IDCSP → DSCS-1

IDCSP [USAF]

The IDCSP (Initial Defense Communication Satellite Program) provided the Pentagon with its first geosynchronous communications system and replaced the cancelled ADVENT project.

IDCSP satellites were spin-stabilized 26 sided polygons, 86 cm in diameter, covered with solar panels, and had a mass of 45 kg. Up to eight were dispersed on a single Titan-3C rocket into slightly sub-synchronous orbit where they would drift about thirty degrees per day. The idea was that a backup was always visible to the earth station if one failed. Each satellite contained a single X-band transponder with a 26 Megahertz (MHz) bandwidth. While designers planned for the satellites to last three years, the IDCSP satellites were kept on for a five-year span and were to turn off after six years. IDCSP satellites transmitted reconnaissance photos and other data during the Vietnam War.

IDCSP satellites transmitted reconnaissance photos and other data during the Vietnam war.

They were succeeded by NATO and DSCS-2 true geosynchronous satellites.

IDCSP 19 was also called DATS (Despun Antenna Test Satellite), as it tested a more efficient electronically despun antenna platform.