Chronology - Quarter 1 1968 home
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1968? - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: RT-2.
  • Test mission Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1968? - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: RT-2.
  • Test mission Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1968? - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: RT-2.
  • Test mission Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1968? - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: RT-2.
  • Test mission Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 5 -
  • Plan for lunar exploration by Apollo through the mid-1970s Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. Bellcomm engineers presented to NASA a proposed plan for lunar exploration during the period from the first lunar landing through the mid-1970s. The proposed program - based upon what the company termed "reasonable" assumptions concerning hardware capabilities, scientific objectives, launch rates, and relationships to other programs - was divided into four distinct phases:

    1. an Apollo phase using existing vehicles,
    2. a lunar exploration phase employing an extended LM with increased payload and longer staytime,
    3. a lunar orbital survey and exploration phase using remote sensors and photographic equipment on a polar orbit flight, and
    4. a lunar surface rendezvous and exploration phase using an unmanned LM to deposit the increased scientific equipment and expendables necessary to extend Apollo's manned lunar capability to two-week duration.
    References: 16.
1968 January 5 -
  • NASA lunar exploration program developed for the period from the first lunar landing to the mid-1970s. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Apollo LM Taxi, Apollo LM Truck, Apollo ATM, Apollo LMSS. A lunar exploration program had been developed which would cover the period from the first lunar landing to the mid-1970s. The program would be divided into four phases: (1) An Apollo phase employing Apollo hardware. (2) A lunar exploration phase untilizing an extended LM with increased landed payload weight and staytime capability. (3) A lunar orbital survey and exploration phase using the AAP-1A carrier or the LM/ATM to mount remote sensors and photographic equipment on a manned polar orbit mission. (4) A lunar surface rendezvous and exploration phase which would use a modified LM in an unmanned landing to provide increased scientific payload and expendables necessary to extend an accompanying manned LM mission to two weeks duration.
1968 January 7 - 06:30 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC36A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3C Centaur. LV Configuration: SLV-3C Centaur AC-15 / Centaur D-1A 5903C.
  • Surveyor 7 Nation: USA. Payload: Surveyor SC-7. Mass: 1,036 kg (2,283 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Lunar. Spacecraft: Surveyor. Agency: NASA/JPL. COSPAR: 1968-001A. USAF Sat Cat: 3091. Decay Date: 1968-01-10. Soft landed on lunar Moon; photographed lunar surface; sampled lunar soil. References: 2, 6, 278.
1968 January 8 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-273.
  • Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 9 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn I, Saturn V.
  • Budgetary restraints required additional cuts in AAP to three Saturn IB and three Saturn V launches. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Orbital Workshop, Skylab, AES Lunar Base, ALSS Lunar Base. NASA budgetary restraints required an additional cut in AAP launches. The reduced program called for three Saturn IB and three Saturn V launches, including one Workshop launched on a Saturn IB, one Saturn V Workshop, and one ATM. Two lunar missions were planned. Launch of the first Workshop would be in April 1970.
1968 January 10 - 09:58 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF25. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2. LV Configuration: Minuteman 2 2437.
  • ST Olympic Trials 6 operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: SAC 1STRAD. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 11 -
  • Apollo Parachute Test Vehicle failed Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. A Parachute Test Vehicle (PTV) test failed at El Centro, Calif. The PTV was released from a B-52 aircraft at 15,240 meters and the drogue chute programmer was actuated by a static line connected to the aircraft. One drogue chute appeared to fail upon deployment, followed by failure of the second drogue seven seconds later. Additional Details: Apollo Parachute Test Vehicle failed. References: 16.
1968 January 11 - Launch Site: Green River. Launch Complex: Pad 2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. LV Configuration: Athena B022.
  • USAF B022 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 11 - 16:16 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Delta E1. LV Configuration: Thor Delta E1 454/D56.
  • Explorer 36 Nation: USA. Program: Explorer. Payload: GEOS B. Mass: 209 kg (460 lb). Class: Solar. Spacecraft: GEOS. Agency: NASA GSF. Perigee: 1,081 km (671 mi). Apogee: 1,574 km (978 mi). Inclination: 105.80 deg. Period: 112.20 min. COSPAR: 1968-002A. USAF Sat Cat: 3093. The geodetic instrumentation systems included (1) four optical beacons, (2) two C-band radar transponders, (3) a passive radar reflector, (4) a sequential collation of range radio range transponder, (5) a Goddard range and range rate transponder, (6) laser reflectors, and (7) Doppler beacons. Non-geodetic systems included a laser detector and a Minitrack interferometer beacon. The objectives of the spacecraft were to optimise optical station visibility periods and to provide complementary data for inclination-dependent terms established by the Explorer 29 (GEOS 1) gravimetric studies. The spacecraft was placed into a retrograde orbit to accomplish these objectives. Operational problems occurred in the main power system, optical beacon flash system, and the spacecraft clock, and adjustments in scheduling resulted in nominal operations. References: 2, 6.
1968 January 13 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: BLB. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MSBS. Model: MSBS M012. LV Configuration: MSBS M012 A1.
  • A1 test Nation: France. Agency: DMA. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 15 - 17:43 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-138. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 16 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF06. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B (64-011).
  • ST Nation: USA. Agency: SAC 1STRAD. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 16 - 12:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC41/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 199 Nation: USSR. Payload: Zenit-2 11F61 s/n 59. Mass: 4,720 kg (10,400 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Apogee: 363 km (225 mi). Inclination: 65.60 deg. Period: 90.20 min. COSPAR: 1968-003C. USAF Sat Cat: 3099. Duration: 16.00 days. Decay Date: 1968-02-01. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite. Unsuccessful mission. Spacecraft failed to separate from Block I stage. Attempt was made to conduct mission without orientation system. APO self destruct system destroyed spacecraft on 126th revolution over Sea of Okhotsk. First generation, low resolution photo surveillance; recovery probably failed. References: 2, 6,93.
1968 January 16 - 19:14 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.273GI.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 137 km (85 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 16 - 19:29 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.275GI.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 141 km (87 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 17 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Agena D.
  • Final launch of a Thrust-Augmented-Thor/Agena Nation: USA. Final launch of a Thrust-Augmented-Thor/Agena space booster from Vandenberg (first launch on 28 February 1963). References: 88.
1968 January 17 -
  • Afanasyev inspects the TsPK. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1, Lunar L3. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-L1, Soyuz 7K-LOK. He is shown the Volga and L1 trainers, takes a seat in the trainer, and is given a simulated space flight. At the air base he reviews the aircraft and the TBK-60 altitude chamber. Throughout the tour, Mishin constantly wore a soft expression and used coarse language. Afanasyev was briefed on and recognised problems with development and delivery of the Salyut digital computer needed for the L1 guidance system. But he was not told that cooperation had broken down totally on the L3 simulator development and crew selection. References: 376.
1968 January 17 - 10:12 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor SLV-2A Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 498 / Agena D 2733.
  • OPS 1965 Nation: USA. Payload: Ferret 12 / Agena D 2733. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Ferret. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 462 km (287 mi). Apogee: 536 km (333 mi). Inclination: 75.10 deg. Period: 94.60 min. COSPAR: 1968-004A. USAF Sat Cat: 3097. Decay Date: 1970-07-07. References: 2, 6.
1968 January 17 - 23:08 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike. Model: Nike Iroquois. LV Configuration: Nike Iroquois CRL AG07.634.
  • Atmospheric / TMA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 193 km (119 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 18 - Launch Site: Green River. Launch Complex: Pad 1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. LV Configuration: Athena B039.
  • USN B039 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 18 - 19:04 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3B. LV Configuration: Titan IIIB 3B-13.
  • OPS 5028 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-8 no. 11 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-8. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 137 km (85 mi). Apogee: 405 km (251 mi). Inclination: 111.50 deg. Period: 89.90 min. COSPAR: 1968-005A. USAF Sat Cat: 3098. Decay Date: 1968-02-04. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
1968 January 19 -
  • Gagarin and Titov visit Tereshkova in the hospital. Nation: USSR. In 1967, the average cosmonaut who had already flown in space spent 50 days on public relations activities and tours - a serious loss to them in terms of training for future missions. References: 376.
1968 January 19 - 02:24 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 2. LV Configuration: Black Brant II AAF-2-108.
  • Te / ne Aeronomy / ionosphere / Fields mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 142 km (88 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 19 - 21:59 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: LC132/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M.
  • Cosmos 200 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-O. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 518 km (321 mi). Apogee: 539 km (334 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 95.20 min. COSPAR: 1968-006A. USAF Sat Cat: 3100. Decay Date: 1973-02-24. Possible navigation satellite. References: 2, 6.
1968 January 19 - 23:10 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike. Model: Nike Iroquois. LV Configuration: Nike Iroquois CRL AG07.633.
  • Atmospheric / TMA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 191 km (118 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 22 - 03:04 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5B. LV Configuration: Black Brant VB ADD-VB-11.
  • Hbeta / ne Aurora / ionosphere / plasma mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 377 km (234 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 22 - 04:30 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.62GM.
  • Airglow Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 296 km (183 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 22 - 12:15 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk CRL AG08.648.
  • NO / TMA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 169 km (105 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 22 - 13:20 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike. Model: Nike Iroquois. LV Configuration: Nike Iroquois CRL AG07.635.
  • O2 / TMA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 188 km (116 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 22 - 17:05 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NRL NA3.201.
  • KP3.25 BCS / PC Solar x-ray mission Nation: USA. Agency: NRL/KPNO. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 22 - 22:48 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC37B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Saturn I. Model: Saturn IB. LV Configuration: Saturn IB SA-204.
  • Apollo 5 Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Payload: Apollo LM-1. Mass: 14,360 kg (31,650 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Lunar lander. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. Agency: NASA MSC. Perigee: 169 km (105 mi). Apogee: 374 km (232 mi). Inclination: 31.60 deg. Period: 89.90 min. COSPAR: 1968-007B. USAF Sat Cat: 3107. Decay Date: 1968-02-12. NASA launched Apollo 5 - the first, unmanned LM flight - on a Saturn IB from KSC Launch Complex 37B at 5:48:08 p.m. EST. Mission objectives included verifying operation of the LM structure itself and its two primary propulsion systems, to evaluate LM staging, and to evaluate orbital performances of the S-IVB stage and instrument unit. Flight of the AS-204 launch vehicle went as planned, with nosecone (replacing the CSM) jettisoned and LM separating. Flight of LM-1 also went as planned up to the first descent propulsion engine firing. Because velocity increase did not build up as quickly as predicted, the LM guidance system shut the engine down after only four seconds of operation, boosting the LM only to a 171 x 222 km orbit. Mission control personnel in Houston and supporting groups quickly analyzed the problem. They determined that the difficulty was one of guidance software only (and not a fault in hardware design) and pursued an alternate mission plan that ensured meeting the minimum requirements necessary to achieve the primary objectives of the mission. The ascent stage separated and boosted itself into a 172 x 961 km orbit. After mission completion at 2:45 a.m. EST January 23, LM stages were left in orbit to reenter the atmosphere later and disintegrate. Apollo program directors attributed success of the mission to careful preplanning of alternate ways to accomplish flight objectives in the face of unforeseen events. References: 2, 6, 16, 26, 27.
1968 January 23 - Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100, N1, RT-2, UR-100N.
  • Three-launch Soviet lunar expedition pitched Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L3, Lunar L1. Spacecraft: LK, Soyuz 7K-LOK, Soyuz 7K-L1, L3M-1970. The 'big' Soviet of Chief Designers meets and the three-launch landing concept developed a month earlier is presented in detail. Pilyugin pointed out that this was a typical contradiction. Mishin had just made a presentation to the expert commission justifying that the one-launch scheme was safe and reliable. Now they wanted to put forward a new scheme because the one-launch scheme was unsafe and unfeasible. Additional Details: Three-launch Soviet lunar expedition pitched. References: 367.
1968 January 23 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: BLB. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: SSBS. Model: SSBS S01.
  • S01V-3 test Nation: France. Agency: DMA. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 23 - 05:33 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.13UE.
  • Ionosphere currents Aurora / ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 23 - 05:58 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 2. LV Configuration: Black Brant II ADD-2-109/ADD-VB-109.
  • Fields / Ionosphere / Micrometeorites Aurora / ionosphere / fields mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 151 km (93 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 24 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-94.
  • Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 24 - 22:26 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC1E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thorad SLV-2G Agena D. LV Configuration: Thorad SLV-2G Agena D 516 / Agena D 1640.
  • KH-4A 1045 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-4A s/n 1045 / Agena D 1640. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 179 km (111 mi). Apogee: 438 km (272 mi). Inclination: 81.50 deg. Period: 90.70 min. COSPAR: 1968-008A. USAF Sat Cat: 3113. Decay Date: 1968-02-27. KH-4A. All cameras operated satisfactorily. References: 2, 6.
  • SRV 741 Nation: USA. Payload: SRV 1045-1. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Spacecraft: KH-4A. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 470 km (290 mi). Apogee: 545 km (338 mi). Inclination: 81.70 deg. Period: 94.70 min. COSPAR: 1968-008B. USAF Sat Cat: 3114. Decay Date: 1970-03-04. Radar monitoring. References: 2, 6, 172.
  • OPS 6236 Nation: USA. Payload: EHH B10. Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: SSF. Agency: USAF. COSPAR: 1968-008xx. USAF Sat Cat: 3114. Decay Date: 1970-03-04. References: 2, 279.
1968 January 25 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF22. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2. LV Configuration: Minuteman 2 2448.
  • ST Olympic Trials 7 operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: SAC 1STRAD. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 26 -
  • Unsuccessful L1 SAS abort system test at Vladimirovka. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-L1, Soyuz 7K-OK. The parachute failed to inflate after the capsule separated from the escape tower. The recovery apparatus on both the Soyuz and L1 versions of the capsule continue to perform badly. The soft landing engines have ignited at altitudes of 2000 to 4000 m instead of the 1.2 m required for a soft landing. On the first UR-500K abort the SAS functioned, but the parachute failed to separate after landing, dragging the capsule for 600 m across the steppes. On the second UR-500K abort, there was a premature opening of the parachute, and reaction control system venting led to burn-through of some of the parachute lines. References: 376.
1968 January 26 - 04:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.205GG.
  • Stellar astronomy Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 160 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 27 -
  • Cosmonauts take case against Mishin to VVS high command. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1, Almaz. Spacecraft: Soyuz VI, Almaz OPS. Kamanin, Gagarin, Titov, Popovich, Belyayev, and Leonov meet with Marshal Yakabovskiy. They inform him that Mishin is blocking further development of the 7K-VI military manned spacecraft and also trying to kill Chelomei's Almaz military space station. They get nowhere. The Marshal says that while he doesn't understand much about space himself, Ustinov had assured him that Mishin and Afanasyev were taking all measures necessary to correct the necessary material... References: 376.
1968 January 28 - Launch Vehicle: N1.
  • Sergei Osipovich Okhapkin put in charge of the N1 at TsKBEM Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L3. This decision led to one of Mishin's famous 'illnesses', putting him out of action for a period. References: 367.
1968 January 29 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn I, Saturn V.
  • Saturn V and Saturn I Workshop designations. Nation: USA. Program: Skylab. Spacecraft: Orbital Workshop, Skylab. Nomenclature for the OWS included in the AAP presented in the FY 1969 budget was confirmed by NASA. The ground-outfitted OWS to be launched with Saturn V would be designated the 'Saturn V Workshop.' (This had sometimes been called the 'dry Workshop.') The OWS that would be launched by a Saturn IB would be referred to as the 'Saturn I Workshop.' (Colloquially it had been referred to as the 'wet workshop.') Terminology 'Uprated Saturn I' would not be used officially. This launch vehicle would be referred to as the 'Saturn IB.'
1968 January 30 -
  • Three-hour review of the L1 program at the Institute of Aviation Medicine. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-L1. The Volchka L1 trainer, M-220 computer, centrifuge, L1 cabin, and instructor control station are in place. But many critical equipment items have not yet been installed, including essential cabin instruments and flight indicators. References: 376.
1968 January 30 - 05:03 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 2. LV Configuration: Black Brant II AKD-2A-111.
  • Aurora mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 161 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 31 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-91.
  • Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1968 January 31 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576A3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 94F.
  • RMP-B-5 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 1 - Launch Site: Green River. Launch Complex: Pad 3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. LV Configuration: Athena B037.
  • USN B037 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 1 - 05:42 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: C. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure CE-34.
  • ESRO C36 / 1 Aeronomy mission Nation: Europe. Agency: ESRO. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 1 - 18:53 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.264GM.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 104 km (64 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 1 - 19:00 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.259GM.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 126 km (78 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 1 - 19:30 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.260GM.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 127 km (78 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 1 - 20:30 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.261GM.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 137 km (85 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 1 - 21:15 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.262GM.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 2 - 05:30 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.261GG.
  • X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 139 km (86 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 2 - 06:10 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.220GG.
  • Stellar astronomy Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 149 km (92 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 2 - 10:17 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF24. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2. LV Configuration: Minuteman 2 2464.
  • ST Olympic Trials 8 operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: SAC 1STRAD. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 2 - 12:55 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF09. Launch Pad: LF09?. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 1274. FAILURE: Failure.
  • ST Olympic T. B-1 operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: SAC 1STRAD. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 2 - 13:26 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.259IA.
  • INCOSPAR 10.13 ISRO Aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 191 km (118 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 2 - 13:40 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C90.
  • ISRO 15.06 Aeronomy mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 159 km (98 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 3 -
  • Ye-8-5 robot lunar soil return plans Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1, Luna, Lunar L3. Spacecraft: Luna Ye-8. VVS Party Conference. It is clear to Kamanin that there is no support from the Air Force for manned spaceflight. Kamanin only heard yesterday that Babakin is working on an automatic soil sample return spacecraft. He will need a minimum of two to three years to complete it. Kamanin complained that it would interfere with plans for the L1 program. An uninterrupted series of flights will be needed to complete the L1 spacecraft qualification, and the Ye-8, using the same booster, could be an interference in achieving that goal. References: 376.
1968 February 3 - 17:12 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P5H.
  • Electrons Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 4 - 05:33 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: C. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure CE-35.
  • ESRO C36 / 2 Aeronomy mission Nation: Europe. Agency: ESRO. Apogee: 146 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 5 -
  • 40 per-cent nitrogen prelaunch atmosphere in Apollo Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. A Senior Flammability Review Board meeting at MSC reached a number of decisions on the CSM. Attending were Robert R. Gilruth, chairman; George M. Low, Kenneth S. Kleinknecht, Aleck C. Bond, Maxime A. Faget, Donald K. Slayton, Charles A. Berry, and Rodney G. Rose, all of MSC; Samuel C. Phillips, NASA Hq.; William B. Bergen and Dale D. Myers, North American Rockwell; and George Stoner, Boeing (nonvoting observer).

    Several previous action assignments were reviewed:

    1. Component level Flammability Test Program - North American reviewed the results of its material identification and test program, the component test program, and the boilerplate 1,250 tests. These tests had provided the basis for design decisions on selection and application of CM nonmetallic materials.
    2. Boilerplate 1224 configuration comparison to CSMs 2TV-1 and 101 - North American presented the comparison and the Board decided that the boilerplate configuration was representative of the "worst case" configuration, considering both 2TV-l and 101.
    3. Internal ignition rationale - ignition rationale for the boilerplate 1224 tests was presented to the Board. Nichrome wire ignitors were used with the ignitor wire embedded in potting. In some locations a Ladicote cover was applied over the potting and ignitor. The Board pointed out that the ignition techniques were not really representative of actual operating conditions and were indeed overly severe.
    4. Crew communications umbilical - North American was evaluating a fluorel crew communications umbilical as well as fluorel oxygen umbilicals. A Beta sleeve over the oxygen and crew communications umbilicals would also be evaluated for its operational acceptability by the Crew.
    The Board presented a review of test results. In the tests at pressure of 4.3 newtons per square centimeter (6.2 pounds per square inch) in a 95-percent oxygen atmosphere, there were 38 ignitions in boilerplate 1224. Of these,5 produced fires large enough to require further consideration. In tests at 11.2 newtons per sq cm (16.2 psia) in a 60-percent-oxygen and 40-percent nitrogen atmosphere, there were 31 ignitions. Of these, 4 produced fires large enough to require further consideration.

    The Board concluded that the material changes made in the CM had resulted in a safe configuration in both the tested atmospheres. The Board agreed "that there will always be a degree of risk associated with manned space flight," but the risk of fire "was now substantially less than the basic risks inherent in manned space flight."

    Among decisions reached were:

    1. the CSM 2TV-1 and 101 coaxial cable configuration would be tested in the 60-percent-oxygen and 40-percent nitrogen atmosphere;
    2. material improvements and testing would be continued and changes would be phased in, pending the availability of proved materials; and
    3. action would be taken to be prepared to use a 60-percent-oxygen and 40-percent-nitrogen prelaunch atmosphere in CSM 101.
    A final decision would be made at the Design Certification Review on March 7. References: 16.
1968 February 5 - 19:00 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: D-Region Tomahawk. LV Configuration: D-Region Tomahawk NASA 12.08GT.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 119 km (73 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 5 - 22:22 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.263GM.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 127 km (78 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 6 -
  • L1 commander assignments agreed. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1, Soyuz. The final medical report rejects Feoktistov's fitness to be a cosmonaut. Mishin accepts the findings of the report, but in classic manner ignores it and advocates Feoktistov be appointed as commander of the active spacecraft in the first Soyuz docking mission after return to flight. Kamanin is livid. Feoktistov has had years of training for EVA, but he has not had one day of training as a spacecraft commander, and now he wants him to command a mission due to launch in only two to three months! However agreement is finally reached on L1 commander assignments: Leonov, Bykovskiy, Popovich, Voloshin. Agreement is not reached on the second (civilian) crew member position for the flights. According to Mishin, the Soyuz and L1 flights planned from March 1 to the end of 1968 will require 16 to 18 crew members total. References: 376.
1968 February 6 - 05:07 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.38UE.
  • UNH Aurora / Fields Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 6 - 07:21 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk-12 Sandia 152-105.
  • Aurora Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 160 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 6 - 08:00 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 201 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 207 km (128 mi). Apogee: 334 km (207 mi). Inclination: 64.90 deg. Period: 89.90 min. COSPAR: 1968-009A. USAF Sat Cat: 3118. Duration: 8.00 days. Decay Date: 1968-02-14. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule References: 2, 6.
1968 February 7 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC32B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2. LV Configuration: Minuteman 2 468.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 7 - 10:43 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78M Ya716-57. FAILURE: At T+524.6 sec Stage 3's engine 11D55 cut off prematurely because it ran out of fuel due to an excessive fuel consumption rate through the gas-generator.
  • E-6LS s/n 112 Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1. Payload: E-6LS s/n 112. Class: Planetary. Type: Lunar. Spacecraft: Luna E-6LS. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: F680207A. Decay Date: 1968-02-07. Flight: Soyuz 7K-L1 mission 1. Failed launch of an E-6LS radio-equipped version of the E-6 used to test tracking and communications networks for the Soviet manned lunar program. Suggestions for the abnormal consumption included the seizing up of a pintle valve for controlling fuel supply into the regulator or the seizing up of the fuel inlet control. The upper stages broke up in the atmosphere. References: 64, 65.
1968 February 8 -
  • Decision to forego a second unmanned Apollo LM flight using LM-2 Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. Grumman President L. J. Evans wrote ASPO Manager George M. Low stating his agreement with NASA's decision to forego a second unmanned LM flight using LM-2. (Grumman's new position - the company had earlier strongly urged such a second flight - was reached after discussions with Low and LM Manager G. H. Bolender at the end of January and after flight data was presented at the February 6 meeting of the OMSF Management Council.) Although the decision was not irreversible, being subject to further investigations by both contractor and customer, both sides now were geared for a manned flight on the next LM mission. Additional Details: Decision to forego a second unmanned Apollo LM flight using LM-2. References: 16.
1968 February 8 -
  • VVS officers inspect TsPK. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1, Lunar L3, Almaz. Spacecraft: Almaz OPS. It is currently organised in three cosmonaut detachments: Nikolayev commands the first detachment, which is training for L3, L1, and Soyuz fiights. Popovich commands the second, training for Almaz and 7K-VI military space missions. Nikeryasov commands the third, which is the 'observer' detachment. References: 376.
1968 February 8 - 06:01 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 6. LV Configuration: Skylark 6 SL583A.
  • UK SL583A test Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 9 - 04:41 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.217UA.
  • JHU Aurora 6 Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 155 km (96 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 10 - 11:42 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF08. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2. LV Configuration: Minuteman 2 2307.
  • Research and technology/modification test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 12 -
  • L1 Expert Commission meeting. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-L1. Kamanin states his belief that the L1 will not be ready for manned flight for 2 to 3 years, and will need 8 unmanned flight tests before it can be man-rated. Others disagree, and the final decision is that four unmanned flights without significant failure will be required before the spacecraft is man-rated. References: 376.
1968 February 12 - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: RT-20P. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test mission Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1968 February 14 -
  • Concern of inadvertent Saturn V abort Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. In discussing the results of a manned test with MSC Director Robert R. Gilruth, George M. Low mentioned that a single 45-degree motion of the abort handle was required to initiate a launch abort in Apollo. Gilruth voiced concern that an abort could be caused by a single motion. Additional Details: Concern of inadvertent Saturn V abort. References: 16.
1968 February 14 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Dragon 1. LV Configuration: Dragon D-32.
  • FU-172 Solar Helium Solar ultraviolet mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 440 km (270 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 15 - 16:15 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3P-670.
  • Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: RN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 17 -
  • Soyuz VI cancellation approved. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Soyuz VI. The NTK General Staff approves Mishin's cancellation fo the 7K-VI. Kozlov has agreed only under duress. The military is opposed to the cancellation, but Afanasyev won't listen to them. References: 376.
1968 February 17 - 02:24 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 KP3.22.
  • Stellar ultraviolet Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: KPNO. Apogee: 183 km (113 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 18 - 18:07 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Viper. Model: Viper-Dart. LV Configuration: Viper-Dart VD-0218-11.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 97 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 19 - 18:55 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 CRL AH3.531.
  • Extreme ultraviolet Mon Solar extreme ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 243 km (150 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 19 - 23:15 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.169CS.
  • Solar x-ray mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 161 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 20 - 10:03 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: LC86/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 202 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-U2-V s/n 4. Mass: 325 kg (716 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Military. Spacecraft: DS-U2-V. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 210 km (130 mi). Apogee: 488 km (303 mi). Inclination: 48.40 deg. Period: 91.50 min. COSPAR: 1968-010A. USAF Sat Cat: 3128. Decay Date: 1968-03-24. Military technology development satellite - mission still classified. References: 2, 6, 99.
1968 February 20 - 16:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: LC132/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M.
  • Cosmos 203 Nation: USSR. Mass: 600 kg (1,320 lb). Spacecraft: Sfera. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,183 km (735 mi). Apogee: 1,201 km (746 mi). Inclination: 74.10 deg. Period: 109.30 min. COSPAR: 1968-011A. USAF Sat Cat: 3129. Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. References: 2, 6.
1968 February 21 -
  • Further development of Lox/LH2 rocket engines authorised. Nation: USSR. Decree 'On Introduction of Hydrogen in Rocket Space Technology' --future of liquid hydrogen stages' was issued. References: 474.
1968 February 21 - Launch Vehicle: Proton. Model: Proton 8K82K / 11S824.
  • L1 Launch Commission. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1, Soyuz. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-L1, Soyuz 7K-OK. The booster failure on the previous launch was found to be due to premature fuel injection during engine start, causing initial chamber temperatures to rise 200 degrees above normal. Glushko and Konopatov both guarantee their engines for the next launch. The next L1 flight will use the 'Kruga' landing predictor. This will predict the landing point to within a 150 x 150 km area two to three hours before re-entry. Landing points on the three previous flights would have been 2000 km from Madagascar and India, Novosibirsk, and the North Pole... Mishin plans the next dual Soyuz flight for 5-10 April. Kamanin protests that the parachute and sea trials of the redesigned capsule are not yet complete. Mishin, as usual, dismisses his concerns. References: 376.
1968 February 21 - 19:40 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure.
  • ISRO 25.02 Aeronomy mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 136 km (84 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 21 - 23:17 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.284CA.
  • TMA? Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 22 - 03:45 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.276GE.
  • Auroral fluxes Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 22 - 05:09 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.364CM.
  • TMA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 156 km (96 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 22 - 06:30 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.365CM.
  • TMA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 22 - 08:00 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.366CM.
  • TMA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 181 km (112 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 22 - 09:30 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.367CM.
  • TMA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 190 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 22 - 11:02 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.208CA.
  • Sodium-Lithium release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 168 km (104 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 22 - 11:25 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C89?.
  • ISRO 25.01 Aeronomy mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 153 km (95 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 22 - 11:55 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C88.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 154 km (95 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 23 - 05:10 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.35UE.
  • Aurora Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 293 km (182 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 23 - 06:53 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.67UA.
  • Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 24 -
  • Discovery of the first Pulsar Nation: USA.
1968 February 26 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576A1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 116F.
  • ABRES BGRV-2 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). The Boost Glide Re-entry Vehicle was launched from Vandenberg AFB, California to the area of Wake Island in the Pacific Ocean. It was launched from an Atlas missile booster and served to provide data on hypersonic manoeuvring flight characteristics. References: 2.
1968 February 27 - 1968 February 27 -
  • Soviet on plan through 1975 for automated probes to the moon and planets. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: DLB Lunar Base, Luna Ye-8, Luna Ye-8-5. Keldysh heads a Soviet on plans through 1975 for automated probes and space research of the moon and planets. Barmin attends, his interest being the relation of this work to his lunar base. Kamanin finds the plan not well thought out... Tereshkova sees Kamanin and tells him she cannot handle the stress of both political demands on her time and cosmonaut training. She wants Kamanin's assistance to get her out of political tasks. References: 376.
1968 February 27 - 01:10 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.350CA.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 154 km (95 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 27 - 01:30 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 28 -
  • Staff move to Baikonur for L1 launch. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1. Kamanin flies to Baikonur aboard a Tu-124.There is very bad weather, -10 deg C, ice flows in the Syr Darya river. References: 376.
1968 February 28 - 06:01 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.68UA.
  • Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 295 km (183 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 28 - 14:40 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR/CNES. Apogee: 168 km (104 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 28 - 15:00 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 395-B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II B-88.
  • Glory Trip 04T Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). FOT GT04T Follow-on Test launch References: 2.
1968 February 29 - Launch Vehicle: Proton. Model: Proton 8K82K / 11S824.
  • L1 commsision meeting. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-L1. For this L1 launch Chelomei wants to film separation of the first and second stages of the Proton rocket at 126 seconds into the flight - altitude 41 km, distance downrange 47 km. To do this two An-12 and one Tu-124 with long focal-length cameras will orbit 35 to 40 km from base. The discussion turns to how to recover the L1 if it lands in the ice-bound Aral Sea. The circle of possible landing points has a radius of 500 km from a point west of Karaganda. For political reasons it is not possible to deploy recovery forces to areas of Iran and India that are within this circle. References: 376.
1968 February 29 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: PU31. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: R-36 8K67.
  • Operational missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 29 - 17:15 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Auroral mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1968 February 29 - 21:18 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P6H.
  • Electrons Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 1 - Launch Vehicle: N1.
  • Originally planned N-1 first launch Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L3. Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-LOK. Slipped to May. References: 72.
1968 March 1 -
  • MOL qualification test underway. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: MOL. The MOL mockup was completed, static structural test of flight representative assemblies was underway, and major equpment was in qualification test. References: 128.
1968 March 1 -
  • Kamanin appearance in American documentary. Nation: USSR. An American film on the Russian space program, for which Kamanin was interviewed, is shown at Tyuratam. Smirnov criticised Kamanin for being 'too soft' and for not using the correct party phrases to describe American imperialism. References: 376.
1968 March 1 - Launch Site: Ile du Levant. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: CERES. Launch Vehicle: Belenos.
  • Weather mission Nation: France. Agency: SECT. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 1 - 03:30 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.177UG.
  • Stellar infrared Infrared astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 171 km (106 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 1 - 19:28 GMT - Launch Site: Hidden Hills DZ. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 36.1 N x 116.0 W. Launch Vehicle: X-15. LV Configuration: X-15 1-74-130.
  • X-15A Checkout mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 31 km (19 mi). Maximum Speed - 4631 kph. Maximum Altitude - 31850 m. Tested Saturn V insulation. References: 2.
1968 March 2 - 03:55 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC5. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Scout A. LV Configuration: Scout A S162C.
  • Transit O-18 Nation: USA. Program: Transit. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Transit. Agency: USN. Perigee: 1,014 km (630 mi). Apogee: 1,130 km (700 mi). Inclination: 90.00 deg. Period: 106.70 min. COSPAR: 1968-012A. USAF Sat Cat: 3133. First RCA-built Transit. References: 2, 6.
1968 March 2 - 05:00 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Javelin. LV Configuration: Javelin NASA 8.48UE.
  • Auroral P / F Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 805 km (500 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 2 - 07:19 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.37UE.
  • Auroral P / F Aurora / plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 260 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 2 - 18:29 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC81/23. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Proton. Model: Proton-K/D. LV Configuration: Proton-K/D 231-01.
  • Zond 4 Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1. Payload: Soyuz 7K-L1 s/n 6L. Mass: 5,390 kg (11,880 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-L1 . Agency: MOM. Perigee: 191 km (118 mi). Apogee: 400,000 km (240,000 mi). Inclination: 51.60 deg. Period: 15,561.71 min. COSPAR: 1968-013A. USAF Sat Cat: 3134. Duration: 5.22 days. Decay Date: 1968-03-09. What at first seemed to be a success, very much needed by the L1 program, ended in failure. The Proton booster lifted off in 18 m/s winds, -3 deg C temperatures, and into very low clouds - it disappeared from view at only 150 m altitude. Aircraft at 9, 10, and 11 km altitude reported the cloud deck topped 8300 m, with 1.5 to 2.0 km visibility. The spacecraft was successfully launched into a 330,000 km apogee orbit 180 degrees away from the moon. On reentry, the guidance system failed, and the planned double skip maneuver to bring the descent module to a landing in the Soviet Union was not possible. Ustinov had ordered the self-destruct package to be armed and the capsule blew up 12 km above the Gulf of Guinea. Kamanin disagreed strongly with this decision; the spacecraft could have still been recovered in the secondary area by Soviet naval vessels after a 20 G reentry. The decsion was made to recover the spacecraft in the future whenever possible.
    Officially: Solar Orbit (Heliocentric). Study of remote regions of circumterrestrial space, development of new on-board systems and units of space stations. References: 2, 6, 67, 274. 376.
1968 March 3 -
  • Zond 4 first midcourse fails. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-L1. At 07:35 the first midcourse manoeuvre for Zond 4, then 225,000 km from earth, was cancelled due to an orientation system problem. The sun tracker worked, but the star tracker could not acquire Sirius. The first and second midcourse manoeuvres are not strictly necessary. However if the third midcourse fails, when the spacecraft is 167,000 km from earth on the return leg, the spacecraft will miss the atmosphere and head back out into space. A meeting is held on cosmonaut training. The simulators are still not adequate. Feoktistov is still demanding that he be trained for the first Soyuz docking mission. References: 376.
1968 March 4 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3P-666.
  • Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: RN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 4 - 13:06 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC13. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3A Agena D. LV Configuration: SLV-3A Agena D 5602A (AA26) / Agena D 6503 (AA26).
  • OGO 5 Nation: USA. Payload: OGO E. Mass: 634 kg (1,397 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: OGO. Agency: NASA GSF. Perigee: 36,021 km (22,382 mi). Apogee: 111,034 km (68,993 mi). Inclination: 50.30 deg. Period: 3,746.50 min. COSPAR: 1968-014A. USAF Sat Cat: 3138. OGO 5 carried 25 experiments, 17 of which were particle studies, and two were magnetic field studies. In addition, there was one each of the following types of experiments: radio astronomy, UV spectrum, Lyman-alpha, solar X ray, plasma waves, and electric field. By April 1971, spacecraft perigee had increased to 26,400 km and inclination had increased to 54 deg. The spacecraft attitude control failed on August 6, 1971, after 41 months of normal operation. The spacecraft was placed in a standby status on October 8, 1971. Four experiments (Meyer, Blamont, Thomas, and Simpson) were reactivated for the period from June 1 to July 13, 1972, after which all operational support terminated. Spacecraft orbit parameters changed significantly over the spacecraft life. References: 2, 6, 278.
1968 March 5 -
  • Zond 4 midcourse succeeds. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-L1. The L1 reaches its apogee. The time comes to attempt the third midcourse manoeuvre. There are three attempts to orient the spacecraft. The first was at the minimum sensitivity setting for the star tracker, the second at the maximum setting, and the third using a high-density filter. Sirius is finally acquired the third time. The spacecraft is oriented and makes a 15 second burn with a 9.129 m/s delta-V (versus 9.202 m/s planned). This is good enough to assure the spacecraft will hit the re-entry corridor without a further correction. References: 376.
1968 March 5 - 11:20 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC133/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 204 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-P1-I s/n 3. Mass: 300 kg (660 lb). Class: Military. Type: Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-I. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 485 km (301 mi). Apogee: 626 km (388 mi). Inclination: 70.90 deg. Period: 95.70 min. COSPAR: 1968-015A. USAF Sat Cat: 3139. Completed Operations Date: 1969-03-03. Decay Date: 1969-03-02. Operational radar target for the ABM forces. References: 2, 6, 99.
1968 March 5 - 12:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC41/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 205 Nation: USSR. Payload: Zenit-2 11F61 s/n 56. Mass: 4,720 kg (10,400 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 197 km (122 mi). Apogee: 293 km (182 mi). Inclination: 65.70 deg. Period: 89.40 min. COSPAR: 1968-016A. USAF Sat Cat: 3140. Duration: 8.00 days. Decay Date: 1968-03-13. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite. References: 2, 6,93.
1968 March 5 - 18:28 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: LA3A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Scout B. LV Configuration: Scout B S160C. FAILURE: Partial Failure.
  • Explorer 37 Nation: USA. Program: Explorer. Payload: Solar Explorer B. Mass: 198 kg (436 lb). Class: Solar. Spacecraft: Solrad. Agency: NRL. Perigee: 353 km (219 mi). Apogee: 433 km (269 mi). Inclination: 59.30 deg. Period: 92.40 min. COSPAR: 1968-017A. USAF Sat Cat: 3141. Decay Date: 1990-11-16. Solar Explorer B; radiation data; off-nominal orbit. References: 2, 6.
1968 March 6 -
  • Zond 4 on course. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-L1. It is estimated that Zond 4 will fly 45.8 km below the initial re-entry corridor at an altitude of 145 km, after which it will ricochet back out into space and proceed to a final re-entry and landing on Soviet territory. It is calculated it will land on 7 March at 21:56, 13 minutes later than the originally estimated time. References: 376.
1968 March 6 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576A3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas E/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas E/Trident 74E.
  • RMP-B-6 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 6-7 -
  • Design Certification Reviews of Apollo Apollo CSM 101 and LM-3 Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. Flight: Apollo 9. Design Certification Reviews of CSM 101 and LM-3 were held at MSC. Significant program-level agreements reached included validation of a 60-percent-oxygen and 40-percent-nitrogen cabin atmosphere during launch; reaffirmation of the February 6 Management Council decision that a second unmanned LM flight was not required; and the conclusion that, in light of successful static firing of the 102 service propulsion system and subsequent analysis, a static-firing of the 101 system was not required. References: 16.
1968 March 6 - 11:02 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: LC86/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 11K63. FAILURE: Second stage failed 216 seconds after launch.
  • DS-U1-Ya s/n 1 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-U1-Ya. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: DS-U1-Ya. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: F680306A. Studied charged particle flows and cosmic rays. References: 2.
1968 March 6 - 16:36 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P7H.
  • C / D / E electrons Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 6 - 21:35 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: C. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure CE-37.
  • ESRO C14 / P Ionosphere mission Nation: Europe. Agency: ESRO. Apogee: 155 km (96 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 7 -
  • Soyuz parachute recertification holding up all manned programs. Nation: USSR. Program: Soyuz, Lunar L1, Lunar L3, Almaz. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-L1, Soyuz 7K-LOK, Soyuz 7K-OK, Almaz OPS. Mishin certified to MAP on 5 March that the Soyuz parachute system development is complete, but Tkachayev has dissented, saying that the system was unreliable and overweight (this from the same chief designer that certified the previous design as having an 0.999 reliability!). The parachute trials will not be finished until May - meaning there will be no manned Soyuz launch in April. This problem is holding up the L1, L3, and Almaz projects as well. References: 376.
1968 March 7 -
  • Zond 4 self-destructs during re-entry Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-L1. The L1's SUS guidance system failed on re-entry. It hit the atmosphere precisely at the calculated time, but wasn't guided to generate lift and fly out of the atmosphere again. A ballistic re-entry would mean no recovery on Soviet soil, so the APO destruct system automatically blew up the capsule at 10 to 15 km altitude, 180-200 km off the African coast at Guinea. References: 376.
1968 March 8 -
  • Flight readiness test for Apollo 6 Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. NASA technicians at KSC completed the flight readiness test for Apollo 6. The two-day event was delayed several days because of difficulties in modifying the service propulsion system tank skirt. With that significant launch-preparation event completed, program officials were reassessing the launch date in light of work remaining on the vehicle. References: 16.
1968 March 8 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Stromboli. Model: Dauphin. LV Configuration: Dauphin DA003.
  • FU-168 A-cone test Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 123 km (76 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 11 -
  • Decree 'On formation of the Space Branch of NII-4' was issued. Nation: USSR. References: 474.
1968 March 12 -
  • Cosmonaut meeting at Yevpatoriya. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-L1. Gagarin wants better organisation of the TsPK for the L1 circumlunar manned flights, including: better training in manual navigation in case of failure of automated systems; improved training in survival of 20 G re-entries if the automated SUS capsule guidance system fails. The cosmonauts review material for the Seventh International UFO Conference in Mainz (!). References: 376.
1968 March 13 - Launch Vehicle: N1.
  • Lunar cosmonaut training program approved. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-LOK, LK. Decree 'On approval of the training program for lunar cosmonauts' was issued. This incuded the final moon landing plan. References: 474.
1968 March 13 - Launch Vehicle: N1.
  • L3 project plan. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L3. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-LOK, LK. Titov is going to Italy, Feoktistov to Hungary. The 30 month program for the L3 lunar landing is settled. The cosmonauts already began training in January. The first LK lunar lander will be tested in low earth orbit in the second half of 1969. The first Soviet manned lunar landing cannot take place any earlier than 1970-1971. The resolution had set the date as 1967-1968, but the N1 and L3 will not be ready in time. The L3 is still conceptual, a purely paper spacecraft. The first N1 was to have been moved to the pad by March of this year, but it won't even make that milestone by May. References: 376.
1968 March 13 - 19:55 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3B. LV Configuration: Titan IIIB 3B-14.
  • OPS 5057 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-8 no. 12 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-8. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 128 km (79 mi). Apogee: 407 km (252 mi). Inclination: 99.90 deg. Period: 89.90 min. COSPAR: 1968-018A. USAF Sat Cat: 3148. Decay Date: 1968-03-24. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
1968 March 14 -
  • Soviets review American plans. Nation: USSR. Program: Apollo, Lunar L3. Six Apollo spacecraft are to be flown into earth orbit in 1968, four unmanned and two manned. Five flights are planned for 1969, including the first landing on the moon. Beyond this is the Apollo Applications Program. Expenditures for this are planned as $179 million in 1968 and $435 million in 1969, leading to the first orbital laboratory in 1970. References: 376.
1968 March 14 - 09:34 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Cosmos 206 Nation: USSR. Payload: Meteor no. 9. Mass: 4,730 kg (10,420 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: Meteor. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 396 km (246 mi). Apogee: 405 km (251 mi). Inclination: 81.20 deg. Period: 92.60 min. COSPAR: 1968-019A. USAF Sat Cat: 3150. Decay Date: 1989-04-22. Visual, IR cloud cover images. Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. References: 2, 6.
1968 March 14 - 22:00 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC1E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thorad SLV-2G Agena D. LV Configuration: Thorad SLV-2G Agena D 518 / Agena D 1638.
  • KH-4A 1046 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-4A s/n 1046 / Agena D 1638. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 183 km (113 mi). Apogee: 390 km (240 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 90.20 min. COSPAR: 1968-020A. USAF Sat Cat: 3152. Decay Date: 1968-04-10. KH-4A. Image quality good for 1046-1 and fair for 1046-2. References: 2, 6.
  • SRV 747 Nation: USA. Payload: SRV 1046-1. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Spacecraft: KH-4A. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 481 km (298 mi). Apogee: 524 km (325 mi). Inclination: 83.10 deg. Period: 94.60 min. COSPAR: 1968-020B. USAF Sat Cat: 3153. Decay Date: 1970-01-03. Radar monitoring. References: 2, 6, 172.
  • OPS 7076 Nation: USA. Payload: EHH B11. Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: SSF. Agency: USAF. COSPAR: 1968-020xx. USAF Sat Cat: 3153. Decay Date: 1970-01-03. References: 2, 279.
1968 March 15 -
  • HL-10 Flight 2 Nation: USA. Program: NASA Lifting Body. Payload: HL-10 flight 2. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: HL-10. Crew: Gentry. Maximum Speed - 684 kph. Maximum Altitude - 13720 m. Flight Time - 243 sec. References: 49, 97.
1968 March 15 - 03:43 GMT - Launch Site: Kerguelen. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Dragon 2B. LV Configuration: Dragon 2B D-251A.
  • FU-171 VLF / Ions Ionosphere mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 400 km (240 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 15 - 07:10 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike. Model: Nike Iroquois. LV Configuration: Nike Iroquois CRL AE07.290.
  • Auroral P / F Aurora / plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 160 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 15 - 19:04 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.209CS.
  • AS&E Solar x-ray mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 155 km (96 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 15 - 19:11 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.10UI.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 290 km (180 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 16 - 03:15 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.198GE.
  • Crab X-ray X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 153 km (95 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 16 - 12:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 207 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 201 km (124 mi). Apogee: 320 km (190 mi). Inclination: 65.60 deg. Period: 89.70 min. COSPAR: 1968-021A. USAF Sat Cat: 3154. Duration: 8.00 days. Decay Date: 1968-03-24. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule References: 2, 6.
1968 March 16 - 17:30 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Release Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 174 km (108 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 17 - 06:59 GMT - Launch Site: Arecibo. Launch Complex: VB. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.344UM.
  • UM Pitot 34 Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 148 km (91 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 17 - 07:30 GMT - Launch Site: Arecibo. Launch Complex: VB. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.53GA.
  • Thermosphere probe Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 295 km (183 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 17 - 09:28 GMT - Launch Site: Arecibo. Launch Complex: VB. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.49GA.
  • Thermosphere probe Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 311 km (193 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 17 - 18:45 GMT - Launch Site: Arecibo. Launch Complex: VB. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.345UM.
  • UM Pitot 35 Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 136 km (84 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 17 - 19:18 GMT - Launch Site: Arecibo. Launch Complex: VB. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.52GA.
  • Thermosphere probe Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 18 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Belier III. LV Configuration: Belier III 301. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1968 March 18 - 07:00 GMT - Launch Site: Arecibo. Launch Complex: VB. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.333UM.
  • UM Pitot 36 Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 148 km (91 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 18 - 17:51 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.36UE.
  • Auroral P / F Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 18 - 21:30 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 174 km (108 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 18 - 22:15 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 181 km (112 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 19 -
  • Further development of Lox/LH2 rocket engines authorised. Nation: USSR. Ministry of General Machine Building (MOM) Decree 88 'On use of liquid hydrogen in the space program' was issued. References: 474.
1968 March 19 - 16:15 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.202NT.
  • SPARCS test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 159 km (98 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 19 - 18:20 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 176 km (109 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 19 - 19:05 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 178 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 20 -
  • Lunar spacesuit review. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L3. Spacecraft: Krechet, Orlan, LK, Luna Ye-8. Meeting with Gay Ilyich Severin. Two spacesuits are being developed for the L3 program: the Krechet-94 and Orlan. Both have been in development for two years. The Krechet-94 will allow six hours of lunar surface activity, the Orlan, 2.5 hours. Both weigh about 90 kg. There are consumables for a total of 52 hours of life support in the LK and the LT Lunar Cart. Kamanin feels the suits are too heavy, due to Mishin's demand for a 5 km range from the LK over a three day traverse with the LT. Severin could have instead developed the spacesuit used by Leonov to have a four hour autonomous operation, but Mishin insisted on doubling of the capacity. References: 376.
1968 March 20 - 04:57 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 3. LV Configuration: Skylark 3 SL408.
  • LUX / Culham Solar AC9 Solar x-ray and ultraviolet mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 217 km (134 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 20 - 18:23 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache K-NA-8.
  • MPE Barium release EXP-34 Aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DLR. Apogee: 216 km (134 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 20 - 19:55 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 32.3 N x 128.0 W. Launch Vehicle: Iris. Model: Hydra-Iris. LV Configuration: Hydra-Iris BAR-1.
  • LRL BAR-1 test Nation: USA. Agency: USN NMC. Apogee: 195 km (121 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 20 - 20:25 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Release Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 174 km (108 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 20 - 21:09 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 182 km (113 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 20 - 21:36 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Mass spectrometer Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 21 -
  • Apollo lunar landing research vehicle in operation Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LLRV. The lunar landing research vehicle was operating and training was being conducted, MSC Director Robert R. Gilruth wrote Langley Research Center's Acting Director Charles J. Donlan. MSC intended to conduct a second class for LLRV pilots and one of the first requirements for checkout was a familiarization program on Langley's Lunar Landing Research Facility. He requested that a program be conducted for not less than four nor more than six MSC pilots between April 15 and May 15. References: 16.
1968 March 21 - Launch Site: Green River. Launch Complex: Pad 3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. LV Configuration: Athena B046.
  • USAF B046 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 21 - 06:01 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.63UE.
  • Auroral emissions Magnetosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 209 km (129 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 21 - 09:50 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 208 Nation: USSR. Payload: Zenit-2M. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 205 km (127 mi). Apogee: 287 km (178 mi). Inclination: 64.90 deg. Period: 89.40 min. COSPAR: 1968-022A. USAF Sat Cat: 3156. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1968-04-02. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; deployed high energy gamma ray experiment capsule. First flight of modernised Zenit-2 area survey reconnaissance satellite. References: 2, 6.
  • Nauka Nation: USSR. Payload: Nauka. Spacecraft: Nauka. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 195 km (121 mi). Apogee: 263 km (163 mi). Inclination: 64.90 deg. Period: 89.08 min. COSPAR: 1968-022C. USAF Sat Cat: 3167. Decay Date: 1968-04-06. References: 2, 279.
1968 March 22 - 00:57 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 176 km (109 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 22 - 07:24 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.255GG.
  • Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 208 km (129 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 22 - 09:30 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC90/19. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: Tsiklon-2A.
  • Cosmos 209 Nation: USSR. Program: RORSAT. Payload: US-A no. 2. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Naval Radarsat. Spacecraft: US-A. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 876 km (544 mi). Apogee: 927 km (576 mi). Inclination: 65.30 deg. Period: 103.00 min. COSPAR: 1968-023C. USAF Sat Cat: 3162. Decay Date: 1968-04-10. RORSAT hardware, representative of production hardware, but using chemical batteries in place of BES-5 nuclear reactor. References: 2, 6, 290.
1968 March 23 -
  • Apollo drogue chute test failure 99-5 Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. Apollo drogue chute test 99-5 failed at the El Centro, Calif., parachute facility. The drop was conducted to demonstrate the slight change made in the reefed area and the 10-second reefing cutter at ultimate load conditions. The 5,897-kilogram vehicle was launched from a B-52 aircraft at 10,668 meters and programmer chute operation and timing appeared normal. At drogue deployment following mortar activation, one drogue appeared to separate from the vehicle. Additional Details: Apollo drogue chute test failure 99-5. References: 16.
1968 March 23 - 14:05 GMT - Launch Site: Sonmiani. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure Rehbar 17.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: Pakistan. Agency: SUPARCO. Apogee: 131 km (81 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 23 - 18:35 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache K-NA-9.
  • DLR K-NA-9 Aeronomy / ionosphere / Fields mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DLR. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 23 - 19:27 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Ion composition Aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 182 km (113 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 24 - 12:45 GMT - Launch Site: Natal. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.270GM.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 120 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 25 -
  • Simulator status Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1, Soyuz. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-L1, Soyuz 7K-OK. Kamanin reviews the unfinished status of Soyuz and L1 simulators. Then there is the Feoktistov issue... References: 376.
1968 March 25 - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC50. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Sprint. LV Configuration: Sprint ABM FLA-18. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1968 March 25 - 04:02 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Ion composition Aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 180 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 25 - 05:10 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Ionosphere mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 180 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 25 - 06:00 GMT - Launch Site: Natal. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.271GM.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 120 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 25 - 12:58 GMT - Launch Site: Natal. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.272GM.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 120 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 25 - 19:20 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 181 km (112 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 25 - 21:14 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P8H.
  • C / D / E electrons Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 135 km (83 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 25 - 22:40 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 26 -
  • A State Commission is held to review L1 and Soyuz status. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1, Soyuz. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-L1, Soyuz 7K-OK. Hours are spent arguing over flying Feoktistov as a cosmonaut. Finally the matter is referred to the VPK. Kamanin briefs Ustinov's deputy on his position against Feoktistov. The L1 is reviewed. The star sensor only operated on Zond-4 on the fourth day of flight. However when it worked, it provided a 2 km positional accuracy at re-entry versus the 10 km required. The next L1 is to be launched on 23 April. If that date cannot be met, it will be launched on 25-30 April on a deep-space trajectory (not aimed at the moon). References: 376.
1968 March 26 - 23:41 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: S. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 1. LV Configuration: Skylark 1 S16/1.
  • ESRO S16 / 1 Aurora mission Nation: Europe. Agency: ESRO. Apogee: 171 km (106 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 27 -
  • Cosmonaut Yuri Alekseyevich Gagarin dies at age of 34 -- Crash of MiG-15 trainer. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1, Soyuz. Gagarin is killed together with instructor pilot Sergin on a flight in a UTI MiG-15 trainer. Gagarin was being requalified as a jet pilot after being denied flight status by the leadership for a long time. At that time the mean flight hours between fatal accidents hours for Soviet jet fighters were: MiG-15, 18,440 hours; MiG-17, 11,460 hours; MiG-19, 4,475 hours; MiG-21, 4,422 hours; Su-7, 2,245 hours; Su-11, 2,100 hours. Gagarin's UTI MiG-15 s/n 612739 was built at the Vodokhod factory in Czechoslovakia and delivered on 19 March 1956. It had a 2100 hour airframe life, and had flown 1113 hours. It had two overhauls to date: one on 13 July 1962, after 13,834 'mil' hours, and the second on 30 March 1967, after 36,986 'mil' hours. It should have had a 500 hour life after the second overhaul, had flown only 62 hours since then, and had 438 hours left. References: 376.
1968 March 27 -
  • Vulkan Engineering Cosmonaut Training Group selected. Nation: USSR. The group was selected to provide engineer to operate Vulkan space welding system.
1968 March 27 - 04:40 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5B. LV Configuration: Black Brant VB AAF-VB-04.
  • Auroral fluxes Aurora / ionosphere / plasma mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 290 km (180 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 27 - 07:55 GMT - Launch Site: Kerguelen. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Dragon 2B. LV Configuration: Dragon 2B D-252.
  • FU-171 VLF / Ions Ionosphere mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 400 km (240 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 27 - 11:50 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 179 km (111 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 28 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Stromboli. Model: Dauphin. LV Configuration: Dauphin DA004.
  • FU-168 B-cone test Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 98 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 28 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC41/15. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65.
  • VKZ Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 4,000 km (2,400 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 28 - Launch Site: Green River. Launch Complex: Pad 1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. LV Configuration: Athena B044.
  • USN B044 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 28 - Launch Site: Green River. Launch Complex: Pad 2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. LV Configuration: Athena D068.
  • USAF D068 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 28 - 01:32 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.375IE-II.
  • ISRO 10.15 Ionosphere mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 211 km (131 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 28 - 16:31 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.346GR.
  • Radio astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 161 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 29 - Launch Site: Green River. Launch Complex: Pad 3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. LV Configuration: Athena V114C.
  • ARPA V114C re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 29 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF26. Launch Pad: LF26?. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2. LV Configuration: Minuteman 2 2522.
  • ST Olympic Trials 9 operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: SAC 1STRAD. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 29 - 06:45 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NRL NF3.171.
  • Infrared Telescope Infrared astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NRL. Apogee: 220 km (130 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 29 - 08:29 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 CRL AE3.154.
  • Spectrograph Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 122 km (75 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 29 - 14:20 GMT - Launch Site: Sonmiani. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Dragon 1. LV Configuration: Dragon D-34.
  • Shahpar-2 test Nation: Pakistan. Agency: SUPARCO. Apogee: 420 km (260 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 30 - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: Meck. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Spartan. LV Configuration: Spartan ABM 800003.
  • KT-1 Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 30 - 08:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 30 - 13:25 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.376IE-II.
  • ISRO 10.16 Ionosphere mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 211 km (131 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 30 - 14:30 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 176 km (109 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 31 - 00:07 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.378IE.
  • ISRO 10.18 Ionosphere mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 211 km (131 mi). References: 2.
1968 March 31 - 12:15 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.377IE-II.
  • ISRO 10.17 Ionosphere mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 169 km (105 mi). References: 2.

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