Ariel 6
Ariel 6 (UK 6) was the sixth and last satellite in the Ariel series. This satellite was launched on 2 June 1979, into a near-circular 625-km, 55-deg inclination orbit. The objective of this mission was to undertake studies in high-energy astrophysics. Two X-ray experiments, one cosmic-ray experiment, and three technology experiments were carried. The spacecraft was spin stabilized, with the spin axis commanded into a sequence of orientations to accommodate the X-ray experiment requirements.
Nation: | UK |
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Type / Application: | Science |
Operator: | SERC, NASA |
Contractors: | Marconi Space and Defence Systems |
Equipment: | |
Configuration: | |
Propulsion: | |
Power: | 4 deployable fixed solar arrays, batteries |
Lifetime: | |
Mass: | 155 kg |
Orbit: | 605 km × 651 km, 55° |
Satellite | COSPAR | Date | LS | Launch Vehicle | Remarks | |
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Ariel 6 (UK 6) | 1979-047A | 02.06.1979 | WI LA-3 | Scout-D1 |