NPO Lavochkin is working on creation of World Space Observatory-Ultraviolet (WSO-UV) in cooperation with its partners, the portal of Moscow Region reports.
«The World Space Observatory-Ultraviolet (WSO-UV) is a project for creation of large space observatory intended for studying the Universe in the ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths range, which is beyond the reach of ground-based instruments. The main instrument of the observatory is a space telescope with a diameter of its primary mirror of 1,7 m. The telescope will be fitted with high- and low-resolution spectrographs and cameras for high-quality UV imaging and obtaining of high-resolution specters.
WSO-UV project is similar to Hubble Space Telescope (USA) and even outperforms it in some areas.
Among the main lines of research suggested by the Russian astronomic community are: physics of early Universe, star formation, chemical galactic evolution, properties of interstellar medium, physics and chemistry of planetary atmospheres and comets, etc.
At present the NPO’s specialists are working on development of antenna feeder system of a spacecraft’s radio system using a mockup. The prototype has been manufactured in order to confirm the spacecraft’s durability. The static tests have also been carried out in order to confirm its resistance to vibrations.
As reported by the enterprise’s press-service, the production of components of prototypes intended for development of temperature-control system entered its final stage. The model of T-170M space telescope intended for flight testing is being assembled. In addition, Institute of Astronomy of Russian Academy of Sciences (INASAN) is manufacturing components for spectrographs and electronics, which will be delivered to NPO Lavochkin next year.
The Navigator basic module of support systems developed by NPO Lavochkin is used in the network of creation of WSO-UV. The module contains support systems needed for controlling the spacecraft: onboard control system, radio system, power-supply system and powerplant.
All these systems are designed for working in the open space. The module’s reliability was successfully confirmed in the network of Elektro-L and Spektr-M projects.
We remind you that NPO Lavochkin turned 75 years on October 12th 2012. Almost all the Soviet automatic interplanetary stations have been developed by the enterprise. «Luna-9» was the first vehicle to take photos of the Moon’s scenery and Luna-16 delivered samples of moon soil to Earth.
At present NPO Lavochkin is performing several works specified in the Federal Space Program, which covers almost every major line in the area of space exploration. The scope of activities is rather diverse: development of automatic spacecraft intended for exploration of planets (Moon, Mars, Venus), extra-atmospheric astrophysical observatories, satellites and satellite systems intended for Earth’s remote sensing, cross functional space tugs and some scientific small-size spacecraft.
At present the enterprise is getting ready to take part in European ExoMars program on a parity basis.