🛰️ SATELLITE · HISTORICAL RECORD
Skynet IB
Retired 1970Skynet IB (NORAD 4493, COSPAR 1970-062A) is a retired UK satellite, withdrawn from service around 22 Aug 1970, launched on 19 Aug 1970 on the Skynet IB mission. It was operated by MOD as part of the Skynet programme. The spacecraft was built by PHFO on the Skynet bus, with a mass of 118 kg. Historical record from Orbital Radar's satellite archive, cross-referenced with the live satellite catalogue.
1970
launched
1970
retired
56
years on orbit
118
kg mass
Lifecycle
Launched19 Aug 1970 · on the Skynet IB mission
Operational22 Aug 1970 · entered service
Retired22 Aug 1970 · end of operational service
StatusOn orbit (not live-tracked)
Specifications
NORAD ID4493
COSPAR1970-062A
TypeSatellite
OperatorMOD
Country / StateUK
ManufacturerPHFO
BusSkynet
Mass118 kg (107 kg dry)
ProgrammeSkynet
CategoryCOM
OrbitHEO (HEO)
Altitude7,300 × 36,000 km
Inclination12.0°
Frequently asked questions
What happened to Skynet IB?
Skynet IB was retired from service around 22 Aug 1970 after launching in 1970. It is no longer operational but remains catalogued.
Who operated and built Skynet IB?
Skynet IB was operated by MOD and built by PHFO (UK).
Historical record from the Orbital Radar satellite archive. Sources & methodology: data sources. Accessed 2026-09-06.