstract

The results of five years of experience in guiding satellites into orbit by means of radio command guidance will be described. Some flight results from the DELTA series, which includes the TIROS weather satellites; the TELSTAR, RELAY, and SYNCOM communications satellites; and various other satellites and probes will be presented and discussed.The guidance system uses a single precision monopulse radar to measure missile position and transmits corrective orders and sequencing commands to the missile, using the beam as a communications channel. The missile-borne equipment acts only as a transponder and communications channel, which gives it a considerable weight advantage over inertial systems.As a result of this experience, suitable methods for adapting the control system to handle faults in input data and in the communications path to the missile, have been determined. In addition, efficient methods for controlling radar look-angles; for limiting missile bending moments during aerodynamic phases; and reducing range safety dispersions have been developed. These techniques will be described, as well as the general methods used in applying a single guidance system and guidance computer program to such a diverse spectrum of satellite types.