MAXIMA Recovery Operations

Operations operations generally begin after the decision to end the flight and bring the instrument the ground. It starts with information on the weather conditions, particulary the wind direction and the predicted descent path, and of the landing terrain. The goals are safety of the package and ground dwellers, accessibility of the package, ability to locate the package readily. It is important that the ground wind speed be relatively low to avoid excessive side speed and potential dragging of the payload by the parachute.

The MAXIMA gondola in on the ground after the MAX5 flight (photo)

Anther photo of the MAXIMA gondola on the ground after the MAX5 flight (photo)

The MAXIMA gondola on ground after the MAX5 flight (photo)

Upon arrival at the scene the gondola is inspected for damage. A check list is then used for appropriate disconnecting of the gondola power and control cables and the removal of the electronics box on one side of the gondola so that the gondola can readily be loaded on a flatbed truck. Care is taken to check over the cryogenic system and to cover the mirrors and windows.

The Gondola is placed on special pad carried out on the recovery truck and tied down carefully for the trip back to the launch base.

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