Photo credit: www.nasa.gov
NASA’s Historic Telemetry Pedestal Relocated
The NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, has seen a significant piece of its aviation history carefully relocated. This moving event emphasizes the importance of telemetry in the evolution of flight, bridging the gap between cutting-edge experimental aircraft and the invaluable data they provide.
The telemetry pedestal and dish, which served as a critical data collection point for aircraft, were installed atop Building 4800 during its construction in the 1950s. This structure played a key role in gathering telemetry data during various flight tests involving notable aircraft including the X-15 rocket plane, space shuttles, and various experimental models.
Bob Guere, NASA Armstrong’s Range Operations chief, elaborated on the significance of the telemetry system: “Gathering telemetry data from aircraft on missions is at the core of what we do. Being close to the back ramp allowed us to conduct ground tests and prepare aircraft for flight efficiently—without relying on antennas positioned further away.” This strategic setup enabled a more streamlined approach during critical flight operations.
Though the telemetry system was officially retired in 2015, a recent roofing project provided the opportunity to relocate the pedestal to preserve its legacy. The roof-mounted installation was crucial during significant space shuttle landings, particularly when shuttles were deorbiting and approaching Edwards for touchdown. “The rooftop antenna was closer to ground level and provided an excellent link for shuttle landings,” Guere explained, highlighting the operational advantages it offered in terms of data transmission during these important moments.
The relocation of the pedestal was not merely a matter of moving a structure; it involved extensive planning and preparation. Bryan Watters, the NASA Armstrong roof project manager, detailed the logistics involved in the operation, noting that permits had to be secured from the Air Force, and plans needed to be meticulously crafted over the course of a month. The pedestal and its assembly, measuring 16 feet tall and weighing approximately 2,500 pounds, required careful handling to avoid damage during its detached movement.
On the day of the move, a helicopter was utilized to lift the pedestal from the roof on October 3. The operation was carefully coordinated, as the helicopter crew positioned themselves over the building and carefully attached a cable to the pedestal before lifting it away. This moment marked a blend of historical preservation and modern engineering skills, as the pedestal was safely transported to a nearby warehouse for storage.
With the pedestal’s removal, workers are now demolishing the underlying steel platform to prepare for new roofing materials. However, the future location for the pedestal and dish has yet to be decided. NASA officials are exploring several options to display these historic artifacts alongside the renowned retired research aircraft situated near the entrance of the Armstrong facility.
The Legacy of Telemetry at NASA
The importance of telemetry systems in aviation cannot be overstated. They have enabled engineers to capture and analyze data crucial for the development and testing of new aerospace technologies. By tracing back through the extensive history of NASA’s research, it is clear that these systems have played a pivotal role in advancing flight technology.
A Look Ahead
As NASA continues to push the boundaries of aeronautics and space exploration, the preservation of historical artifacts like the telemetry pedestal reinforces the agency’s commitment to honoring its past. While the pedestal awaits its new home, it serves as a reminder of the integral contributions of telemetry to aviation history and the continuous pursuit of innovation at NASA.
Source
www.nasa.gov