SCD 2, 2A

SCD 2 [INPE]

The satellites of the SCD (Satelites de Coleta de Dados) series are equipped to collect and transmit meteorological and environmental data collected by automatic platforms (PCD) installed on land or on oceanic buoys. The data is relayed to one or more ground stations.

The INPE is responsible for development, production and operation of this series of 4 satellites, the SCD-1, SCD-2, SCD-2A and SCD-3.

SCD-2 is a follow-on satellite with the same objectives as SCD-1, but with improved data collection performances, due to modifications in the antenna- and attitude control subsystems. It is also a spin-stabilized spacecraft with the spin rate now actively controlled (in the 32 - 36 rpm range) using two magnetic torque coils. The new attitude system of SCD-2 permits to eliminate the reception antennas on the spacecraft bottom panel. There are only four UHF monopoles on the top panel.

The onboard data handling system was modernized. All functions are now performed by one single OBC (Onboard Computer).

The SCD-2 was launched successfully in 1998, by a Pegasus-H vehicle, from Cape Canaveral. Currently it operates jointly form with SCD-1.

The identical SCD-2A was lost in the inaugural launch of the VLS-1, in 1997.