NEXT SPACEFLIGHT

Status

Success

DirecTV 2 (DBS 2)

Launch Time
Wed Aug 03, 1994 23:57 UTC

Rocket

Atlas IIA
Image Credit: USAF or NASA
Lockheed
Status: Retired
Liftoff Thrust: 2,479 kN
Payload to LEO: 7,316 kg
Payload to GTO: 3,180 kg
Stages: 2
Strap-ons: 0
Rocket Height: 47.5 m

Mission Details

DirecTV 2 (DBS 2)

High-powered satellites built by Hughes Space and Communications Company (HSC) began bringing true direct broadcast satellite (DBS) service to homes throughout North America in 1994.

The spacecraft are HS-601 body-stabilized models ordered by DirecTV, Inc., a unit of Hughes Electronics Corporation. DirecTV-1, DirecTV-2 and DirecTV-3 are collocated at 101 degrees West longitude and are used exclusively by DirecTV. Collectively the three satellites have the capacity to deliver more than 200 channels of entertainment programming to subscribers that are equipped with DSSTM digital home receiving units, which feature an 18-inch dish.

Payloads: 1
Total Mass: 2,860.0 kg
Geostationary Transfer Orbit

Location

SLC-36A, Cape Canaveral SFS, Florida, USA

Stats

1994

50th orbital launch attempt

Atlas II

8th mission
1st mission of 1994
8th successful mission