Status
Success
Quasar-15 (USA-179) (NROL-1)
Launch Time
Tue Aug 31, 2004 23:17 UTC
Tue Aug 31, 2004 23:17 UTC
Final flight of an Atlas II rocket
Rocket
Mission Details
Quasar-15 (USA-179) (NROL-1)
The third generation of Quasar satellites, also known as SDS-3, represents an advancement in the Satellite Data System (SDS) developed by the United States Air Force. These satellites continue the role of facilitating communication relay for real-time data from US reconnaissance satellites and supporting communication needs for USAF aircraft and ground stations. While specific technical details remain classified, SDS-3 likely incorporates improvements in technology, potentially enhancing data transmission rates, communication reliability, and overall performance.
Payloads: 1
Molniya Orbit
Location
SLC-36A, Cape Canaveral SFS, Florida, USA
Stats
2004
34th orbital launch attempt
Atlas II
63rd mission
4th mission of 2004
63rd successful mission