Welcome to the Litton PRC Website for theNASA Sounding Rocket Operations Contract

(NSROC)

This site created by: 24 Hour Company

Litton PRC/NASA Sounding Rocket Operations Contract

http://www.nsroc.com/front/index.html [6/16/2000 8:37:15 AM]

Click on The Program to learn more about NASA's Sounding RocketProgram (NSRP) and the goals of Wallops 2000.

Click on What We Do to read about NSRP missions and capabilities. Learnabout launches, payloads, building rockets, and student outreach programs.If you're a potential launcher, find out what Wallops Flight Facility has tooffer. Set your browser and get ready to take off!

13 different sounding rockets are currently launched from Wallops. Click onThe Stable to see each rocket and learn about its specifications, trajectoriesand uses.

The NSROC Team includes employees from five different corporations,united in their determination to continue NASA's tradition of quality,achievement and success. To read about each Team member, click on theNSROC Team. If you're interested in joining, click on Employment for jobopportunities and points of contact.

Many launch sites are located in extremely remote locations with little to offerbeyond the launch itself. Wallops is located on Virginia's Eastern Shore - oneof the most scenic beach resort and wildlife refuge areas in the UnitedStates. Click on The Area - Enjoy! for pictures of Chincoteague andAssateague Islands and a list of favorite activities, year-round.

Whether you intend to visit, launch or simply browse our site... Welcome toNSROC.com!

Click on the icon to download a printable PDF version of this web site.Click here if you need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view the PDF document.

NSROC is a signature program of Litton PRC.Find out more about us at our website, or call 1-888-PRC-THE-1.

NASA & NSROC Users:Log In

Questions or Comments? Webmaster

NSROC Online-Main Menu

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For 39 years, the NASA Sounding Rocket Program has been one of theprimary vehicles for space and earth science research. The program hasprovided important and often critical data to support the scientific community,NASA's orbital space programs, the Department of Defense, otherGovernment agencies, and the international space community. NSRP's morethan 2,500 missions have significantly added to our scientific knowledge ingalactic astronomy, solar physics, planetary atmospheres, high-energyphysics, and other disciplines. These low cost, quick response experimentsremain vital to NASA's mission.

Sounding Rocket missions offer rapid response at relatively low cost. Theymeet the challenge to do the job "better, faster and cheaper". The NSRPsupports the expansion of earth and space science knowledge, and tests theelements of larger missile, high orbit, and planetary science programs toreduce overall cost and risk.

NSROC goals are defined in the Wallops Mission 2000 Plan:

To make Wallops Flight Facility an integral element in NASA'sstrategic objectives for scientific and educational excellence throughmost efficient integration, launch, and operations of sub-orbital andsmall orbital payloads.

To serve as a key facility for operational test, integration, andcertification of NASA and commercial next-generation, low cost orbitallaunch technologies.

To be recognized as a role model for pioneering productive andinnovative Government, industry, and academic partnerships.

An efficient NASA Sounding Rocket Program is key to meeting NASA'sscientific research goals and fulfilling the Wallops Flight Facility potential.

NSROC Online-The Program

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Mission Operations: a)Mission Management b)Range Coordination c) Manufacturing - Mechanical Fabrication and Assembly d)Manufacturing - Electrical Fabrication and Assembly

Engineering: e)Electrical Engineering f) Guidance, Navigation & Control g)Flight Performance h)Mechanical Engineering i) Environmental Testing j) Design (CADD/CAM Design) k) Vehicle Systems

Research Airport:

l) Research Airport

Includes:Research AirplanesRPVs - Aurora Flight Sciences

Educational & Outreach:

m)Education & OutreachIncludes:Wallops Visitors Center/Teachers Resource CenterBring Your Own Rocket Program for StudentsWFF Speakers BureauLaunch for Your Master'sNASA 's Space Experimental Module (SEM) Program for StudentsSub-SEM: WFF Experimental Payload Program for StudentsInternships

NSROC Online-What We Do

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Sounding Rockets (Sub-Orbital, UNmanneD Launch Vehicles)

China? Russia? Germany? The US? Who was really first?

History is filled with stories that trace man's unending quest for informationabout the stars, planets, solar systems, asteroids, comets, explosions - thelife energy that exists in that area beyond earth's atmosphere that we sosimply call "space".

Click here to read about the history of sounding rocket technology, its impacton space exploration, and its contining importance to research andeducation.

Click on each of the rockets in the graphic below to see actual shots of WFFsounding rockets; a brief history and a description of their capabilities isincluded on each link.

Credits:

NASA Sounding Rockets, 1958 - 1968 - A Historical Summary by William R. Corliss (NASA HistoricalReport Series), 1971

Sounding Rockets, by Homer E. Newell, Jr., (McGraw Hill Series in Missile and Space Technology),1959

Rockets, Jets and the Atom, by Constantin Paul Lent, Pen-Ink Publishing Co, 1952

NSROC Online-Stable - 13 Rockets

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Illustrated Guide to U.S. Missiles and Rockets, by Stanley M. Ulanoff, Doubleday & Company, 1962

Rockets Into Space by Frank H. Winter, Harvard University Press, 1990

A New Dimension, Wallops Island Flight Test Range, The First Fifteen Years, by Joseph AdamsShortal, (NASA Reference Publication 1028), 1978

Dreams, Hopes, Realities NASA's Goddard Flight Center, the First Forty Years, by Lane E. Wallace(NASA SP-4312), 1999

NSROC Online-Stable - 13 Rockets

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NASA's award of the Sounding Rocket Operations Contract was a bold,trend-setting move toward privatization. Previous contracts positionedcontractors in support roles; this award gives team members – Litton PRC,Orbital, Boeing, Arcata and RSS – a unique opportunity to work inpartnership with NASA to plan, manage, and implement the technicalinnovations that will take this program to new heights in the next millennium.

Litton PRC, a wholly owned subsidiary of LittonIndustries, is one of the top ten systems integrationcompanies in the country and an acknowledged leaderin the management of large IDIQ projects involvingmultiple subcontractors and vendors. PRC has actively

supported NASA Headquarters and NASA field activities with a broadrange of functions including: aeronautic systems design, engineering andanalysis; space craft telemetry, command, data capture and dataprocessing; system and range safety; and cost analysis and risk reduction.Litton PRC has 5,500 employees, 80 offices worldwide, and annualrevenues of $834 Million.

Roles:

Program, Contract,Financial, & SubcontractsManagement

Engineering

Operations

Range Safety

Quality Assurance

Marketing

Capabilities:

Leading Government Contractorin Systems Integration andSystems Management

Long history of successfulmanagement of technicalsupport programs with multiplesubcontractors

Successful implementation andmanagement of IDIQ and TaskOrder contracts

Orbital Sciences Corporation specializes in theengineering, system design, development,manufacture, and launch of ELVs; failure analysis; andGovernment property control. Orbital has extensive

experience in support of the NSROC mission and an outstanding trackrecord in supplying sub-orbital launch services. Through its purchase of theformer Fairchild Space and Defense Company and CTA, Inc., Orbital hasprovided engineering and support services, satellites, instruments, and dataand launch services to NASA Goddard for three decades. Orbital has 3,200employees and annual revenues of $602 Million.

NSROC Online-The NSROC Team

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Roles:

System Engineering

Functional Engineering

Launch Management

Range Safety

Quality Assurance

Marketing

Capabilities:

Leading Government Contractorin Systems Integration andSystems Management

Long history of successfulmanagement of technicalsupport programs with multiplesubcontractors

Successful implementation andmanagement of IDIQ and TaskOrder contracts

The Boeing Company is NASA's largestsingle contractor with a long history of supportto the nation's spaceflight research,

development, and production programs. Boeing's product divisions producelaunch vehicles and space hardware, and perform the research andengineering associated with hardware development and operations. In1986, when Boeing negotiated agreements with NASA and the Air Force toprovide commercial launch services from Vandenberg AFB and CapeCanaveral Air Station, to 1995, when Boeing received the GoddardContractor Excellence Award, Boeing support of NASA has beenoutstanding. Boeing's long history of support to the nation's spaceflightresearch, development, and production programs continues with their theirparticpation on the NSROC Team. Boeing has 240,000 employees andannual revenues of $45.8 Billion.

Roles:

Engineering, integration, andtest range safety support

Marketing

Capabilities:

One of the world's leading spacecompanies

Expertise in all aspects of spacesystems and launch vehicledesign and operation

Arcata Associates is a small disadvantaged businesslocated in North Las Vegas, Nevada. The company's 160employees are dedicated to providing engineering andsystems manufacturing services to Federal agencies. Arcata'sAdvanced Systems Division applies creative engineering toexisting military technology to design, develop, and

manufacture highly specialized and effective telemetry systems. Arcatacurrently supports the California Institute of Technology Jet PropulsionLaboratory in solar system exploration using unmanned spacecraft. Thecompany has received performance excellence awards from the SmallBusiness Administration, NASA Kennedy Space Center, and the State ofNevada.

Roles:

System integration

Telemetry

Capabilities:

NASA-specific systemintegration, range management,and telemetry servicesexperience

NSROC Online-The NSROC Team

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Reliable System Services is a smalldisadvantaged business with an outstanding 12year record of performance excellence in rangesafety, command destruction, flight termination,radar, telemetry, optics, weather, and launch

support. All RSS projects have been completed on time, within specs, andwithin budget. RSS fills a critical niche on the NSROC team.

Roles:

Range Safety and flightsystems support

Capabilities:

NASA-specific range safety,integration, flight systemssupport experience

NSROC Online-The NSROC Team

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NSROC employees work as an integrated team. This means that the lines ofdivision which normally separate corporations that serve as prime orsubcontractor on a program or project are virtually nonexistent. It also meansthat the full complement of their resources is available for total support. TheNSROC Team is goal-oriented, mission-driven, united, and dedicated toprogram success. While the turnover rate is extremely low, we do retain apool of resumes for part-time, full time, or "on-call" work during surge periodsor for consideration when a position becomes available.

The NSROC Team includes

Electrical EngineersMechanical EngineersEngineers with experience in:

Environmental TestingFlight SafetyFlight DynamicsFluid mechanicsMathematicsPneumatic systemsdesign and integrationQuality AssuranceThermodynamics

Skilled Tradesmen:

CNC MachinistDraftsman - CADD/CAMGNC technologyMachinistMetalsmithWelderWiring Assembler

Business Management/Administration:

Accounts PayableSpecialistAdministrative AssistantContracts SpecialistData AnalystHuman Resources Rep.Marketing SpecialistProcurement ManagerQuality AssuranceSpecialistScheduler

NSROC Online-Employment

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Click here to view current NSROC vacancies and related qualifications.

To learn more about NSROC employment opportunities, please contact us,in confidence, at 757-824-1663. Send resumes to:

Litton PRCAttn: Orlando Paulo, HR RepresentativePost Office Box 99Wallops Island, VA 23337

Or e-mail to: paulo_orlando@prc.com

We are an equal opportunity employer, M/F/D/V.

NSROC Online-Employment

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The Delmarva Peninsula is a stretch of land, 180 miles long and up to 71miles wide, shared by Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. Unique in locationand culture, the Peninsula stretches majestically through the waters of theChesapeake Bay yielding some of the country's richest farm lands, fishingvillages, wildlife preserves and beaches. From Salisbury to Exmore,technological entrepreneurs, businesses and industrial parks are taking fulladvantage of low-cost real estate, country living, and quick access toBaltimore, Washington and Norfolk. Cities like Salisbury, Easton andOnancock have expanded rapidly to meet the demand for shopping, medicalfacilities, financial institutions, air and ground transportation, and education.Government, too, has found a home here; the Navy AEGIS Command, theCoast Guard, the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration,and NASA/Wallops are long term residents.

While there are tremendous advantages to living and working here, any ofthe Peninsula's 1.5 million annual visitors will tell you that the simple beautyof this place is the real drawing card. Unlike typical launch site environments– desert, tundra, ice – Wallops is adjacent to Virginia's only resort island,Chincoteague, a 7.5 x 1.5 mile fishing village, world-famous for its oysterbeds, clam shoals, flounder and bass; and for its unique position as gatewayto Assateague Island. Assateague is a scenic, national treasure whichseparates the quiet waters of the Bay on one side from the pounding surf ofthe Atlantic on the other. Both islands abound with history and natural charm.

Explore the island heritage of Chincoteague at chincoteague.com and adescription of the Chincoteague Wildlife Refuge, home to the worldrenowned Chincoteague ponies at gorp.com. Explore the history ofAssateague and its Indian heritage at esva.net/assateague or explore it fromthe perspective of nature, philosophy, flora, and fauna at assateague.com.Having a hard time pronouncing those names? Easternshorevirginia.comdescribes scheduled events on the Eastern shore and offers a sound link tonames and pronunciations. Convention Center activities can be found onchincoteague.org or chincoteaguechamber.com; and up to the minute newsis available online or off from Virginia's own Eastern Shore Post:easternshorepost.com.

NSROC Online-The Area - Enjoy!

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People of the Eastern Shore are extremely proud of their heritage and havegone to great lengths to research the laws and traditions that governed theirancestors. Their URL: esva.net/ghotes provides everything from colonialrecipes to family histories, genealogies, and Eastern Shore traditions. Historybuffs may be interested in intercom.net, the homesite of the Eastern ShoreRefugees, a civil war infantry outfit that participates annually inre-enactments of Civil War battles; and railroad enthusiasts will want tocheck out Parksley's Eastern Shore Railway Museum on accomack.com.

Why would you want to launch anywhere else?

Questions? Call:Steve Theriault: 1-800-457-2122 x 8345 orJan Jackson: 1-757-824-6178.

NSROC Online-The Area - Enjoy!

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Main Menu

The Program

What We Do

Mission Operations: a) Mission Management

b) Range Coordination

c) Manufacturing - Mechanical Fabrication and Assembly

d) Manufacturing - Electrical Fabrication and Assembly

Engineering: e) Electrical Engineering

f) Guidance, Navigation & Control

g) Flight Performance

h) Mechanical Engineering

i) Environmental Testing

j) Design (CADD/CAM Design)

k) Vehicle Systems

Research Airport:

l) Research Airport

Includes:Research AirplanesRPVs - Aurora Flight Sciences

Educational & Outreach:

m) Education & OutreachIncludes:Wallops Visitors Center/Teachers Resource CenterBring Your Own Rocket Program for StudentsWFF Speakers BureauLaunch for Your Master'sNASA 's Space Experimental Module (SEM) Program for StudentsSub-SEM: WFF Experimental Payload Program for StudentsInternships

The Stable - 13 Rockets

Fly List & Schedules

The NSROC Team

Employment

a) Classifieds

The Area - Enjoy!

Site Map (you are here)

NSROC Online-Site Map

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The concept-to-completion life cycle of a sounding rocket launch isprocess-driven and extremely complex. From marketing to mission close-out,the Operations Manager interfaces with contracting, costing, scheduling,engineering, range safety, quality assurance, ISO 9000, the PI, andNASA/WFF management. He is involved in every discussion, every decision,every major change - and that involvement is key to mission success.

The Process

Whether the Principal Investigator is a NASA scientist in search of newinformation on polar-cap absorption events or a student completing hisMaster's work on plasma physics, every launch starts with a concept and thequestion: Is it feasible? Answering that question requires many meetings anda great deal of associated documentation. The NSROC Mission Lifecycleoutlines these meetings; the following text further defines them.

Mission Initiation Conference: Initial review of a new NSROC projectestablishes science objectives and preliminary mission requirements for theProject Team. At this meeting, the PI Data Package (scientific objectives,success criteria, instrumentation, engineering data, performancerequirements, operational requirements and safety issues) will be analyzedand evaluated; and the preliminary schedule set.

Requirements Defnition Meeting: Establishes how the projectrequirements baseline will be met and reviews the preliminary payload stackto determine if proposed systems will provide the required functionality;validates the selected vehicle configuration and updates/refines projectschedule. Submission of the cost proposal.

Design Review: The Detailed and Critical Design Reviews verify that thedetailed design meets all requirements established at the RDM. All aspectsof payload design are discussed and disseminated across all disciplines.Design parameters are summarized, design problems are addressed andresolved, and, should they be required, new designs are verified as completeand ready for fabrication.

Pre-Integration Review: The integration and testing process for integrationof the payload and the flight vehicle is reviewed. At this meeting, the payload,vehicle elements, test plans/procedures, test equipment, facilities andpersonnel are thoroughly evaluated to ensure successful integration.

Pre-Shipment Review: Verifies that the Integration and Testing process is

NSROC Online-Mission Management

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complete and all shipping arrangements are in place. Range approvals,remote/mobile or foreign range logistics plans, license submittals,agreements for associated contractor range support, and the field operationsplan are also reviewed to ensure that every facet of the launch has beenprepared, documented, approved and verified prior to the Mission ReadinessReview.

Mission Readiness Review: This final check answers the question: Are weready to launch? Has every system - telemetry, electrical, mechanical,environmental, range safety - been checked and double checked to ensure asuccessful mission? Based on this input, the final Go/No Go decision ismade.

Mission Close-Out Report: The Mission Close-Out Report documents theflight's success and officially closes out the process.

KnowledgeBase: PRC's KnowledgeBase is used by NSROC as a tool forlessons learned. Every mission is broken down into definable tasks; anyproblem encountered during the life cycle process is fully documented as isthe application or scientific approach that resolved it. This provides a "headsup" for future missions so that potential problems can be identified andmitigated before they happen. A public-access version of theKnowledgeBase will be available on NSROC.com in the near future.

NSROC Online-Mission Management

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Randy Carrier, NSROC/WFF RangeCoordinator

Tom Gonzales, NSROC/WSS RangeCoordinator

Range coordination is a multifaceted operation and an exact scienceimpacting some of the most crucial areas of Mission Operations. The WFFRange Coordination responsibilities include:

Material and gasses support coordination for Missions and PTOsundergoing testing, buildup, integration and environmental flightqualifications at WFF, Virginia.

Material and gasses support coordination for Missions and PTOsbeing launched from Wallops Island, Virginia.

Serving as the Mission Operations Branch Safety representative onthe NSROC Safety Council, specifically to address any and all Safetyissues that concern NSROC Range operations, personnel andfacilities utilized by NSROC at established and remote operationslaunch sites.

Providing appropriate scheduling information and Mission/PTOrequirements to NSROC Range Operations Coordinator at WhiteSands Missile Range for flight operations and launches at their NewMexico location.

Ensuring ISO conformity and process verification for all MissionOperations activities and documentation.

Performing additional collateral duties at the request of the MissionOperations Manager to meet contractual obligations andcommitments.

NSROC Online-Range Coordination

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Precision machining & sheet metal

Welding, assembly & inspection

Rapid manufacturing

Rapid prototype and small to large production capabilities

Heavy machining capabilities

Metal preparation

Precision metals

Computer aided manufacturing processes

NSROC's CADD/CAM system enables cost-effective review ofmanufacturing processes for CNC equipment before a part is machined andaids customers in identifying and defining any necessary modifications totheir products.

Current WFFCapabilities

CNC Milling

5 Axis 106"x31"x41" Payload Skins, Large Milled Parts

3 Axis (2) 20"x40"x16" Deck Plates and Short Run Production

(3) 10"x46" Small Parts and Short Run Production

CNC Turning

Live Turrent 36"x120" Large Skins and Bulkheads

Live Turrent 36"x96 Large Skins and Bulkheads

Turrent 14"x40"Medium and Small Short RunProduction

12"x32" Small Short Run Production

Manual Milling

96"x48"x48" Skins and Back Up for CNC

10"x42" Medium and Small Payload Parts

Manual Turning

48"x120" Large Skins and Bulkheads

6"x30" Medium and Small Payload Parts

NSROC Online-Manufacturing-Mechanical Fabrication and Assembly

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Saws

Cutoff 32"

Plate 48"x96"

Fabrication

Shears1/2" Steel3/4" Aluminum

Press Brakes 1/4"Steel

Rolls 1/2"Steel

Iron Worker 1/2"Steel

Welding

MIG

TIG

AC-DC

NSROC Online-Manufacturing-Mechanical Fabrication and Assembly

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Wiring to flight and non-flight specifications and applications

Electronic instrumentation fabrication to flight and non-flightspecifications and applications

PC Graphics ORCAD design, layout and manufacturing of printedcircuit boards (PCB)

PCB assembly and qualification testing

Electronic component testing (to all levels of certification)

Fabrication of aerospace ground support equipment and mobilesatellite receiving systems

Specializing in the fabrication of experimental and highly sensitiveelectronic assemblies

Manufacture and testing of airborne telemetry antennae systems.

NSROC Online-Manufacturing - Electrical Fabrication and Assembly

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EEG custom designs airborne instrumentation systems to meet therequirements of the mission Project Scientist. Primary responsibilitiesinclude:

Design of data multiplexing and data transmission systems whichsample analog, digital, pulse, and time event Experiment andhousekeeping information for transmission to ground based telemetrytracking stations for data reception, display and recording.

Design of the airborne instrumentation power, in-flight event timing,pyrotechnic and vehicle ignition, motor separation, airborneexperiment and subsystem power distribution and payload groundsupport control systems.

The Group participates in the entire project life cycle from conceptdevelopment to system design, testing, field checkout/launch support, andpost flight data analysis of Airborne Instrumentation Systems. The design ofan instrumentation system requires the coordination of the NSROCMechanical, Flight Performance, Attitude Control System, Vehicle Systemsengineers and project personnel. Typical design analyses include: RF link,Power Budget, RF Spectral Bandwidth, and Component Heating. The dataencoding/transmission and power control system designs are used todevelop wiring documentation for successful fabrication and wiring of theinstrumentation and payload support systems. EEG responsibilities for thedevelopment, launch and post launch phases of a sounding rocket projectinclude the following progressive steps:

1) Initial Development

Coordinate with the Experimenter and Experimenter's staff

Develop mission-specific payload control, data multiplexing, datatransmission, signal conditioning, command uplink, and cablingdesigns that provide payload control and datamultiplexing/downlinking capability.

Generate design and fabrication documentation and present at DesignReview Meeting.

Develop system test and calibration documentation.

Design Ground Support Equipment including umbilicals, controlsuitcase and programming bus.

Test, calibrate and document the results to certify proper electrical anddata encoding/data transmission operation has been achieved.

Verify Ground Support Equipment operation and perform sequencetest verification.

Record actual system operation test results to further certify that alltest results meet original mission specifications/requirements.

NSROC Online-Electrical Engineering

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Integrate the instrumentation system with the payload supportsubsystems to certify proper electrical/data interfacing.

Conduct Integration Readiness Review meeting to certify that theproject is ready for the Experimenter.

2) Interim Development:

Work with the Experimenter and Experimenter's staff.

Certify the power, signal, timing and data lines are correct.

Mate the interfaces and power the experiments for each instrument.

Link the telemetry RF signal data link to the telemetry ground stationwhere the signal is received and processed to allow data signals to befed to strip chart recorders or other display equipment.

Display each of the Experimenter's data channels to verify propersignal response.

Command uplink system verification.

Connect and power all subsystems simultaneously to ensure that noRF or EM interference is experienced.

Conduct flight simulation sequence tests to certify proper actuation ofall in-flight timer-controlled functions and lift-off power back-upcircuitry.

Assemble fully certified payload for environmental testing whichincludes dynamic spin balance, moments of inertia, center of gravity,vibration, bend, and spin or static deployment testing.

Conduct post vibration flight simulation sequence test to re-certify thepayload integrity of in-flight event timing and power back-up functions.Should the experimenter require a calibration data tape, it is typicallyperformed at this point in the process.

Break payload into sections again and perform abbreviatedinstrumentation system checks, re-certify the altitude switch operation,and perform RF transmitter corona test in vacuum chamber.

Document design changes, tests performed, problems encounteredduring testing and problem resolution for presentation at the MissionReadiness Review meeting.

3) Pre-Launch Phase:

Pack and ship system to launch site.

Cycle batteries and perform abbreviated instrumentation systemchecks.

Re-integrate system with the payload subsystems and theExperiment(s) to certify all data and power functions are flight ready.

Perform any necessary ground support equipment and landlinemodifications and tests.

Conduct pre-flight or Range Horizontal simulation flight sequence andpower back-up test.

Assemble payload for flight; conduct payload turn-on test to certify allpayload systems ready for transport to the launcher.

Transport Payload Ground Support Equipment to the Blockhouse andconfigure with payload umbilicals at the launcher.

NSROC Online-Electrical Engineering

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Conduct a payload horizontal (boom test) and a payload vertical testto verify the telemetry ground station configuration and ground supportequipment setup, and certify proper payload operation as well as RFsignal reception, demodulation, data display, data recording anduplink command signal operation.

4) Launch Phase: When proper science and weather conditions are met,launch the payload; and monitor in-flight payload events and performance.

5) Post Launch Phase:

Assess mission data for event timing accuracy, payload performance,and instrumentation system performance.

Coordinate playback of requested flight data for the Experimenter'spost-flight analysis.

Generate CD-ROM of flight data for Experimenters, FlightPerformance, and other mission personnel.

Analyze housekeeping and vehicle performance information andconvert data into engineering units.

Review data for anomalous flight conditions and generate flight datagraphs for the post flight report which is included in the final MissionClose-out Report.

Every facet of the electrical engineering operation is fully documented,maintained and used to provide "lessons learned" for future launches.

NSROC Online-Electrical Engineering

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The NSROC Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Group provides attitudedetermination and control packages, supplemental attitude sensors,pneumatic control packages, and boost guidance systems. Our systemshave a long flight history and include both standard routine designs anddesigns customized to meet specific client requirements. All systems aredesigned with post-flight refurbishment in mind. Space and Ground Segmentservices are also provided.

ATTITUDE CONTROL & BOOST GUIDANCE SYSTEMS

Working with the customer, the group builds boost guidance and attitudesystems based on the following flight proven implementations.

Type System Accuracy Control Sensors

-

BoostGuidance

S-19 A2.56/2.28% . MARI Intertial Gyro

. DS-19 0.66/0.40% . DMARS InertialGyro

-

Course AttitudeControl

Rate Control 0.2 deg/s 0.2 — 0.5 deg/s 3 axis rate sensor

- Magnetic ACS < 2.0 deg User defined Three axismagnetometer,single axis rate

gyro- Inertial ACS < 2.0 deg User defined MIDAS Platform

-

Fine AttitudeControl

Mark VI — MARIPlatform

< 3.0 deg < 0.17 deg/hr drift Inertial Gyro

. Mark VI — StellarUpdate

< 120 arcsec < 10 arcsec Inertial Gyro, StarTracker

. Mark VI — StellarPointer

< 60 arcsec < 5.0 arcsec Inertial Gyro, StarTracker

. Mark VID — StellarUpdate

< 60 arcsec < 5.0 arcsec Inertial Gyro, StarTracker

-

. SPARCS VI < 1 arcsec P/Y ~ 0.5 arcsec P/Y Course/Fine SunSensors

. . < 5 deg R . .

. SPARCS VII <1 arcsec P/Y ~ 0.2 arcsec P/Y Course/Fine SunSensors

. . < 5 deg R .25 deg/hr drift R Magnetometer orRate Gyro

-

PNEUMATIC SYSTEMS

Cold gas pneumatics support the attitude control systems, offering selectionof gas, tank size, thruster size and orientation. Course Attitude Control

NSROC Online-Guidance, Navigation & Control

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System pneumatics are generally self-contained. Fine Attitude ControlPneumatic Systems offer the additional options listed below providing finelevels of control.

System Regulators Accelerations-

Bi-Level SPS P&Y Course 2.5 deg/sec^2

. P&Y Fine 0.14 deg/sec^2

. Roll Course 6.4 deg/sec^2

. Roll Fine 0.32 deg/sec^2

-

Tri-Level Roll SPS Roll Coarse 7.5 deg/sec^2

. Roll Intermediate 2.5 deg/sec^2

. Roll Fine 0.2 deg/sec^2

-

Tri-Level P&Y SPS P&Y Fine 0.05 deg/sec^2

-

SUPPLEMENTAL ATTITUDE SENSORS

Some missions require very detailed knowledge of attitude history with lesserrequirements for attitude control. Supplemental attitude sensors are used tocollect the data needed for post-flight definitive attitude determination. Thesensors are generally mounted in the telemetry section (TM). While the datais collected and telemetered, it is not used for active attitude control. Sensormodels and vendors vary with time and requirements but fall well within theaccuracy listed below.

SENSOR ACCURACY

Course Sun Sensors TBD

. IR (earth) Sensors <3.0 deg

.Three Axis Magnetometers <2.0 deg

.Inertial Gyros <2.0 deg

Star Sensors <2.0 deg

.Fine Sun Sensors ~0.2 arcsec

. 3 Axis Rate Sensors 0.2 deg/s

Aspect Cameras -

--

GROUND SEGMENT SUPPORT

The GNC Group provides technical support to the mission from requirementsdefinition through post-flight operations. The team performs system design,component level test & evaluation, electrical integration, system level test &evaluation, re-integration and system level testing at the launch site, launchoperations and post-flight data analysis and reduction. Specialized supportprovided by the group is discussed in the following sections. Specializedsupport provided by the group includes:

System design

Component Acceptance Test

Electrical & mechanical integration at WFF

System alignment & calibration

Execution of the standard Environmental Test Sequence

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Tear-down and shipment to the launch site

Reintegration in the field at the launch site

System level testing at the launch site

Execution of pre-launch field operations

Launch operations

Post-flight data evaluation and report.

Gyro Evaluation Support

The Gryo Evaluation Lab evaluates a variety of inertial units used to supportthe Sounding Rocket Program. Technicians and engineers test all units toprogram specifications, certifying the unit¹s flight worthiness. The generalfunctions performed by the GNC ACS Group include:

Receive vendored units and evaluate supplier log and performancedata

Acceptance Test units to verify specification compliance

Reduce and analyze performance data

Assign proper gyro to Boost Guidance, Attitude Control and TMSystems

Support integration and test of the unit at the component and systemlevel

Support pre-launch field operations and launch

Resolve any issues concerning unit performance.

Star Sensor Support

The Star Sensor Evaluation Lab is a dedicated darkroom in which pre flightqualification and post flight evaluation of star sensors is performed. Inaddition, the GNC Group offers a 900-ft2 dark room equipped with wellmaintained F2.7 and F5.4 collimators, used as star simulators. These twofacilities support Star Sensor operations during mission integration andpost-flight test.

During mission integration at WFF, the star simulators are used incombination with an ACS Cradle to simulate vehicle response to the firing ofthe ACS valves. Using position information from the star sensor, the ACS willactivate the necessary valves to point the experiment at the simulated star.Experiment to Star Sensor alignment is then checked by installing a massmodel of the star tracker with an alignment flat in place of the lens.

Following flight of a mission, star sensors are returned to the facility for athrough evaluation by the GNC Group. The Star Sensor Evaluation Labfacilities are utilized to measure sensor performance and determinerefurbishment requirements. Upon completion of refurbishment, the sensorsare Acceptance Tested to flight specifications. The units are securely stored,awaiting reassignment to future missions.

Boost Guidance System Support

The Boost Guidance System Lab evaluates units used to support theSounding Rocket Program. Technicians and engineers test all units toprogram specifications, certifying the unit¹s flight worthiness. The generalfunctions performed by GNC Boost Guidance include:

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Receive vendored units and evaluate supplier log and performancedata

Acceptance Test units to verify specification compliance

Reduce and analyze performance data

Ship systems to White Sands Missile Range for integration

Integrate systems at Wallops as follows:

TM Integration

Full up Testing

Pre Vibration Testing

Vibration

Post Vibration Testing

Pack & Ship Module to launch site

Support pre-launch field operations and launch

Resolve any issues concerning unit performance.

Pneumatic System Support

The Pneumatic Lab supports the design, fabrication and evaluation ofpneumatic systems used in the Sounding Rocket Program. Technicians andengineers test all units to program specifications, certifying the unit¹s flightworthiness. The Pressure Test Cell is utilized to certify pressure vesselsused in the program. The general functions performed by GNC Pneumaticsinclude:

Pneumatics system design and design assistance

Pneumatics system and component testing and qualification

Pneumatic system fabrication for flight and GSE

Publication of pneumatics system procedures and consultationreviews

Review of customer designed pneumatics systems

Pneumatics system design consultations

Custom design and fabrication of pneumatics systems for specificcustomer needs

Post flight refurbishment of reusable pneumatics systems

Component and system level integration and test support

Supports pre-launch field operations and launch.

ADDITIONAL ACS LAB FACILITIES

In addition to the facilities indicated above, the GNC Group makes use of theAir Bearing Test Facility and Magnetic Calibration Facility located at WFF.

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The Flight Performance Group provides analytical support for the NASASounding Rocket Operations Contract (NSROC).

Preflight and postflight mission analysis:

Aerodynamics●

Aeroelastics●

Gravimetrics●

Trajectories, 3 dof, 5 dof, 6 dof●

Stability, Dynamic and Static●

Dynamics●

Heating●

Re-entry Analysis●

Dispersion●

Real time S-19 and DS-19 launch support for WSMR operations

Analytical studies

Maintains Sounding Rocket Database

Flight Requirements Plans and Vehicle/Motor Log Books

Implements changes and develops interfaces as necessary withexisting computer programs and computer systems

Originates and documents software development, maintenance, andmodifications

Anomaly investigations.

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Sounding rocket payloads are designed to accommodate extremely diversescientific objectives. As a result, payloads vary greatly in designcharacteristics and requirements. Mechanical and electrical engineers workclosely to ensure that design elements are fully integrated and that properinterfaces between payload subsystems are in place. Both work hand inhand with the Customer to ensure that high quality and safety standards aremaintained and all scientific objectives met. Specific mechanical engineeringresponsibilities include:

Split and Solid Nose Cones with a Variety of Ejection Systems:Several types of nose cones are available for each the 13 varieties ofsounding rocket:

Standard split nose cones with pyrotechnic ejectionsystemsOne piece, aluminumFiberglass Stainless steelPhenolic

Nose cones made of other materials or requiring special shapes canbe provided when and as required.

Adaptors And/or Structures for Guidance, Attitude Control andLocator: Systems using magnetic fields, star trackers, radio, radar,GPS, etc.

Guidance: The guidance system controls the path of the rocket duringthe initial 10 to 15 seconds of flight where air density is adequate topermit course correction by means of movable fins. The vehicle pitchand yaw angles are detected by a gyro platform which producescorresponding output signals; the signals are processed in anautopilot and, after roll resolution, are used as servo commandsignals.

Attitude Control: Several types of sensors are used, singly or incombination to provide payload attitude information. They includeMagnetometers, Gyroscopes, Solar/Lunar Sensors, Horizon Sensors,Television Cameras, and Film Cameras. The Attitude Control Systempositions the payload as required using jets and compressed gas.

Locator Systems: Two types of tracking systems are used onsounding rockets:

Radar Transponders provide full trajectory tracking when

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the radars do not have skin tracking capability throughthe full trajectory.

The Trajectory Determination System (TRADAT) whichprovides trajectory information for any rocket whichemploys a ranging receiver and a telemetry receiver.

Custom Payload Packaging:

Doors: Electrically operated vacuum doors are available for mostpayloads. These doors open an aperture up to15 inches in diameter ateither end of a payload structure or a rectangular aperture in the sideof a payload. Vacuum doors may be operated to open above theatmosphere and close again before re-entry in order to maintain avacuum tight seal.

Deployment Mechanisms: Deployment mechanisms actuated bypyrotechnic, electric or mechanical means are available for doors,booms, shutters, etc.

Vacuum Bulkheads: Payloads may be designed with gas or liquidtight bulkheads fitted with sealed passages for electrical wiring orpiping.

Mother/Daughter Systems: In instances where scientific studiesrequire measurements from two widely spaced platforms (for example,ion distribution in two separate areas), a special Mother/Daughterpayload is created so as to permit seperation into two platforms. Bothsets of data are transmitted back to the ground station for analysis andcomparison by the Experimenter.

On-board Data Acquisition and/or Telemetry System Layout andPackaging: Most data is obtained from sounding rockets by means oftelemetry. The instrumentation system provided to support theexperiment takes many forms depending upon the complexity of theexperiment, the configuration of the detectors, and the size of therocket. In some cases, a separate instrumentation package is best; inothers, instrumentation and detectors are fully integrated in the samehousing. In either case, the instrumentation provides a means offormatting and transmitting the scientific and housekeeping data,control signals to the experiment, timing, and power if desired.Systems vary in complexity from a single link with no command ortrajectory equipment to systems containing as many as eightdownlinks, command and trajectory hardware.

Separation Systems for Rocket Motors, Payload or Sub-payloadComponents: Separation systems are activated by pyrotechniccharges, mechanical spring mechanisms or pneumatic power.

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Parachute and or Floatation Recovery Systems up to 1500Pounds: Experimenters sometimes require full recovery of thepayload system. In those instances, mechanical engineers createparachute or waterproof flotation recovery systems which keep thepayload afloat. Flight performance engineers predict the radius withinwhich the payload will land; the re-entry path is tracked by radar andthe recovery achieved by parachuting the payload to a land or waterlanding. Recovery is accomplished by boat, helicopter or land vehicle.

Testing and Evaluation of Integrated Payloads: All payloadcomponents undergo extensive circuitry, operational andenvironmental testing.

In addition to rocket related projects, the Section provides general servicessuch as the design of mobile radar vans, field command and control units,safety hardware on several scales, heavy lift equipment, and weatherresistant antenna pedastal mounts.

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A sounding rocket experiences extreme variations in temperature,acceleration, atmospheric pressure, and vibration during flight. Theseconditions are hostile to the proper structural, mechanical, electrical andaerodynamic functioning of the payload. Each payload must be tested priorto launch to ensure that all on-board systems can withstand impacts fromthese changes. This is done through environmental testing, which includes:

Vibration – Sine: Random & Shock

Vibration test specifications are determined by the type of motor usedfor launching the payload. Payload reactions depend on the size,weight and weight distribution (harmonic frequencies) of the payload.Vibration transmission problems can create excessive motion ofsensitive electronic parts; components are, therefore, vulnerable tofailure from vibration; they must be rigidly attached to prevent abrasionand subsequent shorting. Sounding rocket payloads are calibratedbased on existing component qualification specifications for the 13rockets in the WFF Stable and for New Design payloads. The vibrationtest duplicates the sound and shock which the payload will experienceduring various phases of motor burn and measures its ability towithstand that shock in order to complete a successful launch.

Balance: Static & Dynamic

All payloads must pass flight acceptance tests to determine launchvehicle stability, both static and dynamic. The payload configurationand structural bending characteristics must be adequate foracceptable flight parameters to be satisfied. These tests are verysimilar to the balance tests performed by mechanics in order todetermine whether or not the tires on your car are balanced. In bothcases, correction weights are installed to adjust and balance thepayload.

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Operational Spin & Deployment Testing

All mechanically operated or deployed parts (nose cones, instruments,antennas, doors and booms) must be tested to ensure that they willperform successfully in flight. The spin of a rocket normally increasesduring assent of a rocket. The rate of that spin is determined by thesize and power of the rocket motor and the angle of the fins. To testthe ability of a sounding rocket to withstand the impact of the spin atand after deployment, the nose cones, instruments, antennas, doorsand booms are tested with machinery that duplicates the spinenvironment. Telemetry signals, sent to the ground station during thetest, indicate the part's ability to withstand the centrifugal forceapplied.

Mass Properties

The payload's mass properties (weight, center of gravity, moments ofinertia) are determined by test or calculation. Final measuredproperties are always determined during payload test and evaluation.Requirements for moments of inertia are necessary to determinesuitability of the trajectory, predict Attitude Control Systemperformance and to calculate stability.

Vacuum & Thermal Vacuum Testing

Thermal Testing: Sounding rocket launch vehicles reach very highspeeds traveling through the earth's atmosphere. Surface heating athypersonic speeds is significant due to the friction encountered flyingthrough the air mass. Atmospheric heating is encountered when apayload re-enters the atmosphere from space. Even though payloadexterior skin surfaces experience relatively high temperature rises dueto ascent aerodynamic heating, the temperature of internalcomponents does not vary greatly over the course of a typical flight.This factor depends primarily on where and how components aremounted relative to the payload skin. Thermal testing determines acomponent's sensitivity to elevated temperatures and, relatedly, theneed to insulate or isolate it from projected heat sources.

Vacuum Testing: When rocket payloads rapidly ascend in theatmosphere during launch, ambient atmospheric pressure dropsquickly to essentially zero. Payloads are generally designed to ventinternal air. Barometric switches are often utilized for switchingfunctions in payload electrical subsystems. Some types of payloadcomponents may not tolerate low atmospheric pressures.

The two most common undesirable effects of vacuum are reducedheat transmission and corona. Both can be easily addressed whenidentified by vacuum testing. In many cases, some portions ofpayloads require hermetically sealed joints or doors to maintain sealedconditions either under pressure or vacuum.

Out-gassing: When out-gassing can degrade the performance of anexperiment, a thermal vacuum test is required to verify the absence ofcontaminants. The test may be performed in several parts; the nosecone, for example, may require a higher temperature for a longerperiod than the PI's equipment can tolerate. The test mustconclusively show that contamination will not impair the data to be

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gathered during flight.

For every mission, WFF Engineers and Technicians test everyenvironmental aspect of a payload system; set ups to accommodatethe needs of custom payloads is the standard here.

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The word "drafting" used to conjure up images of land surveys, buildings,bridges and architectural structures. NSROC's CADD/CAM specialists have55 years of combined drafting/design experience; for them, drafting is thefast-paced, highly demanding and painstakingly exact science of translatingthe unique requirements of each sounding rocket into clear and conciseblueprints for construction. From the skin to the nose cone to its complexinterior, every sounding rocket is different and each of those differences isdefined and detailed by the Drafting Design Group.

Equally demanding is the Group's work on hundreds of requests forspecialized parts that fill the roster of the NSROC Machine Shop. NSROCdrafting equipment includes AutoCad R14 (Cad package, Calcomp Solusplotter, CDRW 426 (rewritable CD drive), and a Mag-Optic drive. TheAutoManager 5.1 (Database) tracks all requests for drafting support, frominitial request, through production, Quality inspection, and delivery. To reviewthe life cycle of a typical drafting request, click here. To see the actual designof a sounding rocket, click here.

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The NSROC Vehicle Systems Group consists of WFF and WSMR engineersand technicians who support the NSRP family of sounding rocket vehicles.Personnel offer a wide range of capabilities to meet mission objectives whilemaintaining high standards of safety. Support areas include:

Inspection

Acceptance

Testing

Assembly

Staging

Firing of rocket motor systems and related stage hardware.

These tasks are performed at fixed launch sites in the US and Europe andremote launch sites throughout the world.

NSROC engineers support both military surplus motors and commercial solidpropulsion systems. In addition to the rocket motor itself, thepropulsion-specific modules consist of fins, tail structures, interstage, ignition,de-spin, separation, and thrust termination systems. Current systemcapabilities can launch payloads weighing from 20 to 1500 lbm. to apogeesfrom 30 to 1500 kilometers.

The Vehicle Systems Group also provides recovery systems with capacitiesup to 1500 lbm. The recovery systems are integrated with the payload andcan be configured for location on the forward or aft end of the recoverableinstrument package. Land recovery can be performed on launch ranges suchas White Sands Missile Range and Poker Flat Research Range. Waterrecovery can be performed at Wallops Flight Facility.

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The WFF Research Airport is located on the Main Base, 5 miles west of thetown of Chincoteague on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, at geographicalcoordinate 37 degrees 57 minutes north latitude and 75 degrees 28 minuteswest longitude. Field elevation is 41 feet above sea level. Two of the airport'sthree runways are configured with FAA-approved circling and straight-inapproaches; the primary research runway has a test section with a variety ofsurface textures and materials for runway research projects, including:

A grooved section

A water test section with slots for sectional damming for water levelcontrol

A runway-to-taxi high speed turnoff

An FAA commissioned Microwave Landing System

An E-28 arresting gear.

Wallops Flight Facility Research Airport with Associated Facilities

WFF Research Airport offers the following aircraft support and servicescapabilities:

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Hangar Space

Minor and temporary repairs

Fuel Services for JP-5 and JPTS

Ground Power Units

Aircraft Towing

Entrance Stairs

Oxygen Service

Local and National MeteorologicalInformation

Fight Planning Support

First Aid and EmergencyTreatment

Hazardous Cargo Handling

Hydrazine Fuel Handling

Night Operations Support

Support Aircraft CarryingCombat Ordinance

For more information on Wallops Research Airport, visit: www.wff.nasa.gov(use you back button to return to this NSROC.com site).

Research Aircraft: While research aircraft are much more limited in altitudethan rockets or balloons, they offer quick-turn responses to requests for:

Satellite data verification: Equipped with scientific instruments, Wallops'aircraft are positioned "under" satellites in order to verify data.

Earth science research: Wallops' aircraft are used to gather data onvolcanic eruptions, ice formations, ocean dynamics, ecology and plantlife.

Instrumentation testing for lasers, computers and equipment: Wallopsaircraft frequently "fly," test and evaluate equipment that is destined foruse in other space exploration vehicles.

Aurora Flight Sciences. On 7 June 1999, PRC andNASA/WFF senior staff gave an official welcomeaboard to Aurora Flight Sciences. Founded in 1989 "todevelop, produce and operate a new generation ofrobotic aircraft," Aurora seeks to "revolutionize the way

global scale atmospheric research is done." As a leader in this emerginginternational market, Aurora designs and produces robotic and optionallypiloted aircraft and their composite structures, and develops software tools forfault-tolerant systems.

Together, PRC and Aurora hope to make Wallops the World Center forCommercial RPV (Remote Piloted Vehicle) Operations. "Wallops is one of thebest kept secrets in the aerospace industry," says Aurora President, JohnLangford. "It has a wealth of resources that are inexpensive to obtain and(currently) have little competition for use." Wallops can provide the aircraftinfrastructure, controlled airspace and range assets necessary to supportclient operational data retrieval from RPVs. RPVs, such as Aurora's Persius B,are of indisputable benefit to basic research, technological development, andinstrument evaluation prior to expendable rocket or balloon launches. Aurora'sPersius B vehicle reaches heights in excess of 60,000 feet.

For more information on Aurora Flight Sciences, visit their web site at:www.hiflight.com.

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"There are only two lasting bequests we can give our children. One isroots; the other, wings." ~ Hodding Carter

"Knowledge is an unending adventure at the edge of uncertainty." ~Jacob Bronowski, English Historian and Mathematician

"To set foot on the soil of the asteriods, to lift by hand a rock from theMoon, to oserve Mars from a distance of several tens of kilometers, toland on its satellite or even on its surface, what can be more fantastic?From the moment of using rocket devices a new great era will begin inastronomy: the epoch of the more intensive study of the firmament." ~Konstantin E. Tsiolkovsky, Father of Russian Astronautics, 1896

Challenging children of all ages, helping them to see knowledge asadventure, and giving them the education, encouragement and experience topush the boundaries of scientific thought is a NASA priority. Education is anintegral part of Wallops Mission Statement and an operative word in everystated goal of Wallops Mission 2000.

At the Wallops Visitor Center, puppet shows, space suit demonstrations,sounding rocket models and a unique opportunity to "Build Your OwnSounding Rocket" fill the weekly roster. Each program is carefully designedto encourage future astronomers, physicists, astronauts and engineers toexplore the world of space. Current and future NASA projects, space probes,satellites, aircraft – even a Moon rock brought back from the Apollo 17Mission ­ are on display. At the Wallops Resource Center, teachers will finda wealth of information on planets, astronomy, aeronautics, life in space,space careers, the environment and the Space Shuttle.

For rocket enthusiasts, Wallops offers a monthly "Bring Your Own Rocket"program which allows participants to launch their rockets from the WFFlaunch range. Models of several of the rockets in the WFF stable aredemonstrated and launched at that time.

WFF rocket scientists, specialists and speakers are gurus at answeringhundreds of "Why?" "What if?" and "Could you?" questions asked bystudents, teachers, scouts, newspapers, and the media. On request, theyvisit area schools where children can "fire away" in the comfort of their ownclassroom environment. For more information on the WFF EducationPrograms, contact Keith Koehler (824/757-1579 or by e-mail:Keith.A.Koehler.1@gsfc.nasa.gov). To request that a member of theSpeaker's Bureau visit your school, activity, local or state function, contactBetty Flowers (757/824-1584 or by e-mail:Elizabeth.B.Flowers.1@gsfc.nasa.gov).

Launch for your Master's! Wallops Student Launch Program for universitystudents allows full participation in the cradle-to-the-grave life cycle of asounding rocket. Aligned with the requirements of undergraduate andgraduate engineering, astrophysics, astronomy and meteorology programs,students design experiments and payloads, assist in all phases ofpre-mission testing, launch operations, recovery, and data analysis.

NASA's Space Experiment Module (SEM) is a payload project which allowsstudents or groups of students to design special experiments which will beincluded in a shuttle launch. Creativity and student interest soar whenpresented with this opportunity! Students of Shoshone-Bannock High School,

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for instance, are combining simulated Martian soil and Idaho potato tubers intwo standard SEM vials to be launched in Space Shuttle STS-101 thisDecember. Will earth-grown vegetable seeds sprout at the same rate inspace as they do on earth? Will earth-grown potato tubers grow in Martiansoil given the correct environment? Answers to these questions will beprovided as a result of their hands-on participation in SEM; but the real valueof this program is that young minds will learn, as must we, that "somewhere,out there" is a "space" that earth and all of us are part of. WFF and Goddardare working with NASA Headquarters to expand this program. Additionalinformation on SEM can be found at: www.wff.nasa.gov/pages/nsip.html.

Wallops' own Sub-SEM Program is extremely popular. Sub-SEM allowsschools to develop experiments which are integrated into low-cost soundingrockets and launched from Wallops Island. In it's pilot program phase,Sub-SEM currently covers the northeastern states: Vermont, Maine,Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, New York, NewJersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, District of Columbia, and Maryland. As partof the NASA Student Involvement Program (NSIP), this program will expandto encompass the entire United States in upcoming years . Want moreinformation? www.wff.nasa.gov/subsem/pages/purpose_goals.html.

There's nothing like hands-on experience to test the metal of futurescientists. Internships at the Wallops Flight Facility are available to highschool and college students. Requirements and details can be found at:www.wff.nasa.gov/pages/educationoutreach.html.

In addition to those listed above, the National Aeronautics and SpaceAdministration literally offers hundreds of education links for teachers,students and browsers:

education.nasa.gov introduces and outlines NASA's expansive educationProgram with links to resources for educators and students, the latest NASAEducation Calendar, and NASA Education news.

spacelink.nasa.gov, the NASA SpaceLink, is a library resource forEducational Services, Instructional Materials, NASA Projects, and Hot Topics(current events related to NASA science, technology and education).

www.okstate.edu/aesp/AESP.html, the NASA Aerospace Education ServicesProgram is a nationwide, free program for teachers, students, and thegeneral public. It is designed to increase awareness and understanding ofscientific research and technological development and their place in theworld in which we live.

The ultimate resource in man's quest for knowledge is the library. Browse theGoddard Library (library.gsfc.nasa.gov) or the library at NASA Headquarters:www.hq.nasa.gov/office/hqlibrary/Welcome.html to view thousands of books,reports, and presentations written about space exploration.

"The greatest gain from space travel consists in the extension of ourknowledge. In a hundred years this newly won knowledge will pay hugeand unexpected dividends." ~ Wernher von Braun

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Current NSROC employment opportunities:

a) Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) Engineer

Job Title

Guidance, Navigation andControl (GNC) Engineer

Labor Category

E 7

Position Summary

This is an entry-level position. Will work with rocket guidance controlsystems. Must demonstrate the ability to plan, schedule and coordinatethe efforts of a multidisciplinary team. Will participate in the checkout andpreparation procedures for launch of various rocket vehicle systems andsubsystems. Will participate in the safe launch of vehicle and padoperations prior to and during countdown. Will participate in the principlesapplicable to the design and operation of pneumatic control systems,including the applicable attitude control systems. Ability to design orsupport the design of attitude control systems and associated hardwareand support equipment. Knowledge of procedures for conducting anddocumenting the testing of pneumatics systems required. This position islocated at Wallops Island, Virginia.

For additional information, please contact Dave Krause: 757-824-1580 Orfax resume to him at : 757-824-1954

Duties

Applies comprehensive knowledge of engineering concepts,procedures and practices.

1.

Analyzes, designs, and develops solutions to complex problems.2. Devises appropriate test to evaluate, debug and check systems.3. Documents the results of complex analysis and design tasks.4. Designs moderately complex systems; assists in developingstandards and techniques

5.

May act in a lead role of a project team.6. Under general direction, independently performs complex tasks.7. May supervise the work of other team members.8. The position has considerable latitude to interpret requirements oftasks and determine appropriate methods to complete.

9.

Accomplishments in work or judgment could significantly impact10.

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project success, client relationships, and the financial results of theorganizational entity.

Minimum Education, Experience and Licensing/CertificationRequirements

A Bachelor degree in engineering or equivalent experience. 7 — 9 years ofGNC experience (2 of which should be at the Senior Engineer level) isrequired. 18 months of experience may be substituted for each year ofeducation required (i.e. 6 years of experience meets the qualification for aBS degree; each year of education may be substituted for 9 months ofexperience). Must have excellent communication and problem solvingskills. May be required to obtain Certification/Licensing for ElectrostaticDischarge (NHB 5300.4. 3L); Hazardous Materials Handlers Certification;High Pressure (above 150 psig) Liquid/Vapor/Gas;Ordnance/Pyrotechnics Certification Categories 1, 2, and 3; and SafetyCertifications.

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