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USAF
American agency overseeing development of rockets and spacecraft. United States Air Force, USA.
People:
Arnold,
DeFrance,
Doolittle,
Twining,
Vandenberg, Hoyt,
Chidlaw,
Craigie,
Power,
Boyd,
LeMay,
Brackett,
Stapp,
Schriever,
Luedecke,
Wade,
Ostrander,
Ridley,
Lanphier,
Tepper,
Horner,
White, Alvin,
Phillips, Samuel,
Dempsey,
Hedrick,
Hixson,
Yeager,
Sorlie,
Childs,
Slayton,
White, Robert,
Wood,
Rushworth,
Gordon, Henry,
Grissom,
Cooper,
Kelly, Thomas,
Borman,
Rogers,
Kincheloe,
Skantze,
Crews,
Thornton, Bill,
McDivitt,
Knight,
Lovelace,
Givens,
Aldrin,
Pogue,
Freeman,
Irwin,
Adams,
Eisele,
Stafford,
Collins,
Dana,
White,
Taylor,
Graveline,
Macleay,
Swigert,
Bassett,
Nelson, Anthony,
Worden,
Neubeck,
Scott,
Engle,
Lawyer,
Herres,
Abrahamson,
Roosa,
Anders,
Peterson,
Hartsfield,
Michel,
Lawrence, Robert,
Duke,
Schweickart,
Fullerton,
Bobko,
Hoernig,
Fabian,
Scobee,
Gregory,
Blaha,
Bluford,
Boesen,
Casper,
Bridges,
Veach,
Shriver,
Sundberg,
Shaw,
Grabe,
Mullane,
Lydon,
Onizuka,
Sefchek,
Covey,
Hart,
Nagel,
Wright, Keith,
Gardner, Guy,
Ross,
Fitzgerald,
Lundquist,
Payton,
Gardner,
Aufderhaar,
Townsend,
Everest,
Watterson,
Fleming,
Higbee,
Joseph,
Lewis,
Rij,
Armor,
Meade,
Hamel,
Akers,
Gutierrez,
Odle,
Brown, Mark,
Hammond,
Bagian,
McMonagle,
Pailes,
Henricks,
Lee,
Jones, Charles,
Sega,
Anderson, Lloyd,
Mantz,
Duffy,
Weaver,
Crombie,
Puz,
Roberts,
Hanes,
Chilton,
Holtoner,
DeArmond,
Detroye,
Jones,
Staib,
Precourt,
Casserino,
Walz,
Sponable,
Thompson, David,
Brown,
Lockhart,
Yeakel,
Polansky,
Searfoss,
Buckey,
James,
Kregel,
Halsell,
Holder,
LaComb,
Collins, Eileen,
Carretto,
Horowitz,
Carey,
Gregory, William,
Booen,
Husband,
Fossum,
Helms,
Bloomfield,
Cagle,
Noriega,
Anderson,
Ford, Kevin,
Lindsey,
Archambault,
Tittle,
Coleman, Catherine,
Melroy,
Garan,
Canterbury, William,
Johnson, Gregory H,
Walheim,
Good,
Drew,
Kelly, James,
Boe,
Fincke,
Virts,
Dutton,
Henry.
Country:
USA.
Spacecraft:
Bomi,
MX-2145,
X-15A,
Project 7969,
Robo,
Brass Bell,
SAINT,
Pioneer 0-1-2,
Aeronutronics Project 7969,
Avco Project 7969,
Bell Project 7969,
Convair Project 7969,
Goodyear Project 7969,
Lockheed Project 7969,
Lunex Lunar Lander,
MC-2,
Martin Project 7969,
McDonnell Project 7969,
Mark I ELSS,
Northrop Project 7969,
Republic Project 7969,
X-15B,
Mercury,
Transit,
Midas,
Pioneer 5,
Samos,
KH-2,
S-56,
Lofti,
Injun,
KH-3,
Oscar,
Program 661A,
SURCAL,
Ferret,
KH-4,
Program 505,
ERS,
Starfish,
NRL ELINT,
USAF Recommended Station,
KH-6,
SSF,
Dash,
TRS,
RADOSE,
GRS,
KH-7,
KH-4A,
APL satellite,
Vela,
Bambi,
AFP-43,
Program 437,
ESRS,
Gemini EMU,
Calsphere,
X-15A-2,
DMSP Block 4A,
OV1,
LES,
DODECAPOLE,
Snapshot,
LCS,
G5C,
OV2,
INSATRAC,
Space Sled,
Bluebell,
G4C AMU,
OV3,
GGTS,
IDCSP,
KH-8,
MOL,
OV4,
Advanced Vela,
OV5,
Timation,
DODGE,
KH-4B,
FDL ILRV,
Canyon,
Orbiscal,
RADCAT,
Program 922,
X-15A-3,
SOICAL,
Gemini B AM,
Gemini B RM,
IMLSS,
MOL Space Suit,
DMSP Block 5A,
Rhyolite,
DSP,
Jumpseat,
SESP,
KH-9,
Cannonball,
Gridsphere,
Mylar,
Rigidsphere,
DMSP Block 5B,
ASTEX,
DSCS II,
Radsat,
DMSP Block 5C,
P 72,
SPIKE,
P 76,
SDS,
DMSP Block 5D,
KH-11,
FLTSATCOM,
GPS Block 1,
Conventional ASAT,
Chalet,
SCATHA,
Solwind,
DSCS III,
DMSP Block 5D-2,
HILAT,
HS 381,
Magnum,
ITV,
SDI,
Polar Bear,
Singleton,
GPS Block 2 and 2A,
SDS-2,
Stacksat P87-2,
CRRES,
Gun-Launched ASAT,
AFP-675,
IBSS,
MPEC,
Losat,
MSTI,
HGV,
SEDS,
Radcal,
Milstar,
DARPASAT,
TAOS,
Trumpet,
Eagle,
APEX,
Mercury ELINT,
Advanced Orion,
STEP,
HERTF,
GPS Block 2R,
FORTE,
Falcon Gold,
MightySat 1,
DMSP Block 5D-3,
3CSat,
Mitex,
STPSat,
GPS Block 2F,
GPS Block 3,
Lunex.
Launch Vehicles:
Navaho,
SLS,
SLS A-410,
SLS BC-2720,
SLS AB-825,
SLS A-388,
Aerospaceplane,
ALARR,
AACB Class 1,
AACB Class 2,
AICBM,
X-30.
Projects:
DMSP,
DSCS,
ELINT,
Explorer,
Navstar,
Pioneer series.
Launch Sites:
Edwards,
Holloman,
Cape Canaveral,
Vandenberg,
Poker Flat,
Sembach AB,
Eniwetok,
Johnston Island,
Ramey,
Eglin,
Presque Isle AFB,
RAF Driffield,
RAF Feltwell,
RAF Hemswell,
Warren AFB,
Ellsworth AFB,
RAF North Luffenham,
Beale AFB,
Lowry AFB,
Offutt AFB,
Larson AFB,
Mountain Home AFB,
Fairchild AFB,
Forbes AFB,
Gioia,
McConnell AFB,
Little Rock AFB,
Altus AFB,
Schilling AFB,
Lincoln AFB,
Dyess AFB,
Walker AFB,
Plattsburgh AFB,
Cigli,
Davis-Monthan AFB,
Ascension,
Barbados site,
Green River,
Thule AFB,
Sonde Stromfjord,
Wake Island,
Eareckson,
Comiso,
Florennes,
Greenham Common,
Molesworth,
Wueschheim,
Bitburg AB,
Grand Forks AFB,
Hahn AB,
Kadena AB,
Malmstrom AFB,
Minot AFB,
Wheelus AFB,
Whiteman AFB,
Woensdrecht.
1948 May 26 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman NATIV.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
NATIV.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Nativ first attempted launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).
First launch attempt of MX-770 technology demonstrator. Seven rockets were built in total. There is very inconsistent information on the flight series. One source speaks of six launches, another of four, and a third of three. It seems that there were six launch attempts, three of which never made it very far off the pad, two made it some distance aloft, and only one was considered somewhat successful (reaching Mach 2.23 and an altitude of 18 km).
1948 Q3? - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman NATIV.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
NATIV.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 15 km (9 mi).
1948 July 14 - .
01:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC33.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Hiroc.
FAILURE: Cutoff after half of the propellants were used..
Failed Stage: 1.
- MX-774 Flight 1 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi). First Convair MX-774 (RTV-A-2) test rocket was successfully launched, first demonstrating use of gimballed engines and design features later incorporated in the Atlas ICBM. This was the first of three Convair-sponsored test flights..
1948 September 27 - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC33.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Hiroc.
FAILURE: Cutoff at 16 km altitude..
Failed Stage: 1.
- MX-774 Flight 2 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 47 km (29 mi). Second Corvair MX-774 test rocket fired. Shut down at 15 km; reached 65 km before malfunction of unknown origin caused self-destruction..
1948 October 15 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman NATIV.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
NATIV.
- Nativ Launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 15 km (9 mi). On the most successful Nativ launch, the missile reached Mach 2.23 and an altitude of 18 km..
1948 November 1 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman NATIV.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
NATIV.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Final Nativ launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1948 December 1 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman ZEL.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1948 December 2 - .
22:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC33.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Hiroc.
FAILURE: Vibration closed valve early..
- MX-774 Flight 3 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 50 km (31 mi). Third (last) MX-774 launched, WSPG; shut down at 51 seconds attaining an altitude of 48 km. Self-destructed at high altitude..
1950 October 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi). The first Lark missile launched by Air Force from Cape Canaveral, the last of the three missiles launched in 1950 at the LRPG..
1950 October 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1950 November 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1950 December 21 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1951 March 8 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1951 April 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1951 April 16 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). First successful sled-launched Snark airframe..
1951 April 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1951 May 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1951 May 8 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1951 May 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1951 May 24 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1951 May 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1951 June 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1951 June 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1951 June 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1951 June 26 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1951 June 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1951 July 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1951 July 17 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1951 July 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1951 July 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1951 August 8 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1951 August 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1951 August 21 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1951 August 30 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1951 August 31 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1951 September 6 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1951 September 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1951 September 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1951 September 25 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1951 October 2 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1951 October 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1951 October 16 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1951 October 24 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1951 October 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1951 November 15 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1951 November 29 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1951 December 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1951 December 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1951 December 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1951 December 14 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1952 January 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 January 25 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1952 January 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1952 February 1 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1952 February 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1952 February 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 February 20 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1952 February 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1952 March 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 March 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 March 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1952 March 28 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman SLED.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1952 April 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 April 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 April 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1952 April 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1952 May 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 May 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 May 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1952 May 22 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 June 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1952 July 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1952 July 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 July 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1952 July 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 August 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1952 September 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 September 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1952 September 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 September 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1952 October 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1952 October 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 October 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1952 November 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 November 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 November 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 November 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 November 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1952 November 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1952 December 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1952 December 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 December 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1952 December 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1952 December 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1952 December 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 January 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 January 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 January 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Pad: LC3/4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1953 January 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 February 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 February 6 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1953 February 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1953 February 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 February 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1953 March 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1953 March 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 March 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
LV Family:
Snark.
Launch Vehicle:
MX-775.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1953 March 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1953 March 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 March 31 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 April 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 April 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1953 April 22 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1953 April 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 April 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1953 April 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 May 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 May 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1953 May 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1953 June 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Pad: LC3/4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1953 June 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 July 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 July 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Vehicle:
Lark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1953 July 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 July 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Pad: LC3/4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1953 August 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 August 6 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). First test flight N-69A version of Snark..
1953 August 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 September 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Pad: LC3/4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1953 September 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 October 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1953 October 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 October 22 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 November 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 November 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 November 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 November 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 November 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 November 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 November 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 December 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 December 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 December 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 December 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 December 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 December 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 December 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 December 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1953 December 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 January 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 January 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 January 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 January 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 January 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 January 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 February 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1954 February 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 February 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC2.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1954 February 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 February 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 March 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 March 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 March 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 March 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 March 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 March 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 March 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC2.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1954 April 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 April 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 May 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 May 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 May 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 May 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 May 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 May 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 May 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 June 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 June 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1954 June 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 June 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 June 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 June 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 June 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 June 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 June 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 June 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 June 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 July 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 July 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 July 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1954 July 22 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 August 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1954 September 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 September 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). First test flight N-69B version of Snark..
1954 September 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 October 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1954 October 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 October 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 October 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1954 October 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1954 November 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1954 November 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1954 December 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1954 December 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 January 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1955 January 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 January 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 January 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 January 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1955 February 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC2.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). First test flight N-69C version of Snark..
1955 February 10 - .
22:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee RTV-A-1a.
- AF / Utah D-layer Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 76 km (47 mi). Ionosphere research. Launched at 1538 local time. Reached 76.1 km..
1955 February 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 February 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 February 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1955 February 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 March 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 March 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 March 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1955 March 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 March 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 March 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 March 29 - .
16:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee RTV-A-1a.
- Solar far ultraviolet / Lyra Alpha Solar / aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 112 km (69 mi). Solar radiation research. Launched at 0947 local time. Reached 112.7 km..
1955 April 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 April 6 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1955 April 8 - .
15:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Deacon.
- DAN-1 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 108 km (67 mi).
1955 April 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 April 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 April 21 - .
15:58 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee Hi.
- AJ11-6 engine test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 198 km (123 mi). First launcing of USAF Aerobee-Hi sounding rocket. Rocket test, 98 kg payload. Launched at 0858 local time. Reached 198 km..
1955 April 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC2.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1955 April 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 April 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 May 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Ramjet test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1955 May 6 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 May 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 May 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1955 May 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 May 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 May 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
LV Family:
X-17.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17 QTV.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 11 km (6 mi).
1955 May 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
LV Family:
X-17.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17 QTV.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1955 June 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 June 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 June 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 June 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 June 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 June 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
LV Family:
X-17.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17 HTV.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1955 June 16 - .
01:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee AJ10-27.
- Classified mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 203 km (126 mi). Special classified flight research. Launched at 1811 local time. Reached 202.8 km..
1955 June 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
LV Family:
X-17.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17 HTV.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1955 June 23 - .
12:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee Hi.
FAILURE: Failure.
- AJ11-6 engine test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi). Rocket test, 90 kg payload. Burnt-out thrust chamber. Launched at 0540 local time. Reached 64 km..
1955 June 24 - .
18:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Deacon.
- DAN-2 Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 105 km (65 mi). First Nike-Deacon sounding rocket launched at Wallops Island in cooperative USAF-NACA program of upper air density measurements..
1955 June 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
LV Family:
X-17.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17 HTV.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 9.00 km (5.50 mi).
1955 July 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 July 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 July 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC2.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1955 July 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
LV Family:
X-17.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17 HTV.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1955 July 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 July 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 July 22 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 July 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1955 July 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 July 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 August 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1955 August 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral RW30/12.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 16 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
Demonstrated planned automated landing, but drag chute did not deploy after landing. The vehicle overran the skid strip, the nosewheel collapsed in the sand in the overrun, the tanks ruptured, and the vehicle burned..
1955 August 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Pad: LC3/4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1955 August 26 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 August 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 3.00 km (1.80 mi).
1955 September 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 September 14 - .
13:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee AJ10-27.
- UM wind vanes Test / aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 95 km (59 mi). Rocket aerodynamics test. Launched at 0630 local time. Reached 95 km..
1955 September 22 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 September 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 5.00 km (3.10 mi).
1955 September 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Pad: LC3/4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1955 September 30 - .
15:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee AJ10-27.
- Colorado UVS Solar ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 74 km (45 mi). Solar limb darkening research. Launched at 0850 local time. Reached 74 km..
1955 October 6 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 October 12 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 October 13 - .
01:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee RTV-A-1a.
- Sodium Release 2 Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 101 km (62 mi). Sodium studies research. Launched at 1800 local time. Reached 101.4 km..
1955 October 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral RW30/12.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 17 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
An engine problem resulted in a mission abort. After autolanding the nose wheel developed a shimmy, the vehicle ran off the skid strip, caught fire, and was destroyed..
1955 October 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1955 October 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 November 7 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 November 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 November 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Pad: LC3/4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1955 November 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1955 November 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Pad: LC3/4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1955 December 1 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 December 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1955 December 7 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1955 December 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1955 December 13 - .
17:58 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee AJ10-27.
- Colorado UVS Solar ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 138 km (85 mi). Lyman alpha, solar limb darkening research. Launched at 1058 local time. Reached 138.4 km..
1955 December 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). USAF Northrop Snark launched from Cape Canaveral on 2,000-mile flight..
1956 January 5 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 January 12 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 January 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 January 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 132 km (82 mi).
1956 January 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 January 26 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 January 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 January 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1956 February 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1956 February 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral RW30/12.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 18 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
The vehicle reached Mach 1.9 on a 51-minute long-range flight. It landed successfully..
1956 February 6 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 February 6 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 February 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1956 February 10 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 February 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1956 February 21 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 February 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral RW30/12.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 19 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
The vehicle reached a record Mach 2.1 speed and autolanded safely on the skid strip after a 62 minute flight..
1956 March 1 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 March 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 116 km (72 mi).
1956 March 12 - .
21:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee RTV-A-1a.
- Release B (NO) Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 95 km (59 mi). Nitric oxide attempt to produce sporadic E research. Launched at 1415 local time. Reached 95 km..
1956 March 14 - .
08:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee RTV-A-1a.
- Release (NO) Ionosphere / aeronomy / chemica mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 106 km (65 mi). Nitric oxide attempt to recombine atomic oxygen research. Launched at 0145 local time. Reached 106.2 km..
1956 March 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Pad: LC3/4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1956 March 15 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 March 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral RW30/12.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 20 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
Test of high angle-of-attack approach and recovery system. Flawless autolanding on the skid strip with precision short landing (1080 m landing roll)..
1956 March 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 March 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 March 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 March 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 March 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 March 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 March 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 March 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 March 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 March 29 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 April 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 April 6 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 April 6 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 April 12 - .
02:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee RTV-A-1a.
- Sodium Release 3 Ionosphere / aeronomy / chemica mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 106 km (65 mi). Sodium cloud, ionization research. Launched at 1005 local time. Reached 106.2 km..
1956 April 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Pad: LC3/4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1956 April 16 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 April 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1956 April 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral RW30/12.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 21 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
Ground control system failure resulted in missile crashing at sea at Mach 1.25 200 km from the Cape..
1956 April 25 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 May 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 May 8 - .
14:54 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee AJ10-34.
- Far ultraviolet spectrometer / La imager Solar ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 143 km (88 mi).
1956 May 14 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- RTV - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 May 16 - .
15:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee Hi.
FAILURE: Failure.
- AJ11-6 engine test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 169 km (105 mi). Rocket test, 86 kg payload. Insufficient fin-cuff protection caused aerodynamic instability. Launched at 0840 local time. Reached 169 km..
1956 May 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral RW30/12.
Launch Pad: PAFB/800.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 May 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1956 May 24 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 May 25 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- RTV - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 June 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral RW30/12.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 22 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
Inertial navigation test. Flight aborted when computer malfunction prevented INS signals from being passed to the autopilot. Successful autoland; drag brake deploy failure; successful engagement by runway landing barrier..
1956 June 11 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- RTV - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 June 13 - .
20:51 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee AJ10-34.
- E-layer Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 138 km (85 mi). Ionosphere research. Launched at 1351 local time. Reached 137.8 km..
1956 June 18 - .
20:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee AJ10-34.
- E-layer Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 136 km (84 mi). Ionosphere research. Launched at 1342 local time. Reached 130.8 km..
1956 June 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Pad: LC3/4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1956 June 21 - .
18:48 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee AJ10-34.
- E-layer Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 146 km (90 mi). Ionosphere research. Launched at 1148 local time. Reached 146.5 km..
1956 June 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). USAF X-17 flight test program started at Cape Canaveral to study reentry problems by simulating reentry velocities and conditions with three-stage solid-fuel Lockheed X-17. A total of 26 X-17 flights were conducted until March 1957..
1956 June 26 - .
18:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee AJ10-34.
- E-layer Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 111 km (68 mi). Ionosphere research. Launched at 1120 local time. Reached 111.1 km..
1956 July 6 - .
18:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- UM AM6.01 Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 129 km (80 mi). First Nike-Cajun research rocket successfully fired at Wallops Island, a cooperative NACA-University of Michigan project, attaining an altitude of 425,000 feet..
1956 July 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1956 July 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Pad: LC3/4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1956 July 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 142 km (88 mi). The first Lockheed X-17 reentry test vehicle (R-2) to complete a successful flight was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida. .
1956 July 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral RW30/12.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 23 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
Inertial navigation system test. Flight aborted when computer system failed during takeoff. Successful recovery on skid strip..
1956 July 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1956 July 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1956 July 31 - .
00:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee AJ10-34.
- Airglow Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 129 km (80 mi). Day airglow research. Launched at 1756 local time. Reached 128.8 km..
1956 August 3 - .
12:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee RTV-A-1a.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Ultraviolet Spectrograph Solar ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 2.00 km (1.20 mi). Solar spectrum and atmospheric composition research. Launched at 0556 local time. Reached 2.4 km..
1956 August 8 - .
22:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- UM AM6.30 Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1956 August 9 - .
22:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- BRL OB6.00 Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 164 km (101 mi).
1956 August 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1956 August 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- 4203-5 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 142 km (88 mi). A five-stage, solid-fuel rocket test vehicle, the world's first, was launched to a speed of mach 15 from Wallops Island, Va. by the NACA Langley Aeronautical Laboratory's Pilotless Aircraft Research Division..
1956 August 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral RW30/12.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 24 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
Full-range test with final dive maneuver. Swan song of vehicle eight after three successful recovered missions. During takeoff the vehicle was aloft, then settled back to the runway with its brakes locked. The tires burst, the gear failed, the gear doors were in contact with the runway, carving grooves in the pavement as they retracted. Then, astonishingly, the vehicle rose from the runway, completed a successful full-range supersonic flight with terminal dive into the waters off Grand Bahamas.
1956 August 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1956 August 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 August 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 August 31 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1956 September 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 394 km (244 mi).
1956 September 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 September 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 September 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1956 September 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 September 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral RW30/12.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 25 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
N-6 inertial navigation test flight. Successful 79-minute flight, marred by pitot icing at one point. Successful recovery. Navigator error reached 3 miles at one point, but was one mile at the end of the mission..
1956 September 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1956 September 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 September 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 October 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 145 km (90 mi).
1956 October 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). Full-scale test version of the Snark guided missile (XSM62) successfully recovered for the first time after a flight from Cape Canaveral..
1956 October 3 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 October 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 October 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 117 km (72 mi).
1956 October 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Pad: LC3/4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1956 October 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 October 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 102 km (63 mi).
1956 October 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 155 km (96 mi).
1956 October 20 - .
22:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- UM AM6.31 Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 113 km (70 mi).
1956 October 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral RW30/12.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 26 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
Successful inertial navigation test flight..
1956 October 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 124 km (77 mi).
1956 October 27 - .
21:24 GMT - .
Launch Pad: Atlantic Ocean, 40.0 N x 71.0 W.
Launch Platform: LSD-14.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- UM AM6.08 Sphere? Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 161 km (100 mi). Launched during University of Michigan's 1956 Cruise 1956 at Launch Point 1 - - Latitude: 40.00 N - Longitude: 71.00 W..
1956 October 31 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1956 November 1 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 November 2 - .
18:40 GMT - .
Launch Pad: Atlantic Ocean, 49.0 N x 48.0 W.
Launch Platform: LSD-14.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- UM AM6.09 Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 131 km (81 mi). Launched during University of Michigan's 1956 Cruise 1956 at Launch Point 2 - - Latitude: 49.00 N - Longitude: 48.00 W..
1956 November 4 - .
18:54 GMT - .
Launch Pad: Atlantic Ocean, 58.0 N x 47.0 W.
Launch Platform: LSD-14.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- UM AM6.10 Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 162 km (100 mi). Launched during University of Michigan's 1956 Cruise 1956 at Launch Point 3 - - Latitude: 58.00 N - Longitude: 47.00 W..
1956 November 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 118 km (73 mi).
1956 November 6 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC9.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho G-26.
FAILURE: Pitched up, disintegrated at T+26 seconds - pitch rate gyro installed backwards.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 1 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 2.00 km (1.20 mi).
Continuing problems with APU reliability delayed the launch to November. Various problems extended the countdown from the planned 7 hours 30 minutes to 14 hours 30 minutes. Successful launch, then vehicle pitched up and disintegrated 26 seconds after launch, impacting 4 km down range. It was found the pitch rate gyro had been installed backward.
1956 November 7 - .
15:02 GMT - .
Launch Pad: Atlantic Ocean, 64.0 N x 58.0 W.
Launch Platform: LSD-14.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- UM AM6.11 Sphere? Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 169 km (105 mi). Launched during University of Michigan's 1956 Cruise 1956 at Launch Point 4 - - Latitude: 64.00 N - Longitude: 58.00 W..
1956 November 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 November 10 - .
15:17 GMT - .
Launch Pad: Atlantic Ocean, 66.0 N x 58.0 W.
Launch Platform: LSD-14.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- UM AM6.12 Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 161 km (100 mi). Launched during University of Michigan's 1956 Cruise 1956 at Launch Point 5 - - Latitude: 66.00 N - Longitude: 58.00 W..
1956 November 14 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 November 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC2.
Launch Pad: LC2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). First test flight N-69D version of Snark..
1956 November 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 107 km (66 mi).
1956 November 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral RW30/12.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 27 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
Final X-10 flight. After cruise at Mach 1.3 at 75 km, the missile made a dive and precision impact on an island down-range..
1956 November 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 November 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 143 km (88 mi).
1956 November 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Pad: LC3/4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1956 November 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1956 December 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 125 km (77 mi).
1956 December 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1956 December 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 144 km (89 mi).
1956 December 13 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Platform: F-86D.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Rockaire.
- Rockair 2710 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 44 km (27 mi).
1956 December 14 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Platform: F-86D.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Rockaire.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 42 km (26 mi).
1956 December 17 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Platform: F-86D.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Rockaire.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 43 km (26 mi).
1956 December 19 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Platform: F-86D.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Rockaire.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 45 km (27 mi).
1956 December 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC2.
Launch Pad: LC2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 January 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1957 January 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 140 km (80 mi).
1957 January 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 January 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1957 January 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 January 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
FAILURE: Lox contamination, led to a valve failure. Thrust decayed, the booster settled back through the thrust ring, causing an oxygen fire, followed by booster explosion..
Failed Stage: 1.
- Series I research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). First attempted test flight of USAF Thor IRBM, only 13 months after first production contracts were signed, failed to launch. The first attempt failed when the vehicle lost thrust immediately after liftoff..
1957 January 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1957 February 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 February 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 107 km (66 mi).
1957 February 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1957 February 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 141 km (87 mi).
1957 February 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 February 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1957 March 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 151 km (93 mi).
1957 March 1 - .
21:51 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC5.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
FAILURE: Missile break-up attributed to overheating in the tail section..
Failed Stage: 1.
1957 March 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 134 km (83 mi).
1957 March 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 March 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). First test flight N-69D version of Snark with inertial guidance..
1957 March 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 103 km (64 mi).
1957 March 22 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC9.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho G-26.
FAILURE: Ground pod failed to jettison; booster damaged and did not achieve speed/altitude required for cruise stage ignition..
Failed Stage: 1.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 2 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 9.00 km (5.50 mi).
G-26 number two / booster 6 lifted off after a 9 hour 48 minute countdown with nearly five hours of holds, on the first attempt after two successful static firings. However failure of a launch lanyard meant the kerosene start-pod on the booster remained attached. This sheared off at 4500 m, causing extensive booster damage. Thrust decayed. The cruise stage separated at Mach 1.3 at 28,300 feet, but this was below ramjet ignition speed. However the pilot on the ground was able to assume radio control of the vehicle, and flew it in a glide over the ocean, even demonstrating landing gear deployment before it pancaked into the water.
1957 April 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1957 April 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1957 April 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 April 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 April 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1957 April 20 - .
04:33 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
FAILURE: Console wiring error resulted in erroneous tracking indication; destroyed by range safety..
Failed Stage: G.
- Series I research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
The second Thor flight test missile launched on the Atlantic Missile Range (AMR) was successful until the Range Safety Officer (RSO) accidentally destroyed the missile. Douglas Thor IRBM (XSM-75) was launched at Cape Canaveral, Fla., destroyed by range safety officer. The missile was actually on course throughout its flight. The console wiring error led the range safety officer to believe it was headed inland rather than out to sea, so he hit the destruct button.
1957 April 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC9.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho G-26.
FAILURE: Booster shut down 1 m over the pad due to incorrect shutdown timer signal - exploded on pad..
Failed Stage: 1.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 3 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
Vehicle 4 was still not ready for the first Broomstick flight, so vehicle 5 was substituted. It took five attempts before a 15.6 second static test cleared the booster for launch on 29 March. 8 hours and 42 minutes of hold stretched the five-hour countdown out into the evening. The booster ignited, rose 1.3 m, then shut down. The vehicle fell back onto the pad, exploding. Cause was a 15-second timer that was supposed to shut the engines down 15 seconds after the vehicle hold-downs released if a lanyard had not been pulled free of the vehicle as it rose off the ground. The 15 seconds had been reached before the lanyard pulled free, but by then the vehicle had risen off the pad. This made 15 attempts to launch a Navaho, with only two booster ignitions, both resulting in loss of the vehicle. The Northrop crews at the Cape dubbed their competitor the "Never-Go Navaho" to counter jibes directed at them about the "Snark-infested waters" off the launch area. The Air Force was not amused, and had a tiger-team review of the G-26 on a system-basis which recommended several procedures. Meanwhile G-38 launch plans were further delayed over internal USAF wrangles over launch facility construction.
1957 April 26 - .
20:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC5.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Fired from AMR at 1512 hours EST to test the design version of the airframe and rocket engine. The flight terminated at 93 seconds because of propellant slosh. The missile achieved an altitude of 60,000 feet. The flight was partially successful..
1957 May 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 May 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1957 May 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1957 May 22 - .
03:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
- Research and development Series I (padex) test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1957 May 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 May 31 - .
18:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC5.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Army Jupiter IRBM was fired 1,500 miles, limit of its designed range, and to an altitude of 250-300 miles, the first successful launching of an IRBM. Fired from AMR at 1308 hours EST to test the range capability and performance of rocket engine and control system. Although the missile was 253 nm short of its estimated 1,400 nm impact point, this was the first successful flight of the Jupiter. All phases of the test were successful during this first firing of the IRBM in the western world
1957 June 11 - .
19:37 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas A.
FAILURE: Failure in the booster fuel system..
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 3.00 km (1.80 mi).
The first Atlas Series A flight test missile (4A) had to be destroyed shortly after launch from Cape Canaveral due to a booster engine shutdown and loss of thrust. From a technical standpoint, however, this first booster-only launch successfully demonstrated the launching mechanism, structural integrity of the airframe, subsystems performance, and operating procedures for launch crew personnel. First test flight of prototype WS-107A Atlas was detonated by command signal at 10,000 feet following a failure in the booster fuel system. The 23-second flight was considered a partial success.
1957 June 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). First test flight N-69E version of Snark..
1957 June 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC9.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho G-26.
FAILURE: One booster engine failed during ascent; did not achieve speed/altitude required for cruise stage ignition..
Failed Stage: 1.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 4 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
The missile launched from the repaired LC-9 on the third attempt. At T+42 seconds, Mach 1.63, and 7,000 m altitude, a fire occurred in the engine compartment after a failure of a regenerative cooling valve to the gas generator. The turbopump shut down, and one engine went out. Nevertheless the vehicle continued, first on one engine, then coasting, to 12,000 m altitude, and the booster separated successfully. But the cruise stage was below ramjet ignition velocity. Again ground control could bring the cruise stage under control as a glider, flying it to an impact 87 km downrange
1957 July 16 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1957 July 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 July 18 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1957 July 22 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1957 July 22 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Vehicle:
X-17.
- Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 114 km (70 mi).
1957 July 30 - .
18:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
FAILURE: Failure.
- UM AM6.32 Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 25 km (15 mi).
1957 August 6 - .
15:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee AJ10-34.
- Solar ultraviolet spectrum Solar ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 145 km (90 mi).
1957 August 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC10.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho G-26.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 5 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 25 km (15 mi).
After a 15 hour 18 minute countdown G-26 number four finally left the pad. The boost phase was completed successfully; but then a guidance system malfunction prevented the cruise stage from separating from the booster until an altitude of 25 km was reached. However the autopilot successfully overcome drastic pitch oscillations created by the lofted trajectory, and the ramjets were successfully ignited. The stage cruised at Mach 2.93 for 280 km. However then the vehicle began drifting off course. The ground pilot banked, but the fuselage screened the airflow to the left ramjet intake, resulting in that engine flaming out. The vehicle lost speed and altitude, and the right engine flamed out a minute later. The missile was ordered into a terminal dive, impacting 425 km downrange.
1957 August 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1957 August 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 August 19 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Na - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 178 km (110 mi). [Or Sep 19?].
1957 August 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 August 27 - .
16:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Auroral particles Aurora mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
1957 August 28 - .
21:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26A.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
The fourth Jupiter was fired from AMR at 1602 hours EST over IRBM range and was the second successful flight of the series. The range error was 27.5 nm with a 36.5 nm lateral error. Range was predicted for 146 nm. LOX was cut off at 170 seconds. All flight missions were fulfilled satisfactorily. Separation occurred 5 seconds after burnout, as programmed, This was the first test of separation of body from thrust unit.
1957 August 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1957 August 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Series I research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). The fourth Thor (#104) missile broke up and exploded 96 seconds into its flight. .
1957 August 31 - .
04:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Auroral particles Aurora mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 115 km (71 mi).
1957 September 1 - .
22:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee Hi.
- Ion probe Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 160 km (90 mi).
1957 September 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1957 September 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1957 September 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1957 September 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1957 September 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC9.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho G-26.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 6 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 23 km (14 mi).
The booster worked well, the cruise stage separated at 23.5 km altitude. The ramjets ignited, and the cruise stage accelerated to Mach 3.5. After 15 minutes, the missile began drifting off-course, and ground control took over and banked the missile. One of the ramjets flamed out, and the missile was commanded into a terminal dive and impacted 930 km downrange.
1957 September 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 September 19 - .
16:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Release A (Cs) Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1957 September 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
- Series I research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
First fully successful test flight of Thor intermediate range ballistic missile. (AF Ballistic Missiles Program Status Report.) After four failures, the fifth Thor flight test missile (#105) successfully demonstrated all on-board systems. The engine operated 137 seconds to automatic shutdown, and missile impacted 1,300 nautical miles down range from Cape Canaveral. Complete USAF Thor IRBM first successfully launched from Cape Canaveral. Dummy Warhead sent to 1800 km range.
1957 September 21 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1957 September 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1957 September 25 - .
Launch Site:
Eniwetok.
Launch Platform: Balloon.
Launch Vehicle:
Farside.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Shot 1 Test/Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1957 September 25 - .
19:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas A.
FAILURE: Failure in the booster fuel system..
Failed Stage: 1.
1957 September 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1957 September 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1957 October 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1957 October 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1957 October 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC2.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 October 3 - .
Launch Site:
Eniwetok.
Launch Platform: Balloon.
Launch Vehicle:
Farside.
- Shot 2 Test/Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 800 km (490 mi).
1957 October 3 - .
17:13 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Series I research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1957 October 7 - .
Launch Site:
Eniwetok.
Launch Platform: Balloon.
Launch Vehicle:
Farside.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Shot 3 Test/Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 700 km (430 mi).
1957 October 11 - .
Launch Site:
Eniwetok.
Launch Platform: Balloon.
Launch Vehicle:
Farside.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Shot 4 Test/Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 30 km (18 mi).
1957 October 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1957 October 11 - .
16:33 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
FAILURE: Turbopump gearbox failure..
- Series I research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). The second successful Thor flight test missile was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, and attained its design range of 1,500 miles. Thor missile launched at Cape Canaveral, the second tested, achieved its designed 1,500-mile range..
1957 October 14 - .
01:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1957 October 17 - .
05:13 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 87 km (54 mi).
USAF successfully launched pellets at a speed faster than 15 km/sec (some 3.5 km/sec faster than the velocity necessary to escape from the earth) by an Aerobee rocket to a height of 56 km; the nose section then ascended to a height of 87 km where shaped charges blasted the pellets into space. It is claimed that the Superschmidt Telescope at Sacremento Peak photographed the trajectory with a rotating shutter. These little metal pellets would therefore be the first objects to be shot into interplanetary space, months before the first launch to escape velocity (Luna 1, January 1959). But also see August 1957 nuclear test that may have blasted a manhole cover to escape velocity.
1957 October 20 - .
Launch Site:
Eniwetok.
Launch Platform: Balloon.
Launch Vehicle:
Farside.
- Shot 5 Test/Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 5,000 km (3,100 mi).
1957 October 22 - .
Launch Site:
Eniwetok.
Launch Platform: Balloon.
Launch Vehicle:
Farside.
- Shot 6 Test/Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 5,000 km (3,100 mi).
1957 October 23 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1957 October 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1957 October 23 - .
01:07 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26B.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
The fifth Jupiter was fired from the AMR at 2007 hours EST. This was the first flight with a heat protected nose cone. The ST-90 inertial guidance stabilised platform was operated with partially closed circuits. Cut-off was effected by the guidance system at 170.37 seconds. Since fuel was not depleted, flight time was 9.5 seconds longer than had been predicted for an approximate 1,100 nm range. The range error was 10.2 nm with a 3.4 nm lateral error. The nose cone survived re-entry and impacted in the general vicinity of the predicted impact point. Again, a successful flight.
1957 October 24 - .
16:32 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
- Series I research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). In its first long-range flight, a Thor missile launched from Cape Canaveral completed a 2,645-mile flight down the Atlantic Missile Range. Stripped down Thor long-range flight test successful from AMR, impacting 4400 km downrange..
1957 October 25 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1957 October 25 - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike Nike.
- GE RV Model test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 30 km (18 mi).
1957 October 31 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). Snark intercontinental missile launched from Cape Canaveral first flew 5,000 miles, to a target near Ascension Island..
1957 November 7 - .
16:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1957 November 8 - .
14:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1957 November 10 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1957 November 13 - .
17:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC9.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho G-26.
FAILURE: Destroyed by range safety after telemetry dropped out at T+75 seconds.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 7 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
The booster functioned well, and the cruise stage separated at 20.4 km altitude and Mach 3.24. The ramjets ignited, but before the ground knew that, the telemetry dropped out completely due to a faulty voltage regulator on the missile. Range safety ordered the missile's self destruction at T+75 seconds.
1957 November 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1957 November 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1957 November 19 - .
16:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Release 1, KNO3-Al Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 121 km (75 mi).
1957 November 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 November 26 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1957 November 27 - .
02:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26B.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
FAILURE: At 202 seconds of flight mechanical failure of the turbo-pump caused a complete loss of thrust..
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
Fired from AMR at 2110 hours EST. Main stage, lift-off, and powered flight were normal. The missile passed through the critical dynamic pressure period and followed the prescribed trajectory until 202 seconds of flight when the engine thrust was terminated. From an analysis covering the period before thrust termination, mechanical failure of the turbo-pump stopped the flow of propellants to the combustion chamber causing a complete loss of thrust. Telemetry signals ceased at 232 seconds. The missile was at an altitude of 65,000 feet when an explosion was observed from the Test Centre above the horizon. The long range mission of this flight was not accomplished; however, other primary and secondary missions were considered successful.
1957 December 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1957 December 7 - .
22:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
- Research and development Series II test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1957 December 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1957 December 10 - .
17:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Ionosphere / fields mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 145 km (90 mi).
1957 December 16 - .
00:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 9.00 km (5.50 mi).
1957 December 17 - .
17:39 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas A.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 120 km (70 mi).
The third flight test missile (12A) became the first successful Atlas Series A missile flight. A short-range, booster-only flight was completed with the booster impacting 575 miles down range from Cape Canaveral. During the flight, all systems performed satisfactorily. First successful test firing of USAF Atlas ICBM, the missile landing in the target area after a flight of 600 miles.
1957 December 19 - .
00:07 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26B.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
FAILURE: Thrust ended abruptly at 116.87 seconds of flight due to turbo-pump malfunction..
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Fired from AMR at 1507 hours EST. The main-stage, lift-off, and powered flight were normal. The missile followed the prescribed trajectory. Thrust ended abruptly at 116.87 seconds of flight which resulted in a short-range impact. Failure was again attributed to turbo-pump malfunction. The long-range mission. was not accomplished; however, other primary and secondary missions were successfully accomplished. The abrupt shutdown of the power plant resulted in a range of approximately 149 nm and an altitude of approximately 50 nm.
1957 December 19 - .
20:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
- Research and development Series II test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
The eighth Thor flight test missile, the fourth success, completed the first fully-guided flight using an all-inertial guidance and control system. A Thor missile, the eighth tested and the fourth successfully, completed the first fully-guided Thor IRBM flight using an all-inertial guidance system.
1958 January 8 - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 145 km (90 mi).
1958 January 9 - .
15:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Test / solar ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 15 km (9 mi).
1958 January 10 - .
15:48 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC12.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas A.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 120 km (70 mi). A successful limited flight was made by the fourth Atlas fired from Cape Canaveral..
1958 January 10 - .
19:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC9.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho G-26.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 8 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 22 km (13 mi).
The booster functioned well, the cruise stage separated at 22 km and Mach 3.15. The ramjets ignited and the cruise stage flew at a sustained speed of Mach 2.8 for forty minutes over a distance of 2000 km. Then the vehicle began a turn for the return to the Cape for recovery. However it seemed the turn was not fast enough; ground control took over, and yet again the right ramjet flamed out in a ground-piloted bank. The missile was commanded into a terminal dive at sea.
1958 January 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 January 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1958 January 25 - .
19:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 157 km (97 mi).
1958 January 27 - .
06:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Sphere? Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 129 km (80 mi).
1958 January 28 - .
20:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development Series II test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). Thor IRBM successfully fired from Cape Canaveral, flew prescribed course, and impacted in preselected area..
1958 January 29 - .
19:06 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 170 km (100 mi).
1958 February 7 - .
19:37 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas A.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 120 km (70 mi).
1958 February 13 - .
06:37 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Auroral particles Aurora mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 129 km (80 mi).
1958 February 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1958 February 16 - .
06:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Auroral particles Aurora mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 121 km (75 mi).
1958 February 20 - .
17:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC12.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas A.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
1958 February 22 - .
05:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Auroral particles Aurora mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 129 km (80 mi).
1958 February 24 - .
07:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 145 km (90 mi).
1958 February 26 - .
05:49 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Auroral particles Aurora mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 129 km (80 mi).
1958 February 26 - .
17:22 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC9.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho G-26.
FAILURE: Booster shut down at T+20 seconds..
Failed Stage: 1.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 9 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 2.00 km (1.20 mi). The booster shut down at T+20 seconds in the flight. The vehicle was self-destructed by range safety before separation of the cruise stage had occurred..
1958 February 28 - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike Nike.
- GE RV Model test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 30 km (18 mi).
1958 February 28 - .
13:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development Series II test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). Copper heatsink nose cone.
1958 March 4 - .
06:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1958 March 4 - .
19:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 181 km (112 mi).
1958 March 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1958 March 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1958 March 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1958 March 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1958 March 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1958 March 18 - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Apache.
- Solar ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 107 km (66 mi). First Nike Apache flight..
1958 March 19 - .
01:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- NO / O2 composition Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1958 March 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 March 21 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1958 March 24 - .
18:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Horizon imaging Aeronomy / imaging mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 119 km (73 mi).
1958 March 24 - .
22:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Pressure Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 137 km (85 mi).
1958 April 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 April 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1958 April 5 - .
17:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas A.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). USAF Atlas A ICBM was flown from Cape Canaveral, Fla., to the impact area some 600 miles away..
1958 April 19 - .
13:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development Series II test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1958 April 24 - .
00:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Able.
FAILURE: Thor turbopump gearbox failed T+146 sec..
Failed Stage: 1.
- Able RTV re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft: Man-In-Space-Soonest.
Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
The first Thor/Able missile, a special test vehicle designed to examine an improved General Electric lightweight, ablative nose cone at full ICBM ranges failed. Mouse 'Mia' not recovered. This was the first small beginning of a research program to determine the requirements of a space life support system. (Msg SAFIS-3C 47151, SAF to AFBMD, 29 Apr 58.)
1958 April 24 - .
16:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 167 km (103 mi).
1958 May 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 May 1 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1958 May 6 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1958 May 18 - .
05:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26B.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Gaslight Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
AM-5, carrying America's first tactical type re-entry nose cone, was fired from AMR at 0005 hours EST. This was also the first flight test. for first and second stage separation. Impact was 28.3 nm under and 15.6 nm to the right at a range of about 1,275 nm after approximately 960 seconds of flight. In less than five hours, the nose cone was recovered - the world's first recovery of an IRBM nose cone.
1958 May 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 May 20 - .
09:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Release 2 Cs / Na Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 101 km (62 mi).
1958 May 21 - .
11:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Release 3 Cs / Na Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 128 km (79 mi).
1958 May 22 - .
11:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Release 4 (Na) Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 116 km (72 mi).
1958 May 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Platform: B-47.
Launch Vehicle:
Bold Orion.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi).
1958 May 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1958 June 3 - .
21:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC12.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas A.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 120 km (70 mi).
The final Series A Atlas missile (16A) was launched from Cape Canaveral. Of the eight research and development launches, five had been failures, but each had provided vast quantities of important data. Last Atlas A flight, considered fully successful. Four of the eight flights were considered successful.
1958 June 4 - .
15:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee Hi.
- Solar extreme ultraviolet Spectrum Solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1958 June 4 - .
21:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
- Research and development Series III test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
The first Air Force Thor IRBM flight test missile (Number 115) to be fired from a tactical-type launcher was launched at Cape Canaveral. The missile completed a successful flight, impacting 1,170 nautical miles downrange. This was also the first Thor to be launched without a flight readiness firing of its propulsion system. USAF Thor flight tested for the first time from a tactical-type launcher at Cape Canaveral.
1958 June 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 June 13 - .
15:06 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
- Research and development Series III test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1958 June 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 June 25 - .
- Man-In-Space-Soonest - .
Crew: Armstrong,
Bridgeman,
Crossfield,
Kincheloe,
McKay,
Rushworth,
Walker, Joseph,
White, Alvin,
White, Robert.
Nation: USA.
Related Persons: Armstrong,
Bridgeman,
Crossfield,
Kincheloe,
McKay,
Rushworth,
Walker, Joseph,
White, Alvin,
White, Robert.
Agency: USAF.
Flight: Man-In-Space-Soonest.
Spacecraft Bus: Man-In-Space-Soonest.
Spacecraft: Project 7969,
Mercury.
In a US Air Force briefing a preliminary astronaut selection for the Man-In-Space Soonest project is made. The list consisted of USAF test pilots Robert Walker, Scott Crossfield, Neil Armstrong, Robert Rushworth, William Bridgeman, Alvin White, Iven Kincheloe, Robert White, and Jack McKay. This was the first preliminary astronaut selection in history. The project was cancelled when NASA was formed in and took responsibility for all manned space flight on 1 August 1958. Prospective contractors estimated it would take from 12 to 30 months to put the first American in orbit. In retrospect the orbital flight portion of NASA's Mercury program was paced by the availability of the Atlas booster. Therefore it is unlikely Man-in-Space-Soonest would have put an American in orbit any earlier than Mercury.
1958 June 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 June 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC2.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1958 June 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Platform: B-47.
Launch Vehicle:
Bold Orion.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1958 July 3 - .
18:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Charge density Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 262 km (162 mi).
1958 July 6 - .
12:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Charge density Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 250 km (150 mi).
1958 July 7 - .
18:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Horizon imaging Aeronomy / imaging mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 121 km (75 mi).
1958 July 10 - .
02:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Able.
- Able RTV re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
Mouse 'Mia II' reached 1600 km altitude, flew 9600 km range, but re-entry vehicle not recovered. The second Air Force Thor/Able reentry (nose cone) test vehicle, testing a GE ablation-type nose cone, was launched from Cape Canaveral on a 6,000-mile flight down the Atlantic Missile Range. This was the first U.S. reentry vehicle to make a full-range ICBM flight and reentry.
1958 July 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 July 11 - .
18:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Charge density Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 243 km (150 mi).
1958 July 12 - .
20:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Horizon imaging Aeronomy / imaging mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 114 km (70 mi).
1958 July 13 - .
06:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
- Research and development Series III test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1958 July 15 - .
20:07 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 126 km (78 mi).
1958 July 16 - .
22:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- B / ne probe Fields mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 142 km (88 mi).
1958 July 17 - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 July 17 - .
07:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 169 km (105 mi).
1958 July 17 - .
09:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26B.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Gaslight Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 0404 hours EST to a pre-calculated range of 1,241.3 nm. The nose cone impacted 1.0 nm short and 1.5 nm to the right of the predicted impact point. This was the first flight test of the complete inertial guidance system. The nose cone recovery mission was successful. This was also the second successful flight test of a full scale tactical type nose cone, as well as a successful flight test of the Jupiter lightweight, high explosive warhead.
1958 July 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Platform: B-47.
Launch Vehicle:
Bold Orion.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1958 July 19 - .
17:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas B.
FAILURE: Flight Control Failure.
Failed Stage: G.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
The initial Atlas Series B missile flight test vehicle (3B) malfuncticr.ed and broke up 60 seconds after launch from the Air Force Missile Test Center at Cape Canaveral. To the basic Series A airframe, the Series B missiles added the complete North American Aviation MA-1 propulsion cluster of booster and sustainer engines, General Electric's Mod II airborne radio inertial guidance system (open loop), and GE's Mark II nose cone. First full-powered flight of USAF Atlas B ICBM using both the sustainer and booster engines. 'Marginally successful'.
1958 July 23 - .
22:13 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Able.
- Able RTV re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
In its second successful flight test, the Thor/Able (Number 1.19) advanced reentry test vehicle demonstrated proper reentry of the advanced General Electric ablative nose cone during a 5,300-mile test flight. Two successful tests established the two-stage Thor/Able as a reliable vehicle for further special test programs. This allowed the Air Force and other government agencies to complete plans for more advanced space programs. Mouse 'Wickie' not recovered; nose cone lost.
1958 July 26 - .
06:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development Series III test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1958 August 1 - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 750 km (460 mi). In 3-week period, 19 five-stage Argo E5 sounding rockets were launched in USAF-NACA program to measure radiation caused by Project Argus, rockets reaching 500-mile altitude and were launched from Wallops Island, AMR, and Ramey AFB, Puerto Rico..
1958 August 2 - .
22:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas B.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 900 km (550 mi).
The first successful flight test of a Series B Atlas missile. This was also the first successful staging of a long-range missile. (AF Ballistic Missiles Program Status Report.) Flight test missile 4B was the first Atlas Series B missile to be launched successfully and the first ICBM to complete staging. Its 2,500-mile powered flight was the first time that the MA-1 propulsion cluster operated for the planned duration of flight. Second full-powered flight of USAF Atlas ICBM traveled 2,500 miles with radio-inertial guidance, fully successful.
1958 August 6 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18.
- Research and development Series III test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). The last of 18 Thor research and development flight test missiles was launched from Cape Canaveral. Only seven of the 18 launches were categorized as successes while 11 were failures. .
1958 August 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). First launching of USAF Bomarc interceptor missile from Cape Canaveral on a signal sent by the SAGE Control Center at Kingston, N.Y..
1958 August 13 - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1958 August 14 - .
13:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 132 km (82 mi).
1958 August 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 August 15 - .
04:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC10.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 693 km (430 mi).
1958 August 15 - .
15:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Test / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1958 August 17 - .
12:18 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Able I.
FAILURE: Thor exploded after 77 sec..
Failed Stage: 1.
- Pioneer (1) - .
Payload: Pioneer / Able 1. Mass: 38 kg (83 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Pioneer.
Class: Moon.
Type: Lunar probe. Spacecraft: Pioneer 0-1-2.
Decay Date: 1958-08-17 . Apogee: 16 km (9 mi).
An Air Force Thor/Able It launch vehicle, carrying the first U.S. International Geophysical Year (IGY) lunar payload, exploded 77 seconds after liftoff from Cape Canaveral because of a first-stage engine failure. First US lunar attempt. The first US Air Force lunar probe, using a Thor-Able booster. An explosion ripped it apart 77 seconds after launch.
1958 August 20 - .
11:27 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Ramey.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 800 km (490 mi).
1958 August 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 August 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC2.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1958 August 25 - .
18:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 800 km (490 mi).
1958 August 27 - .
03:33 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC10.
Launch Pad: LC10?.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 937 km (582 mi).
1958 August 27 - .
04:24 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Ramey.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 800 km (490 mi).
1958 August 27 - .
06:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Ramey.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 817 km (507 mi).
1958 August 27 - .
07:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 800 km (490 mi).
1958 August 27 - .
23:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26A.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 1815 hours EST. The countdown was normal. Operations were interrupted by one hold -- a 15 minute delay for minor adjustments. Ignition, main-stage, and lift-off were normal. The missile followed the pre-selected trajectory closely during powered flight, though cut-off was effected by fuel depletion rather than by pre-set guidance cut-off. The nose cone impacted 39 nm short and 15.7 nm to the left of the pre-calculated range of 1,246 nm. Jupiter 7 was the first flight test of the warhead and fuse system. This also marked the second flight test of the :Jupiter all-inertial guidance system, the fourth flight test of the NAA S-3D engine operating at 150,000 pounds thrust, and the first flight test of the solid propellant spin rocket and vernier motor.
1958 August 29 - .
04:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas B.
- Research and development / AFSWC-1 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 900 km (550 mi).
1958 August 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1958 August 30 - .
03:48 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 817 km (507 mi).
1958 August 30 - .
04:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC10.
Launch Pad: LC10?.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 878 km (545 mi).
1958 August 30 - .
05:18 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 830 km (510 mi).
1958 August 30 - .
05:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Ramey.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 825 km (512 mi).
1958 August 30 - .
06:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC10.
Launch Pad: LC10?.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 699 km (434 mi).
1958 August 30 - .
07:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 815 km (506 mi).
1958 August 30 - .
22:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 745 km (462 mi).
1958 August 30 - .
23:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Ramey.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 800 km (490 mi).
1958 August 31 - .
00:07 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC10.
Launch Pad: LC10?.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 800 km (490 mi).
1958 September 2 - .
19:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Ramey.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 800 km (490 mi).
1958 September 2 - .
20:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 789 km (490 mi).
1958 September 2 - .
22:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC10.
Launch Pad: LC10?.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Jason sounding rocket.
- Nuclear test observation mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 789 km (490 mi).
1958 September 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4A.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 September 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W.
Launch Platform: B-58.
Launch Vehicle:
High Virgo.
- High Virgo satellite interceptor mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Type: ASAT. Apogee: 13 km (8 mi).
1958 September 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC9.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho G-26.
FAILURE: Booster performed well, but cruise stage never ignited due to fuel system failure..
- Navaho G-26 Flight 10 RISE-1 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 25 km (15 mi).
North American had received funding to fly seven surplus G-26 missiles in a program dubbed RISE (Research Into Supersonic Environment), ostensibly to obtain real-world data on Mach 3 flight for the F-108 interceptor and B-70 bomber that they were developing for the USAF. On this first attempt, the booster performed well, but after separation the cruise stage fuel system failed, and ramjet ignition never occurred. The cruise stage impacted 150 km downrange.
1958 September 14 - .
05:24 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas B.
- Research and development / AFSWC-2 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 900 km (550 mi).
1958 September 15 - .
16:32 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Release 5 (Cs) Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 82 km (50 mi).
1958 September 16 - .
16:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Release 6 (Cs) 69km Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
1958 September 18 - .
16:49 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Release 7 (Cs) Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 91 km (56 mi).
1958 September 18 - .
21:27 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas B.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1958 September 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC2.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1958 September 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 September 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral RW30/12.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 Drone BOMARC target mission 1 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
The remaining X-10's were expended as targets for Bomarc and Nike antiaircraft missiles. The X-10 flew out over the ocean, then accelerated toward the Cape at supersonic speed. A Bomarc A missile came within lethal miss distance. The X-10 then autolanded on the Skid Strip, but both the drag chute and landing barrier failed. The vehicle ran off the runway and exploded.
1958 September 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Platform: B-47.
Launch Vehicle:
Bold Orion.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1958 September 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
Launch Vehicle:
Goose.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 September 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC22.
Launch Vehicle:
Goose.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 October 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Platform: B-47.
Launch Vehicle:
Bold Orion.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1958 October 10 - .
03:49 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26B.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
FAILURE: Destroyed after 49 seconds of erratic flight caused by fire in the tail section..
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
Fired from AMR at 2249 hours EST. The missile was destroyed after 49 seconds of erratic flight caused by fire in the tail section. The fire was believed to have started by a pin-hole leak near the thrust transducer which burned through the fuel and LOX transducer lines. This was the first Jupiter missile to use swivelled turbine exhaust for roll contral, also first use of solid vernier control.
1958 October 14 - .
12:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 137 km (85 mi).
1958 October 15 - .
01:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee Hi.
- Vehicle test / aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 156 km (96 mi).
1958 October 15 - .
04:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 151 km (93 mi).
1958 October 18 - .
03:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 143 km (88 mi).
1958 October 20 - .
22:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Ionospheric Te Aeronomy / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 130 km (80 mi).
1958 October 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 October 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4A.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 October 22 - .
03:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 158 km (98 mi).
1958 October 22 - .
14:22 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1958 October 22 - .
16:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 300.
FAILURE: Shut down early by range safety when the missile went off course..
- Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 177 km (109 mi). First flight of the Aerobee 300 / Spaerobee. The Aerobee was shut down early by range safety when the missile went off course..
1958 October 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1958 October 25 - .
19:27 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 300.
- Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 418 km (259 mi).
1958 October 31 - .
20:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Arctic cloud cover Meteorological / imaging mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 119 km (73 mi).
1958 November 3 - .
12:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Guam.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 75.
- Grenades Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 54 km (33 mi).
1958 November 4 - .
16:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Arctic cloud cover Meteorological / imaging mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 122 km (75 mi).
1958 November 5 - .
08:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). The initial launch of an operationally configured Thor IRBM (SM-75) was conducted at Cape Canaveral, but the missile had to be destroyed at T+35 seconds after the pitch attitude gyro malfunctioned. .
1958 November 7 - .
12:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Guam.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 75.
- Grenades Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 59 km (36 mi).
1958 November 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1958 November 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1958 November 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1958 November 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral RW30/12.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 Drone BOMARC target mission 2 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
The X-10 flew out over the ocean, then accelerated toward the Cape. However the Bomarc A failed to launch. Autoland was successful, but again the drag chute and landing barrier both failed, and the vehicle burned after overrunning the runway..
1958 November 13 - .
17:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Arctic cloud cover Meteorological / imaging mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 119 km (73 mi).
1958 November 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC22.
Launch Vehicle:
Goose.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 November 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Platform: B-47.
Launch Vehicle:
Bold Orion.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1958 November 18 - .
04:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas B.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 800 km (490 mi).
1958 November 18 - .
16:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Arctic cloud cover Meteorological / imaging mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 116 km (72 mi).
1958 November 18 - .
21:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC9.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho G-26.
FAILURE: Disintegrated at moment of booster shutdown..
Failed Stage: 1.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 11 RISE-2 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 23 km (14 mi). The vehicle disintegrated at 23.5 km altitude at the time of booster shutdown and cruse stage separation. The USAF canceled further RISE flights and this definitively marked the end of the Navaho..
1958 November 19 - .
21:51 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- B / ne probe Fields mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 140 km (80 mi).
1958 November 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 November 22 - .
17:06 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Guam.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 75.
- Grenades Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 59 km (36 mi).
1958 November 23 - .
22:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Atmospheric pressure, rho values Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 131 km (81 mi).
1958 November 24 - .
08:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 13 km (8 mi).
1958 November 26 - .
09:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). First operational launch.
1958 November 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC22.
Launch Vehicle:
Goose.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 November 29 - .
02:27 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas B.
- Research and development / AFSWC-3 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 900 km (550 mi). Less than 18 months after the first flight, a USAF Atlas made its first successful full-range operational test flight in a 6,325 statute-mile flight, landed close to its target..
1958 November 30 - .
18:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 300.
- Te probe Test / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 304 km (188 mi).
1958 November 30 - .
22:27 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- B / ne probe Fields mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 152 km (94 mi).
1958 December 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1958 December 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1958 December 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1958 December 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1958 December 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
Launch Vehicle:
Goose.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 December 6 - .
00:41 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1958 December 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Platform: B-47.
Launch Vehicle:
Bold Orion.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1958 December 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1958 December 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 December 13 - .
08:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26B.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Bioflight 1 Biological mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Gordo launched into space. Fired from AMR at 0353 hours EST. The missile's nose cone impacted in the pre-selected target area at a range of approximately 1,302 nm. The significant mission of the missile was the flight of a South American squirrel monkey `Gordo' up to and down from outer space. Although nose cone recovery efforts failed because the float mechanism attached to the nose cone did not function, telemetry data provided useful biomedical information and disclosed that the Navy-trained squirrel monkey had withstood the space flight and reentry phase without any adverse physiological effects. Gordo was in a weightless state for 8.3 minutes, he experienced a 10g pressure in takeoff, and a 40g pressure upon reentry at 10,000 miles per hour. The flight was considered one of the outstanding achievements of space research. The impact was 5.2 nm over and 0.75 nm to the right of impact point. The overshoot was caused by interaction which occurred at separation between the booster and aft sections. A temporary cable connecting the two bodies had not been removed prior to launch.
1958 December 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Platform: B-47.
Launch Vehicle:
Bold Orion.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1958 December 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1958 December 16 - .
23:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). Two Thor shots, one from Cape Canaveral and one from Vandenberg AFB, were successful. Intermediate range ballistic missile portion of PMR was inaugurated with successful firing of USAF Thor from Vandenberg AFB..
1958 December 17 - .
04:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1958 December 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 December 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W.
Launch Platform: B-58.
Launch Vehicle:
High Virgo.
- High Virgo satellite interceptor mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 76 km (47 mi).
1958 December 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1958 December 24 - .
04:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC12.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas C.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 900 km (550 mi). First Atlas C flight (3C), successful..
1958 December 31 - .
02:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
1959 January 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 January 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 January 16 - .
04:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas B.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1959 January 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
FAILURE: Launch vehicle failure..
Failed Stage: U.
- Thor Agena test - .
Mass: 779 kg (1,717 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
COSPAR: F590121A. First flight test of Thor-Agena for KH program..
1959 January 22 - .
00:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC5.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Tactical test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Tactical Test. The first Chrysler production qualification missile was fired from AMR at 1910 hours EST. The nose cone impacted in the pre-selected target area at a range of 1,302 nm. Miss distance was 3 nm over and 1 nm to the left of the target. The overshoot was caused by failure of the vernier engine to cut off high resistance of the squib firing circuit. Primary missions were successfully accomplished.
1959 January 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Able II.
- RVX-1 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1959 January 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Able II.
FAILURE: Failure.
- RVX-1 Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1959 January 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral RW30/12.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 Drone BOMARC target mission 3 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
The X-10 was launched with only one electrical generator due to a lack of any remaining spares. As it headed out over the ocean, that generator failed. It lost all electrical power, and crashed into the ocean 105 km downrange..
1959 January 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4A.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1959 January 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1959 January 27 - .
23:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC12.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas C.
- Mod II re-entry vehicle research and development mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 990 km (610 mi).
1959 January 30 - .
23:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 February 4 - .
08:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas B.
- Research and development / AFSWC-4? test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 990 km (610 mi). Last Atlas B flight, fully successful.
1959 February 5 - .
14:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 212 km (131 mi).
1959 February 6 - .
21:22 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC15.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). First test launch of USAF Titan ICBM (A-3) from Cape Canaveral. Dummy second stage (500 km range)..
1959 February 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1959 February 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1959 February 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC10.
LV Family:
Sergeant.
Launch Vehicle:
Draco.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 30 km (18 mi).
1959 February 20 - .
05:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC12.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas C.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1959 February 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 February 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 February 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 February 25 - .
19:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC15.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1959 February 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 February 27 - .
15:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 210 km (130 mi).
1959 February 27 - .
23:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26B.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 1850 hours EST. The primary mission of impacting the nose cone in a pre-calculated target (MILS Network) was successfully accomplished, The nose cone impacted in the 1,302 nm target area, 2.8 nm over, with no lateral deviations. Again, the vernier engine ran to cut-off rather than the commanded 14 seconds -- a near perfect flight. For the first rime, missile roll was controlled by a turbine exhaust nozzle designed to eliminate problems experienced on previous flights.
1959 February 28 - .
07:58 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Able II.
- RVX-1 Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
In the first use of a Thor as a space booster, the world's first polar orbiting satellite, Discoverer I, was launched by a Thor/Agena (Thor 163) booster combination from Vandenberg AFB. The mission was also the first successful flight test of Lockheed's Agena A upper stage vehicle designed for orbiting U.S. satellite systems.
1959 March 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1959 March 10 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 11 km (6 mi). X-15 captive flight.
1959 March 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1959 March 12 - .
15:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee Hi.
- Solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 210 km (130 mi).
1959 March 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC10.
LV Family:
Sergeant.
Launch Vehicle:
Draco.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 30 km (18 mi).
1959 March 19 - .
00:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC12.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas C.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- RVX-2 re-entry vehicle research and development mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 March 21 - .
06:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Able II.
- RVX-1 Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 March 22 - .
00:58 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 March 27 - .
04:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 March 30 - .
15:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Solar extreme ultraviolet Spectrum Solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 201 km (124 mi).
1959 March 31 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1959 April 1 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 11 km (6 mi).
1959 April 3 - .
17:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC15.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1959 April 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W.
Launch Platform: B-47.
Launch Vehicle:
Bold Orion.
- Interceptor mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 April 4 - .
00:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26B.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 1934 hours EST. The primary mission of impacting a nose cone in a pre-calculated target area (MILS Network) was successfully accomplished with an impact of 0.8 nm under end 5.0 nm to the left of the 1,302 nm range. The lateral miss was believed to have been caused by a drifting gyro.
1959 April 6 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). First operational test flight of Snark..
1959 April 7 - .
14:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 317 km (196 mi).
1959 April 8 - .
06:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Able II.
- RVX-1 Reentry test / particles mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,230 km (760 mi).
A Thor/Able reentry test vehicle launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, completed a successful flight down the Atlantic Missile Range. The reentry body of the Thor/Able was recovered at the far end of the range in the South Atlantic. This was the first recovery of an ablative nose cone following an ICBM-range flight.
1959 April 10 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 11 km (6 mi).
1959 April 14 - .
21:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).
The first Atlas D model flight test missile (3D) had to be destroyed 36 seconds into flight due to a severe engine malfunction and explosions. In addition to other changes, the D series replaced the MA-1 engine package with the Rocketdyne MA-2. The booster engines in the MA-2 produced 309,000 pounds of thrust versus 300,000 pounds for the MA-1. Sustainer engine thrust remained 57,000 pounds. With verniers, total thrust for the MA-2 was 368,000 pounds compared to 357,000 for the MA-1 engine package.
1959 April 15 - .
14:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1959 April 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1959 April 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1959 April 21 - .
01:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 235 km (146 mi).
1959 April 22 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 April 22 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 April 22 - .
19:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1959 April 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 April 23 - .
Launch Site:
Grand Turk Island.
Launch Complex:
Grand Turk Island DZ.
Launch Platform: B-52.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). First Hound Dog test launch..
1959 April 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 April 23 - .
05:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). Fourth recovery of a data capsule at AMR, USAF Thor 1,500-mile accuracy test flight..
1959 April 25 - .
05:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 April 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC10.
LV Family:
Sergeant.
Launch Vehicle:
Draco.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1959 May 4 - .
18:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC15.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Successful dummy second stage separation..
1959 May 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1959 May 5 - .
01:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee AJ10-34.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 132 km (82 mi).
1959 May 7 - .
01:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26B.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 2047 hours EST. All primary missions were essentially successful, although the impact was 69 nm short and 4.9 nm to the right of the 1,302 nm predicted impact point. This undershoot was due to thrust controller deviation which commanded the exceedingly high thrust level during the main power flight pre-selected flight path. Cut-off occurred at 144 seconds of flight.
1959 May 12 - .
11:39 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 145 km (90 mi).
1959 May 12 - .
17:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 May 14 - .
05:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC5.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
1959 May 19 - .
04:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).
1959 May 21 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 11 km (6 mi).
1959 May 21 - .
01:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Fields mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 73 km (45 mi).
1959 May 21 - .
06:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Able II.
- RVX-1 Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 May 22 - .
11:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1959 May 23 - .
02:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 May 23 - .
14:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Fields mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 73 km (45 mi).
1959 May 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1959 May 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1959 May 27 - .
04:51 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 169 km (105 mi).
1959 May 27 - .
19:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 177 km (109 mi).
1959 May 28 - .
07:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26B.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Bioflight 2 Test/Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 483 km (300 mi).
Able and Baker recovered after spaceflight. Fired from AMR at 0235 hours EST. The flight was successful with impact ranging from 0.1 to 0.4 nm from the target. The missile travelled a 1,302 nm range. The significant mission of the missile was to test the effects of cosmic radiation, increased gravity, and weightlessness on live passengers and biomedical experiments of material housed in the nose cone. On board were an American-born rhesus monkey, Able; a squirrel monkey, Baker; and the biomedical experiments -- yeast , corn, mustard seeds, fruit-fly larvae, human blood, mould spore, and fish eggs. Able and Baker were recovered unharmed within one and one-half hours after lift-off. This milestone marked the first recovery of living creatures from a flight through near space. The biomedical experiments were for NASA analysis. Telemetry data disclosed that the responses of the animals were normal for the conditions they were experiencing. During the boost phase, when the higher g-loads were being sustained, body temperature, respiration, pulse rate, and heartbeat rose but were well within tolerable limits. During the weightless period along the trajectory arc, the physiological responses of Able and Baker approached normal - so near, in fact, that according to telemetry data, Baker appeared either to doze or to become drowsy. Upon reentry, the responses rose again, but at landing the animals were nearing a settled physiological state. This flight was another milestone proving that life could be sustained in a space environment.
1959 June 3 - .
20:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
FAILURE: Failure.
- SRV - .
Mass: 779 kg (1,717 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
1959 June 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W.
Launch Platform: B-58.
Launch Vehicle:
High Virgo.
- High Virgo satellite interceptor mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 51 km (31 mi).
1959 June 6 - .
17:39 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
1959 June 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W.
Launch Platform: B-47.
Launch Vehicle:
Bold Orion.
- Interceptor mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1959 June 8 - .
16:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 11 km (6 mi). First flight for X-15 # 1. Planned glide flight. Maximum Speed - 840 kph. Maximum Altitude - 11445 m. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1959 June 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1959 June 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 June 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 June 10 - .
16:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 225 km (139 mi).
1959 June 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 June 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 June 11 - .
06:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Able II.
- RVX-1 Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 June 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Platform: B-47.
Launch Vehicle:
Bold Orion.
- Interceptor mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1959 June 22 - .
14:32 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Solar infrared mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 110 km (60 mi).
1959 June 24 - .
12:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Holloman.
Launch Complex:
Holloman A.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 June 25 - .
22:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
FAILURE: Failure.
- SRV 102 - .
Mass: 779 kg (1,717 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
COSPAR: F590625B.
1959 June 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 June 27 - .
13:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Fields mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 61 km (37 mi).
1959 June 30 - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Dumbbell probe Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 83 km (51 mi).
1959 June 30 - .
02:37 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV Lofted Trajectory research and development mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1959 July 1 - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Tetrahedron probe Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 99 km (61 mi).
1959 July 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1959 July 10 - .
01:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26B.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 2001 hours EST to test missile accuracy. All primary and secondary missions were successfully accomplished and impact was well within 1 nm of the pre-selected point, approximately 1,302 nm downrange -- a miss distance of only 0.48 nm short and 0.09 nm to the right.
1959 July 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Pad: LC3/4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1959 July 21 - .
05:22 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC12.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas C.
- Research and development / AFSWC-5 test / particles mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 900 km (550 mi).
The first full-scale test of an ablation reentry vehicle (RVX-2) was conducted with the launch and successful flight of Atlas 8C. Following the 4,385 NM flight into the South Atlantic, the reentry vehicle was recovered. A full-scale USAF Atlas ICBM nose cone recovered for the first time after flight down the AMR.
1959 July 21 - .
07:33 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).
1959 July 24 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi). X-15 captive flight.
1959 July 24 - .
12:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). USAF Thor data capsule recovered near Antigua which contained movie film showing nose cone separation..
1959 July 29 - .
04:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). First Atlas successful D missile flight.After three consecutive failures (3D, 7D, and 5D), Atlas missile 11D became the first Series D flight test missile to complete a successful launch from Cape Canaveral..
1959 August 6 - .
02:48 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 August 11 - .
18:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1959 August 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC3.
Launch Pad: LC3/4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1959 August 13 - .
19:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
- Discoverer 5 Capsule - .
Payload: KH-1 9002 Capsule. Mass: 779 kg (1,717 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
Decay Date: 1961-02-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 26 . COSPAR: 1959-Epsilon-2. Apogee: 1,700 km (1,000 mi). Perigee: 218 km (135 mi). Inclination: 78.90 deg. Period: 104.30 min. KH-1; 1st generation low resolution photo surveillance; film capsule boosted into higher orbit, decayed 2/11/61. Mission failed. Power supply failure. No recovery..
1959 August 14 - .
09:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 August 14 - .
16:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC19.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
Titan missile B-5, scheduled to be the first fully powered-flight test missile, was heavily damaged when a faulty release mechanism allowed an earlier-than-planned liftoff that resulted in engine shutdown and the missile's dropping back on the launch pad.
1959 August 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1959 August 22 - .
00:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 230 km (140 mi).
1959 August 24 - .
15:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC12.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas C.
- Research and development / AFSWC-6 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
The final Atlas Series C missile, 11C, was fired from Cape Canaveral. Three of the six Atlas C research and development test missiles were successful, while the other three were failures. Last successful Atlas C flight (11C); 9C exploded one month later during the Able static firing.
1959 August 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 August 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 August 27 - .
01:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC5.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Short range research and development mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
A short range (300 nm) IRBM, was fired from AMR at 2030 hours EST. The nose cone impacted 0.03 nm short and, 0.22 nm to the right, of the intended target. This was the first Jupiter missile to be programmed for a short range flight. All primary and secondary missions were accomplished.
1959 August 27 - .
12:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 August 28 - .
18:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Extreme ultraviolet / RPA Ionosphere / solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 235 km (146 mi).
1959 September 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1959 September 4 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1959 September 9 - .
08:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Mercury BJ-1 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 153 km (95 mi).
A NASA boilerplate model of the Mercury capsule was launched atop Atlas 10D from Cape Canaveral. Although the range was less than planned due to failure of the Atlas booster engine section to separate, the capsule was recovered in the South Atlantic after surviving reentry heat of more than 10,000°F.
1959 September 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 September 15 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards TL1.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Silo test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
The first silo launch of a tethered, full-scale Minuteman missile was conducted at Edwards AFB, California, using dummy second and third stages. This was the first time in the Air Force ballistic missile program that the initial test of a missile was conducted on schedule. Fuel for 3 seconds only, tethered launch
1959 September 15 - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 September 15 - .
21:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26B.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
FAILURE: The flight was erratic at lift-off and the missile destroyed itself after 13 seconds, just before command destruct. Failure of a silver soldered connection joint to the pressure sphere caused destruction of the missile..
Failed Stage: G.
- Bioflight 3 Biological mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). Scheduled for launch at 0430 hours EST, was fired from AMR at 1645 hours EST. The nose cane housed several NASA biological specimens, including 14 mice..
1959 September 17 - .
02:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1959 September 17 - .
16:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Turbopump failure and fire..
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 15 km (9 mi). First flight for X-15 # 2. First powered flight. Maximum Speed - 2241 kph. Maximum Altitude - 15954 m. Turbopump case failure resulted in fire in engine compartment. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1959 September 18 - .
16:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1959 September 22 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W.
Launch Platform: B-58.
Launch Vehicle:
High Virgo.
FAILURE: Failure.
- High Virgo satellite interceptor mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 September 22 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 September 22 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 September 22 - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 100.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 110 km (60 mi).
1959 September 22 - .
18:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch/Ionosphere/Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 September 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC12.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas C Able.
FAILURE: Vehicle exploded on pad..
Failed Stage: 1.
1959 September 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1959 September 29 - .
10:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 124 km (77 mi).
1959 September 30 - .
10:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 122 km (75 mi).
1959 October 1 - .
01:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC6.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 2028 hours EST. The primary mission of impacting the nose cone in a pre-calculated target area was successfully accomplished . The missile covered a pre-calculated range of 1,299.4 nm, with the nose cone impacting within 1.25 nm of the predicted point. In addition to the usual ST-90 Stabiliser Platform, the missile carried a second system for relative accuracy and for drift investigations. It also housed a telemetry system. A significant mission was to determine environmental flight conditions.
1959 October 1 - .
10:49 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 138 km (85 mi).
1959 October 2 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards TL1.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Silo test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1959 October 2 - .
11:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 143 km (88 mi).
1959 October 3 - .
11:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 122 km (75 mi).
1959 October 5 - .
11:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 127 km (78 mi).
1959 October 6 - .
05:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Mk 3 Mod 1 re-entry vehicle research and development mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1959 October 6 - .
16:41 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch/Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 October 9 - .
08:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 143 km (88 mi).
1959 October 9 - .
11:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 143 km (88 mi).
1959 October 10 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1959 October 10 - .
03:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1959 October 10 - .
12:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee AJ10-34.
- Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 111 km (68 mi).
1959 October 12 - .
09:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 123 km (76 mi).
1959 October 12 - .
10:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 123 km (76 mi).
1959 October 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W.
Launch Platform: B-47.
Launch Vehicle:
Bold Orion.
- Interceptor mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 October 13 - .
11:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 116 km (72 mi).
1959 October 14 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1959 October 14 - .
04:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 October 15 - .
11:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 122 km (75 mi).
1959 October 16 - .
11:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 139 km (86 mi).
1959 October 17 - .
18:13 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Fire in engine bay, gear door failure..
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 18 km (11 mi). Maximum Speed - 2283 kph. Maximum Altitude - 18831 m. Nose gear door failed on landing. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1959 October 20 - .
14:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee AJ10-34.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 113 km (70 mi).
1959 October 22 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards TL1.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Silo test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1959 October 22 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1959 October 22 - .
03:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26A.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
The first full range tactical prototype, was fired from AMR at 2220 hours EST. All missions assigned to the flight was successfully accomplished. The missile covered a prescribed range of 1,600.448 nm, with the nose cone impacting 0.9 nm short and 0.6 nm to the right. This was the fourth Chrysler-assembled missile to be flight tested.
1959 October 25 - .
17:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 300.
- Utah ne probe Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 386 km (239 mi).
1959 October 26 - .
17:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1959 October 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 October 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 October 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1959 October 28 - .
14:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 300.
- Utah ne probe Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 135 km (83 mi).
1959 October 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC22.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 October 29 - .
02:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch/Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 October 29 - .
07:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). USAF Atlas successfully launched from Cape Canaveral carrying a nose-cone camera which took a series of photographs of the earth's cloud cover from a 300-mile altitude..
1959 October 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1959 October 31 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1959 November 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch/Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 November 4 - .
21:37 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1959 November 5 - .
00:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC6.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 1938 hours EST to a pre-selected range of 1,299.4 nm. The nose cone impacted 0.56 nm short and 0.09 nm right of the impact point. The test successfully accomplished all intended missions. This was the first highly successful, Chrysler-assembled Jupiter fired in the test program sad was the first fired without static firing.
1959 November 5 - .
17:39 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Engine fire and explosion, fuselage failure on landing..
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 13 km (8 mi). Engine fire; fuselage structural failure on landing. Aircraft returned to North American for rebuild. Maximum Speed - 1062 kph. Maximum Altitude - 13857 m. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1959 November 6 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC2.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1959 November 6 - .
16:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 300.
- Utah ne probe Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 393 km (244 mi).
1959 November 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 November 14 - .
22:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 300.
- GRD sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 138 km (85 mi).
1959 November 18 - .
19:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 206 km (128 mi).
1959 November 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 November 19 - .
01:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26B.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). Successfully fired from AMR at 2031 hours EST to a pre-calculated range of 664.8 nm. Nose cone impacted 0.9 nm over and 1.0 nm left of the target. This was the first medium range flight for a tactical prototype..
1959 November 19 - .
07:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
FAILURE: Failure.
- B field profile Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 106 km (65 mi).
1959 November 19 - .
10:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Diurnal density Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 119 km (73 mi).
1959 November 20 - .
18:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Diurnal density Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 119 km (73 mi).
1959 November 20 - .
19:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
- Discoverer 8 - .
Payload: KH-1 9005 / Agena A 1050. Mass: 795 kg (1,752 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
Decay Date: 1960-03-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 25 . COSPAR: 1959-Lambda-1. Apogee: 1,661 km (1,032 mi). Perigee: 186 km (115 mi). Inclination: 80.50 deg. Period: 103.50 min. KH-1; 1st generation low resolution photo surveillance; film capsule recovery failed. Mission failed. Eccentric orbit negating recovery..
1959 November 22 - .
18:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 300.
FAILURE: Failure.
- UM ionosphere probe Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 35 km (21 mi).
1959 November 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 November 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 November 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 November 24 - .
19:48 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1959 December 1 - .
17:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 December 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC22.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 December 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1959 December 9 - .
00:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1959 December 10 - .
00:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC6.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). Fired from AMR at 1908 hours EST. The original countdown of 480 minutes was shortened to 240 minutes. The flight was successful in all phases. The nose cone impacted 0.3 nm over and 2.0 nm right of the 2,299.4 nm range..
1959 December 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC2.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1959 December 12 - .
17:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC16.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
FAILURE: Exploded just above pad.
Failed Stage: 1.
- RVX-3 Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). The first flight testing of Titan staging and second stage engine ignition was unsuccessful when Titan C-3 exploded at liftoff due to a faulty relay in the command destruct system. First Titan ICBM launching testing second stage was unsuccessful at AMR..
1959 December 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1959 December 16 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1959 December 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch/Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). Flight testing of the Thor IRBM was completed with the launch of Thor 217 from Pad 18B at Cape Canaveral, Florida. .
1959 December 17 - .
00:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26B.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). Fired from AMR at 1903 hours EST to a prescribed distance of 300 nm. The flight was successful in all phases. Impact was 0.3 nm to the right of the 300 nm range. .
1959 December 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1959 December 19 - .
00:48 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Atlas ICBM made second successful 6,325-mile flight at AMR..
1959 December 22 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards TL1.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Silo test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1959 December 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 January 7 - .
01:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). 43D achieved a 6300 NM (7200 SM) flight from AMR with enough residual fuel for an additional 2000 miles.
1960 January 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 January 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 January 14 - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 300.
- Signals intelligence test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1960 January 14 - .
16:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18C.
- Special test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1960 January 19 - .
18:18 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Extreme ultraviolet monochromator Solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 210 km (130 mi).
1960 January 24 - .
00:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A SAS Evaluation test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). Maximum Speed - 2685 kph. Maximum Altitude - 20374 m. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1960 January 26 - .
00:48 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC26B.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 1948 hours EST to a prescribed range of: 1,299.4 nm. The nose cone impacted 0.04 nm over and 3.27 nm to the left. All missions were successfully accomplished despite elevated temperatures in the tail section. The primary mission of this flight was to test the two-way deflector launch section and to analyse elevated temperatures in the tail
1960 January 27 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards TL1.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Silo test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1960 January 27 - .
01:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1960 January 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Pad: LC4?.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 January 29 - .
18:51 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Extreme ultraviolet monochromator Solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 226 km (140 mi).
1960 February 2 - .
18:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC19.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
Titan test missile B7A completed a 2,200-mile flight, achieving successful staging and ignition of the second stage engine at high altitude. The Stage II engine, XLR-91-AJ-1, performed as planned, and the missile impacted almost exactly on target. This was the first successful Titan launch and flight since 4 May 1959.
1960 February 4 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1960 February 4 - .
18:51 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- Discoverer 9 - .
Payload: KH-1 9006. Mass: 765 kg (1,686 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
Decay Date: 1960-02-04 . KH-1; 1st generation low resolution photo surveillance. Mission failed..
- SRV 113 - .
Mass: 779 kg (1,717 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
1960 February 5 - .
00:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC6.
LV Family:
Jupiter.
Launch Vehicle:
Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). The 28th R&D firing was from AMR at 1919 hours EST to a pre-calculated range of 1,299 nm. The flight successfully accomplished all primary and secondary missions. The nose cone impacted 0.65 nm short and 0.52 nm right of the intended target..
1960 February 5 - .
21:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC16.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
FAILURE: Failure.
- RVX-3 Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1960 February 9 - .
17:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18C.
- Special test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1960 February 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 February 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC22.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 February 11 - .
18:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 26 km (16 mi). Maximum Speed - 2359 kph. Maximum Altitude - 26858 m. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1960 February 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1960 February 12 - .
04:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1960 February 13 - .
00:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee AJ10-34.
- Ultraviolet airglow spectra Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 143 km (88 mi).
1960 February 16 - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 300.
- Signals intelligence test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1960 February 17 - .
01:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 120 km (70 mi).
1960 February 17 - .
17:41 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A SAS Evaluation test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 16 km (9 mi). Maximum Speed - 1667 kph. Maximum Altitude - 16045 m. Automatic shutdown of one chamber in upper XLR-11. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1960 February 19 - .
17:18 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Exos sounding rocket.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Chemical release mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 37 km (22 mi).
1960 February 19 - .
20:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- Discoverer 10 - .
Payload: KH-1 9007. Mass: 765 kg (1,686 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
Decay Date: 1960-02-19 . KH-1; Mission failed..
- SRV 110 - .
Mass: 779 kg (1,717 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
1960 February 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC15.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- RVX-4 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
Titan flight test missile G-4 was launched from Cape Canaveral and completed all test objectives in the first successful long-range flight, with the reentry vehicle impacting 4,335-NM downrange. This flight was the longest to date by a Titan and demonstrated the integrity of all basic design parameters as well as Bell Telephone Laboratories radio-inertial guidance systems.
1960 February 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 February 26 - .
17:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena A.
FAILURE: Second stage failed to separate..
Failed Stage: U.
- Midas 1 - .
Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1008. Mass: 2,025 kg (4,464 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Midas.
Decay Date: 1960-02-26 .
The Air Force MIDAS I satellite was launched from Cape Canaveral in the first successful launch of the Atlas D/Agena A booster-upper stage combination. MIDAS I, however, failed to achieve orbit because an accident at the Atlas-Agena staging damaged the Agena. The entire vehicle reentered and burned up about 2,500 miles downrange. Missile Defense Alarm System.
1960 February 27 - .
06:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee Hi.
- JHU Aurora 1 Aurora mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 117 km (72 mi).
1960 February 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18C.
- Special test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1960 February 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 February 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 March 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC2.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1960 March 4 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards TL2.
Launch Pad: TL2?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Silo test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1960 March 8 - .
13:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). First USAF Atlas R&D flight using all-inertial guidance system..
1960 March 8 - .
18:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC16.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
FAILURE: Failure.
- RVX-3 Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1960 March 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 March 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 March 11 - .
00:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
1960 March 16 - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 300.
- Signals intelligence test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1960 March 17 - .
16:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A SAS Eval/Stability test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 16 km (9 mi). Maximum Speed - 2283 kph. Maximum Altitude - 16045 m. 6G maneuver test. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1960 March 18 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1960 March 22 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC15.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- RVX-4 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). USAF Titan fired 5,000 statute miles / 8000 km and data capsule recovered..
1960 March 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 March 25 - .
23:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi). Maximum Speed - 2124 kph. Maximum Altitude - 14822 m. Roll damper malfunctioned. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1960 March 29 - .
17:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 15 km (9 mi). Maximum Speed - 2080 kph. Maximum Altitude - 15235 m. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1960 March 31 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC22.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 March 31 - .
16:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A SAS Gains test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 15 km (9 mi). Maximum Speed - 2156 kph. Maximum Altitude - 15653 m. 3.5 to 5G pullouts to simulate reentry. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1960 April 5 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards TL1.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Silo test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1960 April 6 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC2.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1960 April 7 - .
02:06 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Infrared studies Solar infrared mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 236 km (146 mi).
1960 April 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC16.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- RVX-3 Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1960 April 8 - .
02:06 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi). Atlas 48D, intended to be the first closed-loop test of the Arma all-inertial guidance system, exploded immediately after launch release as a result of combustion instability in the MA-2 engine..
1960 April 8 - .
12:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1960 April 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 April 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 April 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 April 13 - .
12:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Ablestar.
- Dummy subsatellite - .
Payload: GRAB dummy. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: GRAB.
Decay Date: 1960-07-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 33 . COSPAR: 1960-Gamma-3. Apogee: 615 km (382 mi). Perigee: 285 km (177 mi). Inclination: 51.30 deg. Period: 93.60 min. Mass model of GRAB ELINT satellite..
1960 April 13 - .
17:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi). Maximum Speed - 2018 kph. Maximum Altitude - 14630 m. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1960 April 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC4.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 April 15 - .
20:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
- Discoverer 11 - .
Payload: KH-1 9008 / Agena A 1055. Mass: 790 kg (1,740 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
Decay Date: 1960-04-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 32 . COSPAR: 1960-Delta-1. Apogee: 603 km (374 mi). Perigee: 166 km (103 mi). Inclination: 80.40 deg. Period: 92.20 min. KH-1; film capsule recovery failed. Mission failed. Attitude control system malfunctioned..
1960 April 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 April 19 - .
16:51 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 18 km (11 mi). Maximum Speed - 2718 kph. Maximum Altitude - 18134 m. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1960 April 21 - .
15:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Magnetometer Fields mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 245 km (152 mi).
1960 April 21 - .
20:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC15.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- RVX-4 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1960 April 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC22.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 April 28 - .
20:18 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC16.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- RVX-3 Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1960 May 5 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1960 May 6 - .
17:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Trouble shedding the ventral fin..
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 18 km (11 mi). Maximum Speed - 2336 kph. Maximum Altitude - 18574 m. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1960 May 7 - .
02:33 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards TL1.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Silo test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). A tethered Minuteman missile was successfully fired from an underground silo site at Edwards AFB, California. 8th and last launch of mockup..
1960 May 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 May 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 May 12 - .
16:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Silver Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 23 km (14 mi). Maximum Speed - 3397 kph. Maximum Altitude - 23738 m. Air dropped in Silver Lake DZ..
1960 May 13 - .
21:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC15.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- RVX-4 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1960 May 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1960 May 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 May 19 - .
16:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Silver Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A Alt Buildup test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 33 km (20 mi). Maximum Speed - 2558 kph. Maximum Altitude - 33222 m. Air dropped in Silver Lake DZ..
1960 May 20 - .
15:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC12.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
Atlas 56D carried a 3,000-pound payload 7,859 nautical miles (9,040 statute miles) from Cape Canaveral to the target area in the Indian Ocean. This was the longest U.S. missile flight to date. Payload was an operational weight nose cone plus instrumentation. Missile attained an apogee of about 1,000 miles.
1960 May 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 May 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 May 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 May 24 - .
16:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Ionosphere / solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 269 km (167 mi).
1960 May 24 - .
17:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena A.
- Midas 2 - .
Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1007. Mass: 2,300 kg (5,000 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Midas.
Decay Date: 1974-02-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 43 . COSPAR: 1960-Zeta-1. Apogee: 494 km (306 mi). Perigee: 473 km (293 mi). Inclination: 33.00 deg. Period: 94.30 min.
Missile Defense Alarm System. Test launch with W-17 sensor. The last Atlas D/Agena A booster to be used by the Air Force placed into orbit the MIDAS II infrared scanning satellite designed to detect and give early warning of missile launchings. Although intended to function for 40 months, the satellite's telemetry system failed on 26 May. MIDAS II was the first early warning satellite system placed in orbit.
1960 May 26 - .
17:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A SAS, High alpha, BCS test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 15 km (9 mi). Maximum Speed - 2336 kph. Maximum Altitude - 15631 m. First test of reaction control system. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1960 May 27 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1960 May 27 - .
17:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC16.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- RVX-4 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1960 June 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC22.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 June 3 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1960 June 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 June 8 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1960 June 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 June 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 June 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 June 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 June 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 June 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 June 11 - .
06:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Atlas flight test missile 54D completed the first successful demonstration of accuracy and reliability of the closed-loop Arma all-inertial guidance system. .
1960 June 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 June 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 June 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 June 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1960 June 22 - .
14:49 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Electrical Failure.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). 50th Atlas to be flown at AMR, successful.
1960 June 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 June 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC22.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 June 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC15.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- RVX-4 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1960 June 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 150 km (90 mi).
1960 June 27 - .
19:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
FAILURE: Failure.
- NAsp-III Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 170 km (100 mi).
1960 June 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 June 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 June 28 - .
02:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC12.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1960 June 28 - .
05:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- NAsp-II Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 195 km (121 mi).
1960 June 29 - .
22:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- Discoverer 12 - .
Payload: KH-1 prototype. Mass: 790 kg (1,740 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
Decay Date: 1960-06-29 . KH-1 prototype; designed to test capsule recovery system; did not carry camera..
- SRV - .
Mass: 779 kg (1,717 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
1960 July 1 - .
14:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 162 km (100 mi).
1960 July 1 - .
17:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC20.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
FAILURE: Destroyed 90 m above pad.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi). The attempt to launch the first operational configuration Titan I ICBM (J-2) from Cape Canaveral was a failure. Titan 1 J (Mk 4 RV).
1960 July 2 - .
06:58 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1960 July 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC1.
Launch Pad: LC1/2?.
Launch Vehicle:
Snark.
- Category IIE-6, Sta12 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1960 July 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 July 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 July 13 - .
00:23 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 170 km (100 mi).
1960 July 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 July 14 - .
10:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly FRANCES Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 148 km (91 mi).
1960 July 15 - .
10:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 120 km (70 mi).
1960 July 18 - .
10:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly CARRY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 130 km (80 mi).
1960 July 21 - .
01:32 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly IDA Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 130 km (80 mi).
1960 July 21 - .
10:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly LILY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 151 km (93 mi).
1960 July 22 - .
10:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly HEDY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 108 km (67 mi).
1960 July 25 - .
08:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 120 km (70 mi).
1960 July 26 - .
10:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly JANET Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 119 km (73 mi).
1960 July 27 - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 300.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Signals intelligence test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 5.00 km (3.10 mi).
1960 July 27 - .
10:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly DOLLY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 115 km (71 mi).
1960 July 28 - .
08:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly AMY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 111 km (68 mi).
1960 July 28 - .
21:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC20.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
FAILURE: 130 km range.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). Titan 1 J (Mk 4 RV).
1960 July 29 - .
08:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly CATHY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 94 km (58 mi).
1960 July 29 - .
10:14 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly MAVIS Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 94 km (58 mi).
1960 July 29 - .
13:13 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Structural failure of Atlas..
Failed Stage: 1.
- Mercury MA-1 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft: Mercury.
Apogee: 13 km (8 mi).
The first Mercury-Atlas -D (MA-1) was successfully launched from Cape Canaveral to test the Mercury capsule and Atlas D booster for future use in NASA's Project Mercury manned orbital flight program. Mercury-Atlas 1 (MA-1) was launched from the Atlantic Missile Range in a test of spacecraft structural integrity under maximum heating conditions. After 58.5 seconds of flight, MA-1 exploded and the spacecraft was destroyed upon impact off-shore. None of the primary capsule test objectives were met. The mission objectives were to check the integrity of the spacecraft structure and afterbody shingles for a reentry associated with a critical abort and to evaluate the open-loop performance of the Atlas abort-sensing instrumentation system. The spacecraft contained no escape system and no test subject. Standard posigrade rockets were used to separate the spacecraft from the Atlas, but the retrorockets were dummies. The flight was terminated because of a launch vehicle and adapter structural failure. The spacecraft was destroyed upon impact with the water because the recovery system was not designed to actuate under the imposed flight conditions. Later most of the spacecraft, the booster engines, and the liquid oxygen vent valve were recovered from the ocean floor. Since none of the primary flight objectives was achieved, Mercury-Atlas 2 (MA-2) was planned to fulfill the mission.
1960 August 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 August 1 - .
08:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly RUTHY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 113 km (70 mi).
1960 August 1 - .
10:23 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly HILDA Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 126 km (78 mi).
1960 August 4 - .
16:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Silver Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 23 km (14 mi). Maximum Speed - 3533 kph. Maximum Altitude - 23809 m. Unofficial world speed record. This topped Captain Apt's speed of 2,094 mph attained in the X-2 on September 27, 1956. Air dropped in Silver Lake DZ..
1960 August 6 - .
09:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly GERTA Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 138 km (85 mi).
1960 August 8 - .
10:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly BETSEY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 109 km (67 mi).
1960 August 9 - .
10:37 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly MARIE Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 81 km (50 mi).
1960 August 9 - .
18:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC12.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development / aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1960 August 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 August 10 - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 300.
- Signals intelligence test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 383 km (237 mi).
1960 August 10 - .
10:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly JEANNIE Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 104 km (64 mi).
1960 August 10 - .
20:37 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
- Discoverer 13 - .
Payload: KH-1 prototype / Agena A 1057. Mass: 850 kg (1,870 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
Decay Date: 1960-11-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 48 . COSPAR: 1960-Theta-1. Apogee: 683 km (424 mi). Perigee: 258 km (160 mi). Inclination: 82.80 deg. Period: 94.00 min.
A Thor/Agena A launched from Vandenberg AFB placed Discoverer XIII in orbit. On 11 August, the data capsule was ejected during the 17th pass and recovered Pacific Ocean near Hawaii by a Navy helicopter that was part of the 6593d Test Squadron's task force. Although the planned mid-air recovery was not made, the return of Discoverer XIII1s data capsule marked the first successful recovery of a man-made object ejected from an orbiting satellite. KH-1 prototype; designed to test capsule recovery system; did not carry camera; capsule successfully recovered from ocean.
1960 August 10 - .
22:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC19.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
1960 August 11 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1960 August 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 August 12 - .
13:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1960 August 12 - .
16:48 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Silver Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A High Alt test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 41 km (25 mi).
Maximum Speed - 2851 kph. Maximum Altitude - 41605 m. Established a new altitude record for a manned vehicle of 136,500 feet. This topped Captain Kincheloe's record altitude of 126,200 feet attained on September 7, 1956, in the X-2 rocket research aircraft. Air dropped in Silver Lake DZ.
1960 August 13 - .
07:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Viper.
Launch Vehicle:
Viper Falcon.
- TP Annie Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 120 km (70 mi).
1960 August 13 - .
09:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Viper.
Launch Vehicle:
Viper Falcon.
- TP Norma Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 97 km (60 mi).
1960 August 13 - .
10:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Firefly MARGIE Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 75 km (46 mi).
1960 August 15 - .
10:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Firefly LOLA Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 84 km (52 mi).
1960 August 16 - .
01:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Firefly ARLENE Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 104 km (64 mi).
1960 August 16 - .
10:41 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly PEGGY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 103 km (64 mi).
1960 August 17 - .
10:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly SUSAN Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 114 km (70 mi).
1960 August 18 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1960 August 18 - .
01:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 150 km (90 mi).
1960 August 18 - .
02:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly LINDA Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 133 km (82 mi).
1960 August 18 - .
10:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 150 km (90 mi).
1960 August 18 - .
19:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
- Discoverer 14 - .
Payload: KH-1 9009 / Agena A 1056. Mass: 850 kg (1,870 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
Decay Date: 1960-09-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 54 . COSPAR: 1960-Kappa-1. Apogee: 803 km (498 mi). Perigee: 177 km (109 mi). Inclination: 79.60 deg. Period: 94.40 min. Discoverer XIV was launched from Vandenberg AFB aboard a Thor/Agena A booster.' KH-1; film capsule recovered 1.2 days later; 1st successful photosurveillance mission. First successful mission. Cameras operated satisfactorily..
1960 August 19 - .
10:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly OLIVE Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 106 km (65 mi).
1960 August 19 - .
16:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Silver Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 23 km (14 mi). Maximum Speed - 3510 kph. Maximum Altitude - 24343 m. Air dropped in Silver Lake DZ..
1960 August 19 - .
19:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly RENA (SF6) Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 105 km (65 mi).
1960 August 22 - .
17:06 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Nike.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Nike.
- Cree II - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 46 km (28 mi).
1960 August 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 August 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 August 23 - .
17:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 237 km (147 mi).
1960 August 25 - .
01:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Firefly Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1960 August 25 - .
14:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Firefly ZELDA Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 102 km (63 mi).
1960 August 26 - .
01:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Firefly Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 150 km (90 mi).
1960 August 30 - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Firefly Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 150 km (90 mi).
1960 August 30 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC20.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1960 August 31 - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 300.
- Signals intelligence test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1960 September 2 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1960 September 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 September 10 - .
19:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Silver Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Stability/Control test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 24 km (14 mi). X-15 Flight 21 (Stability/Control) Air dropped in Silver Lake DZ..
1960 September 13 - .
22:14 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
- Discoverer 15 - .
Payload: KH-1 9010 / Agena A 1058. Mass: 863 kg (1,902 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
Decay Date: 1960-10-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 57 . COSPAR: 1960-Mu-1. Apogee: 755 km (469 mi). Perigee: 200 km (120 mi). Inclination: 80.90 deg. Period: 94.10 min. KH-1; film capsule lost at sea. Mission failed. Attained orbit successfully. Capsule sank prior to retrieval..
1960 September 15 - .
14:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 100.
- Solar Constant Solar ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 102 km (63 mi).
1960 September 17 - .
00:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1960 September 19 - .
18:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Atlas ICBM fired 9030 statute miles, from Cape Canaveral to the Indian Ocean off the Cape of Good Hope in 50 minutes, the second record distance flight..
1960 September 20 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1960 September 20 - .
00:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1960 September 20 - .
12:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Thermal / CR Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 195 km (121 mi).
1960 September 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 September 21 - .
13:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18A.
Launch Pad: LC18A.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout Jr.
- Blue Scout first launch, with Radiation Probe (HETS) payload. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 26,700 km (16,500 mi). USAF Blue Scout rocket fired from Cape Canaveral placed instrumented payload 16,600 miles above the earth, the first of 11 such tests, but no data were received due to radio malfunction..
1960 September 21 - .
23:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
FAILURE: Failure.
- H2O / ne Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).
1960 September 23 - .
17:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Palmdale Omni DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Engines fail..
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 16 km (9 mi). Maximum Speed - 1783 kph. Maximum Altitude - 16168 m. Premature shutdown of both XLR-11's. Air dropped in Palmdale Omni DZ..
1960 September 27 - .
22:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Lunar X-ray X-ray astronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 233 km (144 mi).
1960 September 27 - .
22:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- CR / Airglow Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1960 September 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 September 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 September 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC19.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1960 September 28 - .
22:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- H2O / ne Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 105 km (65 mi).
1960 September 29 - .
14:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC15.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- RVX-4 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1960 October 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 October 7 - .
15:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC20.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1960 October 11 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1960 October 11 - .
19:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). First E missile flown with MA-3 engine, unsuccessful.
1960 October 11 - .
20:33 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena A.
FAILURE: Second stage failure..
Failed Stage: U.
- Samos 1 - .
Payload: Samos E-1 no. 1. Mass: 1,845 kg (4,067 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Samos.
Decay Date: 1960-10-11 . First generation photo surveillance; radio relay of images; Satellite and Missile Observation Satellite..
1960 October 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 October 12 - .
00:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 75 km (46 mi).
1960 October 13 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1960 October 13 - .
09:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). USAF Atlas launched at AMR placed nose cone containing three black mice 650 miles up and 5,000 miles downrange at 17,000 mph. Nose cone was recovered in target area near Ascension Island, the three mice surviving the flight in "good condition.".
1960 October 17 - .
21:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- UM density / pressure Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 132 km (82 mi).
1960 October 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 October 20 - .
17:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Palmdale Omni DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Stability/Control test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 16 km (9 mi). Maximum Speed - 2059 kph. Maximum Altitude - 16398 m. Air dropped in Palmdale Omni DZ..
1960 October 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 October 22 - .
05:13 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1960 October 24 - .
23:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC19.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Titan ICBM fired 6,100 miles / 9800 km, 100 miles longer than any previous shot, with tactical-type nose cone..
1960 October 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 October 25 - .
23:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 65 km (40 mi).
1960 October 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 October 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 October 26 - .
20:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- Discoverer 16 - .
Payload: KH-2 9011. Mass: 1,091 kg (2,405 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-2.
Decay Date: 1960-10-26 . KH-1; mission failed..
- SRV 506 - .
Mass: 1,146 kg (2,526 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-2.
1960 October 27 - .
23:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 69 km (42 mi).
1960 October 28 - .
17:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Palmdale Omni DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Stability/Control test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 15 km (9 mi). Maximum Speed - 2145 kph. Maximum Altitude - 15453 m. Air dropped in Palmdale Omni DZ..
1960 October 31 - .
23:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 69 km (42 mi).
1960 November 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 November 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 November 4 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1960 November 4 - .
20:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Palmdale Omni DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Stability/Control test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi). Maximum Speed - 2071 kph. Maximum Altitude - 14905 m. Air dropped in Palmdale Omni DZ..
1960 November 4 - .
20:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Antenna Breakdown Experiment test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1960 November 8 - .
13:18 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18A.
Launch Pad: LC18A.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout Jr.
FAILURE: Failure.
- HETS Magnetospheric mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1960 November 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 November 12 - .
20:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 17 - .
Payload: KH-2 9012 / Agena B 1062. Mass: 1,091 kg (2,405 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-2.
Decay Date: 1960-12-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 61 . COSPAR: 1960-Omicron-1. Apogee: 984 km (611 mi). Perigee: 190 km (110 mi). Inclination: 81.70 deg. Period: 96.40 min.
The second Thor/Agena B to be launched from Vandenberg AFB was the first successful flight of the more advanced Lockheed Agena B upper stage. KH-1; film capsule recovered 2.1 days later. Mission failed. Obtained orbit successfully. Film separated before any camera operation leaving only 1.7 ft of film in capsule. On December 2, the Air Force revealed that exceedingly valuable information had been obtained from human tissues carried by Discoverer 17 (the cover story for the mission). The tissues had been exposed to an unexpectedly heavy dose of radiation for more than 50 hours in flight.
1960 November 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 November 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 November 15 - .
05:54 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC12.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1960 November 15 - .
17:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A XLR-99 Checkout test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 24 km (14 mi). First flight with XLR-99 engine. Maximum Speed - 3154 kph. Maximum Altitude - 24750 m. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1960 November 17 - .
13:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Ultraviolet detector Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 217 km (134 mi).
1960 November 17 - .
20:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Palmdale Omni DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 16 km (9 mi). Maximum Speed - 2018 kph. Maximum Altitude - 16688 m. Lower XLR-11 shutdown but restarted. Air dropped in Palmdale Omni DZ..
1960 November 17 - .
22:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1960 November 21 - .
10:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 65 km (40 mi).
1960 November 21 - .
17:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Nike.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Nike.
- Cree II - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 33 km (20 mi).
1960 November 22 - .
21:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A XLR-99, BCS test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 18 km (11 mi). First restart with XLR-99 engine. Maximum Speed - 2665 kph. Maximum Altitude - 18867 m. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1960 November 30 - .
01:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1960 November 30 - .
05:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- MHD waves Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 241 km (149 mi).
1960 November 30 - .
18:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Palmdale Omni DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi). Maximum Speed - 1858 kph. Maximum Altitude - 14886 m. Only 7 of 8 XLR-11 chambers ignited. Air dropped in Palmdale Omni DZ..
1960 November 30 - .
19:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Ablestar.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Solrad 2 - .
Payload: Grab B. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: GRAB.
ELINT satellite..
1960 December 4 - .
05:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg OSTF.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1960 December 6 - .
23:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Rosamund Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A XLR-99, BCS test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 16 km (9 mi). Maximum Speed - 3027 kph. Maximum Altitude - 16268 m. Air dropped in Rosamund Dry Lake DZ..
1960 December 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 December 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 December 7 - .
20:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 18 - .
Payload: KH-2 9013 / Agena B 1103. Mass: 1,240 kg (2,730 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-2.
Decay Date: 1961-04-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 67 . COSPAR: 1960-Sigma-1. Apogee: 510 km (310 mi). Perigee: 233 km (144 mi). Inclination: 81.50 deg. Period: 92.00 min. KH-2; film capsule recovered 3.1 days later. First successful mission employing KH-2 camera system..
1960 December 9 - .
19:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Palmdale Omni DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Ball nose, Stabil. test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 15 km (9 mi). First hot nose flight. Maximum Speed - 1911 kph. Maximum Altitude - 15269 m. Air dropped in Palmdale Omni DZ..
1960 December 15 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1960 December 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1960 December 16 - .
20:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). The first ICBM operational reentry vehicle ever recovered was fished out of the Eniwetok Lagoon five days later..
1960 December 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC20.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1960 December 20 - .
20:32 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 19 - .
Payload: Midas test payload. Mass: 1,060 kg (2,330 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Midas.
Decay Date: 1961-01-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 68 . COSPAR: 1960-Tau-1. Apogee: 359 km (223 mi). Perigee: 186 km (115 mi). Inclination: 83.40 deg. Period: 90.00 min. A Thor/Agena B vehicle successfully launched Discoverer XIX into a polar orbit from Vandenberg AFB. The spacecraft carried a Project MIDAS test payload. Tested IR sensors for Midas program; did not carry camera or film capsule. .
1960 December 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 January 7 - .
17:33 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout I.
- HETS A1-1 Plasma / radio astronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
1961 January 11 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1961 January 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 January 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 January 18 - .
02:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC43.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 43 km (26 mi).
1961 January 20 - .
20:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC19.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1961 January 23 - .
21:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC12.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
The flight testing of the Series D Atlas missiles was completed with the successful launch and flight of Atlas 90D from Cape Canaveral. This was the 32d Atlas D to be launched in the research and development series and the 55th Atlas missile to be flown since the first attempted launch on 11 June 1957. During the flight test series to date, 35 missiles were flown successfully and 20 were rated failures. Final test flight of USAF Atlas D traveled 5,000 miles to target down Atlantic Missile Range, representing 35 successes, 8 partials, and 6 failures in 49 test launchings for D model. 75th Atlas launched at AMR, successful
1961 January 24 - .
21:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1961 January 26 - .
01:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC43.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 35 km (21 mi).
1961 January 30 - .
23:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Mass spectrometer Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 204 km (126 mi).
1961 January 31 - .
20:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena A.
1961 February 1 - .
15:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31A.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
At 1059 EST, the first Minuteman research and development flight test missile (FTM 401) was launched by the 6555th Test Wing from Pad 31 at the Atlantic Missile Range. All the missiles stages and subsystems were operational, marking the first time that the first flight test missile was launched with all systems and stages functioning. FTM 401 completed a 4,600-mile flight, and its reentry vehicle impacted in the designated target area. This was the most successful first flight recorded in the history of U.S. missile development.
1961 February 1 - .
18:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Palmdale Omni DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Ball/side controller test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 15 km (9 mi). Maximum Speed - 1949 kph. Maximum Altitude - 15170 m. Air dropped in Palmdale Omni DZ..
1961 February 7 - .
20:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Silver Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Stab./Control test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 23 km (14 mi). Maximum Speed - 3660 kph. Maximum Altitude - 23820 m. Last XLR-11 flight. Air dropped in Silver Lake DZ..
1961 February 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 February 9 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 February 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 February 10 - .
05:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC20.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1961 February 16 - .
13:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
Launch Complex:
Wallops Island LA3.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-1.
- Explorer 9 - .
Payload: S-56A. Mass: 7.00 kg (15.40 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Explorer.
Class: Earth.
Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: S-56.
Decay Date: 1964-04-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 81 . COSPAR: 1961-Delta-1. Apogee: 2,433 km (1,511 mi). Perigee: 757 km (470 mi). Inclination: 38.80 deg. Period: 118.00 min. 12 foot dia. balloon; atmospheric density studies. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1961 February 17 - .
07:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Apache.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1961 February 17 - .
19:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Extreme ultraviolet Monochromator Solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 275 km (170 mi).
1961 February 17 - .
20:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- SRV 520 - .
Mass: 1,274 kg (2,808 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-5.
Decay Date: 1961-10-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 90 . COSPAR: 1961-Epsilon-4. Apogee: 327 km (203 mi). Perigee: 321 km (199 mi). Inclination: 80.70 deg. Period: 91.00 min.
1961 February 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC19.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1961 February 21 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1961 February 21 - .
14:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC14.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Mercury MA-2 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft: Mercury.
Apogee: 182 km (113 mi).
Mercury-Atlas 2 (MA-2) was launched from Cape Canaveral in a test to check maximum heating and its effects during the worst reentry design conditions. The flight closely matched the desired trajectory and attained a maximum altitude of 114.04 statute miles and a range of 1,431.6 statute miles. Inspection of the spacecraft aboard the recovery ship some 55 minutes after launch (actual flight time was 17.56 minutes) indicated that test objectives were met, since the structure and heat protection elements appeared to be in excellent condition. The flight control team obtained satisfactory data; and the complete launch computing and display system, operating for the first time in a flight, performed satisfactorily.
1961 February 22 - .
03:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Ablestar.
- Lofti - .
Mass: 26 kg (57 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft: Lofti.
COSPAR: 1961-Eta-xx.
1961 February 24 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1961 February 24 - .
00:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 133 km (82 mi).
1961 February 24 - .
18:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi). Atlas missile 9E made the first successful flight test of the Series E Atlas missile. First successful Atlas E flight..
1961 February 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 March 1 - .
15:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- VLF Propagation Solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1961 March 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC20.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1961 March 3 - .
03:39 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Electron density Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1961 March 3 - .
16:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout II.
- HETS A2-1 Plasma mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 2,540 km (1,570 mi).
1961 March 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 March 7 - .
18:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Silver Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Mach 4 flight test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 23 km (14 mi). Maximum Speed - 4674 kph. Maximum Altitude - 23610 m. Air dropped in Silver Lake DZ..
1961 March 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 March 8 - .
16:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 300.
- Ne / RPA Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 400 km (240 mi).
1961 March 10 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 March 14 - .
04:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1961 March 14 - .
21:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Antenna Breakdown Experiment Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 118 km (73 mi).
1961 March 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 March 21 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1961 March 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 March 24 - .
19:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Antenna Breakdown Experiment Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1961 March 25 - .
01:49 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1961 March 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1961 March 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC19.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1961 March 30 - .
18:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Alt., BCS, Aero test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 51 km (31 mi). Maximum Speed - 4441 kph. Maximum Altitude - 51700 m. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1961 March 30 - .
20:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- Discoverer 22 - .
Payload: KH-2 9015. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-2.
Decay Date: 1961-03-30 . KH-2; Mission failed..
- SRV 509 - .
Mass: 1,146 kg (2,526 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-2.
1961 March 31 - .
19:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC20.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1961 April 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 April 8 - .
19:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 23 - .
Payload: KH-5 s/n 9016A / Agena B 1106 / Capsule SRV 521. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-5.
Decay Date: 1962-04-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 100 . COSPAR: 1961-Lambda-1. Apogee: 651 km (404 mi). Perigee: 295 km (183 mi). Inclination: 82.30 deg. Period: 94.10 min. KH-5; film capsule boosted into higher orbit, decayed 5/23/62. Mission failed. Loss of satellite control gas caused unstable condition. No recovery. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1961 April 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 April 12 - .
06:07 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout II.
- HETS A2-2 Plasma mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,931 km (1,199 mi).
1961 April 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 April 21 - .
18:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Three hardware problems during flight..
- X-15A Mach 4, Aero test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 32 km (19 mi). Maximum Speed - 4946 kph. Maximum Altitude - 32000 m. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1961 April 25 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 April 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 April 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 April 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 May 3 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLTF.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Demonstration launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi). The 6565th Test Wing (Development) successfully conducted the first launch of a Titan (VS-1) from an underground silo at Vandenberg AFB. The nation's first silo launch of a Titan I at Vandenberg AFB..
1961 May 4 - .
23:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1961 May 9 - .
16:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout I.
FAILURE: Failure.
- HETS A1-2 Plasma mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1961 May 9 - .
23:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
01:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Falling sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
01:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
02:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
03:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
04:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
05:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
06:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
07:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
08:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
09:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
10:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Falling sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
11:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Falling sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
12:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
13:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
14:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
15:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
16:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
17:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
18:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
19:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
20:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Falling sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
21:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 10 - .
22:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1961 May 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 May 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 May 13 - .
02:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi).
1961 May 16 - .
15:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Solar ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 294 km (182 mi).
1961 May 16 - .
17:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 312 km (193 mi).
1961 May 19 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1961 May 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 May 19 - .
14:18 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31A.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1961 May 22 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 May 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC20.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1961 May 24 - .
21:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1961 May 25 - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1961 May 25 - .
20:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A Mach 5, SAS, Aero test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 32 km (19 mi). Maximum Speed - 5321 kph. Maximum Altitude - 32850 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1961 May 26 - .
02:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi).
1961 June 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 June 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 June 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 June 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LA.
Launch Pad: LA?.
Launch Vehicle:
Matador.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 June 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 June 6 - .
12:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Venus Flytrap Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 165 km (102 mi).
1961 June 7 - .
21:37 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg OSTF1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development Category II test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Atlas 27E was to be the first Series E operational test launch (OTL) from Vandenberg. However, the missile self-destructed over the launch pad due to a first stage engine failure at T+4 seconds. First E launched at SMS 576 from OSTF-1, unsuccessful.
1961 June 8 - .
21:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- Discoverer 24 - .
Payload: KH-5 s/n 9018A. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-5.
Decay Date: 1961-06-08 . KH-5. Mission failed..
- SRV 541 - .
Mass: 1,274 kg (2,808 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-5.
1961 June 16 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 June 16 - .
20:18 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 66 km (41 mi).
1961 June 16 - .
21:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 68 km (42 mi).
1961 June 16 - .
23:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 25 - .
Payload: KH-2 9017 / Agena B 1107. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-2.
Decay Date: 1961-07-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 108 . COSPAR: 1961-Xi-1. Apogee: 404 km (251 mi). Perigee: 222 km (137 mi). Inclination: 82.10 deg. Period: 90.80 min. KH-2; film capsule recovered 2.1 days later. Capsule recovered from water on orbit 32. Streaks throughout film..
1961 June 20 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1961 June 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 June 23 - .
03:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1961 June 23 - .
15:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Micrometeors Meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 157 km (97 mi).
1961 June 23 - .
22:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A Mach 5, Aerodynamics, Stability test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 32 km (19 mi). Maximum Speed - 5797 kph. Maximum Altitude - 32830 m. Lost cabin pressure. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1961 June 24 - .
03:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC19.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
Titan I (M-l) was the first Series M missile and first inertially-guided Titan missile to be launched from Cape Canaveral. Essentially a Titan I with a Titan II inertial guidance system, M-l was only a partial success due to a second stage hydraulic failure and loss of control after sustainer engine ignition.
1961 June 29 - .
04:22 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Ablestar.
- Solrad 3 - .
Payload: Grab 2. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: GRAB.
COSPAR: 1961-Omicron-xx. ELINT satellite, retransmitting to US ground stations signals from Soviet radar stations. Classified at time; official purpose and secondary payload collected solar radiation data..
1961 June 30 - .
17:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Astrobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Astrobee 200.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 29 km (18 mi).
1961 July 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 July 7 - .
04:51 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi). Atlas missile 22E completed a flight of 7,863 nautical miles (9,050 statute miles), with the nose cone landing 1,000 miles southeast of Capetown, South Africa..
1961 July 7 - .
23:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 26 - .
Payload: KH-2 9019 / Agena B 1109. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-2.
Decay Date: 1961-12-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 160 . COSPAR: 1961-Pi-1. Apogee: 803 km (498 mi). Perigee: 228 km (141 mi). Inclination: 82.90 deg. Period: 94.90 min. KH-2; film capsule recovered 2.1 days later. Main camera malfunctioned on pass 22..
1961 July 12 - .
15:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena B.
1961 July 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 July 21 - .
02:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC20.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1961 July 21 - .
22:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- Discoverer 27 - .
Payload: KH-5 s/n 9020A. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-5.
Decay Date: 1961-07-21 . KH-5; destroyed by range safety. Mission failed..
- SRV 524 - .
Mass: 1,274 kg (2,808 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-5.
1961 July 25 - .
19:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC19.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Titan missile M-2 completed the first full-range (4,342-NM) flight test of a Titan I equipped with an all-inertial guidance system. .
1961 July 27 - .
11:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Strongarm.
FAILURE: Failure.
- CWAS Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 75 km (46 mi).
1961 July 27 - .
15:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31A.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1961 July 31 - .
21:32 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi).
1961 August 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC20.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1961 August 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 August 4 - .
00:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- Discoverer 28 - .
Payload: KH-2 9021. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-2.
Decay Date: 1961-08-03 . KH-2; Mission failed..
- SRV 512 - .
Mass: 1,146 kg (2,526 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-2.
1961 August 9 - .
04:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). The first Series F Atlas missile (2F) was successfully launched from Complex 13 at Cape Canaveral and completed its test flight. First F flight, at AMR), successful.
1961 August 10 - .
18:27 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Silver Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A XLR-99, beta-dot test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 23 km (14 mi). Maximum Speed - 4401 kph. Maximum Altitude - 23830 m. Lost cabin pressure. Air dropped in Silver Lake DZ..
1961 August 11 - .
14:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Exos sounding rocket.
- Ion density Test / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 114 km (70 mi).
1961 August 15 - .
17:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Extreme ultraviolet Monochromator Solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 271 km (168 mi).
1961 August 17 - .
14:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18A.
Launch Pad: LC18A.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout Jr.
- HETS Magnetosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Apogee: 225,000 km (139,000 mi).
1961 August 23 - .
01:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
The launch of Atlas 101D from Vandenberg AFB completed the initial operational capability (IOC) launch series for the Atlas D ICBM. In 11 launches, only five missiles were successful. The launch of Atlas 101D from Vandenberg AFB completed the initial operational capability (IOC) launch series for the Atlas D ICBM. In 11 launches, only five missiles were successful.
1961 August 23 - .
17:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Extreme ultraviolet Mon / X-ray counter Aeronomy / solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 225 km (139 mi).
1961 August 28 - .
17:41 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- ELF D-region Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1961 August 30 - .
18:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC32B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi). The first attempt to launch a Minuteman missile from an underground silo (Silo 32B) at the Atlantic Missile Range was a complete failure when the missile (FTM 404) exploded immediately after first stage ignition. .
1961 August 30 - .
20:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 29 - .
Payload: KH-3 s/n 9023 / Agena B 1112. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-3.
Decay Date: 1961-09-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 181 . COSPAR: 1961-Psi-1. Apogee: 542 km (336 mi). Perigee: 152 km (94 mi). Inclination: 82.10 deg. Period: 91.50 min. KH-3; film capsule recovered 2.1 days later. First use of KH-3 camera system. All frames out of focus..
1961 September 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 September 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 September 7 - .
01:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC20.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). USAF Titan successfully launched from Atlantic Missile Range, making 6,100-mile flight..
1961 September 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC19.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1961 September 9 - .
01:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1961 September 9 - .
19:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena B.
FAILURE: Exploded on launch pad..
Failed Stage: 1.
- Samos 3 - .
Payload: Samos E-2 no. 1. Mass: 1,890 kg (4,160 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Samos.
Decay Date: 1961-09-09 . First generation photo surveillance; radio relay of images..
1961 September 12 - .
19:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 30 - .
Payload: KH-3 s/n 9022 / Agena B 1113. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-3.
Decay Date: 1961-12-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 182 . COSPAR: 1961-Omega-1. Apogee: 557 km (346 mi). Perigee: 219 km (136 mi). Inclination: 82.50 deg. Period: 92.30 min. KH-3; film capsule recovered 2.1 days later. Best mission to date. Same out-of-focus condition as in 9023..
1961 September 12 - .
22:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Mach 5, Aerodynamics, Stability test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 34 km (21 mi). Maximum Speed - 5821 kph. Maximum Altitude - 34840 m. Smoke in cockpit due to scorching paint. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1961 September 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 September 17 - .
21:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 31 - .
Payload: KH-3 s/n 9024 / Agena B 1114. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-3.
Decay Date: 1961-10-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 186 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Beta-1. Apogee: 403 km (250 mi). Perigee: 231 km (143 mi). Inclination: 82.60 deg. Period: 90.80 min. KH-3; film capsule recovery failed. Mission failed. Power failure and loss of control gas on orbit 33..
1961 September 22 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 September 23 - .
20:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A1.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle research and development mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Launched from Titan II silo.
1961 September 26 - .
21:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 128 km (79 mi).
1961 September 27 - .
12:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- CWAS Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 59 km (36 mi).
1961 September 28 - .
17:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Mach 5, Heat Trans. test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 31 km (19 mi). Maximum Speed - 5792 kph. Maximum Altitude - 31030 m. Test reentry heat limit. Smoke in cockpit due to scorching paint. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1961 September 29 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1961 September 29 - .
01:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC20.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1961 October 2 - .
18:23 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- Research and development / Pod 7 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi).
1961 October 3 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 October 3 - .
18:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Silver Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A VO Stability test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 23 km (14 mi). Flight made with lower ventral off. Maximum Speed - 4553 kph. Maximum Altitude - 23770 m. Air dropped in Silver Lake DZ..
1961 October 5 - .
13:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi). USAF Atlas fired 9,000 miles for Atlantic Missile Range into Indian Ocean, carrying dummy nuclear warhead and a data capsule which was recovered..
1961 October 7 - .
01:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC19.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). USAF Titan I launched from Cape Canaveral carrying Titan II guidance system..
1961 October 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 October 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 October 11 - .
20:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Left windshield cracks..
- X-15A Alt, Aero, Low q test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 66 km (41 mi). Outer panel of left windshield cracked. Maximum Speed - 5868 kph. Maximum Altitude - 66150 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1961 October 12 - .
13:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Ultraviolet absorption Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 192 km (119 mi).
1961 October 13 - .
19:22 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 32 - .
Payload: KH-3 s/n 9025 / Agena B 1115. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-3.
Decay Date: 1961-11-13 . USAF Sat Cat: 189 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Gamma-1. Apogee: 391 km (242 mi). Perigee: 233 km (144 mi). Inclination: 81.60 deg. Period: 90.70 min. The 100th successful firing of a Thor placed Discoverer XXXII in orbit. KH-3; film capsule recovered 1.1 days later. Capsule recovered on orbit 18. 96% of film out of focus..
1961 October 14 - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Lunar X-ray X-ray astronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1961 October 17 - .
18:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A Mach 5, Aero, Stab test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 33 km (20 mi). Maximum Speed - 6275 kph. Maximum Altitude - 33100 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1961 October 21 - .
13:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena B.
- Midas 4 - .
Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1202. Mass: 1,800 kg (3,900 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Midas.
USAF Sat Cat: 192 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Delta-1. Apogee: 3,763 km (2,338 mi). Perigee: 3,482 km (2,163 mi). Inclination: 95.90 deg. Period: 165.90 min. Missile Defense Alarm System. Deployed subsatellites..
- Westford - .
Payload: Westford. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft: WestFord Needles.
USAF Sat Cat: 194 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Delta-3. Apogee: 3,963 km (2,462 mi). Perigee: 3,252 km (2,020 mi). Inclination: 95.85 deg. Period: 165.51 min.
1961 October 23 - .
19:23 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- Discoverer 33 - .
Payload: KH-3 s/n 9026. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-3.
Decay Date: 1961-10-23 . KH-3; Mission failed..
- SRV 513 - .
Mass: 1,250 kg (2,750 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-3.
1961 October 24 - .
23:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC20.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1961 October 25 - .
06:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- AS&E-2 X-ray astronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 232 km (144 mi).
1961 October 27 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1961 November 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 November 1 - .
15:32 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout II.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- Mercury MS-1 - .
Payload: Radio Test Spacecraft. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Technology.
Type: Tracking network technology satellite. Spacecraft: Radio Test Spacecraft,
Mercury.
Small satellite was to have verified the readiness of the worldwide Mercury tracking network. An attempt was made to launch Mercury-Scout 1 (MS-1) into orbit with a communications package further to qualify the radar tracking of the Mercury global network prior to manned orbital flight. Shortly after lift-off, the launch vehicle developed erratic motions and attending high aerodynamic loads, and was destroyed by the Range Safety Officer after 43 seconds of flight. No further attempts were planned. The Mercury-Atlas 4 (MA-4) mission and the successful Mercury-Atlas 5 (MA-5), flown on November 29, 1961, disclosed that the network met all requirements.
1961 November 2 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1961 November 3 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1961 November 5 - .
20:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 34 - .
Payload: KH-3 s/n 9027 / Agena B 1117. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-3.
Decay Date: 1962-12-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 197 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Epsilon-1. Apogee: 859 km (533 mi). Perigee: 231 km (143 mi). Inclination: 82.40 deg. Period: 95.60 min. KH-3; film capsule recovery not attempted. Mission failed. Improper launch angle resulted in extreme orbit..
- SRV 553 - .
Mass: 1,250 kg (2,750 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-3.
COSPAR: 1961-A-Epsilon-x.
1961 November 9 - .
17:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Right windshield cracks..
- X-15A Mach 6, Aero, Stab test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 31 km (19 mi). Design speed achieved. Outer right windshield shattered. Maximum Speed - 6586 kph. Maximum Altitude - 30950 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1961 November 10 - .
14:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
FAILURE: Sustainer engine failed 15 seconds after launch..
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test / Pod 13 chemical release - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). USAF Atlas with capsule containing squirrel monkey destroyed by range safety officer at Atlantic Missile Range when main sustainer engine failed 15 seconds after launch..
1961 November 14 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 November 15 - .
21:23 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 35 - .
Payload: KH-3 s/n 9028 / Agena B 1118. Mass: 2,100 kg (4,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-3.
Decay Date: 1961-12-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 201 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Zeta-1. Apogee: 278 km (172 mi). Perigee: 238 km (147 mi). Inclination: 81.60 deg. Period: 89.70 min. KH-3; film capsule recovered 1.1 days later. All cameras operated satisfactorily. Grainy emulsion noted..
1961 November 17 - .
15:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC32B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Minuteman flight test missile 405 was launched from Silo 32B at the Atlantic Missile Range and completed a flight of 2,993 nautical miles down the range. This was the first successful Minuteman launch from an underground silo. Silo launch, 10,000 km range.
1961 November 17 - .
16:06 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Javelin.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 610 km (370 mi).
1961 November 22 - .
00:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC20.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). BSD's 6555th ATWg at Cape Canaveral completed the first successful launch of a Titan I (J-22) by an entire Air Force crew..
1961 November 22 - .
20:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena B.
FAILURE: Failure..
Failed Stage: U.
- Samos 4 - .
Payload: Samos E-5 no. 1. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Samos.
Decay Date: 1961-11-22 . Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). First generation photo surveillance; return of camera and film by capsule; SAMOS type satellite..
1961 November 22 - .
21:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). Pod 3, 22 test / ionosphere / aeronomy mission.
1961 November 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC19.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1961 December 1 - .
20:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- Research and development / Pod 23 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
1961 December 4 - .
04:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout Jr.
- Magnetosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 44,400 km (27,500 mi).
1961 December 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1961 December 7 - .
23:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Sphere Aeronomy / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 234 km (145 mi).
1961 December 12 - .
20:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development / Pod 24 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1961 December 12 - .
20:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 36 - .
Payload: KH-3 s/n 9029 / Agena B 1119. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-3.
Decay Date: 1962-03-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 213 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Kappa-1. Apogee: 173 km (107 mi). Perigee: 131 km (81 mi). Inclination: 89.50 deg. Period: 87.50 min. KH-3; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. Best mission to date..
- Oscar 1 - .
Mass: 5.00 kg (11.00 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Oscar.
Class: Communications.
Type: Amateur radio communications satellite. Spacecraft: Oscar.
Decay Date: 1962-01-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 214 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Kappa-2. Apogee: 474 km (294 mi). Perigee: 245 km (152 mi). Inclination: 81.20 deg. Period: 91.80 min.
The first Oscar Phase I amateur satellite was launched piggyback with Discover 36. A group of enthusiasts in California formed Project OSCAR and persuaded the United States Air Force to replace ballast on the Agena upper stage with the 4.5 kg OSCAR I package. The satellite was box shaped with a single monopole antenna and battery powered. The 140 mW transmitter onboard discharged its batteries after three weeks. 570 Amateurs in 28 countries reported receiving its simple 'HI-HI' morse code signals on the VHF 2 meter band (144.983 MHz) until January 1, 1962. The speed of the HI-HI message was controlled by a temperature sensor inside the spacecraft. OSCAR I re-entered the atmosphere January 31, 1962 after 312 revolutions. Additional Details: here....
1961 December 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC20.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- NTMP TV test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1961 December 13 - .
12:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Micrometorites Test / meteorites mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 246 km (152 mi).
1961 December 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC19.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1961 December 15 - .
17:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- HR Solar Spectra Solar ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 169 km (105 mi).
1961 December 18 - .
13:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1961 December 19 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1961 December 20 - .
03:32 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- Research and development/Pod Test/Chemical release mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1961 December 20 - .
22:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Silver Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A MH-96 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 24 km (14 mi). First flight for X-15 # 3. Maximum Speed - 4026 kph. Maximum Altitude - 24700 m. Air dropped in Silver Lake DZ..
1961 December 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1961 December 21 - .
03:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). Pod 15, 25 chemical release / ionosphere / meteorite mission.
1961 December 22 - .
19:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena B.
- Samos 5 - .
Payload: Samos E-5 no. 2. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Samos.
Decay Date: 1962-01-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 218 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Lambda-2. Apogee: 310 km (190 mi). Perigee: 187 km (116 mi). Inclination: 89.60 deg. Period: 89.40 min.
First generation photo surveillance; return of camera and film by capsule; SAMOS type satellite. Reached orbit but failed to deorbit and be recovered. In his memoirs Sergei Khrushchev recounts recovery of what he believed to be a recoverable Samos, except the date given is the winter before tests of this configuration actually started. He relates that a second American capsule was recovered in the spring of 1961. It was equipped with a 30 cm lens and 100's of metres of 10 cm wide film. Also recovered were a pear-shaped module made of fibreglass, and an inertial orientation system powered by electric motors. It may have been a SAMOS prototype. The capsule was found by tractor drivers, who disassembled it and used the film to wrap around the frame of their outhouse to provide some privacy in the treeless area. Unfortunately this ruined the film, preventing the Russians from developing it and discovering the technical capabilities of the system.
1962 January 5 - .
15:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1962 January 10 - .
20:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Emergency landing at Mud Lake..
- X-15A High alpha, Aero test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 13 km (8 mi). Emergency landing on Mud Lake after engine failed to light. Maximum Speed - 1038 kph. Maximum Altitude - 13,640 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1962 January 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1962 January 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1962 January 13 - .
21:41 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- Discoverer 37 - .
Payload: KH-3 s/n 9030. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-3.
Decay Date: 1962-01-13 . KH-3. Mission failed. Last attempted flight of KH-3 series..
- SRV 571 - .
Mass: 1,250 kg (2,750 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-3.
1962 January 15 - .
11:07 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DSV-2D.
- AVT-1 Satellite test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1962 January 16 - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Extreme ultraviolet Mon / X-ray counter Solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1962 January 17 - .
20:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A MH-96. Mach 5 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 40 km (24 mi). Maximum Speed - 6058 kph. Maximum Altitude - 40690 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1962 January 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
LV Family:
Navaho.
Launch Vehicle:
Hound Dog.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1962 January 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1962 January 24 - .
09:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Ablestar.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Solrad 4 - .
Payload: Grab D. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: GRAB.
ELINT satellite..
1962 January 25 - .
15:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1962 January 26 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1962 January 29 - .
20:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Astrobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Astrobee 200.
- Day Airglow Test / aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 250 km (150 mi).
1962 January 29 - .
23:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC19.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). The 47th, and final, Titan I research and development flight test missile (M-7) was successfully fired from Cape Canaveral. Of the launches, 34 were rated successes, nine partials, and only four as failures. .
1962 February 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1962 February 5 - .
20:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 44 km (27 mi).
1962 February 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1962 February 13 - .
20:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
Atlas 40E, the 18th and last Atlas E research and development flight test missile to be launched from the Atlantic Missile Range, completed its programmed 7,000-mile flight downrange. Of the 18 missiles launched, nine were successes, seven partials, and two failures. Last Atlas E R&D flight.
1962 February 15 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1962 February 15 - .
15:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1962 February 21 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1962 February 21 - .
18:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
FAILURE: Partial failure. Agena failed to restart to circularize orbit..
Failed Stage: U.
- Ferret 1 - .
Payload: Ferret 1 / Agena B 2301. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
Decay Date: 1962-03-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 242 . COSPAR: 1962-Delta-1. Apogee: 219 km (136 mi). Perigee: 169 km (105 mi). Inclination: 81.90 deg. Period: 88.30 min.
1962 February 27 - .
19:39 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 38 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9031 / Agena B 1123. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1962-03-21 . USAF Sat Cat: 247 . COSPAR: 1962-Epsilon-1. Apogee: 277 km (172 mi). Perigee: 207 km (128 mi). Inclination: 82.20 deg. Period: 89.40 min. First mission of the KH-4 series. Much of film slightly out of focus.. Capsule recovered 4.1 days later..
1962 March 1 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1962 March 1 - .
00:14 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg OSTF1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- Research and development Category II test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
1962 March 1 - .
17:07 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- 7-inch Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 144 km (89 mi).
1962 March 2 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1962 March 6 - .
13:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Ultraviolet Absorption Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 323 km (200 mi).
1962 March 7 - .
22:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena B.
- Samos 6 - .
Payload: Samos E-5 no. 3. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Samos.
Decay Date: 1963-06-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 259 . COSPAR: 1962-Eta-3. Apogee: 686 km (426 mi). Perigee: 236 km (146 mi). Inclination: 90.90 deg. Period: 93.90 min. First generation photo surveillance; return of camera and film by capsule; SAMOS type satellite. Failed to return camera and film. Samos film return project cancelled; remaining 4 cameras placed in warehouse and later used on KH-6 Lanyard..
1962 March 8 - .
15:24 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1962 March 16 - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Infrared atmosphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 March 16 - .
18:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC16.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Mk 6 re-entry vehicle test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
The 6555th Aerospace Test Wing launched the first Titan II (XLGM-25C) research and development flight test missile (N-2) from Cape Canaveral. The Titan II was the most powerful ICBM yet launched by the U.S., its first stage engines generating 430,000 pounds of thrust and the second stage engine 100,000 pounds. The flight of N-2 also marked the first successful test of the AC Spark Plug inertial guidance system. The Air Force successfully launched a Titan II intercontinental ballistic missile. This was the first full-scale test of the vehicle; it flew 8000 km out over the Atlantic Ocean.
1962 March 23 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC32B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1962 March 29 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 March 30 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 March 31 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 April 5 - .
18:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
1962 April 9 - .
15:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena B.
- Midas 5 - .
Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1203. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Midas.
USAF Sat Cat: 271 . COSPAR: 1962-Kappa-1. Apogee: 3,405 km (2,115 mi). Perigee: 2,784 km (1,729 mi). Inclination: 86.70 deg. Period: 152.90 min. Missile Defense Alarm System..
- West Ford Drag - .
Payload: West Ford Drag Experiment. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft: WestFord Needles.
Decay Date: 1962-05-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 272 . COSPAR: 1962-Kappa-2. Apogee: 2,729 km (1,695 mi). Perigee: 99 km (61 mi). Inclination: 86.64 deg. Period: 114.09 min.
1962 April 9 - .
20:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
1962 April 12 - .
16:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18B.
Launch Pad: LC18B.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout I.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Reentry Test re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 30 km (18 mi).
1962 April 18 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 April 18 - .
00:54 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 39 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9032 / Agena B 1124. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1962-05-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 276 . COSPAR: 1962-Lambda-1. Apogee: 540 km (330 mi). Perigee: 158 km (98 mi). Inclination: 73.50 deg. Period: 91.60 min. KH-4. Best mission to date..
1962 April 18 - .
19:32 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Astrobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Astrobee 200.
- Mid-latitude B field Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 221 km (137 mi).
1962 April 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W.
Launch Platform: B-52G.
LV Family:
Skybolt.
Launch Vehicle:
Skybolt ALBM.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1962 April 19 - .
18:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A ASAS, alpha 20, M=5 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 46 km (28 mi). Maximum Speed - 6220 kph. Maximum Altitude - 46940 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1962 April 20 - .
19:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A MH-96, M=5 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 63 km (39 mi). Maximum Speed - 6097 kph. Maximum Altitude - 63250 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1962 April 24 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC32B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1962 April 25 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi). Maximum Speed - 5879 kph. Maximum Altitude - 32160 m..
1962 April 26 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 April 26 - .
18:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena B.
- Samos 7 - .
Payload: Samos E-6 no. 1 / Agena B 2401. Mass: 1,588 kg (3,500 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Samos.
Decay Date: 1962-04-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 286 . COSPAR: 1962-Pi-1. Second generation photo surveillance; radio relay of images; Satellite and Missile Observation Satellite. Poor results..
- FTV 2401 RV - .
Payload: E-6 RV. Mass: 1,900 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Samos.
COSPAR: 1962-Pi-xx.
1962 April 27 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 April 29 - .
00:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- KH-4 9033 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9033 / Agena B 1125. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1962-05-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 290 . COSPAR: 1962-Rho-1. Apogee: 475 km (295 mi). Perigee: 180 km (110 mi). Inclination: 73.10 deg. Period: 91.10 min. KH-4. Mission failed. Parachute ejector squibs holding parachute container cover failed to fire. No recovery..
1962 April 30 - .
18:23 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Alt, Low q, Aero test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 75 km (46 mi). Design altitude flight. Maximum Speed - 5614 kph. Maximum Altitude - 75190 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1962 April 30 - .
18:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Astrobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Astrobee 200.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 255 km (158 mi).
1962 May 1 - .
19:18 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 100.
- Gyro interaction Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 94 km (58 mi).
1962 May 2 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- Eglin Demonstration mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 May 2 - .
22:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Day airglow Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 275 km (170 mi).
1962 May 2 - .
23:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
Launch Complex:
Johnston Island LE1.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DSV-2E.
- TIGERFISH test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1962 May 5 - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- Eglin Demonstration mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 May 5 - .
Launch Site:
Altus AFB.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- Eglin Demonstration mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 May 6 - .
05:41 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Trailblazer test vehicle.
Launch Vehicle:
Trailblazer 2.
- Meteor 1 Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 280 km (170 mi).
1962 May 8 - .
18:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Heat T/ASAS/High al. test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 21 km (13 mi). Maximum Speed - 5670 kph. Maximum Altitude - 21460 m. First flight to exceed 2000 psf (136 bar) dynamic pressure. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1962 May 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC32B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1962 May 15 - .
19:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- KH-5 9034A - .
Payload: KH-5 s/n 9034A/Agena B 1126. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-5.
Decay Date: 1963-11-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 292 . COSPAR: 1962-Sigma-1. Apogee: 550 km (340 mi). Perigee: 283 km (175 mi). Inclination: 82.30 deg. Period: 93.00 min. KH-5; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. First successful KH-5 mission. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1962 May 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC32B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1962 May 22 - .
18:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A Local flow test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 30 km (18 mi). Maximum Speed - 5551 kph. Maximum Altitude - 30600 m. Roller coaster flight with three peaks for local airflow investigation. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1962 May 25 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 May 29 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 May 30 - .
01:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- KH-4 9035 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9035 / Agena B 1128. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1962-06-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 302 . COSPAR: 1962-Phi-1. Apogee: 350 km (210 mi). Perigee: 192 km (119 mi). Inclination: 74.10 deg. Period: 89.90 min. KH-4; film capsule recovered 3.1 days later. Slight corona static on film..
1962 May 31 - .
17:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C.
- ERCS/279L 1 Communications mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 830 km (510 mi).
1962 June 1 - .
18:51 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Delamar Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A ASAS, 23 alpha, M=5 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 40 km (24 mi). Maximum Speed - 5913 kph. Maximum Altitude - 40420 m. Steepest reentry descent with highest angle of attack (27 degrees) to date. Air dropped in Delamar Dry Lake DZ..
1962 June 2 - .
00:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- KH-4 9036 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9036 / Agena B 1127. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1962-06-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 304 . COSPAR: 1962-Chi-1. Apogee: 401 km (249 mi). Perigee: 211 km (131 mi). Inclination: 74.50 deg. Period: 90.60 min. KH-4. Mission failed. During air catch, chute tore loose. Capsule sank..
- Oscar 2 - .
Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Oscar.
Class: Communications.
Type: Amateur radio communications satellite. Spacecraft: Oscar.
Decay Date: 1962-06-21 . USAF Sat Cat: 305 . COSPAR: 1962-Chi-2. Apogee: 339 km (210 mi). Perigee: 188 km (116 mi). Inclination: 74.20 deg. Period: 89.80 min.
OSCAR II was launched piggyback with a United States Air Force satellite. OSCAR II was very similar to OSCAR I. Differences included (1) changing the surface thermal coatings to achieve a cooler internal spacecraft environment, (2) modifying the sensing system so the satellite temperature could be measured accurately as the batteries decayed, and (3) lowering the transmitter power output to 100 mW to extend the life of the onboard battery. OSCAR II lasted 18 days ceasing operation on June 20, 1962 and re-entered June 21, 1962.
1962 June 4 - .
09:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
Launch Complex:
Johnston Island LE1.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DSV-2E.
- BLUEGILL Nuclear test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Initial attempt to launch a live nuclear weapon using the Thor IRBM from Johnston Atoll. The range safety radar had been unreliable before launch,. Five minutes after launch, after shutdown of the booster, the Johnston missile tracking system failed. Unable to monitor the warhead's flight path, the range safety officer destroyed it 10 minutes later, prior to warhead detonation.
1962 June 5 - .
12:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Extreme ultraviolet Monochromator Aeronomy / solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 216 km (134 mi).
1962 June 7 - .
18:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A Local flow, M=5 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 31 km (19 mi). Maximum Speed - 5908 kph. Maximum Altitude - 31580 m. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1962 June 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC32B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1962 June 12 - .
20:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Delamar Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A RCS check, M=5 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 56 km (34 mi). Maximum Speed - 5659 kph. Maximum Altitude - 56270 m. Air dropped in Delamar Dry Lake DZ..
1962 June 12 - .
21:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Extreme ultraviolet Monochromator Solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 299 km (185 mi).
1962 June 17 - .
18:14 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena B.
- Samos 8 - .
Payload: Samos E-2 no. 2 / Agena B 2402. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Samos.
Decay Date: 1962-06-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 307 . COSPAR: 1962-Psi-1. Apogee: 198 km (123 mi). Perigee: 198 km (123 mi). Inclination: 96.20 deg. Period: 88.40 min. First generation photo surveillance; radio relay of images; Satellite and Missile Observation Satellite. Poor results..
- FTV 2402 RV - .
Payload: E-6 RV. Mass: 1,900 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Samos.
COSPAR: 1962-Psi-xx.
1962 June 18 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Ferret 2 - .
Payload: Ferret 2 / Agena B 2312. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
Decay Date: 1963-10-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 308 . COSPAR: 1962-Omega-2. Apogee: 377 km (234 mi). Perigee: 347 km (215 mi). Inclination: 82.10 deg. Period: 91.80 min.
- FTV 2312 - .
Payload: Ferret 2. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
Decay Date: 1963-10-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 308 . COSPAR: 1962-Omega-1. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). Perigee: 161 km (100 mi). Inclination: 82.20 deg. Period: 87.80 min.
1962 June 19 - .
06:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- AS&E-3 (Sco X-1) X-ray Astronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 224 km (139 mi).
1962 June 20 - .
08:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
Launch Complex:
Johnston Island LE1.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DSV-2E.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- STARFISH Nuclear test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1962 June 21 - .
17:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Delamar Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A MH-96 Demo, M=5 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 75 km (46 mi). Maximum Speed - 5858 kph. Maximum Altitude - 75190 m. Air dropped in Delamar Dry Lake DZ..
1962 June 23 - .
00:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- KH-4 9037 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9037 / Agena B 1129. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1962-07-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 315 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Beta-1. Apogee: 314 km (195 mi). Perigee: 199 km (123 mi). Inclination: 75.10 deg. Period: 89.60 min. KH-4. Corona static occurs on some film..
1962 June 27 - .
21:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A High alpha, Mach 6 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 37 km (22 mi). Unofficial world speed record. Maximum Speed - 6603 kph. Maximum Altitude - 37700 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1962 June 28 - .
01:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena D.
- KH-4 9038 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9038 / Agena D 1151. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1962-09-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 316 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Gamma-1. Apogee: 698 km (433 mi). Perigee: 205 km (127 mi). Inclination: 76.00 deg. Period: 93.60 min.
The first Agena D (#1151) upper stage vehicle was successfully flown on a Thor booster (#340) launched from Vandenberg AFB. The Lockheed Agena D was a redesign of the basic Agena B and was intended to be the standard stage vehicle for most Defense Department and NASA programs. The program was begun in August 1961, revised and accelerated in November, and had its first flight in June 1962. KH-4; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. Severe corona static.
1962 June 29 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W.
Launch Platform: B-52.
LV Family:
Skybolt.
Launch Vehicle:
Skybolt ALBM.
FAILURE: Failure.
- No burn test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1962 June 29 - .
05:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC32B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). First Air Force crew launch.
1962 June 29 - .
18:41 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Heating rates, notch test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 25 km (15 mi). Maximum Speed - 5278 kph. Maximum Altitude - 25360 m. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1962 July 1 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- 7-inch Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 July 8 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- 7-inch Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 July 9 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Javelin.
- Thermal electrons Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1962 July 9 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Mass spectrometer Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 July 9 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Ionosphere winds Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 July 9 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Ionosphere winds Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 July 9 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Mass spectrometer Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 July 9 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Javelin.
- Thermal electrons Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1962 July 9 - .
08:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
Launch Complex:
Johnston Island LE1.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DSV-2E.
- STARFISH PRIME Nuclear test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 400 km (240 mi).
Successful high-altitude test of a Thor IRBM with a live nuclear warhead. The payload included test instrumentation and a W-49 warhead/Mk-4 re-entry vehicle. The 1.45 megaton bomb exploded at an altitude of 400 km. The explosion was visible 2,600 km away, at Kwajalein Atoll; an artificial aurora lasted seven minutes. The unforeseen and most militarily significant effect was the electromagnetic pulse (EMP) generated by the test. This caused power mains surges in Oahu, knocking out street lights, blowing fuses and circuit breakers, and triggering burglar alarms (and this in the days before microelectronics). The explosion supercharged the Van Allen radiation belts, resulting in several satellites malfunctioning.
1962 July 9 - .
08:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1962 July 9 - .
09:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 July 9 - .
09:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
Launch Complex:
Johnston Island LC1.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Javelin.
- STARFISH Diag. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1962 July 9 - .
09:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
Launch Complex:
Johnston Island LC1.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Javelin.
- STARFISH Diag. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 640 km (390 mi).
1962 July 9 - .
09:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
Launch Complex:
Johnston Island LC1.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Javelin.
- STARFISH Diag. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 640 km (390 mi).
1962 July 10 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 July 10 - .
15:49 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
Launch Complex:
Johnston Island LC1.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- STARFISH Na - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 137 km (85 mi).
1962 July 11 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 July 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).
1962 July 13 - .
21:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg OSTF1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development Category II test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). After two consecutive failures, the first successful launch and flight by an Atlas E (67E) from Vandenberg AFB took place. .
1962 July 16 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 July 16 - .
22:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Power trips..
- X-15A Notch/ASAS/Aero drag test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 32 km (19 mi). Maximum Speed - 5911 kph. Maximum Altitude - 32670 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1962 July 17 - .
17:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Delamar Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A MH-96 Demo test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 95 km (59 mi). FAI world altitude record. Maximum Speed - 6166 kph. Maximum Altitude - 95940 m. First astronaut wings flight (USAF definition). Air dropped in Delamar Dry Lake DZ..
1962 July 18 - .
09:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17A.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DSV-2D.
- AVT 2 Satellite test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,484 km (922 mi).
1962 July 18 - .
20:51 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena B.
- Samos 9 - .
Payload: Samos E-2 no. 3 / Agena B 2403. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Samos.
Decay Date: 1962-07-25 . USAF Sat Cat: 342 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Zeta-1. Apogee: 234 km (145 mi). Perigee: 184 km (114 mi). Inclination: 96.00 deg. Period: 88.60 min. First generation photo surveillance; radio relay of images; Satellite and Missile Observation Satellite. Poor results..
- FTV 2403 RV - .
Payload: E-6 RV. Mass: 1,900 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Samos.
Decay Date: 1962-07-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 343 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Zeta-2. Apogee: 215 km (133 mi). Perigee: 163 km (101 mi). Inclination: 96.10 deg. Period: 88.30 min.
1962 July 19 - .
08:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- 7-inch Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 July 19 - .
17:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Heating rates, drag test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 26 km (16 mi). Maximum Speed - 5590 kph. Maximum Altitude - 25680 m. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1962 July 21 - .
00:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- KH-4 9039 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9039 / Agena B 1130. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1962-08-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 344 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Eta-1. Apogee: 376 km (233 mi). Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 90.30 min. KH-4. Aborted after 6 photo passes. Heavy corona and radiation fog..
1962 July 23 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Sphere / Mass spectrometer Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 July 23 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Javelin.
- Mass spectrometer Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1962 July 24 - .
17:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C.
- ERCS / 279L 2 Communications mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1962 July 26 - .
09:13 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
Launch Complex:
Johnston Island LE1.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DSV-2E.
FAILURE: Thor exploded on liftoff..
Failed Stage: 1.
- BLUEGILL PRIME Nuclear test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
Second attempt to launch a nuclear weapon using the Thor IRBM. The payload consisted of two re-entry vehicles, one with an instrument pod, the other with the warhead. The missile engine malfunctioned immediately on ignition. Range safety fired the destruct system whille the missile was still on the launch pad. The Johnston Island launch complex was heavily damaged and contaminated with plutonium. Three months of repairs and decontamination were necessary before tests could resume.
1962 July 26 - .
19:22 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A Aero stab. and drag test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 30 km (18 mi). Maximum Speed - 6418 kph. Maximum Altitude - 30150 m. Roller coaster descent to simulate emergency reentry. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1962 July 28 - .
00:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- KH-4 9040 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9040 / Agena B 1131. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1962-08-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 345 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Theta-1. Apogee: 403 km (250 mi). Perigee: 204 km (126 mi). Inclination: 71.00 deg. Period: 90.60 min. KH-4; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. No filters on slave horizon cameras. Heavy corona and radiation fog..
1962 July 30 - .
11:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 67 km (41 mi).
1962 July 30 - .
13:41 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 67 km (41 mi).
1962 August 1 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 August 1 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Hercules.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Certification - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 5.00 km (3.10 mi).
1962 August 1 - .
21:07 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). The first Atlas F missile (15F) was launched from Vandenberg on an operational test flight. First successful Atlas F flight at operational site, SMS 576E (15F).
1962 August 2 - .
00:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena D.
- KH-4 9041 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9041 / Agena D 1152. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1962-08-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 360 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Kappa-1. Apogee: 423 km (262 mi). Perigee: 212 km (131 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 90.80 min. KH-4; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. Severe corona and radiation fog..
1962 August 2 - .
17:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A MH-96 fixed gain test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 44 km (27 mi). Maximum Speed - 5532 kph. Maximum Altitude - 44040 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1962 August 3 - .
17:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Exos sounding rocket.
- Bipolar Probe Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 365 km (226 mi).
1962 August 5 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena B.
- Samos 10 - .
Payload: Samos E-6 no. 2 / Agena B 2404. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Samos.
Decay Date: 1962-08-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 361 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Lambda-2. Apogee: 203 km (126 mi). Perigee: 201 km (124 mi). Inclination: 96.20 deg. Period: 88.50 min. Second generation photo surveillance; radio relay of images; Satellite and Missile Observation Satellite. Poor results..
- FTV 2404 - .
Payload: AFP-201 PVP 854. Mass: 1,900 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Samos.
Decay Date: 1962-08-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 361 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Lambda-1. Apogee: 203 km (126 mi). Perigee: 203 km (126 mi). Inclination: 96.30 deg. Period: 88.50 min.
- FTV 2404 RV - .
Payload: E-6 RV. Mass: 1,900 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Samos.
COSPAR: 1962-A-Lambda-xx.
1962 August 6 - .
17:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1962 August 6 - .
18:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 62 km (38 mi).
1962 August 6 - .
20:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1962 August 8 - .
18:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Heating, aero drag test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 27 km (16 mi). Maximum Speed - 4735 kph. Maximum Altitude - 27700 m. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1962 August 9 - .
15:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC32B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).
1962 August 10 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 August 10 - .
21:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg OSTF2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1962 August 13 - .
22:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- Research and development / Pod 16 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1962 August 14 - .
18:41 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Delamar Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Roll damper failure..
- X-15A Const Theta Entry test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 59 km (36 mi). Maximum Speed - 6029 kph. Maximum Altitude - 59010 m. New reentry technique using pitch angle instrument instead of AOA. Air dropped in Delamar Dry Lake DZ..
1962 August 20 - .
18:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Heating, drag, ASAS test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 27 km (16 mi). Maximum Speed - 5686 kph. Maximum Altitude - 27000 m. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1962 August 23 - .
11:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-2M.
- P 35-2 - .
Mass: 91 kg (200 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Program 35.
USAF Sat Cat: 369 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Omicron-1. Apogee: 752 km (467 mi). Perigee: 578 km (359 mi). Inclination: 98.50 deg. Period: 98.10 min. Military weather satellite to provide targetting information for reconnaisance satellites..
1962 August 28 - .
19:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- EM Absorption Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 148 km (91 mi).
1962 August 29 - .
01:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena D.
- KH-4 9044 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9044 / Agena D 1153. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1962-09-10 . USAF Sat Cat: 377 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Sigma-1. Apogee: 400 km (240 mi). Perigee: 187 km (116 mi). Inclination: 65.20 deg. Period: 90.40 min. KH-4; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. Erratic vehicle attitude. Radiation fog minimal..
1962 August 29 - .
18:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Heating test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 29 km (18 mi). Maximum Speed - 5546 kph. Maximum Altitude - 29630 m. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1962 August 29 - .
19:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- EM Absorption Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 September 1 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Hercules.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Certification - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 5.00 km (3.10 mi).
1962 September 1 - .
20:39 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- KH-5 9042A - .
Payload: KH-5 s/n 9042A/Agena B 1132. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-5.
Decay Date: 1964-10-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 385 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Upsilon-1. Apogee: 639 km (397 mi). Perigee: 293 km (182 mi). Inclination: 82.80 deg. Period: 94.00 min. KH-5. Mission failed. Parachute shrouds parted during air catch, capsule sank. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- SRV 600 - .
Mass: 1,274 kg (2,808 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-5.
COSPAR: 1962-A-Upsilon-x.
1962 September 11 - .
23:24 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Day Airglow Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 306 km (190 mi).
1962 September 13 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W.
Launch Platform: B-52.
LV Family:
Skybolt.
Launch Vehicle:
Skybolt ALBM.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1962 September 17 - .
23:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- KH-4 9043 / TRS 1 (ERS 2) - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9043 / TRS 1 (ERS 2) / Agena B 1133. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1962-11-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 396 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Chi-1. Apogee: 668 km (415 mi). Perigee: 204 km (126 mi). Inclination: 81.80 deg. Period: 93.30 min. KH-4; film capsule recovered 1.1 days later; ERS-2 subsatellite failed to deploy. Capping shutter malfunction, slight corona and radiation fog..
- TRS - .
Payload: ERS 2. Mass: 45 kg (99 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ERS.
COSPAR: 1962-A-Chi-xx.
1962 September 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1962 September 19 - .
19:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC11.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- Research and development / Pod 17 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). Atlas 8F, the seventh Series F R&D missile, was the 100th to be launched from Cape Canaveral since the first abortive launch on 11 June 1957 and the 145th Atlas to be launched from both Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg. .
1962 September 20 - .
04:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1962 September 25 - .
14:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W.
Launch Platform: B-52.
LV Family:
Skybolt.
Launch Vehicle:
Skybolt ALBM.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 15 km (9 mi).
1962 September 27 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 September 27 - .
18:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Electric structure Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 260 km (160 mi).
1962 September 28 - .
18:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Heating, VO Stab test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). This and most following flights without lower ventral. Maximum Speed - 4450 kph. Maximum Altitude - 20790 m. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1962 September 28 - .
21:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Research and development Category I test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 50 km (31 mi). The first R&D Category I launch of a Wing I configuration Minuteman missile (LGM-30A), from Vandenberg AFB was completed. Initial launch of a Minuteman I from Vandenberg.
1962 September 29 - .
23:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena D.
- KH-4 9045 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9045 / Agena D 1154. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1962-10-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 427 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Beta-1. Apogee: 388 km (241 mi). Perigee: 190 km (110 mi). Inclination: 65.40 deg. Period: 90.30 min. KH-4. First use of stellar camera, erratic vehicle attitude, numerous light leaks..
1962 October 1 - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1962 October 1 - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1962 October 1 - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Arcasonde Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1962 October 1 - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Arcasonde Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1962 October 1 - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Arcasonde Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1962 October 4 - .
18:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Delamar Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Failure of APU, ball nose, and yaw damper..
- X-15A VO Stability test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 34 km (21 mi). Maximum Speed - 5620 kph. Maximum Altitude - 34200 m. Air dropped in Delamar Dry Lake DZ..
1962 October 7 - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 9 - .
18:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- KH-5 9046A - .
Payload: KH-5 s/n 9046A/Agena B 1134. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-5.
Decay Date: 1962-10-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 436 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Epsilon-1. Apogee: 427 km (265 mi). Perigee: 213 km (132 mi). Inclination: 82.00 deg. Period: 91.00 min. KH-5; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. 50% of stellar terrain film was blank due to shutter malfunction. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- SRV 603 - .
Mass: 1,274 kg (2,808 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-5.
COSPAR: 1962-B-Epsilon-x.
1962 October 9 - .
18:58 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Delamar Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A VO Stability test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 39 km (24 mi). Maximum Speed - 5979 kph. Maximum Altitude - 39700 m. Air dropped in Delamar Dry Lake DZ..
1962 October 11 - .
Launch Site:
Barking Sands.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 11 - .
00:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 11 - .
20:33 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 67 km (41 mi).
1962 October 12 - .
21:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 67 km (41 mi).
1962 October 12 - .
21:32 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 61 km (37 mi).
1962 October 12 - .
22:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 65 km (40 mi).
1962 October 12 - .
23:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 61 km (37 mi).
1962 October 13 - .
00:13 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1962 October 13 - .
01:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 68 km (42 mi).
1962 October 13 - .
01:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 65 km (40 mi).
1962 October 13 - .
02:14 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 65 km (40 mi).
1962 October 13 - .
02:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 63 km (39 mi).
1962 October 13 - .
03:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 64 km (39 mi).
1962 October 13 - .
03:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Loki.
Launch Vehicle:
Loki Dart.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 62 km (38 mi).
1962 October 13 - .
06:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- AS&E-4 X-ray astronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 317 km (196 mi).
1962 October 15 - .
11:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly III BONNIE Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 91 km (56 mi).
1962 October 16 - .
09:14 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
Launch Complex:
Johnston Island LE2.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DSV-2E.
FAILURE: At 86 seconds after launch a booster failure occurred and the missile began tumbling..
Failed Stage: 1.
1962 October 16 - .
11:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly III ALICE Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
1962 October 17 - .
00:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly III DAGMAR Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 89 km (55 mi).
1962 October 17 - .
11:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly III CINDY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 86 km (53 mi).
1962 October 17 - .
15:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Wallops Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- VLF Propagation Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 141 km (87 mi).
1962 October 18 - .
00:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).
1962 October 18 - .
01:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Firefly III BRENDA Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 86 km (53 mi).
1962 October 19 - .
11:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly III QUEENIE Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 91 km (56 mi).
1962 October 20 - .
09:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 21 - .
Launch Site:
Barking Sands.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 23 - .
11:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly III KITTY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 23 - .
11:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly III LOUISE Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 23 - .
19:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike Nike.
- Firefly III ETHEL Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 137 km (85 mi).
1962 October 23 - .
19:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A VO Stability test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 41 km (25 mi). Maximum Speed - 6056 kph. Maximum Altitude - 41000 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1962 October 25 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Mass spectrometer Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 25 - .
06:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Exos sounding rocket.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 669 km (415 mi).
1962 October 25 - .
06:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly III ENID Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 137 km (85 mi).
1962 October 25 - .
11:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly III PAULA Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 95 km (59 mi).
1962 October 25 - .
23:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Extreme ultraviolet Mon / XR / RPA Solar ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 213 km (132 mi).
1962 October 26 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Javelin.
- Mass spectrometer Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1962 October 26 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 26 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Ionosphere winds Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 26 - .
09:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
Launch Complex:
Johnston Island LE1.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DSV-2E.
- BLUEGILL TRIPLE PRIME Nuclear test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
On the fourth attempt, a Thor IRBM was used to launch a Mk 4 Re-entry Vehicle containing a 186 kg W-50 nuclear warhead of either 200 or 400 kilotons yield. The detonation occurred at an altitude of 50 km, 31 km SSW of Johnston Atoll. A fireball formed, the colourful afterglow continuing for 30 minutes of the explosion. At this altitude the extensive disruption of the ionosphere seen in later explosions did not occur.
1962 October 26 - .
09:58 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 26 - .
10:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 26 - .
10:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 26 - .
10:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Mass spectrometer Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 26 - .
10:22 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 26 - .
16:14 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena D.
- Starfish Radiation 1 - .
Payload: Star-Rad 1 / Agena D 1401. Mass: 1,100 kg (2,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Starfish.
Decay Date: 1967-10-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 444 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Kappa-1. Apogee: 5,458 km (3,391 mi). Perigee: 197 km (122 mi). Inclination: 71.40 deg. Period: 146.50 min. Artificial radiation data..
1962 October 27 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 29 - .
Launch Site:
Barking Sands.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 October 31 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1962 October 31 - .
23:33 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike Nike.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Firefly III HAZEL Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 November 1 - .
11:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly III RUBY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 November 1 - .
11:54 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
Launch Complex:
Johnston Island LE2.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DSV-2E.
- KINGFISH Nuclear test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
A Thor IRBM was used to launch a Mk 4 Reentry Vehicle containing a 186 kg W-50 nuclear warhead of either 200 or 400 kilotons yield. The detonation occurred at an altitude of 98 km, 69 km SSW of Johnston Atoll, and resulted in dramatic aurora-like effects visible as far away as Hawaii. More notably, the explosion had a massive effect on the ionosphere which disrupted radio communications over the entire central Pacific for three hours.
1962 November 1 - .
12:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Electron density Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 96 km (59 mi).
1962 November 1 - .
12:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Electron density Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 November 1 - .
12:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 November 1 - .
12:24 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Electron density Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 November 1 - .
12:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Electron density Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 November 2 - .
04:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike Nike.
- Firefly III LISA Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 170 km (100 mi).
1962 November 2 - .
07:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Ionosphere winds Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 November 2 - .
11:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Firefly III CAROL Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1962 November 3 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Ionosphere winds Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 November 4 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Ionosphere winds Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 November 4 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Ionosphere winds Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1962 November 4 - .
07:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Hercules.
- DOMINIC TIGHTROPE Nuclear test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 24 km (14 mi).
This was a DOD sponsored live test of the Nike Hercules air defense missile system. The low-kiloton range W-31 warhead detonated at 21 km altitude 3 km SSW of Johnston Atoll. This was the last U.S. atmospheric test. On Johnston Island an intense white flash was accompanied by a strong heat pulse. A yellow-orange disc formed, slowly changing to a purple toroid which faded from view after several minutes.
1962 November 4 - .
07:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Hercules.
- DOMINIC TIGHTROPE - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 24 km (14 mi).
1962 November 5 - .
11:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly III SALLY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 97 km (60 mi).
1962 November 5 - .
22:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- KH-4 9047 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9047 / Agena B 1136. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1962-12-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 453 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Omicron-1. Apogee: 403 km (250 mi). Perigee: 208 km (129 mi). Inclination: 75.00 deg. Period: 90.60 min. KH-4; film capsule; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. Camera door malfunctioned, flare degraded 15% of film..
- SRV 599 - .
Mass: 1,200 kg (2,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
COSPAR: 1962-B-Omicron-x.
1962 November 6 - .
08:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly III BEVERLY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 89 km (55 mi).
1962 November 6 - .
19:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- HR solar spectrum Solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 308 km (191 mi).
1962 November 8 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1962 November 9 - .
18:23 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Engine failure. Crash landing on Mud Lake..
- X-15A VO Stab, Bound.Layer test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 16 km (9 mi). Engine only produced 35% power. Emergency landing at Mud Lake. Aircraft seriously damaged when gear failed. McKay injured. Maximum Speed - 1640 kph. Maximum Altitude - 16450 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1962 November 11 - .
01:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Firefly III FANNY Aeronomy / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 260 km (160 mi).
1962 November 11 - .
20:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena B.
- Samos 11 - .
Payload: Samos E-6 no. 3 / TRS 1 / Agena B 2405. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Samos.
Decay Date: 1962-11-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 455 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Pi-1. Apogee: 292 km (181 mi). Perigee: 128 km (79 mi). Inclination: 96.00 deg. Period: 88.70 min. Second generation photo surveillance; radio relay of images; Satellite and Missile Observation Satellite. Poor results. SAMOS project cancelled..
1962 November 13 - .
22:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Firefly III GILDA Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 253 km (157 mi).
1962 November 16 - .
01:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Firefly III KAREN Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 234 km (145 mi).
1962 November 19 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1962 November 21 - .
18:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C.
- ERCS / 279L 3 Communications mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1962 November 24 - .
22:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- KH-4 9048 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9048 / Agena B 1135. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1962-12-13 . USAF Sat Cat: 481 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Rho-1. Apogee: 339 km (210 mi). Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.90 min. KH-4. Some film exposed through base..
1962 November 27 - .
Launch Site:
Johnston Island.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Javelin.
- RPA Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1962 November 28 - .
00:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike Nike.
- Firefly III MABEL Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 121 km (75 mi).
1962 November 28 - .
18:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W.
Launch Platform: B-52.
LV Family:
Skybolt.
Launch Vehicle:
Skybolt ALBM.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1962 December 4 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/2.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1962 December 4 - .
00:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Apache.
- Firefly III IVY Aeronomy / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 140 km (80 mi).
1962 December 4 - .
03:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Apache.
- Firefly III ESTHER Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 135 km (83 mi).
1962 December 4 - .
04:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike Nike.
- Firefly III DINAH Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 115 km (71 mi).
1962 December 4 - .
21:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena D.
- KH-4 9049 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9049 / Agena D 1155. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1962-12-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 490 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Sigma-1. Apogee: 273 km (169 mi). Perigee: 194 km (120 mi). Inclination: 65.10 deg. Period: 89.20 min. KH-4. Mission failed. During air catch chute tore, capsule sank..
1962 December 5 - .
01:51 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike Nike.
- Firefly III PATSY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 150 km (90 mi).
1962 December 6 - .
10:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike Nike.
- Firefly III EVA Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 89 km (55 mi).
1962 December 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC32B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first Minuteman I (LGM-30B) flight test missile (FTM 424) was launched from Cape Canaveral. .
1962 December 8 - .
01:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Firefly III LAURA Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 220 km (130 mi).
1962 December 10 - .
20:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Research and development Category I test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1962 December 11 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/2.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1962 December 11 - .
01:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly III DANA Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 108 km (67 mi).
1962 December 12 - .
23:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike Nike.
- Firefly III NETTY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 101 km (62 mi).
1962 December 13 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Failure.
- VO Stab, UVP - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1962 December 13 - .
04:07 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena D.
- Black Sphere - .
Payload: NRL PL120 / Poppy 1A (Poppy 20-inch). Mass: 23 kg (50 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF,
USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
Decay Date: 1967-02-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 502 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Tau-1. Apogee: 2,385 km (1,481 mi). Perigee: 230 km (140 mi). Inclination: 70.30 deg. Period: 111.80 min. First launch of a pair of Poppy naval signals intelligence satellites, which would lead to the NOSS production series..
- Calsphere 1A - .
Mass: 23 kg (50 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF,
USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval signals intelligence satellite. Spacecraft: Calsphere.
Decay Date: 1967-02-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 513 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Tau-5. Apogee: 2,069 km (1,285 mi). Perigee: 228 km (141 mi). Inclination: 70.30 deg. Period: 108.40 min. Surveillance calibration..
- Injun 3 - .
Mass: 52 kg (114 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF,
USN.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Injun.
Decay Date: 1968-08-25 . USAF Sat Cat: 504 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Tau-2. Apogee: 2,406 km (1,495 mi). Perigee: 240 km (140 mi). Inclination: 70.30 deg. Period: 112.10 min. Radiation decay data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- SURCAL 1A - .
Mass: 37 kg (81 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF,
USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: SURCAL.
Decay Date: 1966-01-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 508 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Tau-4. Apogee: 2,160 km (1,340 mi). Perigee: 227 km (141 mi). Inclination: 70.30 deg. Period: 109.30 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- SURCAL 2A - .
Payload: NRL PL121 / Poppy 1B (Poppy 20-inch). Mass: 3.00 kg (6.60 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF,
USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
Decay Date: 1963-07-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 507 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Tau-3. Apogee: 2,762 km (1,716 mi). Perigee: 222 km (137 mi). Inclination: 70.20 deg. Period: 115.80 min. Poppy naval signals intelligence satellite. Officially: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1962 December 14 - .
18:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A VO Stab, UVP Test/Ultraviolet Astronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 43 km (26 mi). Maximum Speed - 6021 kph. Maximum Altitude - 43100 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1962 December 14 - .
21:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena D.
- KH-4 9050 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9050 / Agena D 1156. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1963-01-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 505 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Phi-1. Apogee: 386 km (239 mi). Perigee: 200 km (120 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 90.30 min. KH-4; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. Best mission to date..
1962 December 14 - .
23:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike Nike.
- Firefly III OLGA Aeronomy / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
1962 December 15 - .
03:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1962 December 15 - .
17:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Firefly III MARTHA Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 222 km (137 mi).
1962 December 17 - .
20:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena B.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- Midas 6 - .
Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1205. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Midas.
Decay Date: 1962-12-17 . Missile Defense Alarm System. Carried ERS-3, ERS-4 subsatellites..
1962 December 18 - .
19:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Extreme ultraviolet Mon / RPA Solar extreme ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 224 km (139 mi).
1962 December 19 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout Jr SLV-1B(m).
- Ion Engine Test A Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 2,000 km (1,200 mi).
When the high-voltage power supplies were first turned-on, intermittent high-voltage breakdowns occurred, and the beam power supply became inoperative. Post-flight examination of the power supply indicated the high-voltage breakdowns were probably caused by pressure buildup in the primary propulsion unit due to gas vented from the spacecraft batteries. The primary propulsion unit high voltage section was not adequately vented to keep the pressure low enough. Engine thrusting was not accomplished in this test.
1962 December 20 - .
19:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A VO Stab, MH-96 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 48 km (29 mi). Maximum Speed - 6103 kph. Maximum Altitude - 48900 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1962 December 21 - .
00:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC32B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 50 km (31 mi).
1962 December 22 - .
14:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral AMR DZ.
Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W.
Launch Platform: B-52.
LV Family:
Skybolt.
Launch Vehicle:
Skybolt ALBM.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 580 km (360 mi).
1963 January 7 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1963 January 16 - .
21:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- OPS 0180 - .
Payload: Ferret 3 / Agena B 2313. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
Decay Date: 1969-01-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 527 . COSPAR: 1963-003A. Apogee: 522 km (324 mi). Perigee: 461 km (286 mi). Inclination: 81.90 deg. Period: 94.40 min.
1963 January 17 - .
18:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Delamar Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A VO Alt, IR expt Test/Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 82 km (50 mi). First civilian flight above 80 km. Maximum Speed - 5917 kph. Maximum Altitude - 82810 m. Second astronaut wings flight (USAF definition). Air dropped in Delamar Dry Lake DZ..
1963 January 18 - .
17:18 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1963 January 23 - .
18:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC32B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 February 2 - .
06:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C.
- ERCS 279L Communications mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 February 14 - .
00:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 234 km (145 mi).
1963 February 19 - .
16:33 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-3M.
- P 35-3 - .
Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Program 35.
Decay Date: 1979-12-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 533 . COSPAR: 1963-005A. Apogee: 810 km (500 mi). Perigee: 488 km (303 mi). Inclination: 100.50 deg. Period: 97.80 min. Military weather satellite to provide targetting information for reconnaisance satellites..
1963 February 20 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC32B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Minuteman FTM 421B was successfully launched from the Eastern Test Range by an all-Air Force crew, thus completing the Atlantic range test program for the Wing I configuration Minuteman missile (LGM-30A). .
1963 February 26 - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Mass spectrometer Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1963 February 28 - .
21:48 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- KH-4 9052 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9052. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1963-02-28 . KH-4. Mission failed..
- SRV 610 - .
Mass: 1,200 kg (2,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
1963 March 2 - .
00:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Ascension.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1963 March 6 - .
22:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Mass spectrometer Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 228 km (141 mi).
1963 March 14 - .
01:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C.
- ERCS 279L Communications mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 March 18 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 March 18 - .
21:13 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- KH-6 8001 - .
Payload: KH-6 s/n 8001. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-6.
Decay Date: 1963-03-18 . First launch of KH-6. Mission failed..
- P-11 - .
Payload: P-11. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft: P 11.
- P-11 No. 1 - .
Payload: P-11 No. 1. Mass: 80 kg (176 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1963-03-18 . Ferret subsatellite aboard first launch of KH-6. Mission failed..
1963 March 19 - .
18:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Ultraviolet absorption Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 99 km (61 mi).
1963 March 27 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC32B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 April 5 - .
03:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-3.
FAILURE: Failure..
Failed Stage: U.
- Transit 5A-2 - .
Payload: Transit 5A-2. Mass: 84 kg (185 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
Decay Date: 1963-04-05 . Replacement for the failed Transit 5A; failed to reach orbit..
1963 April 11 - .
04:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC31B.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first successful launch of a fully operational Minuteman missile from Vandenberg by an Air Force crew was completed under simulated operational conditions. .
1963 April 11 - .
18:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A KC-1/APU Test/Imaging mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 22 km (13 mi). Maximum Speed - 4608 kph. Maximum Altitude - 22680 m. First flight in scientific and advanced research series - carried aerial mapping camera. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1963 April 18 - .
20:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Nose gear scoop door opens at Mach 3.4..
- X-15A HT,Local flow,IR Test/Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 28 km (17 mi). Nose landing gear failed. Maximum Speed - 6066 kph. Maximum Altitude - 28190 m. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1963 April 25 - .
22:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Delamar Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A KC-1 Imaging mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 32 km (19 mi). Maximum Speed - 5879 kph. Maximum Altitude - 32160 m. Air dropped in Delamar Dry Lake DZ..
1963 April 26 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-2M.
FAILURE: Failure..
Failed Stage: U.
- P 35-4 - .
Payload: OPS 1298. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Program 35.
Decay Date: 1963-04-26 . Military weather satellite to provide targetting information for reconnaisance satellites..
1963 April 26 - .
20:13 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena D.
FAILURE: Attitude sensors were misaligned. No orbit..
Failed Stage: U.
- KH-5 9055A - .
Payload: KH-5 s/n 9055A. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-5.
Decay Date: 1963-04-26 . Mission failed..
1963 May 2 - .
17:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Extreme ultraviolet Mon 2 / XR / RPA Solar ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 232 km (144 mi).
1963 May 2 - .
17:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A APU,UVP,IR,flow Test/Ultraviolet Astronomy/Technolgy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 63 km (39 mi). Maximum Speed - 5612 kph. Maximum Altitude - 63820 m. Carried earth background radiation instrument in support of Midas reconnsat development. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1963 May 9 - .
20:06 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena B.
- Midas 7 - .
Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1206. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Midas.
USAF Sat Cat: 574 . COSPAR: 1963-014A. Apogee: 3,680 km (2,280 mi). Perigee: 3,609 km (2,242 mi). Inclination: 87.30 deg. Period: 166.40 min. MIDAS 7 was the first operational MIDAS mission and the first equipped with the W-37 sensor. During its six weeks of operation, MIDAS 7 recorded nine US ICBM launches, including the first missile launch ever detected from space..
- Dash 1 - .
Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Technology.
Type: Military technology satellite. Spacecraft: Dash.
USAF Sat Cat: 589 . COSPAR: 1963-014D. Apogee: 3,724 km (2,313 mi). Perigee: 3,558 km (2,210 mi). Inclination: 87.30 deg. Period: 166.30 min.
- TRS 2 - .
Payload: ERS 5. Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Technology.
Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: TRS.
Decay Date: 1973-07-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 579 . COSPAR: 1963-014B. Apogee: 4,902 km (3,045 mi). Perigee: 2,269 km (1,409 mi). Inclination: 87.20 deg. Period: 165.00 min. Solar cells damage data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- TRS 3 - .
Payload: ERS 6. Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Technology.
Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: TRS.
USAF Sat Cat: 608 . COSPAR: 1963-014C. Apogee: 3,691 km (2,293 mi). Perigee: 3,591 km (2,231 mi). Inclination: 87.30 deg. Period: 166.40 min. Solar cells damage data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1963 May 10 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A Test/Ultraviolet Astronomy/Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1963 May 14 - .
20:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Heating,UVP,IR Test/Ultraviolet Astronomy/Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 29 km (18 mi). Maximum Speed - 5792 kph. Maximum Altitude - 29140 m. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1963 May 15 - .
18:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Delamar Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
FAILURE: Nose gear scoop door opens at Mach 5.2..
- X-15A Opt Deg/Trav Probe Test/Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 37 km (22 mi). Maximum Speed - 6204 kph. Maximum Altitude - 37860 m. Lost both nose landing gear tires and forward fuselage buckled after APU gear box pressure loss. Air dropped in Delamar Dry Lake DZ..
1963 May 16 - .
04:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly IV CLAIRE Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 156 km (96 mi).
1963 May 17 - .
23:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C.
- ERCS 279L Communications mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 May 18 - .
04:18 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Apache.
- Firefly IV STELLA Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 94 km (58 mi).
1963 May 18 - .
08:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Firefly IV DORIS Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 167 km (103 mi).
1963 May 26 - .
05:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Barking Sands.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 103 km (64 mi).
1963 May 29 - .
18:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Delamar Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Aero heating/VO Stab test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 28 km (17 mi). Inner panel of left windshield cracked. Maximum Speed - 6208 kph. Maximum Altitude - 28040 m. Air dropped in Delamar Dry Lake DZ..
1963 June 1 - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Arcasonde Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1963 June 2 - .
00:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Walker AFB.
Launch Complex:
Walker AFB.
Launch Pad: Walker AFB Missile Site 579.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1963 June 5 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1963 June 11 - .
05:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- ASE / Lunar X-ray Solar x-ray mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 302 km (187 mi).
1963 June 12 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1963 June 12 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena B.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- Midas 8 - .
Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1204. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Midas.
Decay Date: 1963-06-12 . Missile Defense Alarm System. Carried ERS-7, ERS-8 subsatellites..
1963 June 18 - .
18:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Delamar Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Alt, UVP, Tail p Test/Ultraviolet Astronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 68 km (42 mi). Maximum Speed - 5694 kph. Maximum Altitude - 68180 m. Air dropped in Delamar Dry Lake DZ..
1963 June 25 - .
17:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Delamar Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A Opt Deg/Trav Probe Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 34 km (21 mi). Maximum Speed - 6293 kph. Maximum Altitude - 34080 m. Air dropped in Delamar Dry Lake DZ..
1963 June 27 - .
00:37 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- Hitch Hiker 1 - .
Payload: P-11 No. 2. Mass: 80 kg (176 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
USAF Sat Cat: 614 . COSPAR: 1963-025B. Apogee: 2,506 km (1,557 mi). Perigee: 323 km (200 mi). Inclination: 82.10 deg. Period: 114.10 min. Radiation data. First successful flight of P-11 bus, mainly used for radar signals intelligence gathering..
1963 June 27 - .
17:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Delamar Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Alt/UVP/IR/HorScan Test/Ultraviolet Astronomy/Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 86 km (53 mi). Maximum Speed - 5511 kph. Maximum Altitude - 86870 m. Third astronaut wings flight (USAF definition). Air dropped in Delamar Dry Lake DZ..
1963 June 28 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/2.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1963 June 29 - .
16:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Gyro-resonance Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 156 km (96 mi).
1963 June 29 - .
22:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena B.
- OPS 1440 - .
Payload: Ferret 4 / Agena B 2314. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
Decay Date: 1969-10-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 613 . COSPAR: 1963-027A. Apogee: 530 km (320 mi). Perigee: 487 km (302 mi). Inclination: 82.30 deg. Period: 94.80 min.
An Air Force Thor/Agena B launched from Vandenberg established a number of distinctive records. It was the 200th Thor to be launched since Number 101 was launched at Cape Canaveral on 25 January 1957. It was the first, last and only-Thrust Augmented Thor/Agena B to be used by the Air Force. It was the final Agena B (#2314) to be employed with a Thor booster.
1963 July 2 - .
02:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Ascension.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1963 July 3 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A Technology/test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1963 July 3 - .
09:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Structure Test / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 199 km (123 mi).
1963 July 9 - .
20:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Delamar Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Opt Deg/TravP/RAS Technology/test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 69 km (42 mi). Maximum Speed - 5842 kph. Maximum Altitude - 69010 m. Air dropped in Delamar Dry Lake DZ..
1963 July 10 - .
17:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Extreme ultraviolet Mon / RPA Solar ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 225 km (139 mi).
1963 July 12 - .
20:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena D.
1963 July 17 - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC21/1.
Launch Pad: LC21/pad?.
LV Family:
Matador.
Launch Vehicle:
Mace.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
1963 July 17 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1963 July 18 - .
18:07 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Mud Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A VO Stability test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 31 km (19 mi). Maximum Speed - 6315 kph. Maximum Altitude - 31940 m. Air dropped in Mud Lake DZ..
1963 July 19 - .
03:51 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena B.
- Midas 9 - .
Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1207. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Midas.
USAF Sat Cat: 622 . COSPAR: 1963-030A. Apogee: 3,726 km (2,315 mi). Perigee: 3,676 km (2,284 mi). Inclination: 88.40 deg. Period: 167.90 min. The final Air Force Atlas D/Agena B (75D/1207) was launched from Vandenberg AFB. Missile Defense Alarm System. Did not eject ERS 10 subsatellite..
- TRS 4 - .
Payload: ERS 9. Mass: 2.00 kg (4.40 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Technology.
Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: TRS.
USAF Sat Cat: 635 . COSPAR: 1963-030B. Apogee: 3,736 km (2,321 mi). Perigee: 3,661 km (2,274 mi). Inclination: 88.40 deg. Period: 167.80 min. Radiation damage data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- Dash 2 - .
Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Technology.
Type: Military technology satellite. Spacecraft: Dash.
Decay Date: 1971-04-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 624 . COSPAR: 1963-030D. Apogee: 3,839 km (2,385 mi). Perigee: 3,573 km (2,220 mi). Inclination: 88.50 deg. Period: 168.00 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1963 July 19 - .
18:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Smith Ranch Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
1963 July 20 - .
21:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Black Brant.
Launch Vehicle:
Black Brant II.
- Operation Probe High Eclipse mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 143 km (88 mi).
1963 July 25 - .
22:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
Exos sounding rocket.
- Refractive Index Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 623 km (387 mi).
1963 July 26 - .
21:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Black Brant.
Launch Vehicle:
Black Brant II.
- D region e density Aurora / ionosphere mission Aurora / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 143 km (88 mi).
1963 July 30 - .
16:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC18A.
Launch Pad: LC18A.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout Jr.
- OAR 22-1 / AFCRL-1 / 21 Plasma / radio astronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 11,100 km (6,800 mi).
1963 August 6 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A Test/Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1963 August 13 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A Test/Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1963 August 15 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A Test/Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1963 August 22 - .
18:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Smith Ranch Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 003.
- X-15A VO,Spectrom,Photom Test/Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 107 km (66 mi). Unofficial world altitude record. Maximum Speed - 6105 kph. Maximum Altitude - 107960 m. Second X-15 astronaut flight (FAI definition); fifth astronaut wings flight (USAF definition). Air dropped in Smith Ranch Lake DZ..
1963 August 28 - .
18:48 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1963 August 29 - .
20:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2 Agena D.
- LAMPO - .
Payload: 0.1 Square Meter Target. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval signals intelligence satellite. Spacecraft: LAMPO.
Decay Date: 1963-09-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 638 . COSPAR: 1963-035B. Apogee: 422 km (262 mi). Perigee: 315 km (195 mi). Inclination: 81.90 deg. Period: 92.00 min. The first Thor standard launch vehicle, SLV-2, with an Agena D upper stage vehicle, was launched from Vandenberg AFB. Radar monitoring. Not identified as a subsatellite ferret by McDowell..
1963 September 1 - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Arcasonde Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1963 September 1 - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Arcasonde Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1963 September 3 - .
22:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Mass spectrometer Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 288 km (178 mi).
1963 September 6 - .
19:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena D.
- KH 7-02 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 2 / OPS 1947. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-7.
Decay Date: 1963-09-13 . USAF Sat Cat: 641 . COSPAR: 1963-036A. Apogee: 243 km (150 mi). Perigee: 171 km (106 mi). Inclination: 94.40 deg. Period: 88.70 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1963 September 12 - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike.
- Parachute test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 30 km (18 mi).
1963 September 18 - .
09:39 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC17B.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DSV-2F.
- ASSET 1 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 56 km (34 mi).
A Thor (SLV-2) booster lifted the first Aerothermodynamic/Elastic Structural Systems Environmental Tests (ASSET) program vehicle (ASV-1) on a successful suborbital flight from Cape Canaveral. The ASSET program was designed to test materials and study flight characteristics of glide reentry vehicles. SSD provided the boosters and launch services for the program, while Flight Dynamics Laboratory was responsible for overall program management. Suborbital test of small scale spaceplane model to test materials for the X-20 Dynasoar. Aero-thermodynamic structural test vehicle (ASV) for heat shield tests. Booster flew to peak altitude of 62 km, then pitched down, driving the spacecraft to separation at 59 km and 4,906 m/s. The spacecraft was sited under its parachute in the recovery zone at Ascension Island, but the flotation bag broke and it sank into the Atlantic.
1963 September 18 - .
18:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Ascension.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1963 September 24 - .
04:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Apache.
- Firefly IV IRMA Aeronomy / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 158 km (98 mi).
1963 September 26 - .
04:37 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Apache.
- Firefly IV WANDA Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 170 km (100 mi).
1963 September 26 - .
05:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Apache.
- Firefly IV VIOLET Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 170 km (100 mi).
1963 September 26 - .
18:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Ultraviolet absorption Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 98 km (60 mi).
1963 September 27 - .
11:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-2B.
FAILURE: Failure..
Failed Stage: U.
- P 35-5 - .
Payload: OPS 1610. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Program 35.
Decay Date: 1963-09-27 . Military weather satellite to provide targetting information for reconnaisance satellites..
1963 October 1 - .
10:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Apache.
- Firefly IV BECKY Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 182 km (113 mi).
1963 October 2 - .
18:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Ascension.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1963 October 4 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A Test/Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1963 October 7 - .
18:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Arcasonde Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1963 October 7 - .
20:22 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Checkout/Opt Deg. Test/Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 23 km (14 mi). Maximum Speed - 4560 kph. Maximum Altitude - 23710 m. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1963 October 14 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A Test/Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1963 October 17 - .
02:37 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Cape Canaveral.
Launch Complex:
Cape Canaveral LC13.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena D.
- Vela 2 - .
Payload: Vela 1B. Mass: 220 kg (480 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Nuclear detection surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: Vela.
USAF Sat Cat: 674 . COSPAR: 1963-039A. Apogee: 116,582 km (72,440 mi). Perigee: 101,081 km (62,808 mi). Inclination: 38.70 deg. Period: 6,486.20 min.
Space Systems Division, acting.as program manager for the Defense Department, launched two Vela nuclear radiation detection satellites from Cape Canaveral aboard the first Atlas D/Agena D (SLV-3/SS-01A) launch vehicle (197D). The Vela satellites were developed and produced by the TRW Systems and were the first pair in a series of satellites designed to provide information on nuclear detonations in the atmosphere or in outer space to a distance of 100 million miles. The 297-pound satellites were placed in near-circular orbits approximately 70,000 miles above the Earth's surface. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A).
- TRS 5 - .
Payload: ERS 12. Mass: 2.00 kg (4.40 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Technology.
Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: TRS.
Decay Date: 1963-06-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 675 . COSPAR: 1963-039B. Apogee: 102,372 km (63,610 mi). Perigee: 953 km (592 mi). Inclination: 35.90 deg. Period: 2,319.40 min. Decay date suspect Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- Vela 1 - .
Payload: Vela 1A. Mass: 220 kg (480 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Nuclear detection surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: Vela.
USAF Sat Cat: 692 . COSPAR: 1963-039C. Apogee: 116,528 km (72,407 mi). Perigee: 101,925 km (63,333 mi). Inclination: 37.80 deg. Period: 6,519.60 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1963 October 25 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A Sharp Upper Vert. test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi). X-15 aborted launch (Sharp Upper Vert.).
1963 October 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena D.
- Agena D - .
Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-7.
Decay Date: 1963-10-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 678 . COSPAR: 1963-041B. Apogee: 276 km (171 mi). Perigee: 116 km (72 mi). Inclination: 99.00 deg. Period: 88.41 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- KH 7-03 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 3 / OPS 2196. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-7.
Decay Date: 1963-10-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 677 . COSPAR: 1963-041A. Apogee: 312 km (193 mi). Perigee: 123 km (76 mi). Inclination: 99.00 deg. Period: 88.80 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1963 October 29 - .
20:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Checkout/Opt Deg. Test/Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 22 km (13 mi). Maximum Speed - 4364 kph. Maximum Altitude - 22600 m. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1963 October 29 - .
21:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- Hitch Hiker 2 - .
Payload: P-11 s/n A3. Mass: 80 kg (176 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1965-05-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 682 . COSPAR: 1963-042B. Apogee: 581 km (361 mi). Perigee: 288 km (178 mi). Inclination: 90.00 deg. Period: 93.30 min. Radar monitoring..
1963 October 31 - .
18:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- D-region composition Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 112 km (69 mi).
1963 November 4 - .
10:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Apache.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 215 km (133 mi).
1963 November 5 - .
00:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 164 km (101 mi).
1963 November 6 - .
Launch Site:
Eglin.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1963 November 7 - .
18:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Sharp Upper Vert. test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 25 km (15 mi). Maximum Speed - 4706 kph. Maximum Altitude - 25080 m. First flight with sharp-edged vertical stabilizer. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1963 November 9 - .
20:27 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2 Agena D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- KH-4 9060 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9060. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1963-11-09 . KH-4. Mission failed..
- SRV 632 - .
Mass: 1,200 kg (2,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
1963 November 13 - .
20:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Ascension.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1963 November 13 - .
23:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- Dayglow Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 262 km (162 mi).
1963 November 14 - .
19:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A CO/Opt Deg/Systems Test/Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 27 km (16 mi). Maximum Speed - 5287 kph. Maximum Altitude - 27680 m. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1963 November 19 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A Checkout mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi). X-15 aborted launch (Checkout).
1963 November 27 - .
20:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Hidden Hills DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Checkout mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 27 km (16 mi). Maximum Speed - 5326 kph. Maximum Altitude - 27371 m. Air dropped in Hidden Hills DZ..
1963 December 3 - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Pad: Edwards.
Launch Platform: NB-52.
FAILURE: Failure.
- X-15A aborted launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
1963 December 5 - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Aerobee 150.
- HR solar spectrum Solar ultraviolet mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1963 December 5 - .
19:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Edwards.
Launch Complex:
Delamar Dry Lake DZ.
Launch Pad: Edwards RW04/22.
Launch Platform: NB-52 008.
- X-15A Opt Deg/Sys/Mach 6 Technology/test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA,
USAF.
Spacecraft: X-15A.
Apogee: 30 km (18 mi). Maximum Speed - 6465 kph. Maximum Altitude - 30785 m. Camera test in combination with U-2 flight. Air dropped in Delamar Dry Lake DZ..
1963 December 9 - .
05:24 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Fort Churchill.
LV Family:
Astrobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Astrobee 200.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Ionization detector Aeronomy / aurora mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 242 km (150 mi).
1963 December 12 - .
16:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
White Sands.
Launch Complex:
White Sands LC35.
LV Family:
Aerobee