Mar 25 1975
From The Space Library
The computer aboard Landsat-2 (launched 22 Jan.) was the most advanced of its type ever flown on an unmanned NASA satellite, NASA announced. Able to handle up to 55 ground-station commands controlling spacecraft operations for up to 24 hrs, the compact digital computer was a forerunner of the NASA Standard Space Computer that will be used in a wide variety of unmanned missions. Managed by Goddard Space Flight Center, the standard space computer program was part of an agency-wide program to develop standardized satellite components, both to reduce costs and to increase reliability. The program also covers other spacecraft hardware such as nickel cadmium batteries, transponders, attitude-control thrusters, pyrotechnic initiators, silicon solar cells, and tape recorders. (NASA Release 75-85)
Two solid rockets on the Space Shuttle acoustic model accidentally escaped from the test stand during a captive static firing. The model's liquid-propellant rocket engines had operated normally for a few seconds when the two solid rockets ignited on schedule. Both solid rockets then separated from the test stand. One was propelled north for 1.2 km, landing in a pine thicket; a brush fire caused by the rocket was quickly extinguished and no one was injured. A nine-member board was appointed to investigate the cause of the accident, determine the amount of property damage, investigate the adequacy of safeguards to prevent further incidents, recommend corrective measures, and assure containment of facilities and surrounding areas in case of recurrence.
Although the test stand was damaged, the Orbiter and external tank of the model were not. The model would be returned to operation with the replacement of some wiring and instrumentation. (Marshall Star, 2 April 75, 2)
The new Soviet 100-seat jet airliner, Yak 42, was being air-tested in the Soviet Union, Tass reported. The aircraft was expected to replace outdated airliners on Aeroflot's medium-distance routes. (Tass, FBIS-Sov, 26 March 75, U1)
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