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View Full Version : how big are the DirecTV satellites currently in orbit?

kathymoore
12-12-06, 09:45 PM
how big are the DirecTV satellites currently in orbit?
Shoebox, briefcase, minivan, or schoolbus? :eek2:

Thanks!
RAD
12-12-06, 09:48 PM
I think I've heard them compared to school bus size.
Tom Robertson
12-12-06, 10:41 PM
how big are the DirecTV satellites currently in orbit?
Shoebox, briefcase, minivan, or schoolbus? :eek2:

Thanks!

When stowed for launch about the size of a step van (16'x11'x10'). When deployed, about the size of a medium size plane given the solar panel "wings". :)

Here is Boeing's site about the newest satellites D* launched in mid 2006: Spaceway 1 & 2 (http://boeing.com/defense-space/space/bss/factsheets/702/spaceway/spaceway.html#specs). Some very cool info if you are all into space tech. :)

Cheers,
Tom
john18
12-12-06, 11:24 PM
What is "sea launched"?
Tom Robertson
12-12-06, 11:49 PM
What is "sea launched"?

SeaLaunch is a satellite launching facility that uses a big ship to hold the launch platform on the equator from the pacific (IIRC). Equator launches are a bit simpler, use less fuel and in this case just way cool :)

Boeing in partnership with others created SeaLaunch: http://www.boeing.com/special/sea-launch/

Cheers,
Tom
dodge boy
12-13-06, 08:03 AM
pretty cool use for a retired oil rig to be a floating launch pad. They had a whole show on "Mega Stuctures" I think it was about it..... verry interesting why can't I ever come up with these easy solututions......