zlacker

>>belter+(OP)
> it is programmed to recalibrate its position a few times a year. October 15 is the next scheduled reset.

Curious to know how this recalibration actually works. Any explainer that anyone can point to would be appreciated. Thanks!

>>albert+1d
Not a rocket scientist; but I have tuned in a TV. I imagine it is simply programed to turn a few degrees then turn back to wherever it saw the strongest signal from earth.

>>ZiiS+9o
Makes sense.

So I presume it uses its thrusters to impart a very small spin on one axis, and then on an orthogonal axis.

A mechanism records the signal strength as it sweeps all angles, and once the optimum direction is determined, the thrusters are fired in just the right way to counteract the spin and bring the craft to a halt at the optimum orientation.

Given this was programmed decades ago - the electromechanical system that does all this jugglery and runs reliably for so long would be a great case study for systems design.

Even the programming that ensures that this routine is triggered without fail every few months must also have gone through intense reliability testing.

>>albert+9q
doesn't even need thrusters if it has reaction wheels that are still operational