# SLDCOM 4

> American military communications satellite and dispenser for the Parcae 13 satellite triplet

**Wikidata**: [Q111498923](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111498923)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/sldcom-4

## Summary
SLDCOM 4 is an American military communications satellite and dispenser launched in 1996, designed to deploy the Parcae 13 satellite triplet. It was manufactured by the United States Naval Research Laboratory and operated by the National Reconnaissance Office.

## Key Facts
- **Instance of**: Communications satellite and satellite dispenser
- **Launch date**: May 12, 1996, at 21:32 UTC
- **Launch vehicle**: Titan IV (model K-22)
- **Launch site**: Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 4 East
- **Manufacturer**: United States Naval Research Laboratory
- **Operator**: National Reconnaissance Office
- **Orbit**: Inclined elliptic orbit
- **Payload**: Deployed Parcae 13A, Parcae 13B, and Parcae 13C satellites
- **COSPAR ID**: 1996-029A
- **SCN**: 23893

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of SLDCOM 4?
A: SLDCOM 4 was a military communications satellite and dispenser designed to deploy the Parcae 13 satellite triplet into orbit.

### Q: Which organization operated SLDCOM 4?
A: The National Reconnaissance Office operated SLDCOM 4.

### Q: What type of orbit did SLDCOM 4 use?
A: SLDCOM 4 operated in an inclined elliptic orbit.

### Q: What satellites did SLDCOM 4 deploy?
A: SLDCOM 4 deployed the Parcae 13A, Parcae 13B, and Parcae 13C satellites.

### Q: Who manufactured SLDCOM 4?
A: The United States Naval Research Laboratory manufactured SLDCOM 4.

## Why It Matters
SLDCOM 4 played a critical role in the deployment of the Parcae 13 satellite triplet, which was part of the U.S. military's communications infrastructure. As a satellite dispenser, it enabled the simultaneous launch and deployment of multiple satellites, enhancing operational efficiency and redundancy. The mission demonstrated the capabilities of the Titan IV launch vehicle and the United States Naval Research Laboratory's expertise in satellite technology. The National Reconnaissance Office's involvement highlights the strategic importance of military communications satellites in national security.

## Notable For
- **First deployment of Parcae 13 triplet**: SLDCOM 4 was the first satellite dispenser to successfully deploy the Parcae 13 satellites.
- **Military communications role**: It supported secure military communications, a critical function for national defense.
- **Titan IV launch**: The mission utilized the Titan IV rocket, a key vehicle for U.S. military satellite deployments.
- **Naval Research Laboratory involvement**: The satellite was developed by the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, showcasing its role in advanced satellite technology.
- **Elliptic orbit**: The inclined elliptic orbit provided optimal coverage for military communications needs.

## Body
### Overview
SLDCOM 4 was a dual-purpose spacecraft serving as both a communications satellite and a dispenser for smaller payloads. It was launched on May 12, 1996, aboard a Titan IV rocket from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 4 East.

### Mission Details
- **Launch**: Conducted at 21:32 UTC on May 12, 1996.
- **Payload**: Deployed the Parcae 13A, Parcae 13B, and Parcae 13C satellites, forming a communications triplet.
- **Orbit**: Positioned in an inclined elliptic orbit to optimize signal coverage.

### Technical Specifications
- **Manufacturer**: United States Naval Research Laboratory.
- **Operator**: National Reconnaissance Office.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Titan IV (model K-22).
- **COSPAR ID**: 1996-029A.
- **SCN**: 23893.

### Significance
SLDCOM 4's mission was part of the U.S. military's efforts to enhance communications capabilities. The satellite dispenser technology allowed for the efficient deployment of multiple satellites, improving redundancy and operational effectiveness. The mission also highlighted the collaboration between the Naval Research Laboratory and the National Reconnaissance Office in advancing military satellite technology.

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/sldcom.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report