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Muses-B

In 1996 with the help of ISAS' new M-5 launch vehicle, the institute plans to expand its astrophysical studies into the radio spectrum with the Muses-B spacecraft. The objective of the new VLBI Space Observatory Program (VSOP) is to obtain quality images of both highly energetic and weak radio sources at frequencies of 1.6, 5, and 22 GHz. The 800-kg spacecraft will deploy a 8-m diameter, gold-plated mesh antenna once it reaches an operational orbit of 1,000 km by 20,000 km. The primary contractors developing Muses-B are Mitsubishi Electric Company and Heavy Industries, Nippon Electric Company, Sumitomo Heavy Industries, and Toshiba Corporation (References 265, 273-274).

265. Japan Developing Advanced Spacecraft For Deep Space X-Ray, Radio Astronomy", Aviation Week and Space Technology, 27 August 1990, pp. 80-81.

266. M. Mecham, "Launch of X-ray Satellite Will Aid Big Bang Studies", Aviation Week and Space Technology, 1 March 1993, p.21.

267. Kyodo News Service, 20 February and 9 April 1993.

268. N. W. Davis, "Japan's ISAS Pursues 'Independent' Agenda", Aerospace America, July 1993, pp. 13-15.

269. M. Oda and Y. Tanoka, "Japan's Blossoming Space Science", Sky and Telescope, January 1987, pp. 7-11.

270. K.P. Dawson, "Japanese Launch Astro-D, Begin Orbital Tests of Satellite", Space News, 1-7 March 1993, p. 7.

271. The Institute of Space and Astronautical Science 1993, op. cit., pp. 8-9, 26.

272. "AXAF-S Sensor To Fly on Astro-E", Space News, 27 February - 5 March 1995, p. 17.

273. M. Mecham, "Japan Broadens Scope of Science Missions", Aviation Week and Space Technology, 20 March 1995, pp. 59-61.

274. The Institute of Space and Astronautical Science 1993, op. cit. p. 13.

Sources and Resources

• Adapted from: Europe and Asia in Space 1993-1994, Nicholas Johnson and David Rodvold [Kaman Sciences / Air Force Phillips Laboratory]

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