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The Big Lift Underway
The Big Lift Underway

The shaped surface reflector is slowly lifted into position atop the alidade. Weighing 138 tons (276000 lbs.), the reflector could…

The Completed Shaped Surface Reflector Awaits Installation
The Completed Shaped Surface Reflector Awaits Installation

After the reflective panels that form the surface of the shaped surface reflector have been installed, the next step is…

Reflector Panels Installed on the Dish Structure
Reflector Panels Installed on the Dish Structure

The panels that compose the reflective surface of the shaped surface reflector are installed in rough alignment on the ground.…

The Reflector, Alidade, and Quadripod Under Construction
The Reflector, Alidade, and Quadripod Under Construction

The shaped surface reflector nearing completion sits next to the alidade with the quadripod opposite. The quadripod holds the shaped…

Reflector Structure Partway Through Assembly
Reflector Structure Partway Through Assembly

Further along in construction, the reflector structure is nearly ready for the installation of the ribs which will extend the…

DSS-36’s Construction Area
DSS-36’s Construction Area

A wide view of DSS-36s construction site reveals the hilly terrain that surrounds Canberra Deep Space Communications Complex (CDSCC). These…

The Elevation Wheel Awaiting Installation
The Elevation Wheel Awaiting Installation

The reflector elevation wheel is designed to be installed on the alidade hollow to simplify the process. As the elevation…

DSS-36’s Alidade Under Construction
DSS-36’s Alidade Under Construction

The support structure for DSS-36, also called the alidade, part way through construction. The alidade rotates around the pintle bearing…

The Painted Pedestal and Completed Pintle Bearing
The Painted Pedestal and Completed Pintle Bearing

After it has cured, the pedestal is painted to protect the pedestal from the elements. Visible in the center of…

The Ramp to the Pedestal Room Beneath DSS-36
The Ramp to the Pedestal Room Beneath DSS-36

After the concrete has cured, the excavated area around the pedestal and tapered ramp walls is backfilled to return the…