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Launch Success
Liftoff Time (GMT)
23:38:00
Friday March 11, 2011
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Official Livestream
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The third generation of Quasar satellites, also known as SDS-3, represents an advancement in the Satellite Data System (SDS) developed by the United States Air Force. These satellites continue the role of facilitating communication relay for real-time data from US reconnaissance satellites and supporting communication needs for USAF aircraft and ground stations. While specific technical details remain classified, SDS-3 likely incorporates improvements in technology, potentially enhancing data transmission rates, communication reliability, and overall performance.
Geosynchronous Orbit
1 Payload
Agency
ULAPrice
$164.00 million
Rocket
Height: 62.5m
Payload to Orbit
LEO: 10,440 kg
GTO: 6,390 kg
Liftoff Thrust
4,895 Kilonewtons
Fairing
Diameter: 4m
Height: 11.75m
Stages
2
Strap-ons
2
11th
Mission
1st
Mission of 2011
48th
Mission
3rd
Mission of 2011
12th
Orbital launch attempt