🛰️ SATELLITE · HISTORICAL RECORD
DMSP Block 4B F-3
Retired 1971DMSP Block 4B F-3 (NORAD 4047, COSPAR 1969-062A) is a retired US satellite, withdrawn from service around 13 Jul 1971, launched on 23 Jul 1969 on the DAPP 7421 mission. It was operated by SAMSO as part of the DAPP 4B programme. The spacecraft was built by RCA on the DMSP Block 4B bus, with a mass of 79 kg. Historical record from Orbital Radar's satellite archive, cross-referenced with the live satellite catalogue.
1969
launched
1971
retired
57
years on orbit
79
kg mass
Lifecycle
Launched23 Jul 1969 · on the DAPP 7421 mission
Operational13 Jul 1971 · entered service
Retired13 Jul 1971 · end of operational service
StatusOn orbit (not live-tracked)
Specifications
NORAD ID4047
COSPAR1969-062A
TypeSatellite
OperatorSAMSO
Country / StateUS
ManufacturerRCA
BusDMSP Block 4B
Mass79 kg
ProgrammeDAPP 4B
CategoryMET
OrbitLEO (LEO/S)
Altitude786 × 854 km
Inclination98.8°
Frequently asked questions
What happened to DMSP Block 4B F-3?
DMSP Block 4B F-3 was retired from service around 13 Jul 1971 after launching in 1969. It is no longer operational but remains catalogued.
Who operated and built DMSP Block 4B F-3?
DMSP Block 4B F-3 was operated by SAMSO and built by RCA (US).
Historical record from the Orbital Radar satellite archive. Sources & methodology: data sources. Accessed 2026-09-06.