NSSDCA ID: 1962-011A-04
Mission Name: 1962 Lambda 1The 1962 Lambda 1 scanning radiometer was capable of measuring both thermal emissions and reflected solar radiation from the earth. The radiometer subsystem consisted of an optics turret with appropriate filters and two flake-thermistor bolometers, on sensitive to thermal radiation (3.5 to 30 microns) and the other to visible and near infrared radiation (0.2 to 4.5 microns). Other components included a vibration-wand chopper, an AC amplifier, and telemetry. A polished rotating mirror located in the optics turret allowed the radiometer to scan the earth from horizon to horizon. Each detector was positioned at the base of a conical radiation shield that restricted the angular field of view to about 5 deg. Similar radiometers were flown on Midas 3, 4, 5, and 6. A complete description of the radiometer can be found in 'Transistorized Radiometers and High Altitude Measurements,' final report by Dr. E. Todd, University of Colorado, November 1963. Neither detector functioned satisfactorily, and data were collected for only the first two orbits. However, these data were considered worthless owing to low detector sensitivity.
Mass: 1.68 kg
Questions and comments about this experiment can be directed to: Coordinated Request and User Support Office
Name | Role | Original Affiliation | |
---|---|---|---|
Dr. Edward P. Todd | Other Investigator | University of Colorado | |
Mr. Adolph S. Jursa | Principal Investigator | Phillips Laboratory (nee USAF Geophysics Lab, nee Cambridge Labs) |