NSSDCA/COSPAR ID: 1967-080A
The cylindrically shaped Block 4 satellites incorporated two new one-inch diameter vidicon cameras, video (2), a large capacity tape recorder, and an all-digital command subsystem with magnetic core memory, giving fully progammable coverage of either direct readout or readout of recorded data without interference. Nominal satellite spin rate was decreased to reduce smear, permitting a higher resolution TV system for improved picture quality. Dual cameras and a high capacity recorder provided complete daily coverage of the entire northern hemisphere and tactical coverage anywhere on the earth. An improved IR 'C' system was incorporated on this spacecraft. The Defence Meteorological Satellite Program's Block 4 space segment consisted of satellites in 450 nautical mile sun-synchronous polar orbits each carrying a payload of meteorological sensors. Primary cloud imaging sensors capable of globally viewing the earth in the visible and infrared spectrums were carried by every satellite. The ascending node of the satellites was either in the early morning time period or at mid-day. THe final data product was a film product directly usable for imagery analysis. Originally part of a classified system of USAF weather satellites, the spacecraft mission was not revealed until March 1973.
Launch Date: 1967-08-22
Launch Vehicle: Thor
Launch Site: Vandenberg AFB, United States
Mass: 150 kg
Questions and comments about this spacecraft can be directed to: Dr. Dieter K. Bilitza
Name | Role | Original Affiliation | |
---|---|---|---|
Project Manager | US Air Force Space Division |