GGTS 1, 2
GGTS 1 [USAF]
GGTS (Gravity Gradient Test Satellite) were two experimental satellites to investigate gravity gradient stabilisation in geostationary orbits. They were each launched together with 7 IDCSP communication satellites. The GGTS satellites used the same bus as the IDCSP, but were battery powered.
GGTS 1 was successfully launched on a Titan-3C into near geosynchronous orbit, but the GGTS 2 mission failed due to a launch vehicle failure.
| Nation: | USA |
|---|---|
| Type / Application: | Technology, gravity gradient stabilisation |
| Operator: | USAF |
| Contractors: | |
| Equipment: | gravity gradient stabilisation booms |
| Configuration: | |
| Propulsion: | |
| Power: | Batteries |
| Lifetime: | |
| Mass: | 47 kg |
| Orbit: | 33663 km × 33858 km, 4.2° |
| Satellite | Date | LS | Launch Vehicle | Remarks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GGTS 1 (OPS 9381) | 16.06.1966 | CC LC-41 | Titan-3C | with IDCSP 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 | |
| GGTS 2 | 26.08.1966 | CC LC-41 | F | Titan-3C | with IDCSP (8), (9), (10), (11), (12), (13), (14) |
