Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Tiller, S. E..
The battery performance of the IUE spacecraft launched in 1977 is updated. Changes made in the battery operational procedures are detailed. The aging effects after several eclipse seasons and the effects of 8 C temperature was anticipated. The batteries met their design goals and should meet the 10 year goal.
The in-flight performance data of two 17-cell, 6-ampere-hour nickel cadmium spacecraft batteries are presented covering 22 months of operation. Fluctuations in the battery voltage and the battery temperature are presented for spacecraft movement throughout a beta range of 0 to 130 deg. The battery discharge voltages during the peak eclipse seasons, daily seasons, and daily eclipse periods are noted. Finally, the spacecraft data are compared to data from a 6-ampere-hour test pack and test flight data.
A heatpipe experiment for a long duration exposure facility is described. The design and configuration of the power system of the spacecraft is reported with emphasis placed on its solar array panels, 12-ampere hour 18-cell nickel battery, and its electronic controller.