LRS Micro-g LaCoste FG5, Manual, Page: 17 / 149

Design: Components and Function
2
Figure 2-7
Top view of the service ring.
2.1.5.VIEWING PORT
The viewing port (Figure 2-2 and Figure 2-3) is located in the top flange of the
dropping chamber. It allows visual observation of the dropping chamber
interior when the rotation monitor is not fitted to the system. The rotation
monitor (when fitted to the system) is mounted to the top flange of the dropping
chamber, directly above the viewing port. When the rotation monitor is not
mounted, a cover for the port is used to exclude ambient light from the interior
of the dropping chamber during measurements.
2.1.6.THE DROP
In drop mode, a signal from the computer to the dropper controller initiates the
drop sequence. The cart drag-free chamber is driven slowly from its bottom
position to the “hold” position at the top of the drop. A second pulse initiates
the drop, and the cart accelerates downward at more than 1 g, leaving the test
mass in free-fall.
2-7