ASC 1
From The Space Library
 | |
| Organization | GTE/GTE Spacenet (United States) |
|---|---|
| Mission type | Communications |
| Launch date | August 29, 1985 |
| Launch vehicle | STS-51I |
| Carrier rocket | Space Shuttle |
| Launch site | Cape Canaveral, United States |
| COSPAR ID | 1985-076C |
| Mass | 1271.0 kg |
| Alternate Names | 15994 |
| Additional Information | Here |
| PDMP Information | Here |
| Telecommunications Information | Here |
This spacecraft, built by RCA, was American Satellite Company's first dedicated spacecraft. It was used to continue the company's business communications services, operating at frequencies in both Ku-band and C-band. This was the first U.S. commercial communications satellite to use encrypted command links to prevent potential hostile interference. The spacecraft and its payload assist module (PAM) were spun up and ejected from the payload bay. Operating position for the satellite is at 81 degrees W longitude.
