GeoLITE [NRO]
GeoLITE (Geosynchronous Lightweight Technology Experiment) is an advanced, experimental communications satellite featuring Laser and UHF communication devices. It is operated by the NRO.
GeoLITE is the first mission for TRW's T-310 satellite bus, a new lightweight, highly stable platform capable of a range of missions. TRW has system integration responsibility for GeoLITE, including the satellite development, integration and preparation for launch.
The lsser communications experiments consisted of:
The UHF payload was part of the IBS-S (Integrated Broadcast Service - Simplex) inteligence data dissemination architecture to replace the older military satellite communications (MILSATCOM) archtecture. Other IPS-S payloads were flown on different missions to provide geostationary and polar coverage.
The satellite was designed and built in 3 1/2 years using streamlined program methodologies.
Note: The NROL designations refer to the launch, not to the payload.
Nation: | USA |
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Type / Application: | Communication (Experimental) |
Operator: | NRO |
Contractors: | TRW |
Equipment: | GLT, GLOM, IBS-S |
Configuration: | T310 |
Propulsion: | TR-500 SCAT |
Power: | 2 deployable solar arrays, batteries |
Lifetime: | 9 years |
Mass: | ca. 1800 kg |
Orbit: | GEO |
Satellite | COSPAR | Date | LS | Launch Vehicle | Remarks | |
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GeoLITE (USA 158, NROL 17) | 2001-020A | 18.05.2001 | CC SLC-17B | Delta-7925 |