DocM Posted March 26, 2011 Share Posted March 26, 2011 The ORBCOMM satellite constellation was to be launched using numerous Falcom 1e launches, but SpaceX's de-emphasis of that platform required a switch. The multiple satellite launches are possible because of Falcon 9's re-startable MVac 2nd stage. This is how the Dragon launch last December was also also capable of deploying 8 other satellites. Link.... ?Based on changed circumstances relating, inter alia, to launch vehicle availability, we have recently revised our next-generation satellite deployment plan,? Orbcomm said in the SEC filing The first two Orbcomm satellites are scheduled for launch as secondary passengers aboard a Falcon 9 rocket a second Falcon 9, this time carrying at least eight Orbcomm satellites as the main payload, would be launched nine months later. A third Falcon 9 rocket carrying the remaining satellites in the constellation would then occur later in 2012. Orbcomm?s 27 current-generation satellites operate for the most part in an 825-kilometer orbit inclined 45 degrees relative to the equator. Eisenberg said the second generation would be placed into a 52 degree inclination, an orbit that gives better coverage of northern latitudes and will broaden Orbcomm?s offer to the automatic identification system (AIS) maritime surveillance market. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
neoadorable Posted March 26, 2011 Share Posted March 26, 2011 thanks for the update Doc Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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