Olifantsfontein  Satellite Tracking Station

1959 – 1976

Index:

Current Info; Summary; History; Astronomers; Programmes; Instruments; Sources; Links; Gallery:

Noted  for:

Summary:
In 1959 NASA set up a number of stations around the world  with the express purpose for observing Earth Satellites.  Eventually, in 1976, mainly for political reasons, the site was closed down and the instruments dismantled.

History:

• 1959:  Built in order to track Earth Satellites.
• Steve  Heniger was the resident observer for most of the observatory’s existence.
• With the laser transmitter, they studied Geos 1 and Geos 2, American  launched satellites sent up for geophysical purposes.
• 1976:  Due to South Africa’s politics relating to Apartheid, international pressure and eventually sanctions were initiated against South  Africa. This impacted on scientific co-operation projects such  as this one. The Observatory was closed down.

Instruments:

• Baker – Nunn quick response camera.
• Laser  transmitter to determine position, distance and movement of satellite.

Sources:

Pictorial  Sources:
Moore, P. & Collins, P., Astronomy in Southern Africa, p.143.

Bibliography:

• Smits,  P., A Brief History of Astronomy in Southern Africa. (Unpublished)
• Moore, P. & Collins, P., Astronomy in Southern Africa, p.143. (General  Source)