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.
12 of the 20 satellites featured also a mapping Camera System (MCS) mounted on the forward end with an own smaller Mk.5 return capsule. It was present on missions KH-9 5 to KH-9 16.
Vandenberg post stamp and spy satellite Big Bird 11.

USA 823 - picture enhanced ?

Pagina : future · Ref: USA  823 

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KH 9-11 · aka BIG BIRD 11, HEXAGON 11, SAMOS 105 · (SATELLITE) · TITAN 3D