Discovery's STS-51D Mission Launches Satellites
April 12th, 1985
April 12th, 1985
How Long Ago?
39 years, 11 months, 4 days ago
Location
Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA
Category
Space Exploration
People
- Charles D. Gemar
- John M. Lounge
- Fred W. Leslie
- Anna Fisher
- Owen Garriott
Links & References
Tags
Discovery's STS-51D Mission Launches Satellites
Space Shuttle Discovery launched on the STS-51D mission to deploy two communications satellites, making it an essential mission for telecommunications. The launch took place from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crew, commanded by Charles D. Gemar, was tasked with not only deploying the satellites but also engaging in various scientific experiments during the mission. The successful deployment of these satellites marked a significant advancement in communication capabilities, paving the way for enhanced service and connectivity in the years to come.
Discovery launched on April 12, 1985.
Deployed the ASSET and GTE satellites.
Mission lasted for 6 days in orbit.
Crew engaged in various scientific experiments.
What Happened?
The STS-51D mission of the Space Shuttle Discovery was a pivotal moment in the development of satellite communications. Launched from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Discovery ascended to orbit carrying two significant communications satellites: the ASSET (Active Spacecraft Experiment Test) and the GTE (General Telephone & Electric) satellite. Commanded by Charles D. Gemar, the mission was notable not only for its satellite deployments but also for its contributions to various other scientific investigations. The crew consisted of skilled professionals, including pilot John M. Lounge and mission specialists who engaged in numerous tasks ranging from satellite deployments to Earth observation experiments.
STS-51D is particularly remembered for showcasing the capabilities of the Space Shuttle program. After reaching orbit, the crew successfully deployed both the ASSET and the GTE satellites, which played essential roles in advancing telecommunications technology. The mission involved manual operations as the crew utilized the shuttle's robotic arm to release the satellites into their designated orbits. This mission demonstrated advancements in technology and highlighted the importance of space missions in enhancing communication infrastructure back on Earth.
The mission lasted for a total of 6 days, during which the crew conducted extensive work that contributed to both their own research and broader technological developments. The successful deployment of satellites allowed for further improvements in telecommunications, making it possible for better signal processing systems and satellite relay communications to flourish. The mission showcased an exceptional combination of human skill and sophisticated technology, further solidifying the Space Shuttle program's role in transitioning humanity into an era of advanced space exploration and utility in everyday life.
Why Does it Matter?
The successful launch and deployment of communication satellites during the STS-51D mission were crucial in enhancing telecommunications globally. This event illustrates the importance of space exploration in facilitating advancements that impact daily life, economy, and global connectivity. The mission demonstrated the feasibility of satellite technology and paved the way for further improvements in communication that we rely on today.
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