ABSTRACT
The payload manifest for the second launch was for Intelsat 603, a single payload. The second launch occurred on March 14, 1990. Due to lack of coordination between the software and hardware development teams the dispenser control system was set as though two payloads were preset. The firing command was sent to the lower payload cable and the separation command was sent to the upper payload cable. The Commercial Titan launch vehicle failed to release the Intelsat 603 payload. The satellite was ordered to free itself from the Commercial Titan vehicle and its Orbus kick motor and to stabilize its low orbit using thrusters onboard the satellite. This reduced its operation life from 15 to 12 years. Intelsat 603 was rescued by the Endeavour shuttle on its maiden voyage on May 7, 1992, as STS-49. See Figure 11.1.
