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.