Gravity Probe B

Space observatory to test frame dragging and geodetic effect. Gravity Probe B was launched on April 20, 2004 aboard a Delta 7920-10C from Vandenberg. Latest status in GCAT: in orbit.

COSPAR 2004-014ANORAD 28230United States

Identity

Name in GCAT: Gravity Probe B
Payload designation: GP-B
International designator: 2004-014A
NORAD catalog number: 28230
GCAT identifier: S28230
UN registration: ST/SG/SER.E/451

Mission

Mission type: Space science, Astronomy
Use: Civil government
Program: GP
Owner: NASA MSFC
Country: United States
Builder: Lockheed Martin Missiles and Space, Sunnyvale

Launch

Date: April 20, 2004 · 16:57 UTC
Launch record: 2004-014Success
Rocket: Delta 7920-10C
Spaceport: Vandenberg · pad SLC2W

Orbit and fate

Orbit class (GCAT): LEO/P
Perigee: 641 km
Apogee: 645 km
Inclination: 90.01°
Status: In orbit
Last known active: December 2010
End of operations: May 2006

Size

Mass: 3,145 kg
Dry mass: 2,805 kg
Length: 6.4 m
Diameter: 2.60 m
Span: 6.4 m

Source: GCAT payload, deep-space and lander catalogs, Jonathan C. McDowell (CC BY 4.0); Wikidata Q836799 (CC0).