Citation
Abstract
This article discusses the capabilities of the Deep Space Network (DSN) as a factor in the design of the Viking telecommunications system. The problem of accommodating simultaneous downlinks from two orbiters and one lander with dual uplinks to one orbiter and one lander or two orbiters is discussed. Because the Viking encounter and subsequent orbital and landed operations take place near maximum earth-Mars separation (approximately 400 x 10% km), the signal-to-noise ratios on both up and downlinks are minimal to support the extensive command and data retrieval requirements. The tradeoffs between DSN capabilities and project requirements such as these are described in the context of the mission design.
Details
- Volume
- III
- Published
- June 15, 1971
- Pages
- 38–45
- File Size
- 551.5 KB