NOSS B Satellite Bus

Data current as of 2026-07-20.

The NOSS B bus accounts for 3 cataloged objects, of which 3 are in orbit and 1 are active. Most are built by NRL. The largest operator on this bus is National Reconnaissance Office. The first launched in 1990, the most recent in 1996.

3
In orbit
1
Active
3
Total launched
0
Reentered

NOSS B launched per year

1 1990: 1 object launched 1991: 1 object launched 1992: 0 objects launched 1993: 0 objects launched 1994: 0 objects launched 1995: 0 objects launched 1996: 1 object launched 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996
Still in orbit Click a year to list its satellites.

Typical specifications

Most common values across cataloged NOSS B satellites.

Manufacturer NRL
Purpose Communication
Launch mass 3000 kg
Dry mass 3000 kg
Length 3 m
Diameter 4 m
Span 4 m
Shape Cyl
Propulsion AJ-23-153 ?
Equipment UHF transponder
Typical orbit 107 min period, 63° inclination

Top operators

Top countries

US 3

NOSS B satellites

Track any of them live in KeepTrack.

Name NORAD COSPAR Owner Launched Orbit Status Track
USA 119 USA 122 23893 1996-029A NROC/NRL May 12, 1996 107 min, 63.3° Active
USA 72 USA 72 21775 1991-076A NRO/NRL Nov 8, 1991 260 min, 63.4° Inactive
USA 59 USA 59 20641 1990-050A NRO/NRL Jun 8, 1990 239 min, 63.4° Inactive

Frequently asked questions

How many NOSS B satellites are there?

The catalog lists 3 objects built on the NOSS B bus. 3 are in orbit and 0 have reentered.

How many NOSS B satellites are in orbit?

3 NOSS B objects are currently in orbit, of which 1 carry an active status.

Who builds the NOSS B bus?

The NOSS B bus is most commonly built by NRL.

When did the first NOSS B satellite launch?

The first cataloged NOSS B satellite launched in 1990, and the most recent in 1996.

Satellite data compiled by KeepTrack from CelesTrak, Space-Track, and GCAT, provided under CC BY-NC 4.0.