Aug 23 1973
From The Space Library
August 23-September 13: Intelsat-IV F-7 communications satellite was launched by NASA for Communications Satellite Corp. on behalf of the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT) . The 1379-kg (3041-lb) satellite was launched from Eastern Test Range at 6:57 pm EDT by an Atlas-Centaur launch vehicle into a highly ac-curate transfer orbit with a 35 819.5-km (22 257.2-mi) apogee, 548.1-km (340.6-mi) perigee, and 27.3° inclination. NASA'S primary objectives were to conduct design, performance, and flight-readiness reviews for the Federal Communications Commission; to ensure compatibility of INTELSAT spacecraft with NASA launch ve-hicles and launch environmental conditions; and to launch Intelsat-IV F-7 into a transfer orbit that permitted the apogee-kick motor to insert the spacecraft into a synchronous orbit on the equator over the Atlantic Ocean. During a design life of seven years the spacecraft would add 12 TV channels to those available between the U.S. and other countries and would increase the telephone capacity by 3500 two-way circuits. The apogee-kick motor was fired at 8:30 am EDT Aug. 25 and Intel-sat-IV F-7 entered a near-circular orbit with a 35 778-km (22 231.4-mi) apogee, 35 773-km (22 228.3-mi) perigee, 1435.6-min period, and 0.4° inclination. The spacecraft was at 327° east longitude, drifting at 0.15° per day, and was expected to reach its planned station of 330° east longitude over the Atlantic Ocean within 10 days. NASA adjudged the mission a success Sept. 13. Intelsat-IV F-7 was the fifth communications satellite in the Intelsat IV series. Intelsat-IV F-4 (launched Jan. 22, 1972) was operating satisfactorily over the Pacific. Intelsat-IV F-5 (launched June 13, 1972) was operating over the Indian Ocean. The launch of Intelsat-IV F-6, postponed in May, was tentatively planned for December. (NASA prog off; GSFC SSR, 8/31/73; ComSatCorp, Tech Ops Off & Launch Rep)
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