Thunderbird 5 is the monitoring satellite belonging to the 'Thunderbirds' rescue organisation, International Rescue. Manned by space monitor John Tracy, the station is moored in a geostationary orbit 22,226 miles above the the Pacific Ocean.
Overview[]
Thunderbird 5 is made up 3 main sections, which include: The Monitoring antenna, The Inner habitation ring and The Outer magnetic ring. Each section has unique purpose in order for the space station to function to the best of its ability. The Monitoring antenna is the huge gold disc-like object fitted to the top of the station, it can scan and pick up radio signals from wavelengths anywhere in the world. While scanning the antenna works in conjunction with the secret network of other satellites International Rescue has positioned in orbit above the Earth. The antenna is so advanced that it can even listen in on secure wavelengths that are used by the Earth's other emergency services and even militaries from across the globe.
The Inner habitation ring is the beating heart of the space station. Powered by a Hackenbacker series 300 fusion reactor, the habitation ring contains the ships Living quarters, Monitoring stations (with observation windows) and even a home cinema (to help keep John Tracy amused during his time aboard). As with Thunderbird 3, the entire habitation ring has Gravitron plates installed to seamlessly recreate the gravity on Earth for home comfort. One of the most advanced systems included onboard the space station is its Self-sealing system. If the outer hull of the habitation ring is ever punctured or damaged a special foam is immediately deployed from the damaged area - instantly sealing and any leaks and preventing explosive decompression.
The Outer magnetic ring is vital to the safety of the entire space station, made from a triple layered titanium alloy framework the ring acts as one giant magnet. With multiple electromagnets placed inside the ring, they create a powerful electromagnetic field around the entire station in order to deflect large objects such as meteors or debris which could be a dangerous hazard to the station. For extra protection against other rouge objects that the electromagnetic field can't handle Thunderbird 5 also has a powerful multi-barrelled laser cannon that can destroy anything when necessary.
Remaining a secret is key to International Rescue and Thunderbird 5 is no exception, to help hide itself from astronomers and observers on Earth the entire exterior surface of the space station is covered with an Anti-Reflective Coating. This denies the stations ability to reflect excessive amounts of light, thus not revealing its location by accident. In addition to this Thunderbird 5 also has the standard anti-detection devices (the same as on all other Thunderbird craft) installed above the broadcasting antenna underneath the main body. The device helps to obscure the space station's presence from telescopes on Earth, making the space station almost completely invisible.
Technical Data[]
TB5 front view
Armaments: 1 multi-barrelled laser cannon
Crew: Usually 1, but can support up to 5
Diameter: 75 metres (246 feet)
Engines: 1 booster rocket (to lift Thunderbird 5 to a higher orbit); 32 attitude-control rockets (for minor position adjustments)
Height (including scanning arrays): 69 metres (226 feet)
Length (including docking port): 108 metres (354 feet)
Orbit: geostationary orbit 35,790 km (22,226 miles) above the Pacific Ocean
Power source: Hackenbacker series 300 fusion reactor
Weight: 869 tons
Control Room[]
TB3 Docking Tunnel[]
Under Attack[]
As part of his ultimate plan to invade Tracy Island by luring the other members of IR away, The Hood launched a missile at Thunderbird 5. The missile struck its target with devastating effects, part of the stations outer ring was destroyed along with a large section of the ships antenna array and hull. The blast was so powerful Thunderbird 5 was knocked out of its geostationary orbit sending the station on a collision course to re-enter the Earths atmosphere; prompting an immediate rescue of John. Although crippled and badly damaged Thunderbird 5 was not rendered completely useless, its communications remained intact and was still able to dock with Thunderbird 3. Upon rescue of John Thunderbird 5's systems were restored and the stations correct geostationary orbit was re-established; narrowly avoiding the ships complete destruction.
Gallery[]
