TDRS-7

Launch data:

Location:

Mission details:

• The last first-generation satellite, TDRS-7, was ordered as a replacement for TDRS-B and incorporates some enhancements over the other satellites, while still being based on the same TRW bus.
• It was deployed by STS-70 in 1995, and remains in operation at 85 degrees East (275 degrees West) as TDRS-Z, covering the so-called Zone of Exclusion between the operational West and East satellites; TDRS-9 and TDRS-10.
• The IUS consists of two Solid Rocket Motors (SRM's) which inject the TDRS/IUS into geostationary orbit. The IUS SRM 1 first place the TDRS/IUS into a transfer orbit with an apogee near geosynchronous altitude (burn at 20:55 UT). At the first apogee the IUS SRM 2 fired to place the TDRS/IUS in geostationary orbit (14 Jul at 02:30 UT). The TDRS/IUS was then maneuvered to the appropriate orientation and TDRS 7 separated from the IUS.