The four MMS observatories each undergo what's called a spin test, to learn how well the spacecraft is balanced. Italso provides information on how well the mass properties of an observatory can be measured and aligned. This movie shows Observatory #4 undergoing the test in May 2013 on the MRC Mark V spin balance machine. After launch, the MMS observatories will spin at approximately 3 revolutions per minute during normal operations.
Most NASA images are in the public domain and free to use. Credit NASA as the source. Check NASA's media usage guidelines for details. Images featuring identifiable individuals may require additional permissions.
NASA ID
GSFC_20140604_MMS_m11561_Spintest
Date Created
June 5, 2014
Center
GSFC
Media Type
video
Location
Goddard Space Flight Center
Download this video in multiple resolutions. All NASA media are free for public use.
Captions
Subtitles