Abstract: A gas connector having a tube with corrugations of uniform height and thickness, wherein the corrugations form successively repeating patterns comprising a first segment of non-compressed corrugations and a second segment of axially compressed corrugations. The gas connector eliminates or greatly reduces whistling noises when conveying a gas.

Abstract: A fluid line connector assembly includes a length of flexible tubing having a tubing end and a first fitting body received on the tubing end. A second is secured to the first fitting body, and at least one of the first fitting body and the second fitting body forms a fluid-tight connection with the tubing end. A third fitting body is rotatably supported on the second end fitting. A sealing member forms a fluid-tight seal between the second fitting body and the third fitting body. A method of assembling a fluid line connector assembly is also described.

Abstract: A satellite intended for insertion into a quasi-synchronous earth orbit is adapted for efficient launch by minimizing the amount of launch vehicle cargo capacity employed. The satellite includes at least one major thrust source, such as an apogee kick motor, defining a major thrust axis for the satellite. A reusable launch vehicle such as the Space Shuttle, includes a cargo bay whose largest dimension is parallel to the launch vehicle thrust axis. Minimizing satellite use of cargo bay capacity is obtained by adapting the satellite to lie within the cargo bay of the launch vehicle with its thrust axis perpendicular to the thrust axis of the launch vehicle.