March 15, 1978
GEOS-3
(Geodynamics Experimental Ocean Satellite)
LAUNCH DATE: April 9, 1975
ORBIT: Circular
Altitude:
Apogee: 848 km
Perigee: 839 km
Inclination: 114.9°
Period: 101.7 minutes .
SENSORS:
Radar altimeter (accuracy of 1 meter over water)
Coherent and noncoherent C-band transponders
S-band instrumentation
Laser retroreflectors
(4 Doppler transmitters | : "e
DESCRIPTION: Octahedron 132 cm wide topped by truncated pyramid
16 solar cell panels
Gravity-gradient stabilization scissors boom assembly with end
mass of 45 kg extends to 6.5 m in orbit plane
Height: 81 cm
Weight: 340 kg
PURPOSE:
Measure geometry of oceans, topography of surface, currents, and
circulation.
Land and ice tracking.
Fulfill oceanographic, geodetic, and radar calibration requirements.
Used with ATS-6 in satellite-to-satellite tracking experiment.
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