🛰️ SATELLITE · HISTORICAL RECORD
DMSP Block 4A F-1
Retired 1968DMSP Block 4A F-1 (NORAD 2418, COSPAR 1966-082A) is a retired US satellite, withdrawn from service around 13 Nov 1968, launched on 16 Sep 1966 on the DAPP 1416 mission. It was operated by AFSSD as part of the DAPP 4A programme. The spacecraft was built by RCA on the DMSP Block 4A bus, with a mass of 79 kg. Historical record from Orbital Radar's satellite archive, cross-referenced with the live satellite catalogue.
1966
launched
1968
retired
60
years on orbit
79
kg mass
Lifecycle
Launched16 Sep 1966 · on the DAPP 1416 mission
Operational13 Nov 1968 · entered service
Retired13 Nov 1968 · end of operational service
StatusOn orbit (not live-tracked)
Specifications
NORAD ID2418
COSPAR1966-082A
TypeSatellite
OperatorAFSSD
Country / StateUS
ManufacturerRCA
BusDMSP Block 4A
Mass79 kg
ProgrammeDAPP 4A
CategoryMET
OrbitLEO (LEO/S)
Altitude694 × 900 km
Inclination98.5°
Frequently asked questions
What happened to DMSP Block 4A F-1?
DMSP Block 4A F-1 was retired from service around 13 Nov 1968 after launching in 1966. It is no longer operational but remains catalogued.
Who operated and built DMSP Block 4A F-1?
DMSP Block 4A F-1 was operated by AFSSD and built by RCA (US).
Historical record from the Orbital Radar satellite archive. Sources & methodology: data sources. Accessed 2026-09-06.