2014/09/25 by Angelita C. Kelly, E. L. Moyer, Dimitrios Mantziaras +1 · 1 citation
Engineering · Physics and Astronomy · #Spacecraft Design and Technology #Spacecraft and Cryogenic Technologies #Space exploration and regulation #Spacecraft #Computer science #Systems engineering #Aeronautics #Satellite #Aerospace engineering #Engineering
paper · doi:10.1117/12.2061253
openalex publication_date 2014/09/25 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/29
The Terra satellite, flagship of NASA’s long-term Earth Observing System (EOS) Program, continues to provide useful earth science observations well past its 5-year design lifetime. This paper describes the evolution of Terra operations, including challenges and successes and the steps taken to preserve science requirements and prolong spacecraft life. Working cooperatively with the Terra science and instrument teams, including NASA’s international partners, the mission operations team has successfully kept the Terra operating continuously, resolving challenges and adjusting operations as needed. Terra retains all of its observing capabilities (except Short Wave Infrared) despite its age. The paper also describes concepts for future operations. This paper will review the Terra spacecraft mission successes and unique spacecraft component designs that provided significant benefits extending mission life and science. In addition, it discusses special activities as well as anomalies and corresponding recovery efforts. Lastly, it discusses future plans for continued operations.