The Day America's Spy Satellites Gained New Eyes
Sixty-three years ago, a Thor-Agena rocket launched the first dual-camera reconnaissance satellite, revolutionizing space-based intelligence while hiding behind the final use of a famous cover name
USA 411 (61032)
COSPAR: 2024-160M | Alt Name: USA 411
DECAYED
Image
Additional Sources
Launch Details
Orbital Elements
NORAD ID
61032
International Designator
2024-160M
Decay Date
Unknown
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Basic Satellite Info
Name
USA 411
Alternative Name
USA 411
Type
Payload
Status
Operational
Owner
NROC
Country
United States
Constellation
N/A
Related Satellites
Major Events
N/A
Summary
The USA 411 satellite, also known as Starshield 3-12, was launched on September 6, 2024, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. It is owned by NROC and manufactured by SPXS. The satellite has dimensions of 0.3 meters in length, a diameter of 4.1 meters, and a span of 29 meters. Its dry mass is 700 kilograms with a launch mass of 750 kilograms. USA 411 uses deployable solar arrays for power generation. The satellite's mission and purpose are unknown but speculated to be related to imaging or SIGINT (Signals Intelligence). Its shape is described as "Box + pan," and it was launched on the same date it became stable in orbit.
Physical Characteristics
Length
0.3
Diameter
4.1
Span
29
Dry Mass
700
Launch Mass
750
Shape
Box + pan
Radar Cross Section
Unknown
Visual Magnitude
Unknown
Color
Unknown
Material Composition
Unknown
Technical Details
Payload
Starshield 3-12
Purpose
Unknown (imaging or SIGINT)
Mission
Unknown (imaging or SIGINT)
Manufacturer
SPXS
Life Expectancy
Unknown
Bus
Starshield
Configuration
Starshield bus ?
Motor
?
Equipment
Unknown
Power System
deployable solar arrays
ADCS
Unknown
Transmitter Frequency
Unknown
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