KH-8 44 (Gambit-3 44)

The KH-8, also known as Gambit-3, represented the second generation of high-resolution reconnaissance satellites, with KH-8 Block 3 being the third iteration featuring an enhanced roll joint. Similar in layout to the Block 2 series, it comprised a photographic payload section, satellite control section, and booster vehicle. Notably, satellites KH-8 37 to 47 boasted an improved roll joint enabling 18000 maneuvers per mission, enhancing imaging system agility, and increasing film capacity. The camera system utilized a strip camera with a 4.46 m focal length optical system, achieving ground resolutions as fine as 0.1 meters. Additionally, the Astro-Position Terrain Camera (APTC) included cameras for terrain and stellar observation aiding in attitude determination and celestial navigation.