OAO Ground System and Operations

Astronomy has taken a significant step forward with the success of NASA´s Orbiting Astronomical Observatory designated OAO-A2. This 4400-pound satellite, the heaviest and most complex unmanned observatory developed by the United States, was launched on December 7, 1968 from Cape Kennedy. On April 5, 1970 it was in its 485th day of operation which represents almost 7000 orbits of which 88 percent have been available for experimentation. During this period of time astronomers have made over 6600 observations of stars, galaxies, planets, and nebulae. It is estimated that OAO has executed over one-half million commands. The ground system and operations reflect the complexity of the observatory and its mission. The requirements on the ground system to support flight operations include a sophisticated integration of men and data systems. One day of viewing involves over a thousand observatory commands. Eight dedicated computers involving almost 500 man-years of programming and the exclusive assignment of over 200 highly trained operations personnel and astronomers are required to operate OAO around the clock, seven days a week.