Nova Satellite Bus
Data current as of 2026-07-21.
The Nova bus accounts for 5 cataloged objects, of which 3 are in orbit and 0 are active. 2 have reentered. Most are built by APL. The largest operator on this bus is NAVAIR. The first launched in 1975, the most recent in 1988.
3
In orbit
0
Active
5
Total launched
2
Reentered
Nova launched per year
Still in orbit Since reentered Click a year to list its satellites.
Typical specifications
Most common values across cataloged Nova satellites.
| Manufacturer | APL |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Navigation |
| Launch mass | 160 kg |
| Dry mass | 140 kg |
| Length | 1.2 m |
| Diameter | 0.5 m |
| Span | 30 m |
| Shape | Cyl + 4 Pan + Ant |
| Power | 4 deployable fixed solar arrays, batteries |
| Propulsion | Pulsed plasma thrusters |
| Equipment | ? |
| Typical orbit | 109 min period, 90° inclination |
Top operators
NAVAIR 5
Top countries
US 5
Nova satellites
Track any of them live in KeepTrack.
| Name | NORAD | COSPAR | Owner | Launched | Orbit | Status | Track |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NOVA 2 NNS 30490-39 | 19223 | 1988-052A | NAVAIR | Jun 16, 1988 | 109 min, 90.0° | Inactive | ◉ |
| NOVA 3 NNS 30500-33 | 15362 | 1984-110A | NAVAIR | Oct 12, 1984 | 109 min, 90.1° | Inactive | ◉ |
| NOVA 1 NNS 30480-37 | 12458 | 1981-044A | NAVAIR | May 15, 1981 | 109 min, 89.8° | Inactive | ◉ |
| TIP 3 TIP 3 | 09403 | 1976-089A | NAVAIR | Sep 1, 1976 | 87 min, 89.2° | Reentered | ◉ |
| TIP 2 TIP 2 | 08361 | 1975-099A | NAVAIR | Oct 12, 1975 | 95 min, 81.2° | Reentered | ◉ |
Frequently asked questions
How many Nova satellites are there?
The catalog lists 5 objects built on the Nova bus. 3 are in orbit and 2 have reentered.
How many Nova satellites are in orbit?
3 Nova objects are currently in orbit, of which 0 carry an active status.
Who builds the Nova bus?
The Nova bus is most commonly built by APL.
When did the first Nova satellite launch?
The first cataloged Nova satellite launched in 1975, and the most recent in 1988.