karn (04/23/83)
The following is a status report on the AMSAT Phase 3-B/Ariane L-6 launch campaign: Report from Kourou 17:30 UTC 23 Apr 83 {De Gordon and Jan via FY0ESE, 21.360 MHz, to WA2LQQ} 1. Preparations of the s/c are going well. 2. A slip in the launch appears inevitable. The magnitude of the slip is indeterminate at this moment. Could be 1 week to 5 weeks or more pushing launch date into August. 3. There are two significant problems: a. Turbo pumps [no elaboration given on the air] b. Inertial nav system [likewise no elaboration] 4. Our crew will complete all preparations up to s/c fueling. They will then return home for an indeterminate period. About one week's work will be needed upon return to Kourou. 5. A major review/meeting will be held tomorrow, Sunday. 6. The next major decision point is 16 May 83 [launch day set then?] 7. Jan would like to QSO with both KA9Q and W0PN on Sunday, 24 Apr. Suggest they tune 21.360 o/a 1700 UTC. 8. Jan will call [LL] WA2LQQ on Monday. This info is suitable for public dissemination for release now.