NEXT SPACEFLIGHT

Status

Success

KH-11 11 (Crystal 11) (USA-116)

Launch Time
Tue Dec 05, 1995 21:18 UTC

Rocket

Titan IV(404)A
Lockheed
Status: Retired
Liftoff Thrust: 14,200 kN
Payload to LEO: 17,700 kg
Stages: 2
Strap-ons: 2
Rocket Height: 54.0 m
Fairing Diameter: 5.1 m

Mission Details

KH-11 11 (Crystal 11) (USA-116)

The KH-11 series, known as Kennen and Crystal, are American spy satellites utilizing electro-optical digital imaging for real-time observation, supplanting earlier film-return satellites. Manufactured by Lockheed, they likely incorporate a 2.4 m prime mirror, offering a theoretical 15 cm ground resolution. First launched by the American National Reconnaissance Office in December 1976, the KH-11 KENNEN was the inaugural American spy satellite to employ electro-optical digital imaging technology, enabling real-time optical observations.

Payloads: 1
Total Mass: 13,300.0 kg
Polar Orbit

Location

SLC-4E, Vandenberg SFB, California, USA

Stats

1995

72nd orbital launch attempt

Titan IV

15th mission
4th mission of 1995
14th successful mission
8th consecutive successful mission