USA-2

USA-2 was an American reconnaissance satellite which was operated by the National Reconnaissance Office. Launched in June 1984, it was the last successful KH-9 reconnaissance satellite launch.

Overview

KH-9 HEXAGON was a film-return type reconnaissance satellite which replaced the KH-8 Gambit 3 and KH-11 KENNEN the Successor of KH-9. KH-9 featured four SRV return capsule and a vastly improved camera compared to other film-based KH Satellites.
KH-9 19 also carried the SSF-D ELINT Satellite and STP S85-1 Payload.

KH-9 20

KH-9 20 was the last KH-9 HEXAGON satellite to be launched. The satellite launched on 18 April 1986 but due to Titan 34D Solid rocket motor exploded at T+8 seconds due to booster segment joint failure it failed to reach orbit. KH-9 20 was also carrying Pearl Ruby Technology demonstration satellite with a host of other payloads like STP S86-1, GPSPAC 3, RDBS/Lorri 2 and Onyx.