NEXT SPACEFLIGHT

Status

Success

KH-9 5 (Hexagon 5)

Launch Time
Fri Mar 09, 1973 21:00 UTC

Rocket

Titan IIID
Martin Marietta
Status: Retired
Liftoff Thrust: 10,587 kN
Payload to LEO: 12,300 kg
Stages: 2
Strap-ons: 2
Rocket Height: 36.0 m

Mission Details

KH-9 5 (Hexagon 5)

The KH-9, also known as Hexagon or "Big Bird," was a large reconnaissance satellite designed to replace the earlier KH-4B Corona satellites. Unlike its predecessors, it utilized a new maneuverable bus called SCS (Satellite Control Section) and featured four return capsules for extended operational lifespan. Manufactured by McDonnell Douglas, the Mk.8 return capsules facilitated mid-air recovery of film capsules, similar to Corona satellites. The camera system, built by Perkin-Elmer, comprised two panoramic cameras for area surveillance, capturing images at altitudes ranging from 90 to 200 miles. These cameras utilized an f/3.0 folded Wright Camera optical layout with a 1.5 m focal length and achieved ground resolutions better than 0.61 m, scanning areas up to 120° wide.

Payloads: 1
Total Mass: 13,300.0 kg
Low Earth Orbit

Location

SLC-4E, Vandenberg SFB, California, USA

Stats

1973

14th orbital launch attempt

Titan III

66th mission
1st mission of 1973
57th successful mission
5th consecutive successful mission