🚀 go-pugleaf

I suggest a very simple test to help determine whether the STS-27 payload is
a photoreconnaissance spacecraft in the KH-11/KH-12 category, or an ELINT
(electronic intelligence) spacecraft in the Vortex/Chalet/Magnum class.

Carefully watch the launch to determine the flight azimuth. This sets the
orbital inclination. If the payload is an ELINT bird, it will be going to
geostationary orbit and this requires the smallest possible starting
inclination, given by a due-east launch.  On the other hand, a
photoreconnaissance bird works best in high inclination orbits, so they will
be going for the most northerly launch that safety permits.

One early indication of the launch azimuth is the roll manuever. Standard
procedure is for the orbiter to fly heads-down. Since the orbiter starts
with its top facing southward, a 90 degree roll will indicate an easterly
launch and a geostationary payload. A larger roll angle will indicate a
higher inclination.

Phil