NEXT SPACEFLIGHT

Status

Success

KH-8 52 (Gambit-3 52)

Launch Time
Thu Jan 21, 1982 19:30 UTC

Rocket

Titan III(24)B
US Air Force
Status: Retired
Liftoff Thrust: 2,410 kN
Payload to LEO: 4,000 kg
Stages: 3
Strap-ons: 0
Rocket Height: 50.0 m
Fairing Diameter: 3.05 m

Mission Details

KH-8 52 (Gambit-3 52)

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.

Payloads: 1
Total Mass: 3,000.0 kg
Low Earth Orbit

Location

SLC-4W, Vandenberg SFB, California, USA

Stats

1982

6th orbital launch attempt

Titan III

128th mission
1st mission of 1982
115th successful mission
18th consecutive successful mission