DMSP Block 5B Satellite Bus
Data current as of 2026-07-21.
The DMSP Block 5B bus accounts for 5 cataloged objects, of which 5 are in orbit and 0 are active. Most are built by RCA. The largest operator on this bus is SAMSO. The first launched in 1971, the most recent in 1974.
5
In orbit
0
Active
5
Total launched
0
Reentered
DMSP Block 5B launched per year
Still in orbit Click a year to list its satellites.
Typical specifications
Most common values across cataloged DMSP Block 5B satellites.
| Manufacturer | RCA |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Meteorology |
| Launch mass | 192 kg |
| Dry mass | 192 kg |
| Length | 2.1 m |
| Diameter | 0.8 m |
| Span | 2.1 m |
| Shape | Taper Cyl |
| Power | Solar cells, batteries |
| Propulsion | ? |
| Equipment | ? |
| Typical orbit | 101 min period, 99° inclination |
Top operators
SAMSO 5
Top countries
US 5
DMSP Block 5B satellites
Track any of them live in KeepTrack.
| Name | NORAD | COSPAR | Owner | Launched | Orbit | Status | Track |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OPS 8579 (DMSP 5B F5) DMSP 8531 | 07218 | 1974-015A | SAMSO | Mar 16, 1974 | 101 min, 99.0° | Inactive | ◉ |
| OPS 8364 (DMSP 5B F4) DMSP 7529 | 06787 | 1973-054A | SAMSO | Aug 17, 1973 | 100 min, 98.6° | Inactive | ◉ |
| OPS 7323 (DMSP 5B F3) DMSP 6530 | 06275 | 1972-089A | SAMSO | Nov 9, 1972 | 101 min, 98.5° | Inactive | ◉ |
| OPS 5058 (DMSP 5B F2) DMSP 5528 | 05903 | 1972-018A | SAMSO | Mar 24, 1972 | 101 min, 99.1° | Inactive | ◉ |
| OPS 4311 (DMSP 5B F1) DMSP 4527 | 05557 | 1971-087A | SAMSO | Oct 14, 1971 | 101 min, 99.0° | Inactive | ◉ |
Frequently asked questions
How many DMSP Block 5B satellites are there?
The catalog lists 5 objects built on the DMSP Block 5B bus. 5 are in orbit and 0 have reentered.
How many DMSP Block 5B satellites are in orbit?
5 DMSP Block 5B objects are currently in orbit, of which 0 carry an active status.
Who builds the DMSP Block 5B bus?
The DMSP Block 5B bus is most commonly built by RCA.
When did the first DMSP Block 5B satellite launch?
The first cataloged DMSP Block 5B satellite launched in 1971, and the most recent in 1974.