1960-016A
Before launch, this payload had two names: A-02 in the old NASA system, and Tiros B in the new one. The second of the original hatbox-class Tiros, it carried IR radiometers in addition to the 2 TV cameras. Tiros 2 demonstrated magnetic attitude control and an extended satellite lifetime, operating for one year in space. The satellite measured ice pack conditions in the St. Lawrence and its data was used to forecast the end of a heat wave in Australia. Tiros 2 was also used for weather forecasting support for MR-3 and Ranger 1. Mass was 122 kg, size 0.48m high, 1.1m dia.
Tiros II was launched on 1960 Nov 23 at 1112; at 1115 the Thor first stage cut off after a 158s burn, and the Delta second stage began its 109s burn. The Tiros/Altair/Delta combination coasted for 7.5 min from 1117 to 1124 when the Delta separated and the Altair burned for 42s. After a further 2 min coast period the Altair separated and Tiros II was in its 619 x 732 km x 48.5 deg orbit. It operated until 1961 Dec 4, transmitting limited data until May 1962. By Dec 1993 the orbit had decayed to 547 x 610 km x 48.5 deg.
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| Tiros 2 |
| |
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| Date | Time | Event | Orbit |
|---|
|
| 1960 Nov 23 | 1113:03 | Launch by Delta | CC LC17A |
| | 1115 | T+2:38 Thor MECO |
| | 1115 | Delta S/N 2013 SES 1:49 |
| | 1117 | Delta SECO |
| | 1124 | Delta sep |
| | 1124 | Altair S/N 106 burn 42s |
| | 1124 | Altair burnout |
| | 1126 | Altair sep, spin at 126 RPM |
| | | Despin weights release |
| 1960 Nov 25 | | Spin rockets fire |
| 1961 Dec 4 | | End of tx |
Payload:
- TV Cameras (2)
- Scanning IR Experiment (NASA/)
- 5 Channel Radiometer
- 2 Channel Radiometer
