MIDAS 3
- MIDAS 3 MIDAS 3
Object Name MIDAS 3
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Norad ID 163
Cospar ID 1961-018A
Object Type Satellite
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MIDAS 3 (MIssile Defense Alarm System) was a satellite placed in a circular earth orbit to measure IR background and define IR sources. This was an overall test of a system for detection of missile launchings with satellite-borne IR sensors. The payload was the same as for MIDAS 2, except that an Agena B replaced the Agena A as the upper stage. The satellite carried experiments on cosmic radiation, atmospheric density, radiometric measurement, and micrometeorite detection, and had a plasma probe. The spacecraft weighed 3500 lb (including the second-stage casing), was chemical-battery-powered, and was launched from the pacific missile range. Useful IR radiation data were received for the lifetime of the battery pack.

Launch Date 1961-07-12
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Launch Site Air Force Western Test Range, California, USA
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Country of Operator United States
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Orbit Status Earth Orbit
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Period: 161.5 min
Inclination: 91.1°
Apogee: 3540.0 km
Perigee: 3348.0 km
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RCS 9.2155 m²
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