Status
Success
Rocket
Mission Details
Quasar-20 (USA-269) (NROL-61)
The fourth generation of Quasar satellites, also known as SDS-4, represents the latest evolution in the Satellite Data System (SDS) developed by the United States Air Force. Building upon the capabilities of previous generations, SDS-4 continues to serve as a critical communication relay for real-time data from US reconnaissance satellites and supports communication needs for USAF aircraft and ground stations. While specific details about SDS-4 remain classified, it likely incorporates state-of-the-art technology advancements to further improve data transmission rates, communication reliability, and overall performance.
Payloads: 1
Geostationary Earth Orbit
Location
SLC-41, Cape Canaveral SFS, Florida, USA
Stats
2016
47th orbital launch attempt
United Launch Alliance
109th mission
6th mission of 2016
108th successful mission
104th consecutive successful mission
Atlas V
64th mission
4th mission of 2016
63rd successful mission
54th consecutive successful mission