The TanDEM-X control room at DLR Oberpfaffenhofen. The transition to close formation flight was initiated and monitored from here.

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The TanDEM-X control room at DLR Oberpfaffenhofen. The transition to close formation flight was initiated and monitored from here.

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Researchers from DLR Oberpfaffenhofen managed the approach to the final flight formation. With the help of an orbital manoeuvre, they reduced the orbital period of TanDEM-X so that the satellite could close the 20 kilometre gap between it and TerraSAR-X. By means of two additional manoeuvres, the distance between the satellites was further reduced; it is now is about 350 metres.

Credit: DLR.