Launch mission summary: FLTSATCOM-D Atlas/Centaur-57

Abstract

The largest and heaviest spacecraft yet to be launched into geosynchronous orbit by an Atlas Centaur launch vehicle, FLTSATCOM D is part of a versatile military satellite communication system which includes terminals at Navy land bases, and on naval aircraft, ships, and submarines. The design and capabilities of the launch vehicle are described as well as those of the satellite. Information relative to launch windows, flight plan, radar and telemetry coverage, selected trajectory information is presented. A brief sequence of flight events is included.