KH-8 52 (Gambit-3 52)

Launch Success

Liftoff Time (GMT)

19:30:01

Thursday January 21, 1982

Mission Details

KH-8 52 (Gambit-3 52)

Wiki

The KH-8 Dual Mode, also known as Higherboy or Highboy, was a modified version of the KH-8 Gambit-3 reconnaissance satellite developed in the early 1970s as a contingency measure in case of delays with the KH-9 Hexagon satellite. Retaining the basic layout of the KH-8 Block 4 series, it consisted of a photographic payload section, satellite control section, and booster vehicle. Notable features included a strip camera coupled with an optical system with a focal length of 4.46 m, capable of capturing images with ground resolutions as fine as 0.1 meters. The Block 4 version offered dual platen capability, accommodating both 9-inch and 5-inch film, providing versatility for various imaging needs including experimental films, color film, and false-color infrared. Additionally, the Astro-Position Terrain Camera (APTC) included three cameras for terrain and stellar observation, aiding in attitude determination and navigation.

Low Earth Orbit

1 Payload

3,000 kilograms

Rocket

Retired
Titan III(24)B

Active 1971 to 1984


Rocket

Height: 50m

Payload to Orbit

LEO: 4,000 kg

Liftoff Thrust

2,410 Kilonewtons

Fairing

Diameter: 3.05m

Stages

3

Launch Site

SLC-4W

Vandenberg SFB, California, USA

Fastest Turnaround

15 days 1 hour

Stats

Titan III


128th

Mission

1st

Mission of 1982

1982


6th

Orbital launch attempt