# SSS-B

> second in a series of four approximately one hundred pound satellites designed to perform a variety of missions within the magnetosphere and in nearly interplanetary space

**Wikidata**: [Q113275308](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q113275308)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/sss-b

## Summary
SSS-B is the second in a series of four approximately 100-pound satellites designed to study the magnetosphere and conduct missions in nearly interplanetary space. It is classified as an artificial satellite and was part of an abandoned project.

## Key Facts
- **Aliases**: SSS-B is also known as S-Cubed B, Small Scientific Satellite-B, and PL-711A.
- **Classification**: It is an artificial satellite and an abandoned project.
- **Weight**: Approximately 100 pounds (45 kg).
- **Mission Scope**: Designed for magnetosphere studies and nearly interplanetary space missions.
- **Series**: Part of a series of four satellites.
- **NSSDCA ID**: SSS-B (National Space Science Data Center identifier).
- **Status**: Abandoned project.

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of SSS-B?
A: SSS-B was designed to perform a variety of missions within the magnetosphere and in nearly interplanetary space, contributing to scientific research in these regions.

### Q: How many satellites were in the SSS series?
A: The SSS series consisted of four satellites, with SSS-B being the second in the sequence.

### Q: What are the other names for SSS-B?
A: SSS-B is also referred to as S-Cubed B, Small Scientific Satellite-B, and PL-711A.

### Q: Was SSS-B a successful project?
A: SSS-B was part of an abandoned project, meaning it was not completed or launched.

### Q: What was the weight of SSS-B?
A: SSS-B weighed approximately 100 pounds (45 kg).

## Why It Matters
SSS-B represents an early attempt to explore the magnetosphere and interplanetary space using small, lightweight satellites. While the project was abandoned, it laid groundwork for future missions in these scientific domains. Its design and intended missions highlight the evolving approaches to space exploration, particularly the use of smaller, more specialized satellites for targeted research. The series of four satellites, including SSS-B, demonstrates the experimental nature of early space science initiatives, even if they did not reach fruition.

## Notable For
- **Series Contribution**: SSS-B was the second satellite in a series of four, each designed for distinct missions in the magnetosphere and interplanetary space.
- **Abandoned Project**: Unlike successful satellites, SSS-B was part of an abandoned project, providing insight into the challenges of early space exploration.
- **Lightweight Design**: Weighing approximately 100 pounds, it was part of a trend toward smaller, more specialized satellites for scientific research.
- **Multiple Aliases**: Known by several names (S-Cubed B, Small Scientific Satellite-B, PL-711A), reflecting its experimental and evolving classification.

## Body
### Classification and Status
SSS-B is classified as an artificial satellite and an abandoned project. It was part of a series of four satellites, each designed for specific missions in the magnetosphere and nearly interplanetary space.

### Design and Specifications
The satellite weighed approximately 100 pounds (45 kg), reflecting the era's trend toward smaller, more specialized satellites for scientific research. Its lightweight design was likely intended to facilitate deployment and operation in challenging environments.

### Mission and Objectives
SSS-B was designed to perform a variety of missions within the magnetosphere and in nearly interplanetary space. While the project was abandoned, it contributed to the broader understanding of early attempts to explore these regions using small satellites.

### Historical Context
The series of four satellites, including SSS-B, represents an experimental phase in space science. The abandonment of the project highlights the uncertainties and challenges faced during early space exploration efforts. Despite its incomplete status, SSS-B remains a notable example of early efforts to utilize small satellites for targeted scientific research.