The Development of Space Data Systems and Technology

Since the first man made earth satellite went aloft in 1957, the majority of spacecraft have been used in the acquiring and transmission of data. However, speaking in terms of earth and human society, the most important were communications and broadcast satellites, earth observation satellites, as well as satellites associated with the positioning of objects on the earth's surface and navigation. These satellites and related surface systems include measurement and control systems, data processing and application systems. They supply powerful technological means for various types of modern data activities, making communications, broadcasting, metrology, geodesy, navigation, and earth observation fields achieve progress which there has never been before. We can, in general, designate these systems as space data systems'. Space data systems are modern scientific technologies with high degrees of comprehensiveness. They take foundation sciences and technological sciences as their basis, applying in concentration a good number of the new achievements of engineering technology in the 20th century. As far as astronavigational technology, electronics technology, remote sensing technology, communications technology, computers, oceanographics, metrology, map making, and so on, are concerned, in every case--with regard to the progress of space data systems--important roles have been played. In regard to these sciences and technologies, among applications of space data systems, there are mutual overlaps and penetrations. Moreover, applications of space data systems also constantly present new requirements for them--promoting the progress of these sciences and technologies.
Trans. of Zhongguo Hangtian (Aerospace China) (China), n193 p3-7, May 94.