posted 02-20-2020 03:19 PM               

Space Cover #552: LAGEOS-A launch

This week's Space Cover of the Week commemorates the launch of the LAGEOS (Laser Geodynamics Satellite) on May 4, 1976 aboard Delta #123 from Space Launch Complex-2 Vandenberg AFB, Calif.

LAGEOS served as a tool for obtaining information on Earth's crustal movements, polar motion and solid earth tides. Orbital lifetime was estimated at 50 years but will remain in orbit 8 million years.

Goddard Space Flight Center Stamp Club serviced 793 printed covers as well as servicing collectors covers. Autographing the above covers were LAGEOS Project Manager, Chris Stephanides; Project Scientist, Dr. David Smith and Laser Network Manager Wiley White.