Launch Success
Liftoff Time (GMT)
16:52:00
Saturday April 14, 1984
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This launch used the transtage upper stage.
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.
Geostationary Earth Orbit
1 Payload
1,170 kilograms
Agency
Martin MariettaRocket
Height: 50m
Payload to Orbit
LEO: 14,515 kg
GTO: 5,000 kg
Liftoff Thrust
11,279 Kilonewtons
Fairing
Diameter: 3.05m
Stages
3
Strap-ons
2
137th
Mission
2nd
Mission of 1984
37th
Orbital launch attempt