Blackbird class photoreconnaissance satellites
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 Current generations of Blackbird satellites | |||
| Manufacturer | Actaeon Rocketry Black Works | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Country of origin |  Jin Yi | ||
| Operator | Jin Yi | ||
| Applications | Photo reconnaissance | ||
| Production | |||
| Status | In service | ||
| Built | Unknown | ||
| |||
History
Description
Variants
BB-1 (1980 - 1987)
- BB-1MX - Prototype model that had no sensors or other on board equipment. Designed to test the frame, hull, and the new FSB-80 Final Stage Booster. Remained in orbit for six months between 1979 and 1980 during which time data was collected on its orbit and longevity. The module was recovered successfully by the ETNS Celestial in 1980.
- BB-1MA - Initial model in which 10 units were launched between 1980 and 1983 on board the Tayoma X Modular Rocket. Provided higher resolution photos than any previous Jin satellites.
BB-2 (1987 - 1994)
BB-3 (1994-2024)
BB-4 (2024 - Present)
- BB-4A - Next generation recon satellite launched in 2024 with next generation imaging capability complete with hyperspectral imager capable of taking visible, NIR, SWIR, and MWIR images for scientific purposes. Launched aboard the XV-24 heavy lift system.
- BB-4B - Orbital computer processing unit to connect Jin GPS, recon, and broadband satellites and provide real time processing.
- BB-4C - Unknown platform which has no confirmed purpose, though it is believed this unit provides both orbital ELINT and COMINT ability for the Jin orbital network.