Also called:
Geodynamics Experimental Ocean
Satellite
Date of launch (location):
Apr. 9, 1975 (WTR)
Launch vehicle:
Delta 1410
Weight (kg):
340
Shape:
Octahedron topped by a truncated
pyramid with a gravity gradient boom extending from one end
and a doppler beacon from the other
Dimensions (m):
1.32 width
0.81 length (6 maximum overall
length)
Power source:
Solar cells plus NiCd
batteries
Responsible NASA center:
Wallops Flight Center
Prime contractor:
Johns Hopkins Applied Physics
Laboratory
Project manager:
Laurence C. Rossi
Project scientists:
H. Ray Stanley
Objectives:
Demonstrate the feasibility and
utility of mapping the geometry of the sea surface and
measuring wave height; contribute to the development of
technology for future satellite radar altimeter
systems.
Instruments:
Radar Altimeter
C-Band and S-Band Transponders
Laser Retroreflectors
Results:
Successful; NASA terminated the
operations of the altimeter in July 1979.
Reference: NASA, "GEOS 3 Mission Operations Report," E-855-75-01, Apr. 8, 1975.