Advanced Communications Satellite Reaches Geosynchronous Orbit

After a challenging seven-month planning and recovery effort led by Boeing Satellite Systems of El Segundo, Calif., the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite-I (TDRS-I) reached geosynchronous orbit Sept. 30 early in the morning. The recovery effort was prompted when one of the two fuel tanks aboard the satellite did not properly pressurize shortly after its March 8 launch.

"This amazing milestone was achieved through the dedication and extensive personal sacrifices of the Boeing/NASA TDRS-I mission recovery team," said Robert Jenkens Jr., TDRS Project Manager at Goddard. "These talented and innovative individuals were able to collectively overcome many significant obstacles along the way," he added.

For the full article on TDRS-I reaching Geosynchronous orbit, visit: http://www.gsfc.nasa.gov/news-release/releases/2002/02-188.htm