Space Shuttle Atlantis | Payload Bay Operations

Ku-Band Antenna Operation

The Ku-band antenna is carried on the starboard sill longeron inside the Orbiter's cargo bay and can be deployed once the payload bay doors are opened. The antenna is used for communication with ground stations. Alternatively, it can also be used as a radar system for tracking objects in space. The controls for deployment and stowage of the Ku-band system are located on panel R13L. Jettisoning the assembly, and the actual functionality of the Ku-band system are not currently implemented in this version.

Ku-band deployment sequence:

Radiator stowing sequence:

Ref: Operations Manual Sec. 2.4.