# TDRS-3

> communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q7669867](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q7669867)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TDRS-3)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/tdrs-3

## Summary
TDRS-3 (also known as TDRS-C) is an American communications satellite operated by NASA as part of the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS). Launched in 1988 via the Space Shuttle, it serves as a relay point for data between other spacecraft and ground stations from a geosynchronous orbit.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date:** September 29, 1988, at 15:37
- **Launch Vehicle:** Space Shuttle (Mission STS-26)
- **Manufacturer:** TRW Inc.
- **Operator:** National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
- **Takeoff Mass:** 2,224.9 kilograms
- **Dimensions:** 17.3 meters in length and 14.2 meters in width
- **Nominal Power Output:** 1,700 watts
- **Orbit Type:** Geosynchronous orbit
- **Space Tug:** Inertial Upper Stage (IUS-7)

## FAQs
### Q: What is the primary purpose of TDRS-3?
A: TDRS-3 is a communications satellite that forms part of the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS). It is designed to relay data and communications between other spacecraft and ground-based facilities.

### Q: How was TDRS-3 launched into space?
A: TDRS-3 was launched on September 29, 1988, using the Space Shuttle (mission STS-26) from Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39B. It utilized an Inertial Upper Stage (IUS-7) space tug to reach its destination.

### Q: Who manufactured TDRS-3 and who operates it?
A: The satellite was manufactured by TRW Inc. and is operated by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

### Q: What are the physical specifications of TDRS-3?
A: The satellite has a takeoff mass of 2,224.9 kilograms. It measures 17.3 meters in length and 14.2 meters in width, with a nominal power output of 1,700 watts.

## Why It Matters
TDRS-3 is a vital component of the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System, a specialized class of communications satellites. By operating in a geosynchronous orbit, it provides a consistent link for data transmission, allowing NASA to maintain contact with various spacecraft. This infrastructure reduces the reliance on a vast network of ground stations and ensures that critical mission data can be relayed to Earth efficiently. As part of the TDRSS lineage, it succeeded TDRS-1 and helped establish the reliability of the system following its deployment from the Space Shuttle.

## Notable For
- **Space Shuttle Deployment:** Successfully launched and deployed during the STS-26 mission.
- **TDRSS Integration:** Serves as a key node in the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System.
- **Significant Dimensions:** Features a large physical profile with a length of 17.3 meters and a width of 14.2 meters.
- **High Power Capacity:** Capable of generating a nominal power output of 1,700 watts to support its communication relay hardware.

## Body
### Mission and Launch Details
TDRS-3 was launched on September 29, 1988, from Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39B. The launch was conducted using the Space Shuttle as the primary launch vehicle (specifically mission STS-26). To reach its final orbital position, the satellite employed an Inertial Upper Stage (IUS-7) space tug.

### Technical Specifications
The satellite was manufactured by TRW Inc. and possesses the following technical characteristics:
*   **Mass:** 2,224.9 kg at takeoff.
*   **Dimensions:** 17.3 m in length and 14.2 m in width.
*   **Power:** 1,700 watts nominal power output.
*   **Identifiers:** SCN 19548 and COSPAR ID 1988-091B.

### System Context
TDRS-3 is classified as a Tracking and Data Relay Satellite. Within the TDRSS sequence, it followed TDRS-1 and was succeeded by TDRS-4. It is positioned in a geosynchronous orbit to facilitate its role as a permanent relay station for NASA's space-to-ground communications.

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  "@type": "Thing",
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  "description": "An American communications satellite forming part of the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System.",
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## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_stage/ius.htm)
3. [Source](https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/heo/scan/services/networks/tdrs_characteristics/)