NEXT SPACEFLIGHT

Status

Success

DSP-9

Launch Time
Mon Mar 16, 1981 19:24 UTC

Rocket

Titan III(23)C
Martin Marietta
Status: Retired
Liftoff Thrust: 13,642 kN
Payload to LEO: 13,100 kg
Payload to GTO: 3,000 kg
Stages: 3
Strap-ons: 2
Rocket Height: 42.0 m
Fairing Diameter: 3.0 m

Mission Details

DSP-9

Between 1975 and 1985, the Soviet threat expanded, featuring longer-range SLBMs, MRV and MIRV missiles, mobile ICBMs, and ASAT systems. In response, the DSP system introduced MOS/PIM satellites with multi-orbit capability, operating in both geosynchronous and highly elliptical orbits. These satellites were heavier (1170 kg) with increased electronic packages for survivability and extended orbital life to three years. Electrical capacity was raised to 500 Watts. MOS/PIM satellites can be distinguished by three electronic packages located 90 degrees apart on the satellite's conical section.

Payloads: 1
Total Mass: 1,170.0 kg
Geostationary Earth Orbit

Location

SLC-40, Cape Canaveral SFS, Florida, USA

Stats

1981

26th orbital launch attempt

Titan III

124th mission
2nd mission of 1981
111th successful mission
14th consecutive successful mission