Date of launch (location):
Feb. 19, 1976 (ETR)
Launch vehicle:
Delta 2914
Weight (kg):
655
Shape:
Cylindrical with three antennas
mounted on one end
Dimensions (m):
3.66 overall height
2.13 diameter
Power source:
Solar cells plus NiCd
batteries
NASA's role:
Launch vehicle and ground support
(reimbursable)
Cooperating organizations:
NASA and Comsat General
Prime contractor:
Hughes Aircraft Co.
Objectives:
Participate in a three-satellite
maritime commercial communications system (Atlantic link);
provide operational communications for the Navy for two
years under lease; improve ability to transmit/receive
distress signals, search and rescue traffic, and weather
reports.
Results:
Successful; Navy extended operations
through 1981; ground stations were operated at Santa Paula,
CA, and Southbury, CT.
Reference: NASA, "Project Marisat A," Press Release 76-22, Feb. 6, 1976.