🛰️ SATELLITE · HISTORICAL RECORD
DMSP Block 5A F-3
Retired 1973DMSP Block 5A F-3 (NORAD 4953, COSPAR 1971-012A) is a retired US satellite, withdrawn from service around 29 Mar 1973, launched on 17 Feb 1971 on the DAPP Block 5A F-3 mission.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.
1971
launched
1973
retired
55
years on orbit
104
kg mass
Lifecycle
Launched17 Feb 1971 · on the DAPP Block 5A F-3 mission
Operational29 Mar 1973 · entered service
Retired29 Mar 1973 · end of operational service
StatusOn orbit (not live-tracked)
Specifications
NORAD ID4953
COSPAR1971-012A
TypeSatellite
OperatorSAMSO
Country / StateUS
ManufacturerRCA
BusDMSP Block 5A
Mass104 kg
ProgrammeDMSP 5A
CategoryMET
OrbitLEO (LEO/S)
Altitude767 × 831 km
Inclination98.8°
Frequently asked questions
What happened to DMSP Block 5A F-3?
DMSP Block 5A F-3 was retired from service around 29 Mar 1973 after launching in 1971. It is no longer operational but remains catalogued.
Who operated and built DMSP Block 5A F-3?
DMSP Block 5A F-3 was operated by SAMSO and built by RCA (US).
Launched together
Historical record from the Orbital Radar satellite archive. Sources & methodology: data sources. Accessed 2026-09-06.