Date of launch (location):
Apr. 22, 1970 (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
rive years from synchronous orbit above the equator
(Atlantic link).
Results:
Successful; placed in lower transfer
orbit than planned due to launch vehicle guidance system
anomaly, but was successfully placed into synchronous orbit
by the spacecraft's apogee motor.
Reference: NASA, "Intelsat III F-7 Mission Operations Report," S-633-70-05, Apr. 21, 1970.