table4.104

SP-4012 NASA HISTORICAL DATA BOOK: VOLUME III
PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS 1969-1978

Table 4-104. Intelsat-III F-3 Characteristics

Date of launch (location):

Feb. 5, 1969 (ETR)

Launch vehicle:

Thrust-Augmented Long-Tank Thor-Delta

Weight (kg):

146 (orbital)

Shape:

Cylindrical with an antenna mounted on one end

Dimensions (m):

1.04 height (1.98 with antenna)

1.42 diameter

Power source:

Solar cells plus NiCd batteries

NASA's role:

Launch vehicle and ground support (reimbursable)

Cooperating organizations:

NASA and Communications Satellite Corporation, representing the International Telecommunications Satellite Consortium (Intelsat)

Prime contractor:

TRW Systems Group

Objectives:

Commercial communications support for five years from synchronous orbit above the equator (Pacific link); capable of 1200 voice circuits or 4 TV channels.

Results:

Successful; moved to Indian Ocean location in May 1969 to a less busy station because of a malfunction; repositioned again in June 1973 over the Pacific to serve as a backup; placed on standby status in May 1977; ceased operations in April 1979.

Reference: NASA, "Intelsat-III F-3 Mission Operations Report," S-633-69-03, Jan. 27, 1969.

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Date of launch (location):	Feb. 5, 1969 (ETR)
Launch vehicle:	Thrust-Augmented Long-Tank Thor-Delta
Weight (kg):	146 (orbital)
Shape:	Cylindrical with an antenna mounted on one end
Dimensions (m):	1.04 height (1.98 with antenna)
Dimensions (m):	1.42 diameter
Power source:	Solar cells plus NiCd batteries
NASA's role:	Launch vehicle and ground support (reimbursable)
Cooperating organizations:	NASA and Communications Satellite Corporation, representing the International Telecommunications Satellite Consortium (Intelsat)
Prime contractor:	TRW Systems Group
Objectives:	Commercial communications support for five years from synchronous orbit above the equator (Pacific link); capable of 1200 voice circuits or 4 TV channels.
Results:	Successful; moved to Indian Ocean location in May 1969 to a less busy station because of a malfunction; repositioned again in June 1973 over the Pacific to serve as a backup; placed on standby status in May 1977; ceased operations in April 1979.