Paper Session II-B - The Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System

This paper describes the history of the TDRS and STS relationship, the unique considerations which were required of the TDRS Program, and the design drivers which were imposed on the TDRS as the program matured and subsequently as the STS was re-evaluated as a consequence of the Challenger accident. The in-advance preparations and coordination is detailed as are the pre-launch and launch activities required to fly on an Orbiter. The advantages as well as disadvantages of flying on a manned launch vehicle are detailed, and the paper ends with advice and recommendations based on lessons learned. It is hoped that this paper will give some insight into how yesterday\u27s vision of a reusable launch vehicle evolved into today\u27s operational launch system, and how yesterday\u27s vision of a space-based Tracking and Data Relay System has replaced the Ground Spaceflight Tracking and Data Network (GSTDN) Stations, providing markedly improved data rates and orbital coverage for today\u27s users including the STS