SMS Satellite Bus
Data current as of 2026-07-20.
The SMS bus accounts for 5 cataloged objects, of which 5 are in orbit and 0 are active. Most are built by FORDA. The largest operator on this bus is NOAA. The first launched in 1974, the most recent in 1978.
5
In orbit
0
Active
5
Total launched
0
Reentered
SMS launched per year
Still in orbit Click a year to list its satellites.
Typical specifications
Most common values across cataloged SMS satellites.
| Manufacturer | FORDA |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Meteorology |
| Launch mass | 293 kg |
| Dry mass | 277 kg |
| Length | 2.6 m |
| Diameter | 1.9 m |
| Span | 2.6 m |
| Shape | Cyl |
| Power | Solar cells, batteries |
| Propulsion | SVM-5 |
| Equipment | ? |
| Typical orbit | 1449 min period, 5° inclination |
Top operators
Top countries
US 5
SMS satellites
Track any of them live in KeepTrack.
| Name | NORAD | COSPAR | Owner | Launched | Orbit | Status | Track |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GOES 3 GOES 3 | 10953 | 1978-062A | NOAA | Jun 16, 1978 | 1449 min, 6.8° | Inactive | ◉ |
| GOES 2 GOES 2 | 10061 | 1977-048A | NOAA | Jun 16, 1977 | 1449 min, 6.3° | Inactive | ◉ |
| GOES 1 (SMS-C) GOES 1 | 08366 | 1975-100A | NOAA | Oct 16, 1975 | 1436 min, 4.5° | Inactive | ◉ |
| SMS 2 SMS 2 | 07648 | 1975-011A | GSFC | Feb 6, 1975 | 1447 min, 5.4° | Inactive | ◉ |
| SMS 1 SMS 1 | 07298 | 1974-033A | GSFC | May 17, 1974 | 1460 min, 4.1° | Inactive | ◉ |
Frequently asked questions
How many SMS satellites are there?
The catalog lists 5 objects built on the SMS bus. 5 are in orbit and 0 have reentered.
How many SMS satellites are in orbit?
5 SMS objects are currently in orbit, of which 0 carry an active status.
Who builds the SMS bus?
The SMS bus is most commonly built by FORDA.
When did the first SMS satellite launch?
The first cataloged SMS satellite launched in 1974, and the most recent in 1978.