Magnum (satellite)
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Magnum is reportedly a code name for a class of SIGINT reconnaissance satellite operated by the National Reconnaissance Office for the United States Department of Defense. The program remains classified, and what information exists in the open is speculative.
It is believed that three Magnum satellites were launched from three space shuttle missions between 1985 and 1990: STS-51-C (1985), STS-33 (1989) and STS-38 (1990). The satellites reportedly have a mass of 2200-2700 kg and operate in geosynchronous orbits.
The Magnum satellites, built by TRW, are rumored to have two "huge" umbrella-like reflecting dishes to collect RF signals from Earth.
[edit] Launches
- Magnum 1, deployed from STS-51-C launched 24 January 1985, (COSPAR 1985-010B) (USA-8)
- Magnum 2, deployed from STS-33 launched 23 November 1989,(COSPAR 1989-090B) (USA-48)
- Magnum 3, deployed from STS-38 launched 15 November 1990,(COSPAR 1990-097B) (USA-67)
[edit] References
- Richelson, Jeffrey T. ed. U.S. Military Uses of Space, 1945-1991 Vol 1, Guide. National Security Archive. 1991.
- List of satellite launches from Jonathan's Space Report
- Information from astronautix.com
- Magnum at Gunter's space page
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