“SHORT HOP – The space shuttle Discovery is expected to come within 35 feet of a communications satellite that is awaiting recovery by the shuttle crew in November. In this artist’s rendering, one of the astronauts carries an attachment mechanism as he flies out to the satellite, one of two which went into wayward orbits after rockets misfired in February. The astronaut will latch onto the satellite and bring it under control so the shuttle’s manipulator arm can grab the satellite. The astronauts then will attach the satellite to a special platform in the shuttle for the ride home. The two satellites, both built by Hughes Aircraft Company, are expected to be recovered on the mission, which is set to be launched on Nov. 7. The Hughes-built Ku band radar in the foreground is one of two sensing instruments onboard the shuttle that will help the astronauts home in on the satellites.”
Beautifully detailed & creative perspective by Hughes employed/contracted artist Chris Kallas. Mr. Kallas subsequently produced additional gorgeous work for Hughes, which was also appropriated by NASA/JPL/ARC.