NGSLR Operations Manual
Operations Requirements and Emergency Procedures
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8
NASA NGSLR OPS Manual (v1.0)
2 Operations Requirements and Emergency Procedures
2.1 Operational Considerations
As automation of the system is under development, the operator still plays an important role in the operation of
the station. The operator is present to re enable the laser after an aircraft detect (per FAA requirements), as
well to adjust various pieces of equipment that have not yet been automated, including closing the dome before
inclement weather strikes.
2.1.1 Description of basic ranging operations
Once the system has been powered on and configured for ranging operations, the operator will cycle back and
forth between ground calibrations (that aid in maintaining system accuracy) and tracking sets of scheduled
passes. Each scheduled set of passes lasts from 1 1 ½ hours, and consists of satellites in a variety of orbital paths
and altitudes. Any single pass could last from 2 minutes up to 1 hour. Regardless of the satellite, these are
never tracked below 20° in elevation due to laser safety concerns. Opening and closing of the shelter door
should be kept to a minimum during passes, as this can affect the quality of the data collected.
Every pass attempt should be entered into a log sheet that is filled out during every shift, with a new log sheet
used for each shift. You are required to fill in the requested information on the log (see Appendix B) and note all
error conditions and other anomalies that occur during the shift.
At the end of the shift, the operator must make sure that all necessary equipment is off (especially the laser),
that the dome is completely closed, and that the shelter is locked.
Outline of Typical Shift:
Initial Ground Calibration
Set of Satellite Passes
Ground Calibration
Set of Satellite Passes
Ground Calibration
Set of Satellite Passes
Ground Calibration
Set of Satellite Passes
Ground Calibration
Set of Satellite Passes
Ground Calibration
Set of Satellite Passes
Ground Calibration
Set of Satellite Passes
Final Ground Calibration
Power up system
Shut Down System
