Advanced Vela

Like its predecessor, the Vela, the Advanced Vela series of spacecraft were designed to monitor worldwide compliance with the 1963 nuclear test ban treaty. The Advanced series added atmospheric nuclear detonation detection to its capabilities. Additionally, it monitored solar activity (providing radiation warnings for manned missions), terrestrial lightning activity and celestial X/gamma-ray radiation. All six spacecraft operated for more than 10 years. Their nuclear detection role was assumed by IMEWS in the 1970s. Touted as the longest continuously operating space system in 1985 when USAF shut down the last 3 spacecraft. (Vela spacecraft shown in picture)

Spacecraft
First dual-spin, zero momentum attitude control system. In launch configuration, two 26-sided polyhedron spacecraft were connected by a central cylinder containing an apogee motor. Body mounted solar cells generated 120 watts.

Payload
Total payload mass was 63 kg. Two optical bhangmeters observing Earth. Original Vela payload: Twelve external X-ray detectors and 18 internal neutron and gamma-ray detectors.

Country of Origin	United States
Customer/User	USAF
Manufacturer(s)	TRW
Size	5 ft diameter
Orbit	Average 102000 km, 38 deg inclination, two spacecraft in plane with 180 deg separation
Design Life	18 months
Related Sites	Vela Quicklook

Launch Facts

Name	Int'l Desig.	Date	Site	Vehicle	Orbit	Mass(kg)
Notes
Vela 7	1967-040A	4/28/67	ESMC	Titan 3C	VHO	317
Vela 8	1967-040B	4/28/67	ESMC	Titan 3C	VHO	317
Vela 9	1969-046A	5/23/69	ESMC	Titan 3C	VHO	259
Vela 10	1969-046B	5/23/69	ESMC	Titan 3C	VHO	259
Vela 11	1970-027A	4/8/70	ESMC	Titan 3C	VHO	317
Vela 12	1970-027B	4/8/70	ESMC	Titan 3C	VHO	317