NEXT SPACEFLIGHT

Status

Success

STS-28R, Quasar-8 (USA-40) & (USA-41)

Launch Time
Tue Aug 08, 1989 12:37 UTC

Rocket

Space Shuttle Columbia
NASA
Status: Retired
Price: $450.0 million
Liftoff Thrust: 30,250 kN
Payload to LEO: 27,500 kg
Payload to GTO: 3,810 kg
Stages: 2
Strap-ons: 2
Rocket Height: 56.1 m

Vehicles

Edwards Runway 17

OV-102

Flight #8
1304 day turnaround

Mission Details

STS-28R

The STS-28R mission of the Space Shuttle Columbia was a classified mission conducted by NASA for the United States Department of Defense. STS-28R's specific objectives and payload details remain classified. However, it's widely speculated that the mission involved deploying or retrieving reconnaissance satellites, conducting experiments related to national security, or testing new technologies for military applications.

Total Mass: 19,600.0 kg
Low Earth Orbit

Quasar-8 (USA-40)

The second-generation Quasar satellites, also known as SDS-2, continue the legacy of the Satellite Data System (SDS) developed by the United States Air Force. Serving as communication relays, these satellites transmit real-time data from US reconnaissance satellites and support communication needs for USAF aircraft and ground stations. Operating in similar elliptical orbits for polar coverage, they maintain communication with KH-11 satellites using a 60 GHz frequency payload. Launched after the first-generation satellites, the SDS-2 series likely incorporates advancements in technology and may feature enhancements in capabilities such as improved data transmission rates or additional onboard systems.

Payloads: 1
Molniya Orbit

(USA-41)

The USA 41 was a small satellite of classified purpose, which was deployed during the Columbia (STS-28R) mission from a MPEC (Multi-Purpose Experiment Canister) canister.

Possibly the satellite was related to the USA 70 satellite.

Payloads: 1

Location

LC-39B, Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA

Stats

1989

62nd orbital launch attempt

Space Shuttle

30th mission
3rd mission of 1989
29th successful mission
5th consecutive successful mission