Satellite Blocks
The size and capabilities (in particular Radio frequency coverage) of the GRAB/POPPY satellites evolved over the course of the 19 year program. Block I POPPY satellites had a diameter of 20 inches (51 cm), identical to the diameter of the GRAB satellites. Two Block I satellites were launched with the first and third POPPY launch, and one with the second POPPY launch. Block II POPPY satellites had a diameter of 24 inches (61 cm) and an increased weight. Two Block II satellites were launched on the second POPPY launch, one each on the third and fifth POPPY launch, and four and the forth POPPY launch. Block III POPPY satellites had a diameter of 27 inches (69 cm) and again an increased weight. Three Block III satellites were launched on the fifth POPPY launch, and four each in the sixth and seventh POPPY launch.
Ammonia Microthrusters were used for station keeping in order to maintain the orbital configuration of the POPPY constellation. Satellites used 2- or 3-axis gravity gradient stabilization.
Read more about this topic: Poppy (satellite)
Famous quotes containing the words satellite and/or blocks:
“Books are the best things, well used; abused, among the worst. What is the right use? What is the one end, which all means go to effect? They are for nothing but to inspire. I had better never see a book, than to be warped by its attraction clean out of my own orbit, and made a satellite instead of a system.”
—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)
“The quest for certainty blocks the search for meaning. Uncertainty is the very condition to impel man to unfold his powers.”
—Erich Fromm (1900–1980)