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USA 281 (43145)
COSPAR: 2018-005A | Alt Name: USA 281
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Launch Date
January 12, 2018
Launch Site
AFWTR
Launch Pad
SLC6
Launch Vehicle
Delta 4M+(5,2)
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
43145
International Designator
2018-005A
Decay Date
Unknown
Basic Satellite Info
Name
USA 281
Alternative Name
USA 281
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
NROC
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
USA 281, also known as TOPAZ 5, is a reconnaissance satellite operated by NROC (National Reconnaissance Office). It was launched on January 12, 2018, from AFWTR (Air Force Western Test Range) SLC6 using the Delta 4M+(5,2) launch vehicle. The satellite's dimensions include a length of 4 meters and a diameter of 4 meters, with an additional span of 15 meters likely due to its radar equipment. It has a dry mass of 5000 kilograms and a launch mass of 7000 kilograms. Manufactured by LMSSD (Lockheed Martin Space Systems), USA 281 is designed for reconnaissance purposes using radar technology, with its shape described as a box plus dish configuration.
Physical Characteristics
Length
4
Diameter
4
Span
15
Dry Mass
5000
Launch Mass
7000
Shape
Box + Dish
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
TOPAZ 5
Purpose
Reconnaissance, Radar
Mission
Reconnaissance, Radar
Manufacturer
LMSSD
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
FIA Radar
Configuration
Unknown
Motor
Unknown
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
Unknown
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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