Weather Satellites: TIROS V

TIROS V - Television Infrared Observation Satellite V

Launch date: June 19, 1962

Launch site: Cape Canaveral, Florida

Launch vehicle: Three-stage Delta

PROGRAM OBJECTIVE:

Continued research and development of the meteorological satellite information system. To maintain an operational TIROS in orbit for an extended period of time. To obtain improved (both resolution and aerial coverage) data for operational use in weather forecasting during the Northern Hemisphere hurricane season.

SPACECRAFT DESCRIPTION:

The spacecraft was 42 inches in diameter, 22 inches high and weighed 285 pounds. The craft was made of aluminum alloy and stainless steel then covered by 9260 solar cells. The solar cells served to charge the 63 nickel-cadmium batteries.

This craft contained all of the instrumentation of TIROS IV as well as a north direction indicator, and despin weights and spinup rockets in an attempt to improve the craft's longevity. TIROS V was also launched at a higher inclination (58 degrees vs. 48 degrees on all previous flights) to provide better observations at higher latitudes. The orbit was elliptical instead of circular due to a Delta ground guidance failure. In addition the three radiation sensors had to be disconnected prior to launch when they failed preflight checks.

TIROS V pictures were the best to date, including the observation of ice break-up at northern latitudes. TIROS V was operational for 161 days.

PARTICIPANTS:

NASA, RCA, US Weather Bureau.