Unboxing a New NASA Spacecraft

The video showcases the unboxing of NASA's ICON spacecraft, which will study the upper atmosphere and space weather. The ICON is transported in a Pegasus rocket and undergoes a careful unboxing process to ensure cleanliness and safety. A shock recorder monitors the spacecraft during transit. Post-shipment tests are conducted in a clean room. The video also highlights the critical lift and integration of the spacecraft, as well as the importance of ESD protection for both operators and hardware.

What is the primary mission of the ICON spacecraft?

• To explore the surface of Mars

• To study the ionosphere and space weather

• To monitor ocean currents

• To observe distant galaxies

Why is the ICON spacecraft considered small?

• It is designed to fit inside a Pegasus rocket

• It is meant for short missions

• It has limited scientific instruments

• It is a prototype model

What is the purpose of the shock recorder in the shipping container?

• To monitor shocks during transit

• To measure temperature changes

• To track the location of the spacecraft

• To record the speed of the spacecraft

Why is it important to monitor the perimeter during the unboxing process?

• To adjust the lighting for photography

• To verify the spacecraft's weight

• To check for any missing parts

• To ensure the spacecraft is not damaged

What is the function of the ESD ground strap?

• To secure the spacecraft during transport

• To protect against electrostatic discharge

• To lift the spacecraft

• To provide power to the spacecraft

What is the vertical lift sling used for?

• To clean the spacecraft

• To measure the spacecraft's weight

• To lift the spacecraft off its shipping container

• To transport the spacecraft to the launch site

What is the significance of the integration highstand?

• It provides power to the spacecraft

• It stores the spacecraft's data

• It is a platform for testing and integration

• It is used for launching the spacecraft