RADAR CROSS-SECTION OBSERVATIONS OF THE ECHO I COMMUNICATIONS SATELLITE AT 440 MC/S
Abstract
Radar cross-section measurements were conducted on Echo I (60 Iota 1) , a passive communications satellite, from the first revolution on 12 August 1960 to revolution 5159 on 6 October 1961. Tracks on the early revolutions, up to about 92, generally displayed a fairly constant amplitude, indicting little deformation of the spherical shape of the balloon. Later recordings show amplitude patterns with various amounts and rates of fading. Fast scintillations, with a period of the order of 0.5 - 1 second, can be seen during certain runs as well as slow longterm fading during others. Beginning with about revolution 1944 (18 January 1961), a gradual deterioration in the shape of the balloon was indicated by frequent deep fades and a generally rough amplitude pattern. Amplitude records for 14 of the observed passes are included. A summary is also included for a voice communications experiment conducted between Millstone and the Prince Albert Radar Laboratory during revolution 12.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 19, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0274065
Entities
People
- D.p. Hynek
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology