Military
NORAD ID: 36108
Int'l Code: 2009-068A
Launch date: December 6, 2009
Source: United States (US)
Comments: WGS F3 is the Air Force's third Wideband Global SATCOM communications satellite, weighing a hefty 12,800 pounds (5,800 kg). This satellite is the third in a major program to upgrade to the military's main communications infrastructure, replacing the aging Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS) spacecraft. Each WGS has 10 times the capacity of a DSCS satellite, allowing users to process and receive data quicker than ever before. The satellites supply communications such as maps and data to soldiers on the battlefield, relay video from unmanned aerial reconnaissance drones, route voice calls and data messaging, and even offer quality-of-life considerations like television broadcasts and email delivery to the troops. The new WGS 3 satellite will be positioned above the Eastern Atlantic at an orbital slot of 12 degrees West longitude. Its broad reach will cover U.S. European Command and U.S. Africa Command, plus lend additional support over the Middle East.
Two Line Element Set (TLE):
Source: AFSPC
NASA's NSSDC Master Catalog entry for WGS F3 (USA 211)
