06/12/2000 19:02:28
Subject:  STRV 1C&D STATUS

Dear All,

On Monday, we informed the STRV 1d sponsors of a problem with the spacecraft in
which both receivers had powered down between link sessions. I regret that the
same problem has now occurred with STRV 1c.

Over the weekend we carried out a number of tests to try to identify the cause
of the STRV 1d problem and then initiated a full Anomaly Investigation.  At the
time, we advised the STRV 1d sponsors that the investigation would take several
days.  The appearance of the problem in STRV 1c has added to the scope and time
of the investigation.

The investigation is proving difficult for two reasons. Between launch and the
appearance of the problem in STRV 1d, both spacecraft appeared to be operating
correctly.  Also, as far as we can see, neither appears to have experienced
conditions dissimilar to those previously experienced during extensive ground
testing.  We have made some useful progress but the circumstances are complex
and we do not expect to have completed the analysis before early next week.

I appreciate that it is extremely frustrating for you all, especially those who
have been looking forward to receiving data.  At this stage, there do not
appear to be any other problems with the spacecraft and the situation is
stable.

We are working has hard as we can to complete the investigation and to propose
a way ahead and will let you know the outcome as soon as we can.

Best wishes,

Richard Blott