SATELLITES & SPACE PROBES A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z           HOME ABOUT CATEGORIES SITE MAP COPYRIGHT ADVERTISE CONTACT entire Web this site Helios (French reconnaissance satellites) Helios 1A Advanced French optical military reconnaissance satellites based on SPOT 4. The Missile and Space Directorate (DME) of the French armament agency (DGA) heads the overall Helios program, which is funded by France, Spain, and Italy. The imaging system uses 4,096 × 2,048 pixel linear CCDs (charge-coupled devices) to provide images with 1-5 m resolution. Helios-1B suffered a breakdown of its power supply system and could no longer function after operating for just under its 5-year nominal life expectancy. It was reported in October 2004 that Helios 1B had been deorbited. Helios 1A continues to operate. Related categories    • MILITARY RECONNAISSANCE AND SURVEILLANCE    • SATELLITES AND SPACE PROBES    • FRANCE IN SPACE spacecraft launch vehicle launch date launch site orbit mass (kg) Helios 1A Ariane 4 Jul. 7, 1995 Kourou 679 × 682 km × 98.1° 2,537 Helios 1B Ariane 4 Dec. 3, 1999 Kourou 679 × 681 km × 98.1° 2,537 Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) BACK TO TOP