1966-016A
The last of the initial batch of operational satellites, Tiros OT2 was the first to carry the Automatic Picture Transmission capability tested by Tiros VIII, and the first to use the Thrust Augmented Improved Delta launch vehicle (Delta model E), which delivered the satellite to a higher orbit than earlier flights - 1356 x 1418 km x 101.0 deg. Launch was at 1358 on 1966 Feb 28, with orbit insertion at 1417. The launch from Cape Kennedy used the same dog-leg approach as ESSA 1. The satellite was named ESSA II on reaching orbit. ESSA II was replaced as prime APT satellite by ESSA IV in 1967, and stopped transmitting on 1970 Oct 17.
| ESSA 2 | |||
| Date | Time | Event | Orbit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1966 Feb 28 | 1358:00 | Launch by Delta E | CK LC17B |
| 1400:29 | T+2:29 Thor S/N 20204 MECO | ||
| 1400 | Delta S/N 20203 burn 6:09 | ||
| 1406? | Delta SECO | ||
| 1416? | Altair RH-92 burn 22s | ||
| 1417 | Altair sep | ||
| 1425 | S+8min despin | ||
| 1967 Feb 10 | 113.47 1357 x 1414 x 100.9 | ||
| 1967 Jun | Replaced by ESSA 4 | ||
| 1970 Oct 17 | End of tx | ||
