NGSLR Operations Manual
Performing MINICO and Stability Tests
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NASA NGSLR OPS Manual (v1.0)
6 Performing MINICO and Stability Tests
6.1 Performing a Mini Collocation (MINICO)
The mini collocation serves as a way to verify that the system delay remains stable while ranging to multiple
stationary targets at various azimuth locations. The system delay refers to the timing delay within the system,
and is meant to verify that timing or pointing issues do not adversely affect ranging measurements.
Note:
This section assumes that all equipment and software are running and configured as defined in Section 3.
1.
Ensure that the MCP has been powered up for 20 30 minutes to achieve good data stability
2.
Ensure the area is clear around the calibration pier
Use the Mount Camera Monitor to ensure that
personnel are not near the calibration pier. The operator is required to remain vigilant and verify that
personnel do not enter the calibration area during the test.
3.
Run POP
At the DAM/POP terminal (screen #2), start the operational software by typing:
/prod/bin/pop –I <ENTER>
Note:
Be sure to start the POP software on the top part of the minute (between 5 and 25 seconds into the minute) as listed
on the GPS Time and Frequency Receiver. POP can potentially crash if it is started too close to the rollover of the minute,
which will result in a long reboot (~15 minutes)..
4.
Hit all the
Apply
buttons on all of the RAT control menus
This sends the operator override settings to
the DAM/POP software.
5.
Verify Weather Measurements
Ensure that the meteorological data displayed accurately reflects
current weather conditions outside the shelter (Figure 6 1). Note that if the values for
Sky Clarity
are
NA
, then most likely the Sky Camera software on the Camera computer is not running.
Figure 6 1: Labeled diagram of a portion of the Ratgui main window showing weather information
