 TDRS-M, the last satellite based on the Boeing-601 | |||
| Manufacturer | Boeing | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Production | |||
| Status | In service | ||
| On order | 84 | ||
| Launched | 76 | ||
| Lost | 8 | ||
| Maiden launch | Optus B1 13 August 1992 | ||
| Last launch | TDRS-M 18 August 2017 | ||
| Related spacecraft | |||
| Derivatives | Boeing 601HP[1] | ||
| |||
The Boeing 601 (sometimes referred to as the BSS-601, and previously as the HS-601) is a retired communications satellite bus designed in 1985 and introduced in 1987 by Hughes Space and Communications Company. The series was extremely popular in the 1990s, with more than 84 purchased by customers globally. The more advanced 601HP derivative (for "high power") was introduced in 1995.[1] Hughes, and the 601 platforms, were acquired by Boeing in 2000.
The last commercial 601 satellite was ordered in 2001 and launched in 2004. The NASA Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) Program Office in December 2007 selected the BSS-601HP for its third generation TDRS spacecraft, adding the two 15-foot (4.5m) diameter steerable antennas. The TDRS-M satellite, launched on August 18, 2017, became the last 601 satellite to reach orbit.[2]
- ^ a b "History: 601 Satellite". Boeing. Retrieved 2013-07-12.
- ^ "TDRS-M Satellite Overview". Spaceflight101.com. Retrieved 18 August 2017.