LMBTRK is a computer program that is used together with two software libraries known as ERHAND and HYBRRD to generate spacecraft-pointing vectors for limb-tracking maneuvers needed for experiments on propagation of radio signals through planetary atmospheres. LMBTRK determines, as a function of time, the direction in which one must point a ray (representing a radio beam) emitted by a spacecraft in order to make the ray pass through a planetary atmosphere on its way to a receiving station at a known location. LMBTRK was written for Sun computers running the Solaris operating system and has been running on a cluster of such computers used in the Radio Science System of the Cassini Spacecraft mission.
This program was written by Nicole Rappaport and Essam Marouf of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For more information, download the Technical Support Package (free white paper) at www.techbriefs.com/tsp under the Software category.
This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Karina Edmonds of the California Institute of Technology at (626) 395-2322. Refer to NPO-40542.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Computing Spacecraft-Pointing Vectors for Limb Tracking
(reference NPO-40542) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document is a Technical Support Package from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) concerning the software application titled "LMBTRK," which is associated with NTR Number 40542. This software is designed for computing spacecraft-pointing vectors specifically for limb tracking, a critical function in various aerospace applications.
The Technical Support Package is part of NASA's Commercial Technology Program, which aims to disseminate the results of aerospace-related developments that have potential technological, scientific, or commercial applications beyond their initial purpose. The document serves as a resource for understanding the capabilities and applications of the LMBTRK software, along with its associated libraries, ERHAND and HYBRRD.
The document emphasizes the importance of compliance with U.S. export regulations, indicating that the information may contain proprietary data from Caltech/JPL. It also includes a disclaimer stating that neither the U.S. Government nor any representatives assume liability for the use of the information provided, nor do they guarantee that such use will be free from privately owned rights.
For those interested in further information or assistance regarding the software or related technologies, the document provides contact details for the Innovative Technology Assets Management team at JPL. This includes a mailing address, telephone number, and email contact, facilitating communication for inquiries related to research and technology in the field of spacecraft pointing and limb tracking.
Overall, the document serves as a technical overview of a specific software application developed by NASA, highlighting its relevance to aerospace technology and its potential for broader applications in various fields. It reflects NASA's commitment to sharing innovative technologies and fostering partnerships that can leverage these advancements for commercial and scientific progress.
