An Automated Local User Terminal for Data Collection

Abstract

The need for realtime hydrologic data for flood control reservoir regulation puts special demands on a data collection system, especially during storms when it is most needed. In an experiment to test the use of the LANDSAT satellite for flood control activities, New England Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in cooperation with NASA is constructing a local user terminal for direct receipt of satellite-relayed data at Waltham, Massachusetts. This station, consisting of a 15 foot dish, tracking and receiving equipment, and a mini-computer, will be relatively simple, automatic, capable of running unattended two to three days, and will be protected against power failures by software restart features. Early operation will depend on Predicting the satellite's position, but software autotracking may be developed.