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Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics

Launch

Launch: December 15, 2017 10:35 AM EST

Overview

  • TSIS launched on a SpaceX SpX-13, Falcon 9 in the SpaceX Dragon trunk, externally on an Express Pallet Adapter (ExPA).
  • TSIS operates from an Expedite the Processing of Experiments to Space Station (EXPRESS) Logistics Carrier (ELC-3) nominally for 5 years (2 year extended mission possible).
  • The TSIS Thermal Pointing System (TPS) is deployed above the ELC after installation in order to provide sufficient solar visibility to track the sun each orbit with it’s two axis gimbal.
  • After a minimum 5 years on-orbit operations, the TPS will be re-stowed into its launch envelope by command and can be disposed.
SpaceX video of the launch (30 mins)
NASA SpX-13 mission patch
NASA SpX-13 mission patch
Artist rendering of the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft being berthed to ISS
Artist rendering of the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft being berthed to ISS

 

Mission type ISS resupply
Operator SpaceX
 
Spacecraft properties
Spacecraft Dragon (new or used TBD)
Spacecraft type Dragon CRS
Manufacturer SpaceX
Dry mass 4,200 kg (9,300 lb)
Dimensions Height: 6.1 m (20 ft)
Diameter: 3.7 m (12 ft)
 
Start of mission
Launch date Planned: December 2017
Rocket Falcon 9
Launch site Cape Canaveral SLC-40
Contractor SpaceX
 
Orbital parameters
Reference system Geocentric
Regime Low Earth
Inclination 51.6 degrees
Epoch Planned
 
Berthing at ISS
Berthing port Harmony nadir or Unity nadir
 
Cargo
Pressurised 2,333 kg (5,143 lb)
Unpressurised 977 kg (2,154 lb)