Pilot 3

USA

Spacecraft n°: 18

USA satellite n°: 14
Orig PL Name: Diagnostic Payload 3
Also called NOTS 3

Launch data:

Designation F00026 / 58F10
Launch date 22 Aug 1958
Launch site NOTS DZSB (In, F4D-1)
34N, 120W
Launch vehicle  Pilot (NOTS-EV-1) (#3)
Mission Technology
Earth orbit:
Perigee / Apogee 2250 / 2400 km
Inclination °
Period  min

Failure

Spacecraft data:

Prime contractor  NOTS
Operator  NOTS
Equipment IR scanner
Mass at launch  1,05 kg
Dry Mass  kg
Basic shape  Anullar body with small rocket motor in the center
Dimension  dia 20 cm
Solar array  
Stabilization  Spin stabilized
Propulsion None in orbit

Mission details:

After air-launch, the rocket disappeared over the horizon exhibiting uncertain performance. A listening station at Christchurch, New Zealand reported hearing signals corresponding to the first and third orbit, but this was dismissed as being "wishful thinking".
Ref.: #7, #14, #102 - update: 2.07.05 Home