🛰️ SATELLITE · HISTORICAL RECORD
DMSP Block 5A F-2
Retired 1971DMSP Block 5A F-2 (NORAD 4512, COSPAR 1970-070A) is a retired US satellite, withdrawn from service around 15 Feb 1971, launched on 3 Sep 1970 on the DAPP Block 5A F-2 mission. It was operated by SAMSO as part of the DMSP 5A programme. The spacecraft was built by RCA on the DMSP Block 5A bus, with a mass of 104 kg. Historical record from Orbital Radar's satellite archive, cross-referenced with the live satellite catalogue.
1970
launched
1971
retired
56
years on orbit
104
kg mass
Lifecycle
Launched3 Sep 1970 · on the DAPP Block 5A F-2 mission
Operational15 Feb 1971 · entered service
Retired15 Feb 1971 · end of operational service
StatusOn orbit (not live-tracked)
Specifications
NORAD ID4512
COSPAR1970-070A
TypeSatellite
OperatorSAMSO
Country / StateUS
ManufacturerRCA
BusDMSP Block 5A
Mass104 kg
ProgrammeDMSP 5A
CategoryMET
OrbitLEO (LEO/S)
Altitude763 × 871 km
Inclination98.7°
Frequently asked questions
What happened to DMSP Block 5A F-2?
DMSP Block 5A F-2 was retired from service around 15 Feb 1971 after launching in 1970. It is no longer operational but remains catalogued.
Who operated and built DMSP Block 5A F-2?
DMSP Block 5A F-2 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.