Date of launch (location):
July 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
five years from synchronous orbit above the equator (Western
Pacific link).
Results:
Unsuccessful; launched into correct
transfer orbit, but lost after apogee motor fired to put it
into synchronous orbit; last of the Intelsat III
series.
Reference: NASA, "Intelsat III F-8 Mission Operations Report," S-633-70-06, July 17, 1970.