Descrizione : KH-9 (Keyhole-9), also known as Hexagon or inofficially as "Big Bird", was a large reconnaissance satellite to replace the earlier KH-4B Corona satellites. In contrast to earlier models, it was not based on the Agena stage, but on a new maneuverable bus called SCS (Satellite Control Section). It featured four return capsules for a much increased lifetime. The McDonnell Douglas manufactured Mk.8 return capsules were of a similar type as in the earlier Corona satellites and were designed to deorbit a film capsule from space with mid-air recovery of the returning capsule by a specially equipped aircraft.
Vandenberg post stamp and Samos 88 big bird satellite.

USA 573 - image retouchée ?

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KH 9-03 · aka BIG BIRD 3, HEXAGON 3, SAMOS 88 (SATELLITE) · TITAN 3D