Utilizing Space Through Satellites Experimental Communications Satellites "Ayame" (ECS)

Operation Finished

About Experimental Communications Satellites "Ayame" (ECS)

These satellites were launched with the objective of conducting millimeter wave experiments with a satellite. However, the Ayame(ECS) was unable to accomplish its mission, mainly because the 3rd stage rocket came in contact with the satellite after separation. Then the auxiliary Ayame-2(ECS-b) was launched, and it stopped transmitting soon after the apogee engine fired. We learned some valuable lessons on satellite separation technology and apogee engine from this experience.

Major Characteristics

Ayame
(ECS)
International Designation Code 1979-009A
Launch Date 2/6/1979
Launch Vehicle N-I Launch Vehicle (N5F)
Launch Site Tanegashima Space Center
Ayame-2
(ECS-b)
International Designation Code 1980-018A
Launch Date 2/22/1980
Launch Vehicle N-I Launch Vehicle (N6F)
Launch Site Tanegashima Space Center
Weight 130kg
Dimensions Cylindrical D:141cm
Attitude Control Spin-stabilized

Reference

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