AMPTE/IRM (15200)

COSPAR: 1984-088B | Alt Name: Ion Release Module
DECAYED

Image
AMPTE/IRM Satellite Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details

Launch Date

August 16, 1984

Launch Pad

LC17A

Launch Vehicle

Delta 3924

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

15200

International Designator

1984-088B

Decay Date

12/8/1987

Basic Satellite Info

Name

AMPTE/IRM

Alternative Name

Ion Release Module

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

DFVLR

Country

Germany

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary
The AMPTE/IRM (Ion Release Module) satellite, designated 1984-088B, was launched on August 16, 1984, from Launch Pad LC17A at the Air Force Eastern Test Range using a Delta 3924 launch vehicle. The satellite is part of the AMPTE mission focusing on magnetosphere research and has dimensions of 1.7 meters in length with a diameter of 2.1 meters and a span of 47 meters, indicating its antenna deployment. It was manufactured by MPE for DFVLR (Deutsche Forschungsanstalt für Luft- und Raumfahrt) and operated for approximately two years after launch. The satellite has a dry mass and launch mass both at 298 kg and utilizes solar cells along with batteries for power generation. Its shape is described as cylindrical with antennas, featuring an RCS (Reaction Control System) value of 0.31.
Physical Characteristics

Length

1.7

Diameter

2.1

Span

47

Dry Mass

298

Launch Mass

298

Shape

Cyl + Ant

Radar Cross Section

0.31

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

AMPTE-IRM

Purpose

Research, Magnetosphere

Mission

Research, Magnetosphere

Manufacturer

MPE

Life Expectancy

2 years

Bus

AMPTE-IRM

Configuration

Unknown

Motor

BE3-A9

Equipment

Unknown

Power System

Solar cells, batteries

ADCS

Unknown

Transmitter Frequency

Unknown

Satellite Articles

View All Posts »

Learn more about satellites and other related topics.

X Report 31 Aug 2025

X Report 31 Aug 2025

SpaceX successfully launched its ninth Starlink mission of the month, boosting broadband coverage with additional satellites deployed from both coasts. The latest missions underscore the company's commitment to expanding global internet access.

Space Brief 26 Sep 2025

Space Brief 26 Sep 2025

Today's Space Brief highlights major developments including NASA's Dream Chaser contract modifications, Germany's significant investment in space capabilities, and advancements in hybrid satcom technology.

Space Brief 8 Jan 2025

Space Brief 8 Jan 2025

Today's highlights include China's launch of the Shijian-25 for on-orbit refueling tests, major Pentagon contracts for solid rocket motors and hypersonic testing, and the US Space Force's record-setting year of launches.

Space Force Gets $26B in Defense Bill, Golden Dome Initiative Funded | KeepTrack Space Brief

Space Force Gets $26B in Defense Bill, Golden Dome Initiative Funded | KeepTrack Space Brief

Space Force allocated $26B in 2026 defense appropriations backing Golden Dome initiative. FY26 defense bill adds $8B but sidelines $28B munitions request. First Qatari-Emirati joint defense venture formed.

New Glenn Explodes After USSF Awards Blue Origin Security Contract | KeepTrack Space Brief

New Glenn Explodes After USSF Awards Blue Origin Security Contract | KeepTrack Space Brief

New Glenn rocket exploded hours after U.S. Space Force and NRO awarded Blue Origin a national security launch task order. Stand-down and mishap investigation expected.

Space Brief 23 Jun 2025

Space Brief 23 Jun 2025

Significant advancements and launches in space: NASA's hypersonic sensor breakthrough, ChinaSat-9C's launch, and SpaceX's resilient Falcon 9 operations.

Space Brief 28 Jul 2025

Space Brief 28 Jul 2025

Today's highlights include SpaceX's rapid Starlink launches, insights into China's Mars sample return mission, and ULA's future launch plans. Also, a new Space Force general takes the reins of the U.S. missile defense program.

X Report 12 Mar 2025

X Report 12 Mar 2025

SpaceX successfully launches NASA missions, prepares for Crew-10 flight, and overcomes Falcon 9 launch anomalies.