Skynet Satellite Bus
Data current as of 2026-07-20.
The Skynet bus accounts for 4 cataloged objects, of which 4 are in orbit and 0 are active. Most are built by PHFO. The largest operator on this bus is MOD. The first launched in 1969, the most recent in 1971.
4
In orbit
0
Active
4
Total launched
0
Reentered
Skynet launched per year
Still in orbit Click a year to list its satellites.
Typical specifications
Most common values across cataloged Skynet satellites.
| Manufacturer | PHFO |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Military communication |
| Launch mass | 118 kg |
| Dry mass | 107 kg |
| Length | 1.4 m |
| Diameter | 0.8 m |
| Span | 1.4 m |
| Shape | Cyl + Ant |
| Power | Solar cells (body mounted), batteries |
| Propulsion | Star 17A |
| Design life | 5 years |
| Equipment | One 2 MHz and one 20 MHz bandwidth double-conversion repeater |
| Typical orbit | 1436 min period, 1° inclination |
Top operators
MOD 2 NATO 2
Top countries
I-NATO 2 UK 2
Skynet satellites
Track any of them live in KeepTrack.
| Name | NORAD | COSPAR | Owner | Launched | Orbit | Status | Track |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NATO 2B NATO IIB | 04902 | 1971-009A | NATO | Feb 3, 1971 | 1436 min, 1.1° | Inactive | ◉ |
| SKYNET 1B Skynet IB | 04493 | · | MOD | Aug 19, 1970 | · | Inactive | ◉ |
| NATO 2A NATO IIA | 04353 | 1970-021A | NATO | Mar 20, 1970 | 1436 min, 0.4° | Inactive | ◉ |
| SKYNET 1A Skynet IA | 04250 | 1969-101A | MOD | Nov 22, 1969 | 1436 min, 0.5° | Inactive | ◉ |
Frequently asked questions
How many Skynet satellites are there?
The catalog lists 4 objects built on the Skynet bus. 4 are in orbit and 0 have reentered.
How many Skynet satellites are in orbit?
4 Skynet objects are currently in orbit, of which 0 carry an active status.
Who builds the Skynet bus?
The Skynet bus is most commonly built by PHFO.
When did the first Skynet satellite launch?
The first cataloged Skynet satellite launched in 1969, and the most recent in 1971.