MUOS 1: pre-launch estimated orbital elements

From: Ted Molczan (ssl3molcz@rogers.com)
Date: Fri Feb 24 2012 - 14:35:08 UTC

  • Next message: satrack@libero.it: "R: MUOS 1: pre-launch estimated orbital elements"

    MUOS 1 is scheduled for launch from CCAFS on an Atlas V-551, today, 2012 Feb 24; the launch window is from 22:15 to
    22:59 UTC. Launch coverage is available at Spaceflight Now:
    
    http://www.spaceflightnow.com/atlas/av030/status.html
    
    The following *rough* TLEs are based on launch at window-open.
    
    MECO 1                                                   167 X 624 km
    1 79601U          12055.93565972  .00000000  00000-0  00000-0 0    05
    2 79601  28.0000 308.9140 0337670 130.0000   3.3000 15.58830000    06
    
    MECO 2                                                 193 X 34447 km
    1 79602U          12055.94571759  .00000000  00000-0  00000-0 0    07
    2 79602  26.0000 311.3140 7227302 179.9293   1.5500  2.38040000    08
    
    MECO 3                                                3463 X 35786 km
    1 79603U          12056.05051156  .00000000  00000-0  00000-0 0    05
    2 79603  19.0000 326.8140 6215271 179.0000  74.6500  2.07084000    05
    
    Spacecraft separation is planned to occur at T+3:01:23. Soon afterward, the Centaur will conduct a Collision and
    Contamination Avoidance Maneuver (CCAM), followed by a blow-down of remaining Centaur propellants. The typical Centaur
    end of mission occurs 4400 s after spacecraft separation.
    
    I have not evaluated visibility windows, but based on a quick look, it appears that the CCAM and blow-down will occur
    within range of Western Australia, but well after sunrise. Prospective observers should use the MECO 3 TLE to evaluate
    visibility.
    
    Eventually, the payload will enter an approximately 5 deg inclined GEO orbit in one of the existing UFO slots. Space.com
    recently reported that it will be located over the Pacific Ocean. The slot in that region is at 177 W. The article also
    stated that there will be a 6 month check-out period; it is unclear whether check-out will occur at the initial
    operating location or elsewhere over the Pacific.
    
    http://www.space.com/14587-navy-military-satellite-muos-launch-thursday.html
    
    Ted Molczan
    
    
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