This paper considers those aspects of space technology which must be brought together into a system to carry educational programmes. The required levels of technology are achievable, but in such systems the space sector cost is much less than that of the ground sector, and an economic and effective system must optimize the spacecraft design in conjunction with the ground transmitters and particularly the large number of receiving stations. The implications of hybrid video systems are examined, incorporating fixed picture presentations, thus economizing on band-width demands, as alternatives to the use of normal television. A critical aspect of the educational system operation is likely to be the production of the software comprising the programmes. The implications of, and requirements for, these are discussed. Finally, the technical and logistic operational problems of a typical system are explored, emphasizing the critical relationship of design and serviceability of all elements of the system, and indicating the importance of planning adequate servicing and operational facilities.
Solar Orbiter: Mission and spacecraft design