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Spektr Series

Replacing the Venera-class platform used by Granat will be the new Spektr-class series of high altitude astrophysical observatories. Built by the Lavochkin NPO, the Spektr spacecraft bus will support up to four major missions in the 1990's and beyond: Spektr-X-gamma for X-ray and gamma ray astronomy, Spektr-R for radio astronomy, Spektr-UVT for ultraviolet observations, and Spektr-IR for infrared investigations. The 3.5 metric-ton, 3-axis-stabilized Spektr bus will measure more than 18 m across its solar arrays which provide 3 kW of electrical power at beginning of life including up to 0.8 kW for the scientific payload. The attitude control system is designed for an operational pointing accuracy of not worse than 4 arcminutes, and the spacecraft projected lifetime is three years. The maximum scientific payload for Spektr will be approximately 2.5 metric tons for a total 6-metric-ton spacecraft mass (References 287-288).

287. V. M. Kovtunenko, et al, "Spectrum: Unified Spacecraft for Astrophysical Observations", Paper IAF-88-001, 39th Congress of the Astronautical Federation, October 1988.

288. A. A. Boyarchuck and E. G. Tanzi, "The Spectrum-UV Project", Workshop on Space Projects to Probe the Internal Structure of the Sun and Sun-like Stars", November 1991.

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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