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SESP 1 (P70-1)

SESP 1 in space test chamber [Boeing]

The objective of the SESP 1 (P70-1) spacecraft was to test an infrared celestial mapping sensor system.

The instruments were integrated with the Burner-2 upper stage and remained attached. The mission was designed for a life time of 2 month. The spacecraft was integrated by Boeing, who also built the Burner-2 upper stage.

The experiments were:

  • Celestial IR Measurements (SAMSO 001)
    This experiment was to measure the spectral variation in the celestial infrared background. The experiment was considered 40% successful and contributed to the development of surveillance satellites. The mass of the experiment was 67 kg
  • Spacecraft Attitude Sensing Device (SAMSO 203)
    The objective of this 2 kg secondary experiment was to test a system for determining the attitude of reentry vehicle. The experiment was a complete success.
Nation: USA
Type / Application: Technology, Science, Astronomy (IR)
Operator: US Air Force (USAF) STP (Space Test Program)
Contractors: Boeing
Equipment: Celestial IR experiment, spacecraft attitude sensing device
Configuration: Instruments mounted on upper stage
Propulsion:
Power: Batteries
Lifetime: 2 months
Mass: 260 kg
Orbit: 545 km × 581 km, 90.2°
Satellite COSPAR Date LS Launch Vehicle Remarks
SESP 1 (P70-1) 1971-054A 08.06.1971 Va SLC-10W Thor-DSV2U Burner-2
Further STP missions:

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