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Z3
| Number | Module Configuration | Description of Payload | Purpose of Launch |
|---|---|---|---|
| 980607-Z1 | Standard Short | Experimental recovery system ZPM1:
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Preparations for Z1 commenced at 0945 and were completed at 1035.
The launches were recorded by video and a high speed digital camera. The communications loop was sound recorded. A photo of Z1 on the rail follows.
Z1 was launched at 1101:40 hrs. No in-flight phenomenon was observed or heard by any station.
An impact was observed in the form of a white dispersing dust cloud at t + 1m 20s and a bearing of 252 deg mag from the observation tower at LA9, corrected to 254 deg mag away from magnetic disturbances. These bearings were recorded through the ATM's range/bearing binoculars, which were later confirmed to require adjustment for magnetic anomalies of +7 degrees, plus a further 7 degrees to give a true bearing (ie +14 degs to true). Accordingly, the adjusted impact bearing was 268 degrees true.
Recovery
The impact site for Z1 was located on 8 June 1998 and the following GPS data recorded:
| Bearing | 267 deg true |
|---|---|
| Range | 6.73 km |
| Position | S 30 54 22.8 E 136 24 58.9 |
The impact site consisted of a hole with fin marks. The tail end of the motor was approximately 95 cm below the surface. As the motor was significantly further impacted than the Z2 motor (see below), it was deduced that the payload module did not separate and that it remains attached. The site was marked "Hazard" as it is expected that the pyrotechnic separation charge remains intact. The charge is buried too deep to pose a threat to any surface activity and is likely to be neutralised within a reasonable time by moisture contamination. Recovery may be attempted in due course. A photograph of the impact site follows.
