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Vandenberg
 Vandenberg Credit: © Mark Wade |
Vandenberg Air Force Base is located on the Central Coast of California about 240 km northwest of Los Angeles. It is used for launches of unmanned government and commercial satellites into polar orbit and intercontinental ballistic missile test launches toward the Kwajalein Atoll.
First Launch: 1958-12-16. Last Launch: 2014-08-13. Number: 1952 . Location: California. Longitude: -120.60 deg. Latitude: 34.77 deg. Apogee: 112 km (69 mi).
Vandenberg began as the US Army's Camp Cooke before World War II. The Army purchased approximately 86,000 acres of land in March 1941. With its flat plateau, surrounding hills, numerous nearby canyons, and relative remoteness from populated areas, the Army was convinced that it had found an ideal location for armored division training. Five armored divisions and numerous other units trained their during the second world war. The main camp was inactivated in June 1946, then reactivated in August 1950 for armored training during the Korean War. It was mothballed again in February 1953.
By 1955 the US Air Force identified an urgent need for a secure launch site for long-range ballistic missile tests to targets in the Pacific Ocean and space launches into polar orbit. Camp Cooke's remote location, with a southern-facing shore, offered a unique location for such activities. In November 1956 the Secretary of Defense transferred North Camp Cooke to the Air Force. Two months later the first Air Force unit, the 6591st Support Squadron, was established at Cooke. Ground breaking for the missile base came in May 1957. The United States Air Force responded to Russian Sputnik launch in October 1957 by accelerating the development of its missile program. It transferred management responsibilities for Cooke AFB from Air Research and Development Command (ARDC) to the Strategic Air Command (SAC) on January 1, 1958. Site activation, and research and development testing of ballistic missiles remained with ARDC. Space launches were to be conducted jointly by both commands. Although the mission at Cooke was now divided between ARDC and SAC, the two commands cultivated a close relationship that was to flourish for the next 35 years.
On October 4, 1958, Cooke AFB was renamed Vandenberg AFB in honor of the late General Hoyt S. Vandenberg, the Air Force's second Chief of Staff. The first missile launch from Vandenberg AFB was a Thor IRBM on December 16, 1958. Two months later on February 28, 1959, the world's first polar orbiting satellite, Discoverer I, lifted into space from a Thor/Agena booster combination. The Atlas made its debut West Coast flight on September 9. The following month, equipped with a nuclear warhead, Vandenberg became the site of the first ICBM to be placed on alert in the United States.
In 1961, the Titan I entered the inventory at Vandenberg AFB, but a more advanced version with storable propellants, all inertial guidance, and in-silo launch capability--the Titan II--was already
in the process of development. More importantly, the solid-propellant, three-stage Minuteman ICBM was under development and began flight tests at Vandenberg in September 1962.
In subsequent years, other launch vehicles followed including the Peacekeeper (MX) ICBM beginning in June 1983, the Titan IV space booster in March 1991, the air-launched Pegasus booster in April 1995, and most recently the Delta II commercial space booster in February 1996. By April 1996, 1,721 orbital and ballistic missiles had lifted off from Vandenberg AFB.
By far, the most ambitious Air Force endeavors at Vandenberg were the Manned Orbiting Laboratory (MOL) and the Space Shuttle programs. Construction work for MOL began at Space Launch Complex 6 (SLC-6) in March 1966. The land for the new facility was obtained by an eminent domain purchase of the adjacent 15,000 acre Sudden Ranch at a cost of $9,842,700. Three years later, in June 1969, the project was canceled, the victim of cost overruns, completion delays, and emerging new technologies.
After nearly a decade of abandonment, SLC-6 was reactivated and underwent an estimated $4 billion modification program in preparation for the Space Shuttle, beginning in January 1979. Persistent site technical problems, however, and a joint decision by the Air Force and NASA to consolidate Shuttle operations at Cape Canaveral in Florida, following the Challenger tragedy in 1986, resulted in the official termination of the Shuttle program at Vandenberg on December 26, 1989. Today, SLC-6 is used by commercial space launch firms and for launches of the new Delta IV EELV booster.
On February 1, 1965, Vandenberg's AFWTR was given full responsibility for ICBM and space support functions, previously assigned to the Navy's Pacific Missile Range. The transfer involved taking over fixed and mobile range sites at Point Arguello, California; Pillar Point (San Mateo County), California; Kokee Park (Kauai County), Hawaii; South Point (Hawaii County), Hawaii; Canton, Midway, and Wake Islands in the mid-Pacific; Eniwetok and Bikini Atolls in the Marshall Islands; and six range instrumented ships (Huntsville, Longview, Range Tracker, Richfield, Sunnyvale, and Watertown).
By 1968, the AFWTR fleet had increased to eleven ships and was also supporting NASA's manned space program at Cape Canaveral, Florida. As land-based tracking and monitoring systems became increasingly more accurate and reliable, AFWTR retired from service its range ships the last one, USNS Sunnyvale, in January 1975. Likewise, most of the fixed instrumentation sites were transferred to other agencies.
Although geographically the range extends westward to the middle of the Indian Ocean, the only instrumentation sites presently comprising the downrange portion of the Western Range are at the Hawaiian Islands (augmented with instrumentation sites from other organizations), and the Army's missile range at Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands. The uprange or California sites are located at Vandenberg AFB, Santa Ynez Peak (Santa Barbara County), Anderson Peak (Monterey County), and Pillar Point Air Force Station (San Mateo County). Additional support is garnered from the naval facilities at Point Mugu and Laguna Peak (Ventura County), as well as from San Nicholas Island off the coast from Point Mugu. The 30th Space Wing's Western Range instrumentation sites are operated and maintained by ITT/Federal Services Corporation.
In 1995 the California Spaceport, operated by Spaceport Systems International was created at Vandenberg. The U.S. Air Force awarded a 25 year lease which included a payload processing facility and more than 100 acres of land for commercial launch facility construction.
The FAA-certified California Spaceport took advantage of Vandenberg's existing launch pads, runways, payload processing facilities, telemetry and tracking equipment. Work was completed in 2004 to build a rolling access gantry to support Minuteman and future Peacekeeper space booster derivatives. A new SLC-8 gantry was installed in 2005.
The Spaceport Systems International Commercial Launch Facility (CLF) Site was located just south of SLC-6 next to the evaporation ponds. The concern's Integrated Processing Facility (IPF) was originally built for the Space Shuttle Program at a cost in excess of $300 million. The building was designed to process three shuttle-class payloads simultaneously. The vertical sliding doors were modified to allow the transfer of encapsulated payloads from the IPF in support of EELV and other launch programs.
SLC-6, after another expensive conversion program, finally saw use in the 21st Century as the launch facility for the Delta 4H Heavy EELV. By 2008 over 1940 major launches had been made from Vandenberg.
Minimum Inclination: 51.0 degrees. Maximum Inclination: 145.0 degrees.
With ICBM development receiving the highest national priority during the mid-1950s, the Air Force needed a location to test these missiles under operational conditions. Such conditions were difficult to simulate at Patrick AFB and Cape Canaveral, Florida, where missile testing had been taking place. After a nationwide search that included the evaluation of 200 different locations, in 1956 the Air Force settled on Camp Cooke, an Army facility located on the California coast 120 miles northwest of Los Angeles. Cooke was relatively far away from populated areas; enjoyed favorable climate that allowed year-round operations; had access to the ocean, which could be used as a
range; and was located close to the southern California aerospace industry. Here the Air Force could build and test the missiles and launching facilities that would form the backbone of United States strategic deterrence.
In 1957, the Army transferred the northern and southern sections of the base to the Air Force and Navy, respectively. The Navy subsequently established the Naval Missile Facility at Point Arguello and the Pacific Missile Range, and maintained control of the 20,000 acre tract until 1964. At that time the Air Force assumed control of this property and the range became known as the Western Test Range. Meanwhile, much had happened on the 65,000 acres that had been renamed Vandenberg AFB on October 4, 1958, to honor the deceased former Air Force Chief of Staff.
The Air Research Development Command took control of the facility in early 1957. With Air Force control established, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, in April 1957, activated the 1st Missile Division. Later dubbed "One Strad," this organization would play important roles in training missile launch crews, supporting test launches, and performing required missile maintenance.
Throughout the duration of the Cold War, prototype launch pads, control facilities, and silos for every generation of American ICBMs were built and tested at Vandenberg AFB. The Los Angeles District of the Army Corps of Engineers played an integral part in constructing these complex facilities and their supporting administrative and housing facilities. Groundbreaking began in May 1957 for the first of these facilities and during the next 3 years the Air Force expended over $200 million on new construction and to upgrade existing facilities. Examples of support facilities include huge sheet metal covered missile assembly buildings, liquid oxygen generation plants, and instrumentation facilities.
On July 1, 1957, the 704th Strategic Missile Wing was activated to oversee activities of specific missile training squadrons scheduled to be activated in the coming months. One of these squadrons, the 392nd Missile Training Squadron assumed the duties of training prospective missilemen on the Great Britain-bound Thor IRBM. The first launch facilities completed included seven launch pads and three blockhouses for the conduct of Thor IRBM testing. These complexes would later become known as SLC-1, SLC-2, and SLC-10. On December 16, 1958, a crew from the First Missile Division successfully launched a Thor IRBM, inaugurating the intermediate-range ballistic missile portion of the Pacific Missile Range. The following April, a Royal Air Force crew duplicated the feat.
In January 1958, ARDC transferred the base to the Strategic Air Command (SAC). With facilities under construction for America's first ICBM, on April 1, 1958, Headquarters SAC activated the 576th Strategic Missile Squadron.
The first Atlas launcher to be completed (576A-1) was accepted from the contractor by the 1st Missile Division on October 16, 1958. The first Atlas D missile arrived the following February. Initially, the squadron's Atlas D missiles were deployed at complexes
576A and 576B. Complex 576A consisted of three above-ground gantries; 576B had three above-ground coffin launchers of a type that would be constructed at other sites. Each complex had one launch control center.
The 576th SMS launched its first Atlas D on September 9, 1959. Immediately following the launch, SAC's Commander in Chief, General Thomas S. Power declared Vandenberg's Atlas missile operational. A month later, the squadron's Atlas missiles were placed on an alert status. The activation had more psychological value than military value as the reliability of the Atlas D missile was highly questionable. Improved versions were already undergoing production along with launch facilities to support them. As the above-ground sites became operational, construction continued on a buried coffin launcher to hold an Atlas E missile (designated launch site 576C) and work began on two Atlas F silo lift launchers (576D and 576E). By 1962, 11 prototype Atlas complexes had been constructed at Vandenberg AFB.
On July 31, 1958, construction began on the Operational System Test Facility for the Titan I missile. This facility would serve as the prototype of the hardened Titan I launch control facility. By the fall of 1960, four Titan I lift silos had been completed with three training silos (395 A-1,-2, and -3) grouped at one complex and a fourth located in a separate area. In December 1960, an explosion ripped through this silo during a simulated launch, resulting in massive damage. By early 1961, four silos were completed or undergoing completion for the follow-on Titan II system.
With the deactivation of first generation ICBMs in 1965, Vandenberg's Atlas and Titan I sites were deactivated with major equipment being salvaged. The last Titan II site remained in service until 1977.
Vandenberg also played an important role in the Minuteman program. In 1961 construction began on six Minuteman silos and a launch control facility. By 1965, 14 silos for Minuteman I and II missiles dotted the base's Casmalia hills south of Point Sal. Later, seven of these silos were modified to fire Minuteman III missiles. Three of these complexes underwent further modification in the 1980s to launch Peacekeeper MX ICBMs. Activated in 1960, the 394th Strategic Missile Squadron handled training and operations at these sites.
In April 1967, Vandenberg hosted a SAC-sponsored missile combat competition called "Operation Curtain Raiser" with crews from Titan II and Minuteman Wings participating. Eventually dubbed "Olympic Arena," this event grew to be an annual event with teams competing for the Blanchard Perpetual Trophy and other honors such as the Best Combat Crew, Best Targeting Team, Best Communications Team, Best Munitions Maintenance Team Award, and Best Missile Handling Team. These annual events enhanced professionalism and esprit de corps among America's missilemen and provided training opportunities since annual events often were planned to coincide with test launchings that often used the visiting crews to perform the task.
In addition to being used to evaluate the capabilities of operational ICBMs and serving as a launch location for many of America's military satellites, Vandenberg played an
important role in America's antiballistic missile efforts. In 1962, an Army Nike Zeus missile launched from Kwajalein Island successfully intercepted an Atlas D ICBM launched from Vandenberg. Many additional launched targets gave the Army opportunities to perfect its interceptor missiles and tracking capabilities.
By 1968, Vandenberg's 98,000 acres covered an area double that of the nation's capital, and supported a population of over 28,000. Some 1,076 buildings, 1,983 housing units, 797 trailer spaces, and a massive utility infrastructure supported the base mission.
In 1981, Space Launch Complex (SLC) 10/Thor, considered the best surviving example of 1950s launch technology, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The complex includes the launch pad, blockhouse, support buildings, roll-away shelter and an SM-75 Thor missile. In 1988, the Missile Heritage Foundation opened a museum at SLC-10 dedicated to preserving the history of the Air Force ICBM programs.
Subtopics
| Vandenberg 395-A1 Titan 1 silo. Operational 23 September 1961 - 8 December 1964. Test and training facility; operational between Sep 23, 1961 to Dec 8, 1964. Decommissioned/Stripped |
| Vandenberg 395-A2 Titan 1 silo. Operational 30 March 1963 - 20 March 1965. A test and training facility; operational between Mar 30, 1963 to Mar 20, 1965. Decommissioned/Stripped |
| Vandenberg 395-A3 Titan 1 silo. Operational 20 January 1962 - 14 January 1965. Test and training facility; operational between Jan 20, 1962 to Jan 14, 1965. Decommissioned/Stripped |
| Vandenberg 395-B Titan II silo. Operational 17 February 1964 - 20 May 1969. Ttest and training facility; operational between Feb 17, 1964 to May 20, 1969. Decommissioned/Stripped |
| Vandenberg 395-C Titan II silo. Operational 16 February 1963 - 27 June 1976. Test and training facility; operational between Feb 16, 1963 to Jun 27, 1976. Site of the first Vandenberg Titan II launch. Decommissioned/Stripped |
| Vandenberg 395-D Titan II silo. Operational 13 May 1963 - 5 April 1966. Test and training facility; operational between May 13, 1963 to Apr 5, 1966.Decommissioned/Stripped. |
| Vandenberg 576A1 Atlas soft launcher. Operational 26 October 1962 - 4 November 1963. Used for missile test launches Oct 26, 1962 to Nov 4, 1963 then used for space program from May 25, 1965 to Sep 8, 1974. Decommissioned/Stripped. Initially dedicated to ABM target payloads for Nike Zeus at Kwajalein. Upgraded for use as ABRES re-entry vehicle test program pad in 1965, and for BMRS program in 1971. |
| Vandenberg 576A1 Atlas soft launcher. Operational 26 October 1962 - 4 November 1963. Used for missile test launches Oct 26, 1962 to Nov 4, 1963 then used for space program from May 25, 1965 to Sep 8, 1974. Decommissioned/Stripped. Initially dedicated to ABM target payloads for Nike Zeus at Kwajalein. Upgraded for use as ABRES re-entry vehicle test program pad in 1965, and for BMRS program in 1971. |
| Vandenberg 576A2 Atlas launch complex. Originally an Atlas 576 SMS ICBM pad. Operational 26 October 1962 - 5 August 1965. Site of the first Vandenberg ICBM launch. Used for missile tests and training Oct 26, 1962 to Aug 5, 1965; then used for space program from Apr 6, 1968 to Sep 8, 1974. Decommissioned / Stripped. Upgraded for use as ABRES re-entry vehicle test program pad in 1965, and for BMRS program in 1971. |
| Vandenberg 576A3 Atlas, AMROC launch complex. Originally an Atlas 576 SMS ICBM pad. Operational 26 January 1960. Upgraded for use as ABRES pad in 1965, and for BMRS program in 1971. |
| Vandenberg 576B1 Atlas launch complex. Originally an Atlas 576 SMS ICBM pad. Operational 22 July 1960 - 10 June 1966. Decommissioned/Stripped. Upgraded for use as ABRES pad in 1965. |
| Vandenberg 576B2 Atlas launch complex. Operational 19 June 1959 - 7 November 1967. Originally an Atlas 576 SMS ICBM pad. Upgraded for use as ABRES pad in 1965. Decommissioned/Stripped. |
| Vandenberg 576B3 Atlas launch complex. Originally an Atlas 576 SMS ICBM pad. Operational Sep 12, 1960 to Jan 21, 1965 then used for space program from May 27, 1965 to Oct 11, 1967. Decommissioned/Stripped. Upgraded for use as ABRES pad in 1965. |
| Vandenberg 576C Atlas coffin launcher. Operational 3 July 1963 - 25 September 1963. Decommissioned/Stripped. |
| Vandenberg 576D Atlas silo. Operational 15 March 1963 - 31 August 1964. Decommissioned/Stripped. |
| Vandenberg 576E Atlas, Taurus, launch complex. Atlas F operational 1 August 1962 - 22 December 1964. Decommissioned/stripped. Later site converted to pad for Taurus launch vehicle. |
| Vandenberg BOM1 Bomarc launch complex. Consisted of Bomarc Complex 1 and 2. |
| Vandenberg LC-A Scout, Javelin, Honest John, Black Brant, Astrobee, Asp, Seagull, Journeyman, Dac Roc launch complex. Launch Complex A, Naval Missile Facility, Point Arguello |
| Vandenberg LC-B Viper, Terrier, Hopi, Deacon, Cajun, Astrobee launch complex. Launch Complex B, Naval Missile Facility, Point Arguello |
| Vandenberg LE-8 Delta launch complex. Originally a Thor 75 SMS IRBM pad. Upgraded for use as a launch emplacement in 1961. |
| Vandenberg LF02 Minuteman test and training silo. Operational 21 November 1961. Originally for Minuteman I, converted to Minuteman II in 1967 and later to Minuteman III; converted to Peacekeeper in 1985. Finally adopted for Minotaur launches. |
| Vandenberg LF02 Minuteman test and training silo. Operational 21 November 1961. Originally for Minuteman I, converted to Minuteman II in 1967 and later to Minuteman III; converted to Peacekeeper in 1985. Finally adopted for Minotaur launches. |
| Vandenberg LF03 Minuteman silo. Operational 21 November 1961. Originally a Minuteman I 394 SMS silo. Upgraded for use as a test and training facility in 1964. Converted to Minuteman II in 1967 and later to Minuteman III; converted to Peacekeeper in 1985. Finally adopted for Minotaur launches. |
| Vandenberg LF03 Minuteman silo. Operational 21 November 1961. Originally a Minuteman I 394 SMS silo. Upgraded for use as a test and training facility in 1964. Converted to Minuteman II in 1967 and later to Minuteman III; converted to Peacekeeper in 1985. Finally adopted for Minotaur launches. |
| Vandenberg LF04 Minuteman launch silo, operational 21 November 1961. Originally a Minuteman 394 SMS silo. Upgraded for use as a test and training facility in 1964. Converted to Minuteman II in 1968 and Minuteman III in 1974. |
| Vandenberg LF04 Minuteman launch silo, operational 21 November 1961. Originally a Minuteman 394 SMS silo. Upgraded for use as a test and training facility in 1964. Converted to Minuteman II in 1968 and Minuteman III in 1974. |
| Vandenberg LF05 Minuteman, Peacekeeper launch silo. Originally a Minuteman I 394 SMS silo. Upgraded for use as a launch test and training facility in 1964. Operational from November 1, 1961. Converted to Minuteman II in 1965 and later to Minuteman III; converted to Peacekeeper in 1985. |
| Vandenberg LF05 Minuteman, Peacekeeper launch silo. Originally a Minuteman I 394 SMS silo. Upgraded for use as a launch test and training facility in 1964. Operational from November 1, 1961. Converted to Minuteman II in 1965 and later to Minuteman III; converted to Peacekeeper in 1985. |
| Vandenberg LF06 Minuteman silo. Originally a Minuteman I 394 SMS silo operational 28 December 1961. Upgraded for use as a test and training facility in 1964. Converted to Minuteman III in October 1986, and later again modified to launch the Peacekeeper and Minotaur. |
| Vandenberg LF06 Minuteman silo. Originally a Minuteman I 394 SMS silo operational 28 December 1961. Upgraded for use as a test and training facility in 1964. Converted to Minuteman III in October 1986, and later again modified to launch the Peacekeeper and Minotaur. |
| Vandenberg LF07 Minuteman silo. Operational 3 April 1962 - 1 January 1966. Originally a Minuteman 394 SMS silo. Upgraded for use as a Minuteman II Launch Facility in 1964. Decommissioned and stripped. |
| Vandenberg LF07 Minuteman silo. Operational 3 April 1962 - 1 January 1966. Originally a Minuteman 394 SMS silo. Upgraded for use as a Minuteman II Launch Facility in 1964. Decommissioned and stripped. |
| Vandenberg LF08 Minuteman, Peacekeeper, Astrid launch silo. Originally a Minuteman 394 SMS silo Minuteman I silo, operational 18 March 1963. Upgraded for use as a Launch Facility in 1964, and converted to Peacekeeper in March 1985. |
| Vandenberg LF08 Minuteman, Peacekeeper, Astrid launch silo. Originally a Minuteman 394 SMS silo Minuteman I silo, operational 18 March 1963. Upgraded for use as a Launch Facility in 1964, and converted to Peacekeeper in March 1985. |
| Vandenberg LF09 Minuteman silo. Operational 15 January 1964. Later a Minuteman III test and training facility. |
| Vandenberg LF09 Minuteman silo. Operational 15 January 1964. Later a Minuteman III test and training facility. |
| Vandenberg LF10 Minuteman silo. Operational 1 November 1964 as a test and training facility. |
| Vandenberg LF10 Minuteman silo. Operational 1 November 1964 as a test and training facility. |
| Vandenberg LF21 Minuteman, Orbus launch complex. Operational as a Minuteman test and training facility from 1 August 1964. Site fell out of use and was partially stripped. Later refurbished for Orbus Ground Based Interceptor use. |
| Vandenberg LF21 Minuteman, Orbus launch complex. Operational as a Minuteman test and training facility from 1 August 1964. Site fell out of use and was partially stripped. Later refurbished for Orbus Ground Based Interceptor use. |
| Vandenberg LF23 Minuteman, OBV launch complex. Operational 2 October 1965 - 26 August 1966 as a Minuteman test and training facility. Decommissioned and stripped, later refurbished for Ground Based Interceptor use. |
| Vandenberg LF23 Minuteman, OBV launch complex. Operational 2 October 1965 - 26 August 1966 as a Minuteman test and training facility. Decommissioned and stripped, later refurbished for Ground Based Interceptor use. |
| Vandenberg LF24 Minuteman silo. Operational 5 January 1965 - 18 May 1971. A test and training facility, it was accepted on Jan 5, 1965, and staged its last launch May 18, 1971. Decommissioned and stripped. |
| Vandenberg LF24 Minuteman silo. Operational 5 January 1965 - 18 May 1971. A test and training facility, it was accepted on Jan 5, 1965, and staged its last launch May 18, 1971. Decommissioned and stripped. |
| Vandenberg LF25 Minuteman silo. Operational 2 January 1965 - 4 March 1976. A test and training facility, it was accepted on Jan 2, 1965, and staged its last launch Mar 4, 1976. Decommissioned and stripped. |
| Vandenberg LF25 Minuteman silo. Operational 2 January 1965 - 4 March 1976. A test and training facility, it was accepted on Jan 2, 1965, and staged its last launch Mar 4, 1976. Decommissioned and stripped. |
| Vandenberg LF26 Minuteman silo. A test and training facility accepted on 2 February 1965. |
| Vandenberg LF26 Minuteman silo. A test and training facility accepted on 2 February 1965. |
| Vandenberg OSTF1 Atlas launch complex. Originally an Atlas Operational Silo Test Facility. Upgraded to a 576 SMS launch pad in 1963. |
| Vandenberg OSTF2 Atlas launch complex. Originally an Atlas Operational Silo Test Facility. Upgraded to a 576 SMS launch pad in 1963. |
| Vandenberg PLC-C Tomahawk Sandia, Aerobee launch complex. Probe Launch Complex C |
| Vandenberg SLC10E Delta launch complex. Originally a Thor 75 SMS launch pad. Upgraded to a launch emplacement in 1961. |
| Vandenberg SLC10W Delta launch complex. Originally a Thor 75 SMS launch pad. Upgraded to a launch emplacement in 1965. |
| Vandenberg SLC1E Delta launch complex. Originally a Thor 75 SMS launch pad. Upgraded to a space launch complex in 1967. |
| Vandenberg SLC1W Delta launch complex. Originally a Thor 75 SMS launch pad. Upgraded to a space launch complex in 1966. |
| Vandenberg SLC2E Delta launch complex. Originally a Thor 75 SMS launch pad. Upgraded to a space launch complex in 1966. |
| Vandenberg SLC2W Delta launch complex. Originally a Thor 75 SMS launch pad. Upgraded to a space launch complex in 1966. |
| Vandenberg SLC3E Atlas V, Atlas launch complex. Atlas test facility, originally designated PALC1-2, then LC1-2, and finally upgraded to a Space Launch Facility in 1966. |
| Vandenberg SLC3W Delta, Atlas launch complex. First designated LC1-1 and used to launch Atlas Agena B with Samos payloads. After Samos cancellation, rebuilt in 1963 to support launch of KH-4 Corona spysats atop Thor-Agena. Refurbished in 1973 to accomodate surplus Atlas ICBM's in space launch role. |
| Vandenberg SLC4E Titan, Atlas launch complex. First designated PALC2-4 and used to launch Atlas Agena D with KH-7 spysats. Rebuilt after MOL cancellation in 1970 to handle Titan 3D with KH-9 and KH-11 spysats. Upgraded in 1989-1990 for Titan 4. |
| Vandenberg SLC4W Titan, Atlas launch complex. First designated PALC2-3 and used to launch Atlas Agena D with KH-7 spysats. Rebuilt in 1966 to handle Titan 3B with various military payloads. From 1988 used to launch refurbished surplus Titan 2 ICBM's in space launch role. |
| Vandenberg SLC5 Scout launch complex. Dedicated Scout launch pad, used during the life of that vehicle from 1962 to 1994. |
| Vandenberg SLC8 Minotaur launch complex. Commercial Space Launch Facility, California Spaceport |
| Vandenberg WTR Launch area for submarine-launched missiles down Western Test Range. |
Family:
Orbital Launch Site,
Tomahawk Sandia.
Country:
USA.
Spacecraft:
Landsat,
KH-1,
Transit,
Midas,
TIROS,
GRAB,
Samos,
KH-2,
KH-5,
Lofti,
Injun,
KH-3,
Westford Needles,
Oscar,
SECOR,
SURCAL,
Ferret,
KH-4,
Ariel,
Program 35,
ERS,
Alouette,
TAVE,
Starfish,
NRL ELINT,
KH-6,
P 11,
SSF,
AE,
Dash,
TRS,
RADOSE,
KH-7,
KH-4A,
LAMPO,
IMP,
ADE,
GGSE,
AFP-43,
Echo 2,
Starflash,
ESRS,
IE,
Nimbus,
OGO,
Calsphere,
Beacon,
DMSP Block 4A,
OV1,
DODECAPOLE,
Snapshot,
LCS,
Tempsat,
GEOS,
DME,
FRANCE satellite,
Bluebell,
OV3,
Pageos,
KH-8,
TOS,
MOL,
OV5,
ESRO,
Timation,
Aurora,
KH-4B,
IS-A,
RAE,
Orbiscal,
RADCAT,
RM,
HEOS,
Isis,
SOICAL,
AZUR,
ITOS,
SERT,
DMSP Block 5A,
TOPO,
CEPE,
Jumpseat,
SESP,
KH-9,
Cannonball,
Gridsphere,
Musketball,
Mylar,
Rigidsphere,
DMSP Block 5B,
ASTEX,
NOSS,
TD-1A,
Landsat 1-2-3,
TIP,
Radsat,
AEROS,
Miranda,
S73-7 Cal Balloon,
Hawkeye,
Enterprise,
NTS,
DMSP Block 5C,
ANS,
Intasat,
P 72,
COS,
DAD,
NOSS-Subsat,
LAGEOS,
P 76,
SDS,
DMSP Block 5D,
KH-11,
GPS Block 1,
PIX,
AEM,
Seasat,
CAMEO,
Tiros N,
Solwind,
Magsat,
LIPS,
Dynamics Explorer,
SME,
SSTL-70,
Landsat 4-5,
DMSP Block 5D-2,
IRAS,
Advanced Tiros N,
Exosat,
Geosat,
Singleton,
Lacrosse (satellite),
SDS-2,
COBE,
Misty,
Stacksat P87-2,
MACSAT,
NOSS-2,
NOSS-2 subsatellite,
REX,
Orbcomm,
SAMPEX,
MSTI,
Improved Crystal,
Radcal,
Landsat 6,
Clementine,
ISAS satellite,
DARPASAT,
TAOS,
Microstar,
STEP,
GemStar,
Radarsat,
SURFSAT-1,
Polar,
MSX,
TiPS,
LM 700,
Lewis satellite,
Celestis,
GFO,
STEX,
ROCSAT,
ARGOS,
Orsted,
Sunsat,
Landsat 7,
Ikonos,
QuikScat,
DMSP Block 5D-3,
Terra,
ACRIMSAT,
KOMPSAT,
ASUSAT,
FalconSat,
JAK,
JAWSAT,
MEMS,
OCSE,
OPAL,
STENSAT,
MTI,
IMAGE,
SA-200,
EO-1,
Munin,
SAC-C,
Picosat,
NOSS-3,
Orbview,
SBD,
QuickBird,
Jason,
TIMED,
Aqua,
Coriolis,
CHIPSat,
ICESat,
XSS,
Gravity Probe-B,
Aura,
USA 185,
Calipso,
Cloudsat,
Jumpseat-2,
USA 193,
RS-300,
Cosmo-SkyMed,
WorldView.
Launch Vehicles:
Bomarc,
Titan I,
Thor,
Nike Cajun,
Scout A,
Nike Asp,
HJ Nike Nike,
Titan II,
Arcas,
Thor DM-18A,
Atlas D,
Deacon Arrow II,
Thor Agena A,
Atlas E,
Terrier ASROC Cajun,
Minuteman 1A,
Titan IIIC,
Terrier Asp,
Nike Viper I,
Atlas Agena A,
Thor Ablestar,
Caleb,
Journeyman,
Blue Scout Jr,
Thor Agena B,
Kiva/Hopi,
Astrobee 1500,
Astrobee 200,
Atlas Agena B,
Atlas F,
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D,
Terrier Asp IV,
Scout X-2,
Scout X-2M,
Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C,
Black Brant III,
Thor Agena D,
Minuteman 1B,
Scout X-3,
Blue Scout Jr SLV-1B(m),
Scout X-3M,
Thor SLV-2A Agena D,
Nike Javelin,
Scout X-4,
Thor SLV-2A Agena B,
Atlas Agena D,
Thor SLV-2 Agena D,
Scout X-2B,
Dac Roc,
Seagull,
Thor SLV-2 Agena B,
Minuteman 2,
Thor MG-18,
Thor Burner 1,
Scout B,
Titan 3M,
Thor Delta E,
Atlas SLV-3,
Titan IIIB,
Thor Delta E1,
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D,
Thor Burner 2,
Castor,
Atlas F/Trident,
Atlas E/Trident,
Thor Delta J,
Atlas Burner 2,
Minuteman 3,
Thor Delta N,
Aerobee 170,
Thorad SLV-2H Agena D,
Thor Delta L,
Thor Delta N6,
Titan 23B,
Titan 33B,
Titan IIID,
Titan 24B,
Scout B-1,
Thor Burner 2A,
Ute Tomahawk,
Paiute Tomahawk,
Delta 0900,
Scout D-1,
Delta 0300,
Scout A-1,
Delta 1900,
Scout E-1,
Atlas F/PTS,
Delta 2310,
Delta 2910,
Titan 34B,
Delta 1410,
Scout F-1,
Delta 2913,
Delta 3914,
Atlas F/MSD,
Thor DSV-2U,
Atlas F/SVS,
Atlas F/Agena D,
Atlas F/OIS,
Scout G-1,
Delta 3910,
Atlas E/MSD,
Delta 3913,
Atlas E/SVS,
Delta 3920,
Atlas H,
Peacekeeper,
Titan 34D,
Atlas E/SGS-2,
Atlas E/OIS,
Trident D-5,
Titan II SLV,
SICBM,
AMROC IRR,
Delta 5920-8,
Atlas E Altair,
Titan 403A,
Titan 404A,
Atlas IIAS,
Taurus,
Astrid test vehicle,
ARPA Taurus,
Delta 7925-10,
Athena-1,
Delta 7920-10,
Delta 7920-10C,
Athena-2,
Taurus 2210,
Delta 7420-10C,
Delta 7326-9.5,
Titan 404B,
Delta 7320-10,
Taurus 2110,
Minotaur 1,
Taurus 1110,
Minotaur 2,
Titan 403B,
GbI BV-Plus,
Delta 7920-10L,
Atlas V 401,
Delta 4M+(4,2),
GBI,
Delta 4M,
Taurus 3210,
Delta 7320-10C,
Atlas V 411,
Delta 7420-10,
Taurus 3110.
Projects:
DMSP,
ELINT,
Explorer,
Iridium,
Navstar,
Small Explorer.
Launch Sites:
Vandenberg SLC2E,
Vandenberg SLC1W,
Vandenberg SLC10W,
Vandenberg SLC10E,
Vandenberg SLC1E,
Vandenberg LC-A,
Vandenberg 576A2,
Vandenberg SLC2W,
Vandenberg 576A3,
Vandenberg LC-B,
Vandenberg 576B2,
Vandenberg 576B1,
Vandenberg 576B3,
Vandenberg SLC3W,
Vandenberg OSTF,
Vandenberg SLTF,
Vandenberg OSTF1,
Vandenberg SLC3E,
Vandenberg 395-A1,
Vandenberg 395-A3,
Vandenberg SLC5,
Vandenberg LE-8,
Vandenberg 576E,
Vandenberg OSTF2,
Vandenberg LF04,
Vandenberg WTR,
Vandenberg 576A1,
Vandenberg LF05,
Vandenberg 395-C,
Vandenberg 576D,
Vandenberg 395-A2,
Vandenberg LF06,
Vandenberg LF02,
Vandenberg LF03,
Vandenberg 395-D,
Vandenberg LF07,
Vandenberg 576C,
Vandenberg SLC4W,
Vandenberg LF08,
Vandenberg 4300C,
Vandenberg 395-B,
Vandenberg LF09,
Vandenberg SLC4E,
Vandenberg LF21,
Vandenberg LF22,
Vandenberg LF24,
Vandenberg LF26,
Vandenberg LF25,
Vandenberg BOM1,
Vandenberg LF23,
Vandenberg PLC-C,
Vandenberg TP-01,
Vandenberg HP-06,
Vandenberg LF10,
Vandenberg RW30/12,
Vandenberg SLC6,
Vandenberg SLC8,
Vandenberg LF7632,
Vandenberg BOM2.
Agency:
USAF.
Bibliography:
2,
580,
4820,
4821,
9586,
13403.
Photo Gallery
 | Vandenberg Location of Vandenberg Credit: © Mark Wade |
1950 August 7 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Camp Cooke reactivated - .
Nation: USA.
Camp Cooke reactivated and used during the Korean War as an armored and infantry training site..
1953 February 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Camp Cooke again inactivated. (Future Vandenberg) - .
Nation: USA.
1956 September 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Thor,
Atlas.
- Vandenberg chosen as location for USAF ICBM and IRBM operations and training. - .
Related Persons: ,
Quarles.
Secretary of the Air Force Donald Quarles approved the location of ICBM and IRBM operational and training facilities at Camp Cooke, California, contingent upon approval by higher authorities..
1956 November 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Vandenberg selected as first ICBM base. - .
Nation: USA.
Department of Defense transferred northern portion of Camp Cooke, Calif. (now Vandenberg AFB), to the Air Force to be used as first ICBM base. The Secretary of Defense directed the United States Army to transfer 64,000 acres of Camp Cooke's 86,000 acres to the Air Force.
1956 November 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg,
.
- Vandenberg to be first operational ICBM base. - .
Defense Secretary Charles E. Wilson approved transfer of the northern portion of Camp Cooke from the Department of the Army to the Air Force for use as the first operational prototype missile base..
1957 March 18 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
- The first operational elements of the ballistic missile program established. - .
Headquarters ARDC redesignated Headquarters, 1st Air Division, as Headquarters, 1st Missile Division. Headquarters, 392d Air Base Squadron, was reconstituted as Headquarters, 392d Air Base Group, at Camp Cooke, California, effective 15 April 1957. Both units were assigned to WDD.
1957 April 15 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
- First ballistic missile operational units - .
Headquarters, 1st Missile Division, was established at Los Angeles, California, and Headquarters, 392d ABG was established at Camp Cooke, Lompoc, California. These initial ballistic missile initial operational capability (IOC) and training units were assigned to WDD.
1957 April 23 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Vandenberg AFB established by ARDC - .
Nation: USA.
Vandenberg AFB established by Air Research and Development Command (ARDC) on the north 64,047 acres (approximately 100 square miles) of what was then Camp Cooke..
1957 May 9 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Start of new construction. - .
Nation: USA.
Start of new construction and major rehabilitation at Camp Cooke..
1957 July 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- First Atlas wing activated at Cooke AFB. - .
Nation: USA.
Air Research and Development Command activated the 704th Strategic Missile Wing (Atlas) at Cooke AFB..
1957 July 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
- Headquarters, 704th Strategic Missile Wing (SMW), activated - .
Headquarters, 704th Strategic Missile Wing (SMW), was activated and established at Cooke AFB, California, and assigned to AFBMD..
1957 July 15 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
- Cooke AFB, California - .
Headquarters, 1st Missile Division, was relocated to Cooke AFB, California, from AFBMD headquarters at Los Angeles..
1958 January 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Cooke AFB transferred to SAC - .
Nation: USA.
Cooke AFB (with major operational and training units) transferred from Air Research and Development Command to Strategic Air Command. Launch facility construction as well as research and development activities at Cooke AFB were the responsibility of the A.
1958 January 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
- Responsibility for ballistic missile IOC was transferred from ARDC (AFBMD) to SAC. - .
At Cooke AFB, AFBMD retained responsibility for construction of technical facilities as well as research and development activities. At Los Angeles, the entire staff of AFBMD's Deputy Commander for Plans and Operations, under Colonel William R. Large, Jr., was transferred to man the new Office of the Assistant Commander-in-Chief, SAC (SAC/MIKE), that was established at AFBMD to manage IOC activities.
1958 January 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Atlas.
- Pacific Missile Range announced - .
The Defense Department announced plans to establish the Pacific Missile Range (PMR) as part of the Naval Air Missile Test Center at Point Magu, California, and as a national range..
1958 February 14 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- 19,861 acres of Camp Cooke transferred to Navy - .
Nation: USA.
19,861 acres of South Camp Cooke transferred from the Army to the Navy on interim permit basis (actual transfer on 27 May)..
1958 March 5 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Joint Navy-Air Force Agreement defines PMR - .
Nation: USA.
The Joint Navy-Air Force (Burke-White) Agreement was completed. This agreement defined the areas of responsibility between the projected Pacific Missile Range and Cooke Air Force Base..
1958 April 4 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- U.S. Naval Missile Facility at Point Arguello - .
Nation: USA.
Establishment of the U.S. Naval Missile Facility at Point Arguello, the southern portion of former Camp Cooke (facility formally commissioned on 10 May)..
1958 June 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
- Pacific Missile Range established - .
The Pacific Missile Range (PMR) was officially established under Navy management at Point Mugu..
1958 June 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Formal establishment of Pacific Missile Range - .
Nation: USA.
Formal establishment of the Navy's Pacific Missile Range (with its headquarters at Point Mugu and its major launch head at Point Arguello)..
1958 October 4 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Cooke AFB redesignated Vandenberg AFB - .
Nation: USA.
Related Persons: Vandenberg, Hoyt.
Cooke AFB redesignated Vandenberg AFB, honoring the late General Hoyt S. Vandenberg, the Air Force's second Chief of Staff..
1958 December 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- First missile launch from Vandenberg AFB - .
Nation: USA.
First missile launch from Vandenberg AFB - a Thor intermediate range ballistic missile (IRBM). The mission was a success..
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..
1959 January 4 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Vandenberg AFB / PMR operaitonal. - .
Nation: USA.
Vandenberg Air Force Base and the Pacific Missile Range declared officially operational for firings..
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 February 28 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- The first operational Atlas missile accepted by the Air Force - .
The first operational Atlas missile, 6D, was accepted by the Air Force from Convair. Subsequently, 6D was installed in the first Atlas complex, 65-1, at Vandenberg AFB during the first week of March..
1959 February 28 - .
21:49 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
- Discoverer 1 - .
Payload: KH-1 prototype / Agena A 1022. Mass: 618 kg (1,362 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: DARPA.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
Decay Date: 1959-03-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 13 . COSPAR: 1959-Beta-1. Apogee: 968 km (601 mi). Perigee: 163 km (101 mi). Inclination: 89.70 deg. Period: 96.00 min.
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. First polar orbiting satellite; KH-1 prototype; did not carry camera or film capsule.
1959 April 13 - .
21:18 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
- Discoverer 2 - .
Payload: KH-1 prototype / Agena A 1022. Mass: 743 kg (1,638 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: DARPA.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
Decay Date: 1959-04-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 14 . COSPAR: 1959-Gamma-1. Apogee: 346 km (214 mi). Perigee: 239 km (148 mi). Inclination: 89.90 deg. Period: 90.40 min.
An Air Force Thor/Agena A booster vehicle lifted Discoverer II into orbit from Vandenberg AFB. Discoverer II became the world's first satellite to be stabilized in orbit in all three axes, to be maneuvered on command from earth, to separate a reentry vehicle on command, and to send its reentry vehicle back to earth. The capsule ejector system malfunctioned, causing the capsule to impact near Spitsbergen on 14 April rather than near Hawaii as planned. KH-1 prototype; tested capsule recovery techniques; did not carry camera; capsule recovery failed. Because of a timing error, the US believed that the capsule landed somewhere on the island of Spitsbergen, north of Norway, instead of landing in the recovery zone near Hawaii. The capsule was never found; and CIA officials suspect it may have been snatched by the Soviets. The search for this capsule formed the basis of the book and film 'Ice Station Zebra'.
In the winter of 1960/1961, a US Discovery spy satellite capsule was found by loggers near Kalinin, 200 km north of Moscow. The loggers cracked it open with an axe. Sergei Khrushchev believed this to be the Discoverer 2 capsule. What was left was examined by Soviet engineers but didn't reveal much information - it was a polished aluminium sphere, 30 cm in diameter, gilded on the exterior. Some said it was found as early as the winter of 1959.
1959 April 16 - .
20:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LE-8.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- IWST test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). The first Thor IRBM to be fired by a Royal Air Force (RAF) crew was launched from Vandenberg AFB. Integrated Weapon System Training 1. First Thor IRBM launched by British crew at Vandenberg AFB..
1959 May 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Terrier ASROC Cajun.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1959 June 3 - .
20:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
FAILURE: No telemetry after Agena ignition..
Failed Stage: U.
- Discoverer 3 - .
Payload: KH-1 prototype / Agena A 1018. Mass: 753 kg (1,660 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: DARPA.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
Decay Date: 1959-06-03 . KH-1 prototype; did not carry camera; film capsule recovery failed..
- SRV - .
Mass: 779 kg (1,717 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
1959 June 16 - .
21:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
FAILURE: Autopilot error..
Failed Stage: G.
- IWST test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). Integrated Weapon System Training Launch 2.
1959 June 25 - .
22:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
FAILURE: Insufficient stage 2 velocity..
Failed Stage: U.
- Discoverer 4 - .
Payload: KH-1 9001. Mass: 743 kg (1,638 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: DARPA.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
Decay Date: 1959-06-25 . COSPAR: F590625A. KH-1; 1st generation low resolution photo surveillance. Failed to achieve orbit..
- 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:
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Terrier ASROC Cajun.
- Radar beacon test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1959 July 1 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
- Satellite Control Facility established. - .
Headquarters ARDC established the 6596th Instrumentation Squadron (Satellite Control Facility) at Vandenberg AFB, California, and assigned it to the 6594th Test Wing..
1959 July 14 - .
17:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Solar x-ray mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 July 17 - .
17:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Solar mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1959 July 24 - .
16:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Solar mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 227 km (141 mi).
1959 August 3 - .
21:41 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- IWST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 August 7 - .
17:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Solar x-ray mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 225 km (139 mi).
1959 August 12 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Terrier ASROC Cajun.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Ultraviolet Scanner test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1959 August 13 - .
19:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
- Discoverer 5 - .
Payload: KH-1 9002 / Agena A 1029. Mass: 781 kg (1,721 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: DARPA.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
Decay Date: 1959-09-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 18 . COSPAR: 1959-Epsilon-1. Apogee: 731 km (454 mi). Perigee: 214 km (132 mi). Inclination: 79.90 deg. Period: 94.10 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..
- 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 - .
16:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Solar x-ray mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 237 km (147 mi).
1959 August 14 - .
19:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- IWST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1959 August 19 - .
19:24 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
- Discoverer 6 - .
Payload: KH-1 9003 / Agena A 1028. Mass: 783 kg (1,726 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: DARPA.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
Decay Date: 1959-10-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 19 . COSPAR: 1959-Zeta-1. Apogee: 846 km (525 mi). Perigee: 207 km (128 mi). Inclination: 83.90 deg. Period: 95.10 min. KH-1; 1st generation low resolution photo surveillance; film capsule recovery failed. Mission failed. Retro rockets malfunctioned negating recovery..
1959 August 22 - .
02:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Solar mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 August 24 - .
22:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Solar mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 August 28 - .
16:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Solar x-ray mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 214 km (132 mi).
1959 August 31 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Atlas.
- LC 576A at Vandenberg first fully operational ICBM complex. - .
Complex 576A (65-1) at Vandenberg AFB was transferred to SAC and thus became the first fully operational ICBM complex..
1959 August 31 - .
22:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Sunflare II Solar x-ray / solar mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 September 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Atlas D ICBM operational. - .
Nation: USA.
USAF Atlas ICBM officially declared operational and taken over by the Strategic Air Command, at Vandenberg AFB..
1959 September 1 - .
01:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Solar mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 September 1 - .
19:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Ionosphere / plasma / solar mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 210 km (130 mi).
1959 September 2 - .
00:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Asp.
- Solar mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 September 9 - .
17:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Atlas ICBM initial operational capability demonstration launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
A SAC crew conducted the first west coast launch of an Atlas operational configuration missile, 12D, from Vandenberg AFB, to a target near Wake Island, Afterward, General Thomas S. Power, CINCSAC, declared the Atlas system to be operational. This marked the attainment of operational status for the Atlas one year earlier than the six years that the von Neumann Committee had projected in its February 1954 report.
1959 September 17 - .
21:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- IWST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). A Thor/Able II booster carrying the Navy's Transit IA navigation satellite was launched from Cape Canaveral. A third stage malfunction prevented the satellite from achieving orbit. .
1959 September 30 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Terrier Asp.
- Ultraviolet Scanner test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1959 October 6 - .
18:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LE-8.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- IWST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 October 21 - .
22:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- IWST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 November 7 - .
20:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena A.
- Discoverer 7 - .
Payload: KH-1 9004 / Agena A 1051. Mass: 794 kg (1,750 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: DARPA.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-1.
Decay Date: 1959-11-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 24 . COSPAR: 1959-Kappa-1. Apogee: 820 km (500 mi). Perigee: 158 km (98 mi). Inclination: 81.60 deg. Period: 94.40 min. KH-1; 1st generation low resolution photo surveillance; satellite tumbled; film capsule not recovered. Mission failed. Failed to achieve orbit..
1959 November 12 - .
19:24 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- IWST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 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 Dec - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Atlas.
- First American ICBM put on strategic offensive alert - .
One Atlas D missile at Vandenberg complex 576A was maintained in a state of operational readiness during the month. This marked the introduction of the ICBM into the U.S. strategic offensive alert..
1959 December 2 - .
05:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Combat training launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1959 December 15 - .
02:14 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- IWST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1960 January 21 - .
20:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- IWST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1960 January 26 - .
23:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Initial operational capability demonstration launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Two Atlas ICBMs launched within two hours - one by SAC at VAFB, one by GD/A at AMR; both successful..
1960 February 4 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Viper.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Viper I.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: AEC.
Apogee: 80 km (49 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 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 Mar - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Three Atlas missiles in semi-readiness - .
Three Atlas missiles were placed in semi-readiness at Vandenberg AFB..
1960 March 2 - .
20:06 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LE-8.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Combat training launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 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 22 - .
19:39 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Initial operational capability operational readiness test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). SAC crews successfully fired the first Atlas missile (25D) to be launched from an operational horizontal "coffin" missile storage/launcher facility at Vandenberg AFB. .
1960 April 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Viper.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Viper I.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: AEC.
Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
1960 May 6 - .
16:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Initial operational capability operational readiness test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 2.00 km (1.20 mi).
1960 June 22 - .
23:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Combat training launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1960 June 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Viper.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Viper I.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: AEC.
Apogee: 80 km (49 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 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Major expansion of Pacific Missile Range - .
Nation: USA.
Major expansion of Pacific Missile Range with acquisition of Eniwetok and Kwajalein Atolls in the Marshall Islands by the United States Navy for instrumentation complexes (in support of Air Force launches from Vandenberg AFB)..
1960 July 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Deacon Arrow II.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: AEC.
Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
1960 July 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Deacon Arrow II.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: AEC.
Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
1960 July 14 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Deacon Arrow II.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: AEC.
Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
1960 July 15 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- Atlas F squadron 576A activated at Vandenberg AFB. - .
The 576A Strategic Missile Squadron (Atlas F) was activated at Vandenberg AFB and assigned to SAC's First Missile Division..
1960 July 20 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: AEC.
Apogee: 120 km (70 mi).
1960 July 22 - .
23:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Initial operational capability operational readiness test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 July 25 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Atlas.
- Atlas D squadron 576B activated at Vandenberg AFB. - .
1960 July 28 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Platform: F4D-1 747.
Launch Vehicle:
Caleb.
- TV-1 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN NOTS.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). Research and Development Flight (TV-1).
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 12 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Hopi.
Launch Vehicle:
Kiva/Hopi.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF CRL.
Apogee: 300 km (180 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 September 12 - .
20:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Initial operational capability demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
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 19 - .
16:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
Launch Vehicle:
Journeyman.
- NERV I Cosmic rays mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Apogee: 1,884 km (1,170 mi).
1960 September 29 - .
20:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Initial operational capability demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1960 September 30 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Viper.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Viper I.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: AEC.
Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
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 11 - .
21:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LE-8.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Combat training launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1960 October 12 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Hopi.
Launch Vehicle:
Kiva/Hopi.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF CRL.
Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1960 October 13 - .
04:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Initial operational capability demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 October 24 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Platform: F4D-1 747.
Launch Vehicle:
Caleb.
FAILURE: Second stage failed..
- TV-2 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN NOTS.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). Research and Development Flight (TV-2).
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 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Hopi.
Launch Vehicle:
Kiva/Hopi.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF CRL.
Apogee: 300 km (180 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 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: AEC.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1960 November 22 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Cajun.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: AEC.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
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 - .
18:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Hopi.
Launch Vehicle:
Kiva/Hopi.
- PHOENIX I Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF CRL.
Apogee: 367 km (228 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 13 - .
20:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LE-8.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Combat training launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1960 December 14 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Hopi.
Launch Vehicle:
Kiva/Hopi.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF CRL.
Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1960 December 14 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Hopi.
Launch Vehicle:
Kiva/Hopi.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF CRL.
Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1960 December 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Hopi.
Launch Vehicle:
Kiva/Hopi.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF CRL.
Apogee: 300 km (180 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 - .
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:
,
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Atlas.
- Operational ICBM RV recovered. - .
The first ICBM operational reentry vehicle ever recovered was fished out of the Eniwetok Lagoon. It had been launched by an Atlas D from Vandenberg AFB on 16 December..
1961 January 31 - .
20:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena A.
1961 February 17 - .
20:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 20 - .
Payload: KH-5 s/n 9014A / Agena B 1104. Mass: 1,110 kg (2,440 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-5.
Decay Date: 1962-07-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 83 . COSPAR: 1961-Epsilon-1. Apogee: 491 km (305 mi). Perigee: 277 km (172 mi). Inclination: 80.80 deg. Period: 92.30 min. KH-5; film capsule not ejected. Mission failed. Program malfunctioned and capsule did not reenter. First attempted ARGON mission. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- 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 18 - .
22:58 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Discoverer 21 - .
Payload: Midas test payload. Mass: 1,110 kg (2,440 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Midas.
Decay Date: 1962-04-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 84 . COSPAR: 1961-Zeta-1. Apogee: 458 km (284 mi). Perigee: 212 km (131 mi). Inclination: 80.60 deg. Period: 91.30 min. Tested IR sensors for Midas program; did not carry camera or film capsule..
1961 March 7 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- First Titan in-silo captive test firing - .
The first Titan in-silo captive test firing took place at the Silo Launch Test Facility at Vandenberg'AFB, California..
1961 March 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Deacon.
Launch Vehicle:
Deacon Arrow II.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: AEC.
Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
1961 March 30 - .
05:13 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Combat training launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
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 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 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 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 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 - .
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 - .
23:54 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Combat training launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1961 June 30 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- First Atlas E operational complex - .
Complex 576C (576C Strategic Missile Squadron), the first Atlas E operational complex, was transferred to SAC at Vandenberg AFB. The 576C consisted of one above ground horizontal coffin storage/launcher hardened to withstand 25 pounds per-square inch (psi).
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 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 August 1 - .
20:18 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Astrobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Astrobee 1500.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test / geodetic mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF CRL.
Apogee: 10 km (6 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 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 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 6 - .
22:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Combat training launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 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 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 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 October 5 - .
19:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Platform: F-4H.
Launch Vehicle:
Caleb.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test / aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN NOTS.
Apogee: 10 km (6 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 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 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 15 - .
13:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
Launch Vehicle:
Journeyman.
- BIOS I Biological mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Apogee: 1,057 km (656 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 18 - .
13:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
Launch Vehicle:
Journeyman.
- BIOS I Biological mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Apogee: 1,057 km (656 mi).
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 29 - .
23:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Atlas D (53D) was the first missile to be launched by SAC from Vandenberg in the operation test (Category III) launch program. .
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 6 - .
01:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LE-8.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Combat training launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1961 December 7 - .
21:18 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1961 December 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Astrobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Astrobee 1500.
- Project CAMBRIDGE Geodetic mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF CRL.
Apogee: 2,190 km (1,360 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 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 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 17 - .
21:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 January 21 - .
00:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A3.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Demo - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1962 January 23 - .
21:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 February 16 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Titan II explodes in first silo test - .
The 6595th Aerospace Test Wing at Vandenberg AFB conducted the first and development test missile (N-7) from an underground silo. In this first silo launch of a Titan II, the missile destroyed itself .
1962 February 16 - .
23:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 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 21 - .
22:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 February 23 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A1.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Research and development Cat II / operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 50 km (31 mi).
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 - .
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 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 14 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Terrier Asp IV.
- Vista-300 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 150 km (90 mi).
1962 March 19 - .
23:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Combat training launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1962 March 24 - .
00:39 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
1962 March 26 - .
19:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Platform: F-4H.
Launch Vehicle:
Caleb.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Test / aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN NOTS.
Apogee: 21 km (13 mi).
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 12 - .
01:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 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..
x - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Scout.
- First Scout launch from Vandenberg - .
The first Scout vehicle (#111) was launched from Vandenberg AFB and carried the Navy's Solar Radiation (SOLRAD 4B) payload. However, a third stage failure resulted in payload impact 225-NM downrange..
1962 April 26 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- First West Coast launch of a Scout space booster. - .
Nation: USA.
1962 April 26 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-2.
FAILURE: Failure..
Failed Stage: U.
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 - .
23:24 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 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 May 4 - .
21:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A1.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Research and development Category II test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Titan I flight test missile was the 100th major space and ballistic vehicle to be launched from Vandenberg AFB since 16 December 1958. A total of 21 Thors, 32 Atlases, 5 Titans, and 42 space boosters had been launched from the base..
1962 May 12 - .
00:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 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 24 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-2M.
FAILURE: Failure..
Failed Stage: U.
- P 35-1 - .
Payload: FTV 3501. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Program 35.
Decay Date: 1962-05-24 . Military weather satellite to provide targetting information for reconnaisance satellites..
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 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 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 - .
00:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LE-8.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor DM-18A.
- Combat training launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: RAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). A Royal Air Force crew launched the 22d and last operational test Thor IRBM (PGM-17A) from Vandenberg AFB. First launch and first missile was fired from Vandenberg AFB on 16 December 1958.
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 26 - .
10:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP K-1 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). K-1 Nike-Zeus intercept of Atlas ICBM. First launch of an Atlas from Vandenberg AFB as a target for an Army Nike-Zeus from Kwajalein..
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 July 9 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
Launch Vehicle:
Journeyman.
- Magnetosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: AEC.
Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi).
1962 July 9 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Astrobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Astrobee 1500.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Magnetosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: Sandia.
Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).
1962 July 12 - .
16:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 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 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 - .
11:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP K-2 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). K-2 Nike-Zeus intercept of Atlas ICBM. Date differs in records..
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 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 25 - .
15:41 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Platform: F-4H.
Launch Vehicle:
Caleb.
- Test / aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN NOTS.
Apogee: 1,166 km (724 mi).
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 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 5 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Hopi.
Launch Vehicle:
Kiva/Hopi.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF CRL.
Apogee: 300 km (180 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 9 - .
22:51 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 August 9 - .
23:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 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 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 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 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 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 28 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- First international satellite launch - Vandenberg - .
Nation: USA.
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 - .
06:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena B.
- Alouette 1 - .
Payload: Alouette 1 / TAVE. Mass: 145 kg (319 lb). Nation: Canada.
Agency: Clemson.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Alouette.
USAF Sat Cat: 424 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Alpha-1. Apogee: 1,022 km (635 mi). Perigee: 987 km (613 mi). Inclination: 80.50 deg. Period: 105.20 min. Ionospheric research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
- TAVE - .
Payload: TAVE. Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Spacecraft: TAVE.
USAF Sat Cat: 426 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Alpha-2. Apogee: 1,019 km (633 mi). Perigee: 993 km (617 mi). Inclination: 80.50 deg. Period: 105.20 min. Thor Agena Vibration Experiment.
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 Q4 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg WTR.
Launch Platform: SSBN 608.
LV Family:
Polaris.
Launch Vehicle:
Polaris A2.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1962 Q4 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg WTR.
Launch Platform: SSBN 608.
LV Family:
Polaris.
Launch Vehicle:
Polaris A2.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1962 Q4 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg WTR.
Launch Platform: SSBN 608.
LV Family:
Polaris.
Launch Vehicle:
Polaris A2.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1962 Q4 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg WTR.
Launch Platform: SSBN 608.
LV Family:
Polaris.
Launch Vehicle:
Polaris A2.
- Operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1962 October 2 - .
11:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- NTMP K-3 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1962 October 6 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A1.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Research and development Category II test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 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 26 - .
10:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP K-5 / Pod 20 Target - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Atlas 159D was launched from Vandenberg AFB carrying the first payload in the Ballistic Systems Division's Nike Targets program in support of the Army's Nike-X anti-ballistic missile development effort. .
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 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 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..
- FTV 2405 RV - .
Payload: E-6 RV. Mass: 1,900 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Samos.
COSPAR: 1962-B-Pi-xx.
- TRS 1 - .
Payload: ERS 1. Mass: 45 kg (99 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ERS.
COSPAR: 1962-B-Pi-xx.
1962 November 14 - .
22:36 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 AFSC.
Apogee: 300 km (180 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 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 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A1.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Research and development Category II test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 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 12 - .
11:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP K-6 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). K-6 Nike-Zeus intercept of Atlas ICBM..
1962 December 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Asp.
Launch Vehicle:
Terrier Asp IV.
- Vista-300 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 150 km (90 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..
- 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). .
- 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 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 - .
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 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..
- TRS 3 - .
Payload: ERS 3. Mass: 1,840 kg (4,050 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Midas.
- TRS 4 - .
Payload: ERS 4. Mass: 1,840 kg (4,050 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Midas.
1962 December 18 - .
17:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg OSTF1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- NTMP K-4 ABM test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 10 km (6 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 19 - .
01:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-3.
- Transit 5A - .
Payload: Transit 5A-1. Mass: 61 kg (134 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
Decay Date: 1986-09-25 . USAF Sat Cat: 509 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Psi-1. Apogee: 347 km (215 mi). Perigee: 336 km (208 mi). Inclination: 90.60 deg. Period: 91.40 min. First operational solar-powered prototype; failed first day. The satellite verified a new technique for deploying the solar panels and for separating from the rocket, but otherwise it was not successful because of trouble with the power system..
1962 December 22 - .
09:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP K-7 / Pod 4 ABM sensor test / plume characterization mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 2,259 km (1,403 mi). K-7 Nike-Zeus intercept of Atlas ICBM..
1963 January 7 - .
21:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena D.
- KH-4 9051 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9051 / Agena D 1157 / OPS 0048. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1963-01-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 525 . COSPAR: 1963-002A. Apogee: 384 km (238 mi). Perigee: 202 km (125 mi). Inclination: 82.00 deg. Period: 90.30 min. KH-4. Erratic vehicle attitude. Frame ephemeris not created..
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 25 - .
10:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- NTMP K-9/OT ABM test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1963 January 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A1.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Research and development Category II test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 January 31 - .
08:51 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP K-12 ABM test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 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 12 - .
01:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
Launch Vehicle:
Journeyman.
- Electron Spectrometer Magnetospheric mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Apogee: 1,675 km (1,040 mi).
1963 February 13 - .
11:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP K-8 / NC20.133 ABM test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). K-8 Nike-Zeus intercept of Atlas ICBM..
1963 February 16 - .
21:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Awful Tired - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 5.00 km (3.10 mi). Research and development launch - Mk 6 re-entry vehicle.
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 28 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- First use of a Thrust-Augmented-Thor/Agena - .
Nation: USA.
First use of a Thrust-Augmented-Thor/Agena space booster at Vandenberg..
1963 February 28 - .
09:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP K-10 ABM test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). K-10 Nike-Zeus intercept of Atlas ICBM..
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 10 - .
02:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1963 March 12 - .
05:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 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 15 - .
11:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- TALL TREE 1 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1963 March 16 - .
02:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576D.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- OT TALL TREE 5 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1963 March 16 - .
08:32 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- NTMP K-14/NC20.145 Target/Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 300 km (180 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 21 - .
21:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg OSTF2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1963 March 24 - .
00:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- OT TALL TREE 4 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1963 March 30 - .
08:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A2.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- NTMP K-17 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). K-17 Nike-Zeus intercept of Titan I ICBM..
1963 April 1 - .
23:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena D.
- KH-4 9053 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9053 / Agena D 1160 / OPS 0720. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1963-04-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 562 . COSPAR: 1963-007A. Apogee: 408 km (253 mi). Perigee: 198 km (123 mi). Inclination: 74.90 deg. Period: 90.50 min. KH-4; film capsule recovered 3.1 days later. Best imagery to date..
1963 April 5 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A1.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 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 - .
20:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
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 12 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 April 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A3.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- NTMP K-21 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). K-21 Nike-Zeus intercept of Titan I ICBM..
1963 April 23 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 April 24 - .
20:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg OSTF1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi). First successful E missile from OSTF-1, SMS 576.
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 April 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Dinner Party - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
Titan II (N-8) was the second research and development missile and the first successful flight test vehicle to be launched from a silo at Vandenberg AFB. This was the first successful Titan II launch and flight after three consecutive failures, one (N-7) at Vandenberg and two (N-18 and N-21) at the Atlantic range. Research and development launch. Mk 6 re-entry vehicle.
1963 April 30 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 May 1 - .
10:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A1.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
The Titan I research and development flight test program ended with the launch of missile V-4 from Vandenberg. V-4 self-destructed over the launch pad, recording one of the seven failures in the Titan I flight test program that began in .
1963 May 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
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..
- 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). .
- 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.
1963 May 11 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-B.
LV Family:
Hopi.
Launch Vehicle:
Kiva/Hopi.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF CRL.
Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1963 May 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-D.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Flying Frog - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Research and development launch. Mk 6 re-entry vehicle..
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 - .
22:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-6 8002 - .
Payload: KH-6 s/n 8002 / Agena D 1165 / OPS 0924. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-6.
Decay Date: 1963-05-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 578 . COSPAR: 1963-016A. Apogee: 506 km (314 mi). Perigee: 147 km (91 mi). Inclination: 74.50 deg. Period: 91.00 min. KH-6. Second launch of KH-6. Operation was successful but no film was used. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1963 May 24 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
The 6595th Aerospace Test Wing launched flight test missile 458, the first Minuteman I (LGM-30B) missile to be launched from Vandenberg. February 1959. Since then, a total of 57 Titan I R&D missiles had been fired - 47 from the Atlantic range and 10 from Vandenberg. Of these, 36 were complete successes, 14 were partially successful, and seven were registered as failures.
1963 June 4 - .
20:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg OSTF1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 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..
- TRS 8 - .
Payload: ERS 8. Mass: 1,840 kg (4,050 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Midas.
- TRS 7 - .
Payload: ERS 7. Mass: 1,840 kg (4,050 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Midas.
1963 June 12 - .
09:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP K-15 Atlas intercept - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). K-15 Nike-Zeus intercept of Atlas ICBM..
1963 June 12 - .
23:58 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4 9054 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9054 / Agena D 1161 / OPS 0954. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1963-07-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 590 . COSPAR: 1963-019A. Apogee: 416 km (258 mi). Perigee: 193 km (119 mi). Inclination: 81.80 deg. Period: 90.70 min. KH-4. Some imagery seriously affected by corona..
1963 June 15 - .
14:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena D.
- Lofti 2A - .
Mass: 26 kg (57 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Technology.
Type: Communications technology satellite. Spacecraft: Lofti.
Decay Date: 1963-07-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 601 . COSPAR: 1963-021B. Apogee: 876 km (544 mi). Perigee: 170 km (100 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 95.10 min. VLF experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- SURCAL 1B - .
Mass: 3.00 kg (6.60 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: SURCAL.
Decay Date: 1963-07-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 597 . COSPAR: 1963-021F. Apogee: 802 km (498 mi). Perigee: 172 km (106 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 94.40 min. Surveillance Calibration. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- USN satellite - .
Payload: NRL PL130 / Poppy 2C / RADOSE (Poppy 24-inch). Mass: 35 kg (77 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
Decay Date: 1963-07-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 598 . COSPAR: 1963-021E. Apogee: 859 km (533 mi). Perigee: 170 km (100 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 94.90 min. Poppy naval signals intelligence satellite..
- RADOSE 112 - .
Payload: NRL PL 112 / Poppy 2B (Poppy 20-inch). Mass: 25 kg (55 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
Decay Date: 1963-07-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 600 . COSPAR: 1963-021D. Apogee: 875 km (543 mi). Perigee: 170 km (100 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 95.10 min. Poppy naval signals intelligence satellite. Official and secondary mission: Radiation dosimeter measurements. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1963 June 16 - .
01:49 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-3.
- Transit 5A-3 - .
Payload: Transit 5A-3. Mass: 55 kg (121 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
Decay Date: 1990-08-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 594 . COSPAR: 1963-022A. Apogee: 360 km (220 mi). Perigee: 350 km (210 mi). Inclination: 89.80 deg. Period: 91.60 min.
First operational prototype with a redesigned power supply. A malfunction of the memory occurred during powered flight that kept it from accepting and storing navigation messages, and the oscillator stability was degraded during launch. The satellite could not be used for navigation, but it was the first to achieve gravity-gradient stabilization, and its other subsystems performed well.
1963 June 18 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 June 20 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Thread Needle - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Research and development launch. Mk 6 re-entry vehicle..
1963 June 27 - .
00:37 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4 9056 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9056 / Agena D 1166 / OPS 0999. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1963-07-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 609 . COSPAR: 1963-025A. Apogee: 338 km (210 mi). Perigee: 199 km (123 mi). Inclination: 81.60 deg. Period: 89.90 min. KH-4. Experimental camera carried. Film affected by light leaks..
- 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 28 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 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 1 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
- All Air Force missile test and space launching responsibilities under Space Systems Division. - .
The 6555th Aerospace Test Wing at Patrick AFB, Florida, was transferred from BSD to SSD. This brought all Air Force missile test and space launching responsibilities under Space Systems Division..
1963 July 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Black Brant.
Launch Vehicle:
Black Brant III.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1963 July 3 - .
21:13 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576C.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi). Atlas 69E successfully led off the seven-missile Atlas E operational program launch series from Vandenberg. .
1963 July 5 - .
21:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Flight test missile 518 was launched from Vandenberg AFB. This was the last of 31 Minuteman I (LGM-30A) research and development missiles to be launched - 23 from Cape Canaveral and eight from Vandenberg. .
1963 July 11 - .
23:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 July 12 - .
20:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena D.
1963 July 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A2.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 July 19 - .
00:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Agena D.
- KH-4 9057 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9057 / Agena D 1412 / OPS 1266. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1963-08-13 . USAF Sat Cat: 621 . COSPAR: 1963-029A. Apogee: 382 km (237 mi). Perigee: 197 km (122 mi). Inclination: 82.90 deg. Period: 90.40 min. KH-4. Best mission to date..
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..
- 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). .
- TRS 10 - .
Payload: ERS 10. Mass: 45 kg (99 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ERS.
COSPAR: 1963-030xx.
- 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). .
1963 July 26 - .
19:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg OSTF1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1963 July 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 July 30 - .
18:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576C.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
1963 July 31 - .
00:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH 4A-07 - .
Payload: KH-6 s/n 8003 / Agena D 1167 / OPS 1370. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-6.
Decay Date: 1963-08-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 626 . COSPAR: 1963-032A. Apogee: 455 km (282 mi). Perigee: 152 km (94 mi). Inclination: 74.90 deg. Period: 90.60 min. KH-6. Third and final KH-6 mission (LANYARD). Mission was successful but image quality was poor. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1963 July 31 - .
20:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ST COOL WATER I test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 August 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 August 15 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A1.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). K-26 Nike-Zeus intercept of Titan I ICBM..
1963 August 24 - .
09:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg OSTF1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- NTMP/OT DASO test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
1963 August 25 - .
00:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1001 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1001 / Agena D 1162 / OPS 1419. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1963-09-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 636 . COSPAR: 1963-034A. Apogee: 320 km (190 mi). Perigee: 161 km (100 mi). Inclination: 75.00 deg. Period: 89.40 min. KH-4A. First mission of KH-4A. Some film was fogged. Two buckets but 1001-2 was never recovered..
1963 August 28 - .
23:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ST COOL WATER II test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1963 August 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 August 29 - .
20:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2 Agena D.
- KH-4 9033 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9033 & Lampo / Agena D 1169 / OPS 1561. Mass: 1,000 kg (2,200 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1963-11-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 637 . COSPAR: 1963-035A. Apogee: 324 km (201 mi). Perigee: 292 km (181 mi). Inclination: 81.90 deg. Period: 90.80 min. The first Thor standard launch vehicle, SLV-2, with an Agena D upper stage vehicle, was launched from Vandenberg AFB. KH-5; deployed ELINT subsatellite. Considered to be best mission to date in Argon program..
- 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 August 30 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A3.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 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 6 - .
21:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- ST COOL WATER III test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1963 September 11 - .
21:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- ST COOL WATER IV test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,700 km (1,000 mi).
1963 September 17 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A2.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 September 23 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-D.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Tar Top - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Titan II (N-23) became the first Category II research and development missile to be launched successfully from Vandenberg AFB by the 6595th Aerospace Test Wing. Research and development launch. Mk 6 re-entry vehicle..
1963 September 23 - .
23:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1002 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1002 / Agena D 1163 / OPS 1353. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1963-10-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 668 . COSPAR: 1963-037A. Apogee: 442 km (274 mi). Perigee: 162 km (100 mi). Inclination: 74.80 deg. Period: 90.60 min. KH-4A. Severe light leaks, 1002-2 never recovered, indefinite postponement of KH-4A series..
1963 September 25 - .
11:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576C.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1963 September 26 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 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 September 28 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Initial launch of Thor/Able-Star from Vandenberg - .
Nation: USA.
1963 September 28 - .
20:22 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Ablestar.
- Transit 5BN-1 - .
Mass: 70 kg (154 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 670 . COSPAR: 1963-038B. Apogee: 1,125 km (699 mi). Perigee: 1,066 km (662 mi). Inclination: 90.10 deg. Period: 107.20 min.
The first Thor/Ablestar launch from Vandenberg carried a Navy payload that became the first satellite to be operated completely with nuclear power. A SNAP-9A satellite nuclear power supply, built by the Martin Company and the Atomic Energy Commission, was used to power the satellite. First test of nuclear-powered Transit operational prototype. Carried SNAP-9A nuclear power source. The satellite achieved gravity-gradient stabilization, but upside down, making the signal level too low for operational users with low-gain antennas. However, geodetic and navigational evaluation data were obtained.
- Transit 5E-1 - .
Payload: APL SN 39. Mass: 61 kg (134 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 671 . COSPAR: 1963-038C. Apogee: 1,123 km (697 mi). Perigee: 1,065 km (661 mi). Inclination: 90.10 deg. Period: 107.10 min.
The first Thor/Ablestar launch from Vandenberg carried a Navy payload that became the first satellite to be operated completely with nuclear power. A SNAP-9A satellite nuclear power supply, built by the Martin Company and the Atomic Energy Commission, was used to power the satellite. The missions of Satellite 1963-038C were to measure omnidirectional flux of protons and electrons at various energy levels, radiation effects on transistors, and the effectiveness of thermal coatings. The satellite was launched together with a classified Department of Defense spacecraft on September 28, 1963. Its planned orbit was apogee 1120 kilometres, perigee 1070 kilometres, inclination 88.9 degrees. The satellite weighed 62 kg; its body was in the shape of an 0.46 m x 0.25 m octagonal prism. It was powered by four solar blades and transmited on 136, 162, and 324 mcs. The spacecraft was built for the Bureau of Naval Weapons. In 1967 it was still sending usable data from all systems.
1963 October 4 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 October 4 - .
05:17 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 AFSC.
1963 October 7 - .
21:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- ST COOL WATER V test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1963 October 17 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). SAC launched the first Minuteman I (LGM-30A) missile (FTM 672) from Vandenberg in its operational testing program. .
1963 October 24 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
Launch Vehicle:
DAC Roc.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 50 km (31 mi).
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 - .
21:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-5 9059A - .
Payload: KH-5 s/n 9059A/Agena D 1601 / OPS 2437. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-5.
Decay Date: 1964-01-21 . USAF Sat Cat: 681 . COSPAR: 1963-042A. Apogee: 318 km (197 mi). Perigee: 283 km (175 mi). Inclination: 89.90 deg. Period: 90.60 min. KH-5; deployed ELINT subsatellite. Fourth film payload retrieved in ARGON program. Film comparable to that of 9058A. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- 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 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 November 2 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 November 4 - .
09:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES REX-III re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). The first Advanced Ballistic Reentry System (ABRES) program launch from Vandenberg was successfully completed when SAC's Atlas D booster (232D) carried the Chrysler-built REX-3 reentry vehicle down the Pacific Missile Range. .
1963 November 7 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Black Brant.
Launch Vehicle:
Black Brant III.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 116 km (72 mi).
1963 November 9 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
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 - .
22:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- ST COOL WATER VI test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). SAC launched Atlas D (158) in the final Atlas D operational program launch from Vandenberg. The missile was a failure, making the final tally for the 26 launches nine failures and 17 successes. .
1963 November 14 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A1.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). K-24 Nike-Zeus intercept of Titan I ICBM..
1963 November 18 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike Nike.
- LRL HAD-1 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: Livermore.
Apogee: 163 km (101 mi).
1963 November 20 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Atlas.
- Point Arguello and Navy tracking stations in the Pacific transferred to the Air Force. - .
The Defense Department announced that the Naval Missile Facility at Point Arguello, California, and the Navy tracking stations in the Pacific would be transferred to the Air Force. This would include control of the Atlantic Missile Range, the Pacific Missile Range, and the satellite control facilities at Sunnyvale, California, and combine them under a single component of the Air Force.
1963 November 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 November 27 - .
21:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2 Agena D.
- KH-4 9061 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9061 / Agena D 1172 / OPS 2260. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1963-12-15 . USAF Sat Cat: 695 . COSPAR: 1963-048A. Apogee: 368 km (228 mi). Perigee: 182 km (113 mi). Inclination: 69.60 deg. Period: 90.00 min. KH-4. Mission failed. Return capsule separated from satellite but remained in orbit..
1963 November 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 December 3 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Air Staff decision that the SAC manage Vandenberg - .
Nation: USA.
Air Staff decision that the Strategic Air Command would continue as host organization over the combined Point Arguello/Vandenberg AFB (effective 1 July 1964) with Air Force Systems Command responsible for all matters pertaining to management and operation.
1963 December 5 - .
21:51 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Ablestar.
- Transit 5E-3 - .
Mass: 53 kg (116 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 705 . COSPAR: 1963-049C. Apogee: 1,108 km (688 mi). Perigee: 1,060 km (650 mi). Inclination: 90.10 deg. Period: 106.90 min. Radiation monitoring..
1963 December 10 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
Launch Vehicle:
DAC Roc.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 50 km (31 mi).
1963 December 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 December 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 December 17 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-D.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Research and development / Pod T? test / plume study mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 December 17 - .
17:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 4300C.
Launch Pad: 4300C.
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 December 18 - .
09:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES LORV-8 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
Atlas 109F was the final Atlas research and development flight test missile to be launched. Since the first attempted launch of a Series A Atlas on 11 June 1957, 95 Atlas missiles had been used in the R&D program - eight As, nine Bs, six Cs, 32 Ds, 24 Es, and 16 Fs. All but 12 of these were launched from Cape Canaveral. Of the 95 launches, 57 were considered successful while 38 were failures.
1963 December 18 - .
21:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena D.
- KH 7-04 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 4 / OPS 2372. 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: 1963-12-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 711 . COSPAR: 1963-051A. Apogee: 266 km (165 mi). Perigee: 122 km (75 mi). Inclination: 97.90 deg. Period: 88.50 min.
Atlas 109F was the final Atlas research and development flight test missile to be launched. Since the first attempted launch of a Series A Atlas on 11 June 1957, 95 Atlas missiles had been used in the R&D program - eight As, nine Bs, six Cs, 32 Ds, 24 Es, and 16 Fs. All but 12 of these were launched from Cape Canaveral. Of the 95 launches, 57 were considered successful while 38 were failures. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A).
1963 December 18 - .
22:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg OSTF2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
Atlas 109F was the final Atlas research and development flight test missile to be launched. Since the first attempted launch of a Series A Atlas on 11 June 1957, 95 Atlas missiles had been used in the R&D program - eight As, nine Bs, six Cs, 32 Ds, 24 Es, and 16 Fs. All but 12 of these were launched from Cape Canaveral. Of the 95 launches, 57 were considered successful while 38 were failures.
1963 December 19 - .
18:49 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-4.
1963 December 20 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
Launch Vehicle:
Seagull.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 50 km (31 mi).
1963 December 20 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 December 21 - .
21:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4 9062 - .
Payload: KH-4 s/n 9062 / Agena D 1168 / OPS 1388. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1964-01-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 718 . COSPAR: 1963-055A. Apogee: 337 km (209 mi). Perigee: 178 km (110 mi). Inclination: 64.80 deg. Period: 89.70 min. KH-4; deployed ELINT subsatellite. Corona static fogged much of film..
- P-11 motor - .
Mass: 1,200 kg (2,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4.
Decay Date: 1964-01-08 . COSPAR: 1963-055xx.
- Hitch Hiker 3 - .
Payload: P-11 s/n A4. Mass: 80 kg (176 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1964-11-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 719 . COSPAR: 1963-055B. Apogee: 394 km (244 mi). Perigee: 316 km (196 mi). Inclination: 64.50 deg. Period: 91.70 min. Radar monitoring..
1964 January 10 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 January 11 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- Agena D 2354 - .
Mass: 700 kg (1,540 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
USAF Sat Cat: 727 . COSPAR: 1964-001A. Apogee: 937 km (582 mi). Perigee: 906 km (562 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 103.50 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- Unidentified - .
Payload: NRL PL135 / Poppy 3B (Poppy 20-inch). Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
USAF Sat Cat: 731 . COSPAR: 1964-001E. Apogee: 919 km (571 mi). Perigee: 902 km (560 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 103.20 min. Poppy naval signals intelligence satellite..
- Solrad 7A - .
Payload: NRL PL124 / Poppy 3A (Poppy 24-inch). Mass: 45 kg (99 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
USAF Sat Cat: 730 . COSPAR: 1964-001D. Apogee: 920 km (570 mi). Perigee: 902 km (560 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 103.20 min. Poppy naval signals intelligence satellite. Official and secondary mission: Solar radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- SECOR 1 - .
Payload: EGRS 1. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Class: Earth.
Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR.
USAF Sat Cat: 729 . COSPAR: 1964-001C. Apogee: 922 km (572 mi). Perigee: 904 km (561 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 103.30 min. Located Pacific islands. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 January 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 January 19 - .
10:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2 Agena D.
- OPS 3367A - .
Payload: DAPP / OPS 3367 A. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Technology.
Type: Military technology satellite. Spacecraft: AFP-43.
USAF Sat Cat: 734 . COSPAR: 1964-002B. Apogee: 810 km (500 mi). Perigee: 789 km (490 mi). Inclination: 99.00 deg. Period: 100.90 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OPS 3367B - .
Payload: DAPP / OPS 3367 B. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Technology.
Type: Military technology satellite. Spacecraft: AFP-43.
USAF Sat Cat: 735 . COSPAR: 1964-002C. Apogee: 815 km (506 mi). Perigee: 791 km (491 mi). Inclination: 99.00 deg. Period: 100.90 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 January 23 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 January 24 - .
01:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 January 25 - .
13:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2 Agena B.
- Echo 2 - .
Payload: Echo C A-12. Mass: 256 kg (564 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Langley.
Class: Technology.
Type: Communications technology satellite. Spacecraft Bus: Echo.
Spacecraft: Echo 2.
Decay Date: 1969-06-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 740 . COSPAR: 1964-004A. Apogee: 1,315 km (817 mi). Perigee: 1,030 km (640 mi). Inclination: 81.50 deg. Period: 108.80 min. Passive commsat; balloon; 1st joint US/USSR space mission. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). .
1964 January 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 February 6 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike Nike.
FAILURE: Failure.
- LRL HAD-2 Solar x-ray mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: Livermore.
Apogee: 5.00 km (3.10 mi).
1964 February 11 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 February 12 - .
19:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg OSTF1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1964 February 15 - .
21:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1004 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1004 / Agena D 1174 / OPS 3444. Mass: 1,590 kg (3,500 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1964-03-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 752 . COSPAR: 1964-008A. Apogee: 429 km (266 mi). Perigee: 172 km (106 mi). Inclination: 74.90 deg. Period: 90.50 min. KH-4A. Main cameras operated satisfactorily. Minor degradations due to static and light leaks..
1964 February 17 - .
16:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-B.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 February 25 - .
02:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
1964 February 25 - .
02:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
1964 February 25 - .
18:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena D.
- KH 7-05 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 5 / OPS 2423. 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: 1964-03-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 754 . COSPAR: 1964-009A. Apogee: 135 km (83 mi). Perigee: 135 km (83 mi). Inclination: 95.60 deg. Period: 87.20 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1964 February 28 - .
03:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- OPS 3722 - .
Payload: Ferret 5 / Agena D 2316. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
Decay Date: 1969-02-19 . USAF Sat Cat: 759 . COSPAR: 1964-011A. Apogee: 516 km (320 mi). Perigee: 491 km (305 mi). Inclination: 82.10 deg. Period: 94.70 min.
1964 February 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
The second multiple launch of two SAC Minuteman I missiles was conducted at Vandenberg AFB. Minuteman I (LGM-30A) missiles (FTM 581 and 636) were successfully launched from Vandenberg 20 minutes apart in the first ripple mode launch ever conducted. In this mode, a single launch crew gave both commands to launch.
1964 February 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
The second multiple launch of two SAC Minuteman I missiles was conducted at Vandenberg AFB. Minuteman I (LGM-30A) missiles (FTM 581 and 636) were successfully launched from Vandenberg 20 minutes apart in the first ripple mode launch ever conducted. In this mode, a single launch crew gave both commands to launch.
1964 March 6 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 March 11 - .
20:14 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena D.
- KH 7-06 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 6 / OPS 3435. 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: 1964-03-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 764 . COSPAR: 1964-012A. Apogee: 203 km (126 mi). Perigee: 163 km (101 mi). Inclination: 95.70 deg. Period: 88.20 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 March 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The 10th, and last, Titan II (XLGM-25C) research and development flight test missile (N-30) to be launched from Vandenberg completed a successful flight. .
1964 March 14 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Honest John.
Launch Vehicle:
HJ Nike Nike.
- LRL HAD-3 Solar x-ray mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: Livermore.
Apogee: 143 km (88 mi).
1964 March 24 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 March 24 - .
22:22 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- KH-4A 1003 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1003. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1964-03-24 . KH-4A. Mission failed..
- ORBIS 1 - .
Payload: ORBIS 1. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
- SRV 631 - .
Payload: SRV 1003-1. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
- SRV 630 - .
Payload: SRV 1003-2. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
1964 March 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).
1964 March 26 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 March 31 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 April 3 - .
20:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg OSTF2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1964 April 13 - .
19:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 April 21 - .
18:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Ablestar.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- Transit 5BN-3 - .
Mass: 75 kg (165 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
Decay Date: 1964-04-21 . COSPAR: F640421A. Carried SNAP-9A nuclear power source. After this launch failure it was decided that operational Transits would be solar-powered only..
- Transit 5E-4 - .
Mass: 55 kg (121 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
COSPAR: F640421B. Radiation monitoring..
1964 April 23 - .
11:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 April 23 - .
16:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena D.
- KH 7-07 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 7 / OPS 3743. 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: 1964-04-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 786 . COSPAR: 1964-020A. Apogee: 336 km (208 mi). Perigee: 150 km (90 mi). Inclination: 103.60 deg. Period: 89.40 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 April 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 April 27 - .
23:23 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1005 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1005 / Agena D 1604 / OPS 2921. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1964-05-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 796 . COSPAR: 1964-022A. Apogee: 445 km (276 mi). Perigee: 175 km (108 mi). Inclination: 79.90 deg. Period: 90.80 min. KH-4A. Mission failed. Recovery vehicle impacted in Venezuela..
1964 May 7 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 May 11 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 May 18 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 May 19 - .
19:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena D.
- KH 7-08 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 8 / OPS 3592. 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: 1964-05-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 799 . COSPAR: 1964-024A. Apogee: 380 km (230 mi). Perigee: 141 km (87 mi). Inclination: 101.10 deg. Period: 89.70 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 May 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 June 4 - .
03:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-4.
- Transit 5C-1 - .
Payload: Transit 5C / OPS 4412. Mass: 54 kg (119 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 801 . COSPAR: 1964-026A. Apogee: 898 km (557 mi). Perigee: 825 km (512 mi). Inclination: 90.50 deg. Period: 102.20 min. Operational prototype similar to the 5A series but with some redesign to improve performance. Operated successfully until 23 August 1965..
1964 June 4 - .
22:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1006 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1006 / Agena D 1176 / OPS 3483. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1964-06-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 802 . COSPAR: 1964-027A. Apogee: 429 km (266 mi). Perigee: 149 km (92 mi). Inclination: 80.00 deg. Period: 90.30 min. KH-4A. Highest quality imagery attained to date from the KH-4 system..
1964 June 9 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 June 10 - .
05:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Astrobee.
Launch Vehicle:
Astrobee 200.
- Sphere Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 343 km (213 mi).
1964 June 11 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 June 13 - .
15:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-5 9065A - .
Payload: KH-5 s/n 9065A / OPS 3236. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-5.
Decay Date: 1965-06-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 811 . COSPAR: 1964-030A. Apogee: 362 km (224 mi). Perigee: 352 km (218 mi). Inclination: 114.90 deg. Period: 91.70 min. KH-5; carried Star Flash experiment. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- Starflash 1A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft: Starflash.
COSPAR: 1964-030xx.
1964 June 15 - .
12:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 June 18 - .
04:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2 Agena D.
- OPS 4467A - .
Payload: DAPP / OPS 4467 A. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Technology.
Type: Military technology satellite. Spacecraft: AFP-43.
USAF Sat Cat: 812 . COSPAR: 1964-031A. Apogee: 820 km (500 mi). Perigee: 812 km (504 mi). Inclination: 99.80 deg. Period: 101.20 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OPS 4467B - .
Payload: DAPP / OPS 4467 B. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Technology.
Type: Military technology satellite. Spacecraft: AFP-43.
USAF Sat Cat: 813 . COSPAR: 1964-031B. Apogee: 822 km (510 mi). Perigee: 814 km (505 mi). Inclination: 99.80 deg. Period: 101.30 min.
1964 June 18 - .
14:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES LORV-1 / Pod 31 Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1964 June 19 - .
23:18 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1007 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1007 / Agena D 1609 / OPS 3754. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1964-07-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 814 . COSPAR: 1964-032A. Apogee: 451 km (280 mi). Perigee: 180 km (110 mi). Inclination: 85.00 deg. Period: 90.90 min. KH-4A. Out-of-focus area on some film..
1964 June 25 - .
01:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-4.
FAILURE: Second stage exploded..
Failed Stage: 2.
- ESRS - .
Payload: CRL 2. Mass: 79 kg (174 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ESRS.
Decay Date: 1964-06-25 . Environmental Sciences Research Satellite..
1964 June 29 - .
21:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 June 30 - .
00:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 July 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Point Arguello transferred to Air Force - .
Nation: USA.
Point Arguello (nearly 20,000 acres) transferred from the Navy to the Air Force and annexed to Vandenberg AFB..
1964 July 2 - .
23:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- OPS 3395 - .
Payload: Ferret 6 / Agena D 2315. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
Decay Date: 1969-08-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 824 . COSPAR: 1964-035A. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). Perigee: 502 km (311 mi). Inclination: 82.10 deg. Period: 94.90 min.
1964 July 5 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
- AFWTR part of Vandenberg AFB. - .
The Air Force Western Test Range (AFWTR) facilities at Point Arguello became part of Vandenberg AFB..
1964 July 6 - .
18:51 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena D.
- KH 7-09 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 9 / OPS 3684. 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: 1964-07-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 825 . COSPAR: 1964-036A. Apogee: 345 km (214 mi). Perigee: 121 km (75 mi). Inclination: 92.90 deg. Period: 89.10 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OPS 4923 - .
Payload: EHH A3. Mass: 80 kg (176 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1965-01-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 826 . COSPAR: 1964-036B. Apogee: 505 km (313 mi). Perigee: 156 km (96 mi). Inclination: 92.90 deg. Period: 91.10 min. Radar monitoring..
1964 July 7 - .
19:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 July 7 - .
19:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1964 July 9 - .
19:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 July 10 - .
23:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1008 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1008 / Agena D 1117 / OPS 3491. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1964-08-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 828 . COSPAR: 1964-037A. Apogee: 346 km (214 mi). Perigee: 173 km (107 mi). Inclination: 84.90 deg. Period: 89.70 min. KH-4A. Cameras operated satisfactorily, some light leaks..
1964 July 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 July 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 July 29 - .
09:22 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP KX-13 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1964 July 30 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-D.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Cobra Skin - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). A SAC crew launched the first Titan II (LGM-25C) on a successful Demonstration and Shakedown Operation (DASO) test flight from Vandenberg AFB. DASO missions were intended to test launch techniques. Demonstration and shakedown operations launch.
1964 August 5 - .
23:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1009 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1009 / Agena D 1605 / OPS 3042. Mass: 1,540 kg (3,390 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1964-09-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 846 . COSPAR: 1964-043A. Apogee: 436 km (270 mi). Perigee: 182 km (113 mi). Inclination: 80.00 deg. Period: 90.70 min. KH-4A. Cameras operated successfully..
1964 August 7 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 August 7 - .
20:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1964 August 11 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Double Talley - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Demonstration and shakedown operations launch.
1964 August 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-B.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Gentle Annie - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Demonstration and shakedown operations launch.
1964 August 14 - .
22:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-10 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 10 / OPS 3802. 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: 1964-08-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 850 . COSPAR: 1964-045A. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). Perigee: 165 km (102 mi). Inclination: 95.40 deg. Period: 89.10 min.
The first Atlas/Agena D standard launch vehicle (SLV-3, 7100 Series) was successfully launched from Vandenberg AFB. This vehicle, Number 7101, was the first Atlas booster to be designed and produced to fully standardized specifications. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A).
- OPS 3316 - .
Payload: P-11 s/n 4202. Mass: 79 kg (174 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1979-03-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 851 . COSPAR: 1964-045B. Apogee: 3,751 km (2,330 mi). Perigee: 272 km (169 mi). Inclination: 95.70 deg. Period: 127.40 min. The first Atlas/Agena D standard launch vehicle (SLV-3, 7100 Series) was successfully launched from Vandenberg AFB. This vehicle, Number 7101, was the first Atlas booster to be designed and produced to fully standardized specifications. .
1964 August 17 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 August 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 August 21 - .
15:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-5 9066A - .
Payload: KH-5 s/n 9066A / Agena D 1603 / OPS 2739. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-5.
Decay Date: 1965-03-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 861 . COSPAR: 1964-048A. Apogee: 363 km (225 mi). Perigee: 351 km (218 mi). Inclination: 114.90 deg. Period: 91.70 min. KH-5. 15% of stellar film degraded by flare. Image smearing on leading edge of main camera film. Final ARGON mission. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- Starflash 1B - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft: Starflash.
Decay Date: 1965-03-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 861 . COSPAR: 1964-048xx. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). Perigee: 196 km (121 mi). Inclination: 115.00 deg. Period: 88.50 min.
1964 August 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 August 25 - .
13:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-4.
- Explorer 20 - .
Payload: IE A (S-48 Ionosphere Explorer). Mass: 44 kg (97 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Program: Explorer.
Class: Earth.
Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: IE.
USAF Sat Cat: 870 . COSPAR: 1964-051A. Apogee: 999 km (620 mi). Perigee: 857 km (532 mi). Inclination: 79.90 deg. Period: 103.60 min. Ionospheric research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B)..
1964 August 27 - .
09:54 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg OSTF1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- ST/KX-48 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
1964 August 28 - .
07:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2 Agena B.
FAILURE: Agena-B cut off too early. Partial Failure..
Failed Stage: U.
- Nimbus 1 - .
Payload: Nimbus A. Mass: 376 kg (828 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Nimbus.
Decay Date: 1974-05-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 872 . COSPAR: 1964-052A. Apogee: 937 km (582 mi). Perigee: 429 km (266 mi). Inclination: 98.70 deg. Period: 98.40 min.
An Air Force Thor/Agena B was launched from Vandenberg and placed NASA's first Nimbus meteorological satellite into orbit. Returned 27,000 cloud cover images. The spacecraft carried an advanced vidicon camera system for recording and storing remote cloudcover pictures, an automatic picture transmission camera for providing real-time cloud cover pictures, and a high-resolution infrared radiometer to complement the daytime TV coverage and to measure nighttime radiative temperatures of cloud tops and surface terrain. A short second-stage burn resulted in an unplanned eccentric orbit. Otherwise, the spacecraft and its experiments operated successfully until September 22, 1964. The solar paddles became locked in position, resulting in inadequate electrical power to continue operations.
1964 August 29 - .
09:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout Jr SLV-1B(m).
- Ion Engine Test B Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 2,000 km (1,200 mi).
The first successful ballistic flight test of a cesium ion contact engine was conducted on a Scout booster launched from Vandenberg. Built by Electro-Optical Systems Corporation under an Air Force contract, the engine was the first of its kind to operate in space. The launch was designed to provide about 30 minutes of flight above an altitude of 370 km. At seven minutes into the flight the engine was operated with ion beam extraction. Full beam current of 94 mA was achieved about 10 minutes later. During the course of engine operation, an electric field strength meter was used to infer payload floating potential relative to space. Spacecraft potential was about 1000 V negative during most of the engine operation with the filament neutralizer. The absolute value of payload potential was about ten times higher than anticipated, and it was suspected that there was inadequate neutralization of the ion beam. The contact ion engine operated for 19 minutes until spacecraft reentry into the atmosphere. In addition to withstanding the environmental rigors of space flight, the ion propulsion system demonstrated electromagnetic compatibility with other spacecraft subsystems and the ability to regulate and control a desired thrust level.
1964 August 31 - .
15:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576D.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1964 September 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 September 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 September 10 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 September 14 - .
22:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1010 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1010 / Agena D 1178 / OPS 3497. Mass: 1,330 kg (2,930 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1964-10-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 882 . COSPAR: 1964-056A. Apogee: 455 km (282 mi). Perigee: 174 km (108 mi). Inclination: 84.90 deg. Period: 90.90 min. KH-4A. Small out of focus areas on both cameras at random times throughout the mission..
1964 September 15 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- OT (ECP VER) operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 September 15 - .
15:27 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES LORV-3 / Pod 26 Re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1964 September 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 September 22 - .
13:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP KX-19 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1964 September 23 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 September 23 - .
20:06 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-11 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 11 / OPS 4262. 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: 1964-09-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 884 . COSPAR: 1964-058A. Apogee: 303 km (188 mi). Perigee: 143 km (88 mi). Inclination: 92.90 deg. Period: 88.90 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 September 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
The final Minuteman I (LGM-30B) R&D flight test missile (FTM 445) was launched from Cape Canaveral. This brought the total number of Minuteman IB launches to 36 - 31 from the Eastern Test Range and five from Vandenberg. A total of 67 Minuteman I (LGM-30A and LGM-30B) flight test missiles had been launched since FTM 101 on 1 February 1961, 54 from the Cape and 13 from Vandenberg.
1964 October 2 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Black Widow - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Demonstration and shakedown operations launch.
1964 October 5 - .
21:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
1964 October 6 - .
17:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Ablestar.
- Transit O-1 - .
Payload: NNS 30010 / Ablestar 016 / OPS 5798. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 897 . COSPAR: 1964-063B. Apogee: 1,077 km (669 mi). Perigee: 1,046 km (649 mi). Inclination: 90.20 deg. Period: 106.40 min. Naval Avionics Facility-assembled production spacecraft. Failed after a few days operation..
- Calsphere 1 - .
Payload: Dragsphere 1. Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Calsphere.
USAF Sat Cat: 900 . COSPAR: 1964-063C. Apogee: 1,034 km (642 mi). Perigee: 997 km (619 mi). Inclination: 90.10 deg. Period: 105.50 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- Calsphere 2 - .
Payload: Dragsphere 2. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Calsphere.
USAF Sat Cat: 902 . COSPAR: 1964-063E. Apogee: 1,078 km (669 mi). Perigee: 1,049 km (651 mi). Inclination: 90.20 deg. Period: 106.50 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 October 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- KH-7 12 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 12. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-7.
Decay Date: 1964-10-08 . KH-7 type satellite..
1964 October 10 - .
03:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-4.
- Explorer 22 - .
Payload: Beacon Explorer B. Mass: 52 kg (114 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Program: Explorer.
Class: Earth.
Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Beacon.
USAF Sat Cat: 899 . COSPAR: 1964-064A. Apogee: 1,053 km (654 mi). Perigee: 872 km (541 mi). Inclination: 79.70 deg. Period: 104.30 min. Ionospheric and geodetic data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space..
1964 October 17 - .
22:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1012 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1012 / Agena D 1179 / OPS 3559. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1964-11-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 911 . COSPAR: 1964-067A. Apogee: 416 km (258 mi). Perigee: 189 km (117 mi). Inclination: 75.00 deg. Period: 90.60 min. KH-4A. Vehicle attitude became erratic on the second portion of the mission necessitating an early recovery..
1964 October 23 - .
18:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Agena D.
- KH 7-13 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 13 / OPS 4384. 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: 1964-10-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 912 . COSPAR: 1964-068A. Apogee: 267 km (165 mi). Perigee: 140 km (80 mi). Inclination: 95.50 deg. Period: 88.50 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OPS 5063 - .
Payload: EHH A4. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-7.
Decay Date: 1965-02-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 914 . COSPAR: 1964-068B. Apogee: 344 km (213 mi). Perigee: 311 km (193 mi). Inclination: 95.50 deg. Period: 91.10 min. Radar monitoring..
- SRV - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1965-02-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 914 . COSPAR: 1964-068xx. Apogee: 185 km (114 mi). Perigee: 185 km (114 mi). Inclination: 95.40 deg. Period: 88.20 min.
1964 November 2 - .
21:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1013 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1013 - Agena D 1173 / OPS 5434. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1964-11-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 921 . COSPAR: 1964-071A. Apogee: 210 km (130 mi). Perigee: 181 km (112 mi). Inclination: 51.20 deg. Period: 88.40 min. KH-4A. Program anomaly occurred immediately after launch when both cameras operated for 417 frames. Main cameras ceased operation on rev 52D of first portion of mission negating second portion. About 65% of aft camera film is out of focus..
1964 November 3 - .
00:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 November 3 - .
00:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 November 4 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 November 4 - .
02:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- OPS 3062 - .
Payload: Ferret 7 / Agena D 2317. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
Decay Date: 1969-11-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 922 . COSPAR: 1964-072A. Apogee: 526 km (326 mi). Perigee: 512 km (318 mi). Inclination: 82.00 deg. Period: 95.00 min.
1964 November 4 - .
17:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-D.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- High Rider - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The fifth, and final, Titan II demonstration and shakedown operation (DASO) launch was conducted by the SAC crew from Vandenberg. Demonstration and shakedown operations launch.
1964 November 5 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 November 6 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 November 6 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1964 November 9 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). SAC's Minuteman IA operational test program concluded after 24 launches with the launch of FTM 661 from Vandenberg. .
1964 November 18 - .
20:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1014 (ORBIS) - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1014 & Orbis / Agena D 1180 / OPS 3360. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1964-12-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 930 . COSPAR: 1964-075A. Apogee: 329 km (204 mi). Perigee: 177 km (109 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 89.60 min. KH-4A. Cameras operated successfully..
- ORBIS - .
Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1964-12-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 930 . COSPAR: 1964-075xx. Apogee: 276 km (171 mi). Perigee: 167 km (103 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 88.90 min.
1964 November 21 - .
17:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-4.
- Explorer 24 - .
Payload: ADE B. Mass: 9.00 kg (19.80 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Langley.
Program: Explorer.
Class: Earth.
Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ADE.
Decay Date: 1968-10-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 931 . COSPAR: 1964-076A. Apogee: 2,498 km (1,552 mi). Perigee: 530 km (320 mi). Inclination: 81.40 deg. Period: 116.30 min. 12 foot dia. balloon; atmospheric density studies. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
- Explorer 25 - .
Payload: Injun 4. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Langley.
Program: Explorer.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Injun.
USAF Sat Cat: 932 . COSPAR: 1964-076B. Apogee: 2,319 km (1,440 mi). Perigee: 526 km (326 mi). Inclination: 81.30 deg. Period: 114.30 min. Radiation data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1964 December 1 - .
08:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES LORV-5 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1964 December 4 - .
11:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP RMV-303 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1964 December 4 - .
18:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-14 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 14 / OPS 4439. 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: 1964-12-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 946 . COSPAR: 1964-079A. Apogee: 357 km (221 mi). Perigee: 158 km (98 mi). Inclination: 97.00 deg. Period: 89.70 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 December 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A1.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- ST West Wind I operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1964 December 9 - .
08:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
1964 December 9 - .
20:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 December 13 - .
00:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Ablestar.
- Transit 5E-5 - .
Payload: APL SN 43 / OPS 6582. Mass: 78 kg (171 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 959 . COSPAR: 1964-083C. Apogee: 1,064 km (661 mi). Perigee: 1,007 km (625 mi). Inclination: 89.80 deg. Period: 105.90 min. Celestial UV, magnetic field data..
- Transit O-2 - .
Payload: NNS 30020 / OPS 6582. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 965 . COSPAR: 1964-083D. Apogee: 1,079 km (670 mi). Perigee: 1,020 km (630 mi). Inclination: 89.80 deg. Period: 106.20 min. Naval Avionics Facility-assembled production spacecraft. Failed after a few days operation..
1964 December 18 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 December 19 - .
21:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1015 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1015 / Agena D 1607 / OPS 3358. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1965-01-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 961 . COSPAR: 1964-085A. Apogee: 405 km (251 mi). Perigee: 193 km (119 mi). Inclination: 74.90 deg. Period: 90.50 min. KH-4A. Discrepancies in planned and actual coverage due to telemetry problems during the first 6 revolutions. Small out-of-focus areas on film from aft camera..
1964 December 21 - .
19:08 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- OPS 3762/Agena D 2355 - .
Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Quill.
Duration: 4.00 days. Decay Date: 1965-01-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 964 . COSPAR: 1964-087A. Apogee: 264 km (164 mi). Perigee: 238 km (147 mi). Inclination: 70.10 deg. Period: 89.50 min.
First test of a side-looking radar from outer space. The mission lasted only four days, as planned, before the batteries ran out of power during orbits 72-73. The radar operated 14 times in orbit, between 22 and 26 December, imaging swaths of the northeastern and western United States. Data collected from the 14 radar passes were transmitted over a wideband (UHF) data link as they were obtained ("real time") to the Vandenberg or New Boston ground station in view. In addition, during the first seven radar passes data were recorded on film on board the satellite, and on 23 December, during the 33rd orbit, the reentry capsule was jettisoned and recovered. The vehicle and payload performance were within acceptable limits on all parameters. The radar maps covered about 80,000 square miles and the resolution was better than 15 feet in azimuth and 80 feet in ground range. The mission, not declassified until 2012, proved the feasibility of space-based surveillance, leading to the operational Lacrosse satellites of the 1980's.
1964 December 22 - .
04:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Blue Scout Jr SLV-1B(m).
FAILURE: Third stage cut off early..
Failed Stage: 3.
- Ion Engine Test C Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
In this test, an additional wire neutralizer was incorporated and was immersed in the ion beam to provide a higher probability of adequate neutralization. The contact ion engine only achieved about 20% of full-thrust before reentry into the atmosphere. The short test time was due to a very short burn of the Scout vehicle's third stage. The high voltage was applied to the engine 7 minutes into the flight when the altitude was 490 km. Engine operation ended after 4 minutes when the altitude was only 80 km.
1964 December 22 - .
19:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1965 January 8 - .
18:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg OSTF2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
Atlas 106F concluded SAC's Atlas F operational test launch program from Vandenberg AFB that had begun on 9 September 1959. During the series, 51 Atlas missiles were launched by SAC crews to verify the operational missiles, with 30 of them ruled successes.
1965 January 12 - .
14:32 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP RMV-302 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1965 January 14 - .
12:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A3.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- ST West Wind III operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1965 January 15 - .
21:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1016 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1016 / Agena D 1608 / OPS 3928. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1965-02-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 972 . COSPAR: 1965-002A. Apogee: 420 km (260 mi). Perigee: 180 km (110 mi). Inclination: 75.00 deg. Period: 90.50 min. KH-4A. Smearing of highly reflective images due to reflections within camera..
1965 January 18 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Initial West Coast launch of a Thor/Altair. - .
Nation: USA.
1965 January 19 - .
05:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor MG-18.
- DMSP-Block-4A F1 - .
Payload: DAPP 10 / OPS 7040. Mass: 150 kg (330 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft Bus: DMSP.
Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A.
Decay Date: 1979-07-13 . USAF Sat Cat: 973 . COSPAR: 1965-003A. Apogee: 833 km (517 mi). Perigee: 462 km (287 mi). Inclination: 98.80 deg. Period: 97.60 min.
The first Air Force Thor/Altair (Burner I) space booster was launched from Vandenberg AFB. The Altair upper stage was the fourth stage of the Scout rocket. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. Launch date was January 18, 1965. The launch was successful and correct orbit was achieved. However, the heat shield on the second stage did not deploy correctly and the mission objectives were not fully realized. This first Burner I bird is distinguishable in photos by its black second stage.
1965 January 20 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 January 21 - .
21:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- OV1-01 - .
Payload: ABRES MTV-1. Mass: 85 kg (187 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
Decay Date: 1965-01-21 . Failure..
- OV1-1 - .
Payload: OV1-1. Mass: 555 kg (1,223 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Spacecraft: OV1.
1965 January 23 - .
20:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-15 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 15 / OPS 4703. 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: 1965-01-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 980 . COSPAR: 1965-005A. Apogee: 291 km (180 mi). Perigee: 146 km (90 mi). Inclination: 102.50 deg. Period: 88.90 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1965 February 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- AFWTR replaces PMR. - .
Nation: USA.
Five months ahead of the original schedule, Air Force Western Test Range (AFWTR) assumed responsibilities for intercontinental ballistic missile and space vehicle support functions from the Navy's Pacific Missile Range..
1965 February 1 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
- US Air Force took over Pacific Missile Range from the Navy. - .
The Air Force Western Test Range at Vandenberg AFB assumed ICBM and space vehicle support functions and control of instrumentation on the Pacific Missile Range from the U.S. Navy..
1965 February 2 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 February 2 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 February 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 February 25 - .
21:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1017 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1017 / Agena D 1611 / OPS 4782. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1965-03-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 1096 . COSPAR: 1965-013A. Apogee: 377 km (234 mi). Perigee: 177 km (109 mi). Inclination: 75.10 deg. Period: 90.10 min. KH-4A. Capping shutter malfunction occurred during last 5 passes of mission..
1965 February 27 - .
11:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES LORV-4 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1965 March 2 - .
01:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 March 2 - .
09:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP RMV-301 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1965 March 5 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-A2.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan I.
- ST West Wind II operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). SAC launched the 20th, and the last, Titan I (HGM-25A) ICBM from Vandenberg as Nike target missile in support of Army requirements. Last launch of a Titan I from Vandenberg AFB (first launch on 3 May 1961)..
1965 March 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 March 9 - .
18:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2 Agena D.
- Solrad 6B - .
Payload: NRL PL142 / OPS 4988 / Poppy 4B (Poppy 24-inch). Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
USAF Sat Cat: 1271 . COSPAR: 1965-016A. Apogee: 924 km (574 mi). Perigee: 896 km (556 mi). Inclination: 70.10 deg. Period: 103.20 min.
A Thor/Agena D booster was employed to launch eight military satellites into orbit from Vandenberg AFB. This was the largest number of individual payloads yet orbited by the United States with one launch vehicle. First launch of a quadruplet of Poppy naval signals intelligence satellites, which would lead to the NOSS production series. Official and secondary mission: Solar radiation data.
- Oscar 3 - .
Mass: 14 kg (30 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: OSCAR.
Program: Oscar.
Class: Communications.
Type: Amateur radio communications satellite. Spacecraft: Oscar.
USAF Sat Cat: 1293 . COSPAR: 1965-016F. Apogee: 900 km (550 mi). Perigee: 876 km (544 mi). Inclination: 70.10 deg. Period: 102.80 min.
OSCAR III was launched piggyback with seven United States Air Force satellites. Weight 16.3 kg. It was the first amateur satellite to operate from solar power and relay signals from Earth. OSCAR III was the first true amateur satellite relaying voice contacts in the VHF 2 meter band through a 1 W 50 kHz wide linear transponder (146 MHz uplink and 144 MHz downlink). OSCAR III's transponder lasted 18 days. More than 1000 amateurs in 22 countries communicated through the linear transponder. The two beacon transmitters continued operating for several months.
Note: Designed, built, and tested, a predecssor, OSCAR* was never launched. Similar in design to OSCAR I and II, OSCAR* contained a 250 mW beacon with phase-coherent keying. OSCAR* was never launched as the workers decided to focus their efforts on the first relay satellite -- OSCAR III.
- SURCAL 2B - .
Mass: 5.00 kg (11.00 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: SURCAL.
Decay Date: 1981-03-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 1310 . COSPAR: 1965-016G. Apogee: 947 km (588 mi). Perigee: 902 km (560 mi). Inclination: 70.10 deg. Period: 103.50 min. Surveillance Calibration. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- SECOR 3 - .
Payload: EGRS 3. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USA ACE.
Class: Earth.
Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR.
USAF Sat Cat: 1208 . COSPAR: 1965-016E. Apogee: 925 km (574 mi). Perigee: 898 km (557 mi). Inclination: 70.10 deg. Period: 103.20 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- Solrad 7B - .
Payload: NRL PL141 / Poppy 4A (Poppy 24-inch). Mass: 47 kg (103 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
USAF Sat Cat: 1291 . COSPAR: 1965-016D. Apogee: 928 km (576 mi). Perigee: 901 km (559 mi). Inclination: 70.10 deg. Period: 103.30 min. Solar radiation monitoring. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- GGSE 3 - .
Payload: NRL PL144 / Poppy 4D (Poppy 24-inch). Mass: 4.00 kg (8.80 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
USAF Sat Cat: 1292 . COSPAR: 1965-016C. Apogee: 915 km (568 mi). Perigee: 886 km (550 mi). Inclination: 70.10 deg. Period: 103.00 min. Poppy naval signals intelligence satellite. Official and secondary mission: Gravity gradient stabilization tests. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- GGSE 2 - .
Payload: NRL PL143 / Poppy 4C (Poppy 24-inch). Mass: 4.00 kg (8.80 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
USAF Sat Cat: 1244 . COSPAR: 1965-016B. Apogee: 925 km (574 mi). Perigee: 898 km (557 mi). Inclination: 70.10 deg. Period: 103.20 min. Poppy naval signals intelligence satellite. Official and secondary mission: Gravity gradient stabilization tests. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1965 March 11 - .
13:39 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Ablestar.
- Transit-O-3 - .
Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
Decay Date: 1965-06-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 1303 . COSPAR: 1965-017A. Apogee: 418 km (259 mi). Perigee: 191 km (118 mi). Inclination: 90.00 deg. Period: 90.70 min. Naval Avionics Facility-assembled production spacecraft. Failed after a few weeks operation..
- SECOR 2 - .
Payload: EGRS 2. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USA ACE.
Class: Earth.
Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR.
Decay Date: 1968-02-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 1250 . COSPAR: 1965-017B. Apogee: 1,014 km (630 mi). Perigee: 296 km (183 mi). Inclination: 90.00 deg. Period: 97.90 min. Failed. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1965 March 12 - .
19:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-16 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 16 / OPS 4920. 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: 1965-03-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 1247 . COSPAR: 1965-019A. Apogee: 358 km (222 mi). Perigee: 223 km (138 mi). Inclination: 107.50 deg. Period: 90.30 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1965 March 12 - .
23:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES MTV-2 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1965 March 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 March 18 - .
04:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor MG-18.
- DMSP-Block-4A F2 - .
Payload: DAPP 11 / OPS 7353. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft Bus: DMSP.
Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A.
Decay Date: 1989-12-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 1273 . COSPAR: 1965-021A. Apogee: 146 km (90 mi). Perigee: 139 km (86 mi). Inclination: 99.00 deg. Period: 87.30 min. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. A fully successful launch with all objectives met. The night launch time of 2100 hrs Vandenberg time with a 5 minute launch window was the same for both the first and second Burner I launches..
1965 March 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 March 25 - .
02:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-B.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Arctic Sun operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first Titan II operational test (OT) missile was launched from Vandenberg. The Titan II operational test launch program was scheduled to use 25 Titan missiles through August 1966..
1965 March 25 - .
21:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1018 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1018 / Agena D 1612 / OPS 4803. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1965-04-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 1307 . COSPAR: 1965-026A. Apogee: 381 km (236 mi). Perigee: 237 km (147 mi). Inclination: 96.00 deg. Period: 90.70 min. KH-4A. Cameras operated successfully. First KH-4A reconnaissance system to be launched into a retrograde orbit..
1965 March 26 - .
09:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES LORV-7 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1965 April 3 - .
21:24 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- Snapshot - .
Payload: SNAP 10A / Agena D / OPS 4682. Mass: 440 kg (970 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: AEC,
USAF.
Class: Technology.
Type: Ion engine technology satellite. Spacecraft: Snapshot.
USAF Sat Cat: 1314 . COSPAR: 1965-027A. Apogee: 1,314 km (816 mi). Perigee: 1,270 km (780 mi). Inclination: 90.30 deg. Period: 111.40 min.
The 6595th Aerospace Test Wing launched an Atlas/Agena which boosted the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) Snapshot spacecraft into orbit carrying the SNAP-10A satellite nuclear power supply experiment. The onboard nuclear reactor was used to provide electric power for an ion engine, marking the first attempt to test a reactor-ion system in orbit. Only nuclear reactor ever orbited by the United States. The SNAP-10A reactor provided electrical power for an 8.5 mN ion engine using cesium propellant. The engine was shut off after one hour of operation when high-voltage spikes created electromagnetic interference with the satellite's attitude control system sensors. The reactor continued in operation, generating 39 kWt and more than 500 watts of electrical power for 43 days before the spacecraft telemetry failed.
- SECOR 4 - .
Payload: EGRS 4. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USA ACE.
Class: Earth.
Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR.
USAF Sat Cat: 1315 . COSPAR: 1965-027B. Apogee: 1,316 km (817 mi). Perigee: 1,267 km (787 mi). Inclination: 90.20 deg. Period: 111.40 min. Failed. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1965 April 6 - .
13:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES WAC-4 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1965 April 10 - .
08:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 April 13 - .
21:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 April 13 - .
21:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 April 16 - .
19:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Bear Hug operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 April 28 - .
20:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-17 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 17 / OPS 4983. 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: 1965-05-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 1327 . COSPAR: 1965-031A. Apogee: 259 km (160 mi). Perigee: 180 km (110 mi). Inclination: 95.60 deg. Period: 89.00 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OPS 6717 - .
Payload: EHH B1. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1969-10-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 1329 . COSPAR: 1965-031B. Apogee: 547 km (339 mi). Perigee: 506 km (314 mi). Inclination: 95.20 deg. Period: 95.10 min. Radar monitoring..
1965 April 29 - .
21:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1019 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1019 / Agena D 1614 / OPS 5023. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1965-05-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 1330 . COSPAR: 1965-033A. Apogee: 461 km (286 mi). Perigee: 181 km (112 mi). Inclination: 85.00 deg. Period: 91.00 min. KH-4A. Cameras operated successfully. Malfunction in recovery mode on 1019-2 negated recovery..
- SRV 627 - .
Payload: SRV 1019-2 / OPS 5023. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1965-06-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 1367 . COSPAR: 1965-033B. Apogee: 509 km (316 mi). Perigee: 134 km (83 mi). Inclination: 84.90 deg. Period: 91.00 min. Cameras operated successfully. Malfunction in recovery mode on 1019-2 negated recovery..
1965 April 30 - .
19:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-D.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Card Deck operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 April 30 - .
22:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 May 10 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 May 18 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 May 18 - .
18:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1021 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1021 / Agena D 1615 / OPS 8431. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1965-06-15 . USAF Sat Cat: 1374 . COSPAR: 1965-037A. Apogee: 399 km (247 mi). Perigee: 321 km (199 mi). Inclination: 75.00 deg. Period: 91.70 min. KH-4A. Aft camera ceased operation on pass 102..
1965 May 20 - .
16:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Burner 1.
- DMSP-Block-4A F3 - .
Payload: DAPP 12 / OPS 8386. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft Bus: DMSP.
Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A.
Decay Date: 2012-03-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 1377 . COSPAR: 1965-038A. Apogee: 731 km (454 mi). Perigee: 503 km (312 mi). Inclination: 98.10 deg. Period: 97.10 min. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1965 May 21 - .
23:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-B.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Front Sight operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 May 27 - .
19:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-18 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 18 / OPS 5236. 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: 1965-06-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 1386 . COSPAR: 1965-041A. Apogee: 267 km (165 mi). Perigee: 149 km (92 mi). Inclination: 95.60 deg. Period: 88.70 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1965 May 28 - .
02:54 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure..
Failed Stage: 1.
- OV1-03 - .
Mass: 555 kg (1,223 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
Decay Date: 1965-05-28 .
1965 June 2 - .
10:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 June 3 - .
10:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP RMV-304 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1965 June 7 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 June 8 - .
15:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES LORV-6 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1965 June 9 - .
21:58 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1020 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1020 / Agena D 1613 / OPS 8425. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1965-06-15 . USAF Sat Cat: 1396 . COSPAR: 1965-045A. Apogee: 355 km (220 mi). Perigee: 176 km (109 mi). Inclination: 75.10 deg. Period: 89.90 min. KH-4A. All cameras operated satisfactorily. Erratic attitude caused an early recovery after the second day of 1020-2..
1965 June 10 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1965 June 10 - .
12:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP RMV-303 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1965 June 14 - .
13:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Gold Fish operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 June 23 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 June 24 - .
22:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Ablestar.
- Transit O-4 - .
Payload: NNS 30040 / OPS 8480. Mass: 61 kg (134 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 1420 . COSPAR: 1965-048A. Apogee: 1,125 km (699 mi). Perigee: 1,016 km (631 mi). Inclination: 90.10 deg. Period: 106.60 min. Spacecraft built by Naval Avionics Facility, but refurbished by APL. Operated for 7 to 11 months, but then failed due to poor workmanship of NAFI components..
1965 June 25 - .
19:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- OPS 6749 - .
Payload: EHH B2. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1968-08-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 1422 . COSPAR: 1965-050A. Apogee: 510 km (310 mi). Perigee: 496 km (308 mi). Inclination: 107.60 deg. Period: 94.70 min. Radar monitoring..
- KH 7-19 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 19 / OPS 5501. 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: 1965-06-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 1424 . COSPAR: 1965-050B. Apogee: 349 km (216 mi). Perigee: 254 km (157 mi). Inclination: 107.60 deg. Period: 90.50 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1965 June 29 - .
12:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 June 30 - .
14:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-D.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Busy Bee operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 July 1 - .
09:54 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP KX-32 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1965 July 2 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 July 6 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The last of 50 Minuteman I (LGM-30B) operational test launches was conducted by SAC's First Strategic Aerospace Division (1STRAD). .
1965 July 12 - .
19:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- KH-7-20 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 20. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-7.
Decay Date: 1965-07-12 . KH-7 type satellite..
1965 July 17 - .
05:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- OPS 8411 - .
Payload: Ferret 8 / Agena D 2702. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
Decay Date: 1968-12-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 1447 . COSPAR: 1965-055A. Apogee: 512 km (318 mi). Perigee: 471 km (292 mi). Inclination: 70.20 deg. Period: 94.50 min.
1965 July 19 - .
22:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1022 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1022 / Agena D 1617 / OPS 5543. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1965-08-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 1457 . COSPAR: 1965-057A. Apogee: 461 km (286 mi). Perigee: 189 km (117 mi). Inclination: 85.10 deg. Period: 91.00 min. KH-4A. All cameras operated satisfactorily..
1965 July 21 - .
18:18 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-B.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Long Ball operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 August 3 - .
19:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-21 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 21 / OPS 5698. 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: 1965-08-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 1471 . COSPAR: 1965-062A. Apogee: 352 km (218 mi). Perigee: 278 km (172 mi). Inclination: 107.40 deg. Period: 90.80 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OPS 6761 - .
Payload: EHH B3. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1968-06-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 1472 . COSPAR: 1965-062B. Apogee: 515 km (320 mi). Perigee: 501 km (311 mi). Inclination: 107.40 deg. Period: 94.80 min. Radar monitoring..
1965 August 4 - .
12:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES WAC-5 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1965 August 5 - .
13:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ABRES LORV-2A re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). The first Atlas F (147F) Advanced Ballistic Reentry Systems (ABRES) program launch was conducted at Vandenberg. The four previous Atlas F/ABRES launches were from Cape Canaveral, and the rest would be conducted on the Western Test Range. .
1965 August 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Last launch of Thor/Able-Star from Vandenberg AFB. - .
Nation: USA.
Last launch of Thor/Able-Star from Vandenberg AFB. (first launch on 28 September 1963)..
1965 August 13 - .
22:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Ablestar.
- Dodecapole 2 - .
Payload: PORCUPINE 2. Mass: 4.00 kg (8.80 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: DODECAPOLE.
USAF Sat Cat: 1510 . COSPAR: 1965-065C. Apogee: 1,051 km (653 mi). Perigee: 979 km (608 mi). Inclination: 90.00 deg. Period: 105.40 min. Surveillance Calibration; dodecahedron; extended 12 25 ft. antennas. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- Calsphere 4A - .
Payload: NRL PL 158?. Mass: 2.00 kg (4.40 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Calsphere.
USAF Sat Cat: 1520 . COSPAR: 1965-065H. Apogee: 1,179 km (732 mi). Perigee: 1,077 km (669 mi). Inclination: 90.10 deg. Period: 107.90 min. Surveillance Calibration; white 14 inch dia. sphere. .
- Transit O-5 - .
Payload: NNS 30050 / OPS 8464. Mass: 61 kg (134 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 1514 . COSPAR: 1965-065F. Apogee: 1,183 km (735 mi). Perigee: 1,078 km (669 mi). Inclination: 89.90 deg. Period: 107.90 min. Naval Avionics Facility-assembled production spacecraft. Failed after a few weeks operation..
- Tempsat 1 - .
Mass: 9.00 kg (19.80 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Tempsat.
USAF Sat Cat: 1512 . COSPAR: 1965-065E. Apogee: 1,188 km (738 mi). Perigee: 1,082 km (672 mi). Inclination: 89.90 deg. Period: 108.00 min. Surveillance Calibration; black 14 inch dia. sphere. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- Long Rod - .
Payload: Navspasur Rod. Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Surcal.
USAF Sat Cat: 1515 . COSPAR: 1965-065G. Apogee: 1,194 km (741 mi). Perigee: 1,090 km (670 mi). Inclination: 90.00 deg. Period: 108.10 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- SURCAL 5 - .
Payload: NRL PL150C?. Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: SURCAL.
USAF Sat Cat: 1521 . COSPAR: 1965-065K. Apogee: 1,196 km (743 mi). Perigee: 1,083 km (672 mi). Inclination: 90.00 deg. Period: 108.11 min.
1965 August 16 - .
20:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Magic Lamp operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 August 17 - .
20:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1023 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1023 / Agena D 1618 / OPS 7208. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1965-10-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 1513 . COSPAR: 1965-067A. Apogee: 399 km (247 mi). Perigee: 179 km (111 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 90.30 min. KH-4A. Program anomaly caused the fore camera to cease operation during revolutions 103-132..
1965 August 18 - .
11:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF21.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
The 500th major launch from Vandenberg AFB since 16 December 1958 was also the first Minuteman II (LGM-30F) research and development missile to be launched down the Western Test Range by the 6595th Aerospace Test Wing as well as the 250th launch from Vandenberg by Air Force Systems Command and its predecessor, Air Research and Development Command.
1965 August 24 - .
16:37 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
1965 August 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan 3M.
- MOL to be launched from Canaveral and Vandenberg - .
Nation: USA.
Related Persons: Johnson, Lyndon.
Class: Manned.
Type: Manned space station. Spacecraft: MOL.
DoD revealed that newly-authorized Manned Orbiting Laboratory (MOL) program (announced by President Lyndon Johnson the same day) would be launched from both the Air Force Eastern and Western Test Ranges..
1965 August 25 - .
16:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 August 26 - .
00:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-D.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- New Role operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 August 26 - .
11:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP KX-41 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1965 August 31 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan III.
- Bleymaier named Commander, Air Force Western Test Range. - .
Related Persons: Schriever.
General Bernard A. Schriever, Commander. AFSC, named Brigadier General Joseph S. Bleymaier as Commander, Air Force Western Test Range (AFWTR), with headquarters at Vandenberg AFB. General Bleymaier, former Titan III (Program 624A and 624B) program director and Deputy for Manned Systems AFSC, named Brigadier General Joseph S. Bleymaier as Commander, Air Force Western Test Range (AFWTR), with headquarters at Vandenberg AFB. General Bleymaier, former Titan III (Program 624A and 624B) program director and Deputy for Manned Systems
1965 September 2 - .
20:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2 Agena D.
FAILURE: Agena-D failed; destroyed by range safety..
Failed Stage: U.
- Starfish Radiation 2 - .
Payload: OPS 3373 / FTV 1602. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Starfish.
Decay Date: 1965-09-02 . Apogee: 11 km (6 mi). Artificial radiation data..
1965 September 10 - .
04:41 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Burner 1.
- DMSP-Block-4A F4 - .
Payload: DAPP 13 / OPS 8068. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft Bus: DMSP.
Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A.
USAF Sat Cat: 1580 . COSPAR: 1965-072A. Apogee: 993 km (617 mi). Perigee: 635 km (394 mi). Inclination: 98.50 deg. Period: 101.20 min. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1965 September 21 - .
14:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-B.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Bold Guy operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 September 22 - .
21:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 102 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 102 / Agena D 1619 / OPS 7221. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1965-10-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 1602 . COSPAR: 1965-074A. Apogee: 364 km (226 mi). Perigee: 191 km (118 mi). Inclination: 80.00 deg. Period: 90.00 min. KH-4A. All cameras operated satisfactorily. Cameras not operated on passes 88D-93D..
1965 September 29 - .
10:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP KX-45 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1965 September 30 - .
19:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-22 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 22 / OPS 7208. 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: 1965-10-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 1609 . COSPAR: 1965-076A. Apogee: 361 km (224 mi). Perigee: 237 km (147 mi). Inclination: 95.60 deg. Period: 90.50 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1965 October 5 - .
09:07 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- OV1-02 - .
Payload: OV1 Dummy. Mass: 86 kg (189 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
USAF Sat Cat: 1613 . COSPAR: 1965-078A. Apogee: 2,735 km (1,699 mi). Perigee: 408 km (253 mi). Inclination: 144.20 deg. Period: 117.60 min. Radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OV1-02S - .
Mass: 555 kg (1,223 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
COSPAR: 1965-078xx. Apogee: 2,418 km (1,502 mi). Perigee: 401 km (249 mi). Inclination: 144.20 deg. Period: 114.00 min.
- NB20.170 - .
Payload: SPP 29. Mass: 555 kg (1,223 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: OV1.
COSPAR: 1965-078xx. Apogee: 2,418 km (1,502 mi). Perigee: 401 km (249 mi). Inclination: 144.20 deg. Period: 114.00 min.
1965 October 5 - .
17:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1025 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1025 / Agena D 1616 / OPS 5325. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1965-10-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 1615 . COSPAR: 1965-079A. Apogee: 322 km (200 mi). Perigee: 202 km (125 mi). Inclination: 75.10 deg. Period: 89.70 min. KH-4A. Main cameras operated satisfactorily..
1965 October 6 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF22.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 October 14 - .
13:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- OGO 2 - .
Payload: OGO C (S-50). Mass: 507 kg (1,117 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OGO.
Decay Date: 1981-09-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 1620 . COSPAR: 1965-081A. Apogee: 1,515 km (941 mi). Perigee: 419 km (260 mi). Inclination: 87.40 deg. Period: 104.40 min.
OGO 2 was a large observatory instrumented with 20 experiments designed to make simultaneous, correlative observations of aurora and airglow emissions, energetic particles, magnetic field variations, ionospheric properties, etc., especially over the polar areas. Soon after achieving orbit, difficulties in maintaining earth lock with horizon scanners caused exhaustion of attitude control gas by October 23, 1965, 10 days after launch. At this time, the spacecraft entered a spin mode (about 0.11 rpm) with a large coning angle about the previously vertical axis. Five experiments became useless when the satellite went into this spin mode. Six additional experiments were degraded by this loss of attitude control. By April 1966, both batteries had failed, so subsequent observations were limited to sunlit portions of the orbit. By December 1966, only eight experiments were operational, five of which were not degraded by the spin mode operation. By April 1967, the tape recorders had malfunctioned and only one third of the recorded data could be processed. Spacecraft power and periods of operational scheduling conflicts created six large data gaps so that data were observed on a total of about 306 days of the 2-yr, 18-day total span of observed satellite data to November 1, 1967. The spacecraft was shut down on November 1, 1967, with eight experiments still operational. It was reactivated for 2 weeks in February 1968 to operate the rubidium vapor magnetometer experiment.
1965 October 20 - .
18:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Power Box - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Operational missile test. Some lists give launch date as 10 October..
1965 October 28 - .
21:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1026 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1026 / Agena D 1620 / OPS 2155. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1965-11-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 1637 . COSPAR: 1965-086A. Apogee: 432 km (268 mi). Perigee: 173 km (107 mi). Inclination: 74.90 deg. Period: 90.50 min. KH-4A. All cameras operated satisfactorily..
1965 November 8 - .
19:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-23 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 23 / OPS 8293. 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: 1965-11-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 1727 . COSPAR: 1965-090A. Apogee: 352 km (218 mi). Perigee: 280 km (170 mi). Inclination: 93.90 deg. Period: 90.80 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OPS 6232/Agena D - .
Payload: Agena Pickaback / OPS 6232. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1965-11-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 1728 . COSPAR: 1965-090B. Apogee: 284 km (176 mi). Perigee: 155 km (96 mi). Inclination: 93.90 deg. Period: 88.90 min. Not identified as a subsatellite ferret by McDowell..
1965 November 9 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF21.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 November 27 - .
10:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-D.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Red Wagon operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 November 28 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Last Thor/Agena launch from Vandenberg AFB - .
Nation: USA.
Last Thor/Agena launch from Vandenberg AFB (first mission on 28 February 1959)..
1965 November 29 - .
04:48 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2 Agena B.
- Alouette 2 - .
Payload: Alouette 2 / Explorer 31. Mass: 145 kg (319 lb). Nation: Canada.
Agency: DRTE.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Alouette.
USAF Sat Cat: 1804 . COSPAR: 1965-098A. Apogee: 2,666 km (1,656 mi). Perigee: 503 km (312 mi). Inclination: 79.80 deg. Period: 117.90 min.
Ionospheric research; data correlated with Explorer 31. The double-launch project, known as ISIS-X was the first in a new co-operative NASA-Canadian Defense Research Board program for International Satellites for Ionospheric Studies. Alouette was in orbit with an apogee just over a kilometre lower than Explorer 31's and with a perigee of just more than a kilometre higher. The orbits were some 3000 km at apogee and 500 km at perigee.
- Explorer 31 - .
Payload: DME A. Mass: 99 kg (218 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Program: Explorer.
Class: Earth.
Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DME.
USAF Sat Cat: 1806 . COSPAR: 1965-098B. Apogee: 2,833 km (1,760 mi). Perigee: 505 km (313 mi). Inclination: 79.80 deg. Period: 119.70 min.
Ionospheric research; data correlated with Alouette 2. The Explorer 31, Direct Measurement Explorer, was launched with a Canadian Alouette II on November 28, 1965, on a Thor-Agena rocket from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California. The double-launch project, known as ISIS-X was the first in a new co-operative NASA-Canadian Defense Research Board program for International Satellites for Ionospheric Studies. Explorer 31 was in orbit with an apogee just over a kilometre more than Alouette's and with a perigee of just more than a kilometre lower. The orbits were some 3000 km at apogee and 500 km at perigee. Eight ionospheric measurement experiments sampled the environment both forward and after the satellite's path.
1965 November 29 - .
14:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP KX-33 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1965 November 30 - .
14:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-B.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Cross Fire operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 December 6 - .
21:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout X-4.
- FRANCE 1 - .
Payload: FR 1. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: France.
Agency: CNES.
Class: Earth.
Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: FRANCE satellite.
USAF Sat Cat: 1814 . COSPAR: 1965-101A. Apogee: 707 km (439 mi). Perigee: 696 km (432 mi). Inclination: 75.90 deg. Period: 98.80 min.
VLF wave propagation studies. Investigation of the properties of the ionized layers of the atmosphere by observation of the propagation of the properties of very low frequency waves in the ionosphere. First registered by the United States in A/AC.105/INF.125. Orbit given there was 99 .9 min, 749 x 753 km x 75.9 deg, with note: France provided the payload for 1965-101A.
1965 December 9 - .
21:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1027 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1027 / Agena D 1621 / OPS 7249. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1965-12-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 1816 . COSPAR: 1965-102A. Apogee: 439 km (272 mi). Perigee: 186 km (115 mi). Inclination: 80.10 deg. Period: 90.80 min. KH-4A. Erratic attitude necessitated recovery after two days of operation. All cameras operated satisfactorily..
1965 December 14 - .
17:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 December 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF24.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first operationally configured Minuteman II (LGM-30F) was fired from an underground silo and completed a flawless flight downrange from Vandenberg AFB..
1965 December 20 - .
13:39 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP KX-31 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1965 December 22 - .
04:33 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout A.
- Transit O-6 - .
Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 1864 . COSPAR: 1965-109A. Apogee: 1,059 km (658 mi). Perigee: 891 km (553 mi). Inclination: 89.10 deg. Period: 104.60 min. Spacecraft built by Naval Avionics Facility, but refurbished by APL. Operated for 7 to 11 months, but then failed due to poor workmanship of NAFI components..
1965 December 22 - .
14:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Sea Rover operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1965 December 24 - .
21:06 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1028 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1028 / Agena D 1610 / OPS 4639. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1966-01-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 1866 . COSPAR: 1965-110A. Apogee: 443 km (275 mi). Perigee: 181 km (112 mi). Inclination: 80.00 deg. Period: 90.70 min. KH-4A. Cameras operated satisfactorily..
1966 January 8 - .
04:48 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Burner 1.
FAILURE: Second stage failed..
Failed Stage: 2.
- DMSP-Block-4A F5 - .
Payload: DAPP 14/OPS 2394. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft Bus: DMSP.
Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A.
Decay Date: 1966-01-06 . Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1966 January 18 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF26.
Launch Pad: LF26?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 January 19 - .
20:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-24 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 24 / OPS 7253. 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: 1966-01-25 . USAF Sat Cat: 1939 . COSPAR: 1966-002A. Apogee: 259 km (160 mi). Perigee: 138 km (85 mi). Inclination: 93.80 deg. Period: 88.40 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OPS 3179/Agena D - .
Payload: Agena Pickaback / OPS 3179. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1966-01-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 1940 . COSPAR: 1966-002B. Apogee: 149 km (92 mi). Perigee: 120 km (70 mi). Inclination: 93.80 deg. Period: 87.20 min. Not identified as a subsatellite ferret by McDowell..
1966 January 22 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Force modification test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
The first Force Modernization Minuteman II research and development missile (FTM 2022) was launched from a modernized Minuteman I silo at Vandenberg AFB. Performance through first and second stage ignition was satisfactory, but malfunctions forced the missile to be dumped 150 miles down range. The Force Modernization launch program concluded on 11 May 1967 after nine launches.
1966 January 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first SAC Minuteman I (LGM-30B) Follow-On Operational Test (FOT) was conducted from Vandenberg. .
1966 January 28 - .
17:06 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout A.
- Transit O-7 - .
Mass: 50 kg (110 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 1952 . COSPAR: 1966-005A. Apogee: 1,180 km (730 mi). Perigee: 850 km (520 mi). Inclination: 90.00 deg. Period: 105.40 min. Naval Avionics Facility-assembled production spacecraft. Failed after a few weeks operation..
1966 February 2 - .
21:32 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1029 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1029 / Agena D 1623 / OPS 7291. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1966-02-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 1968 . COSPAR: 1966-007A. Apogee: 428 km (265 mi). Perigee: 182 km (113 mi). Inclination: 75.00 deg. Period: 90.60 min. KH-4A. Both panoramic cameras were operational throughout..
1966 February 3 - .
11:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-D.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Winter Ice operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 February 9 - .
19:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- OPS 1439 - .
Payload: Ferret 9 / Agena D 2703. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
Decay Date: 1969-09-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 1997 . COSPAR: 1966-009A. Apogee: 511 km (317 mi). Perigee: 507 km (315 mi). Inclination: 82.00 deg. Period: 94.70 min.
1966 February 10 - .
09:48 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP KX-38 / Pod 32 Reentry test / plume mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1966 February 11 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 February 11 - .
13:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP KX-51 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1966 February 15 - .
20:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-25 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 25 / OPS 1184. 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: 1966-02-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 2012 . COSPAR: 1966-012A. Apogee: 290 km (180 mi). Perigee: 142 km (88 mi). Inclination: 96.50 deg. Period: 88.90 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- Bluebell 2S (Sphere) - .
Payload: OPS 3031. Mass: 4.00 kg (8.80 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Bluebell.
Decay Date: 1966-02-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 2015 . COSPAR: 1966-012C. Apogee: 268 km (166 mi). Perigee: 147 km (91 mi). Inclination: 96.50 deg. Period: 88.60 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- Bluebell 2C (Cylinder) - .
Payload: OPS 3011. Mass: 9.00 kg (19.80 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Bluebell.
Decay Date: 1966-02-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 2014 . COSPAR: 1966-012B. Apogee: 253 km (157 mi). Perigee: 115 km (71 mi). Inclination: 96.50 deg. Period: 88.10 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 February 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF25.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The last Minuteman II (LGM-30F) research and development flight test missile (FTM 2033) was launched from Vandenberg AFB as part of the continuing Minuteman II R&D launch program. .
1966 February 17 - .
09:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-B.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Black Hawk operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 February 19 - .
09:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP KX-47 Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1966 February 24 - .
19:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
1966 February 24 - .
19:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
1966 March 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Vandenberg, adds 14,890 acres - .
Nation: USA.
Vandenberg, adding approximately 14,890 acres to the base and increasing its size to its present 98,400 acres..
1966 March 4 - .
12:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- NTMP KX-35 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1966 March 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 March 9 - .
22:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1030 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1030 / Agena D 1622 / OPS 3488. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1966-03-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 2099 . COSPAR: 1966-018A. Apogee: 418 km (259 mi). Perigee: 180 km (110 mi). Inclination: 75.00 deg. Period: 90.40 min. KH-4A. All cameras operated satisfactorily..
1966 March 11 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 March 12 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIC.
- Start of construction (site preparation) for SLC-6 - .
Nation: USA.
Class: Manned.
Type: Manned space station. Spacecraft: MOL.
Start of construction (site preparation) for Space Launch Complex 6 facilities at former Sudden Ranch property..
1966 March 17 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Force modification test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first flight test of the General Electric Mark 12 reentry vehicle was made aboard a Minuteman II (LGM-30F) booster fired from Vandenberg. .
1966 March 18 - .
20:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-26 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 26 / OPS 0879. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-7.
Decay Date: 1966-03-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 2109 . COSPAR: 1966-022A. Apogee: 308 km (191 mi). Perigee: 162 km (100 mi). Inclination: 101.00 deg. Period: 89.30 min. Not identified as a subsatellite ferret by McDowell..
- OPS 0974/Agena D - .
Payload: NRL PL137 / OPS 0974. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1966-03-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 2112 . COSPAR: 1966-022B. Apogee: 285 km (177 mi). Perigee: 149 km (92 mi). Inclination: 101.00 deg. Period: 88.80 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 March 19 - .
12:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP KX-43 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1966 March 19 - .
12:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Hydac.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Javelin.
- HITAB 1 Technology test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 130 km (80 mi).
1966 March 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 March 25 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
- Four missile launches from Vandenberg in one day. - .
The Air Force Western Test Range (AFWTR) established a new record by supporting four missile launches from Vandenberg in one day..
1966 March 25 - .
09:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Close Touch operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 March 25 - .
09:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LC-A.
LV Family:
Hydac.
Launch Vehicle:
Nike Javelin.
- HITAB Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 130 km (80 mi).
1966 March 25 - .
22:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 March 26 - .
03:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout A.
- Transit O-8 - .
Mass: 50 kg (110 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 2119 . COSPAR: 1966-024A. Apogee: 1,099 km (682 mi). Perigee: 879 km (546 mi). Inclination: 89.70 deg. Period: 104.90 min. Spacecraft built by Naval Avionics Facility, but refurbished by APL. Operated for 7 to 11 months, but then failed due to poor workmanship of NAFI components..
1966 March 30 - .
09:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- OV1-04 - .
Mass: 88 kg (194 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
USAF Sat Cat: 2121 . COSPAR: 1966-025A. Apogee: 1,008 km (626 mi). Perigee: 884 km (549 mi). Inclination: 144.50 deg. Period: 104.00 min. Thermal control experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OV1-04S - .
Mass: 555 kg (1,223 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
COSPAR: 1966-025xx. Apogee: 1,002 km (622 mi). Perigee: 879 km (546 mi). Inclination: 144.50 deg. Period: 103.80 min.
- OV1-05S - .
Payload: BORE. Mass: 114 kg (251 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
USAF Sat Cat: 2122 . COSPAR: 1966-025B. Apogee: 1,056 km (656 mi). Perigee: 985 km (612 mi). Inclination: 144.60 deg. Period: 105.60 min. Optical radiation test. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 March 31 - .
05:41 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Burner 1.
- DMSP-Block-4A F6 - .
Payload: DAPP 15 / OPS 0340. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft Bus: DMSP.
Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A.
USAF Sat Cat: 2125 . COSPAR: 1966-026A. Apogee: 855 km (531 mi). Perigee: 604 km (375 mi). Inclination: 98.30 deg. Period: 99.40 min. The last Thor/Altair (Burner I) was launched from Vandenberg AFB. The improved Burner II would replace the Altair upper stage. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1966 April 4 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 April 4 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 April 5 - .
16:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-D.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Gold Ring operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 April 7 - .
22:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1031 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1031 / Agena D 1627 / OPS 1612. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1966-04-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 2136 . COSPAR: 1966-029A. Apogee: 312 km (193 mi). Perigee: 193 km (119 mi). Inclination: 75.10 deg. Period: 89.60 min. KH-4A. The aft-looking camera malfunctioned after the recovery of bucket '1'. No material was received in bucket '2' (1031-2)..
1966 April 15 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 April 18 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
- The Boeing Company shipped the first Burner II flight vehicle to Vandenberg AFB. - .
1966 April 19 - .
19:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-27 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 27 / OPS 0910. 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: 1966-04-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 2146 . COSPAR: 1966-032A. Apogee: 375 km (233 mi). Perigee: 139 km (86 mi). Inclination: 116.90 deg. Period: 89.60 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 April 20 - .
08:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-B.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Long Light operational test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). A SAC crew launched the 19th, and final, Titan II Operational Test (OT) missile (#62-12298) from Vandenberg. .
1966 April 22 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 April 22 - .
09:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout B.
- OV3-01 - .
Mass: 69 kg (152 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV3.
USAF Sat Cat: 2150 . COSPAR: 1966-034A. Apogee: 3,585 km (2,227 mi). Perigee: 341 km (211 mi). Inclination: 82.40 deg. Period: 126.40 min. Radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1966 May 2 - .
20:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 May 3 - .
10:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- NTMP KX-37 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1966 May 3 - .
19:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- KH-4A 1032 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1032. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1966-05-04 .
- SRV 707 - .
Payload: SRV 1032-1. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
- SRV 708 - .
Payload: SRV 1032-2. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
1966 May 13 - .
11:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES WAC-5A re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1966 May 14 - .
18:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-28 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 28 / OPS 1950. 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: 1966-05-21 . USAF Sat Cat: 2171 . COSPAR: 1966-039A. Apogee: 319 km (198 mi). Perigee: 130 km (80 mi). Inclination: 110.50 deg. Period: 89.00 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OPS 6785 - .
Payload: EHH B4. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1970-10-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 2172 . COSPAR: 1966-039B. Apogee: 555 km (344 mi). Perigee: 519 km (322 mi). Inclination: 110.00 deg. Period: 95.40 min. Radar monitoring..
1966 May 15 - .
07:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena B.
- Nimbus 2 - .
Payload: Nimbus C. Mass: 414 kg (912 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Nimbus.
USAF Sat Cat: 2173 . COSPAR: 1966-040A. Apogee: 1,176 km (730 mi). Perigee: 1,093 km (679 mi). Inclination: 100.30 deg. Period: 108.00 min.
The last Thrust Augmented Thor/Agena B was used to place NASA's NIMBUS II meteorological satellite into orbit. TV, IR cloud cover photos. The spacecraft carried an advanced vidicon camera system for recording and storing remote cloud cover pictures, an automatic picture transmission camera for providing real-time cloudcover pictures, and both high- and medium-resolution infrared radiometers (HRIR and MRIR) for measuring the intensity and distribution of electromagnetic radiation emitted by and reflected from the earth and its atmosphere. The spacecraft and experiments performed normally after launch until July 26, 1966, when the spacecraft tape recorder failed. Its function was taken over by the HRIR tape recorder until November 15, 1966, when it also failed. Some real-time data were collected until January 17, 1969, when the spacecraft mission was terminated owing to deterioration of the horizon scanner used for earth reference.
1966 May 16 - .
14:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 May 16 - .
18:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 May 17 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 May 19 - .
02:27 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout A.
- Transit O-9 - .
Mass: 50 kg (110 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 2176 . COSPAR: 1966-041A. Apogee: 951 km (590 mi). Perigee: 833 km (517 mi). Inclination: 90.10 deg. Period: 102.80 min. Spacecraft built by Naval Avionics Facility, but refurbished by APL. Operated for 7 to 11 months, but then failed due to poor workmanship of NAFI components..
1966 May 24 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Silver Bullett Follow-On Operational Test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first Titan II Follow-On Operational Test (FOT) missile to be launched from Vandenberg was a failure..
1966 May 24 - .
02:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1033 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1033 / Agena D 1630 / OPS 1778. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1966-06-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 2181 . COSPAR: 1966-042A. Apogee: 271 km (168 mi). Perigee: 179 km (111 mi). Inclination: 66.00 deg. Period: 89.00 min. KH-4A. The stellar camera shutter of bucket '2' remained open for approximately 200 frames..
1966 May 26 - .
12:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP KX-47 Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1966 May 31 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 May 31 - .
20:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 June 2 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 June 3 - .
19:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-29 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 29 / OPS 1577. 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: 1966-06-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 2192 . COSPAR: 1966-048A. Apogee: 288 km (178 mi). Perigee: 143 km (88 mi). Inclination: 87.00 deg. Period: 88.90 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OPS 1856/Agena D - .
Payload: [AAS 6] / OPS 1856. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1966-06-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 2194 . COSPAR: 1966-048B. Apogee: 230 km (140 mi). Perigee: 148 km (91 mi). Inclination: 86.90 deg. Period: 88.20 min. Not identified as a subsatellite ferret by McDowell..
1966 June 9 - .
20:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- Midas 10 - .
Payload: Midas RTS 1 / Agena TV 1351 / Agena D 1351 / OPS 1. 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: 1966-12-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 2200 . COSPAR: 1966-051A. Apogee: 3,678 km (2,285 mi). Perigee: 154 km (95 mi). Inclination: 90.00 deg. Period: 125.20 min. The first Atlas SLV-3/Agena D (7200 Series, Vehicle #7201) standard booster was successfully launched from Vandenberg. Missile Defense Alarm System. Left in transfer orbit..
- ORS 2 - .
Payload: ERS 16. Mass: 15 kg (33 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ERS.
Decay Date: 1967-03-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 2202 . COSPAR: 1966-051C. Apogee: 3,641 km (2,262 mi). Perigee: 178 km (110 mi). Inclination: 90.00 deg. Period: 125.10 min. The first Atlas SLV-3/Agena D (7200 Series, Vehicle #7201) standard booster was successfully launched from Vandenberg. Metal-to-metal bonding experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- SECOR 6 - .
Payload: EGRS 6. Mass: 17 kg (37 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USA ACE.
Class: Earth.
Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR.
Decay Date: 1967-07-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 2205 . COSPAR: 1966-051B. Apogee: 3,646 km (2,265 mi). Perigee: 168 km (104 mi). Inclination: 90.00 deg. Period: 125.00 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 June 10 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 June 10 - .
11:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP KX-42 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1966 June 21 - .
21:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1034 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1034 / Agena D 1626 / OPS 1599. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1966-07-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 2227 . COSPAR: 1966-055A. Apogee: 359 km (223 mi). Perigee: 207 km (128 mi). Inclination: 80.10 deg. Period: 90.10 min. KH-4A. Failure of velocity/altitude programmer produced poor imagery after revolution 5..
1966 June 24 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Force modification test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 June 24 - .
00:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- Pageos 1 - .
Payload: Pageos A. Mass: 55 kg (121 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Langley.
Class: Earth.
Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: Pageos.
Decay Date: 1975-07-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 2253 . COSPAR: 1966-056A. Apogee: 4,220 km (2,620 mi). Perigee: 3,913 km (2,431 mi). Inclination: 85.40 deg. Period: 177.10 min.
The PAGEOS (Passive Geodetic Earth Orbiting Satellite) spacecraft was a 30.48-m inflatable sphere, and had no instrumentation on board. It was the second (following GEOS 1) NASA satellite in the National Geodetic Satellites Program. The launch, orbit, separation, inflation and initial operation were nominal, with more than 40 ground stations participating in the observation program. The orbit was generally considered too high for drag-density study, although some work was done in this area by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory. Additional Details: here....
- Pageos canister half - .
Payload: Pageos canister half. Mass: 55 kg (121 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Langley.
Spacecraft: Pageos.
USAF Sat Cat: 2256 . COSPAR: 1966-056C. Apogee: 4,276 km (2,656 mi). Perigee: 4,196 km (2,607 mi). Inclination: 86.90 deg. Period: 181.40 min.
- Pageos canister half - .
Payload: Pageos canister half. Mass: 55 kg (121 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Langley.
Spacecraft: Pageos.
USAF Sat Cat: 2511 . COSPAR: 1966-056D. Apogee: 4,255 km (2,643 mi). Perigee: 4,227 km (2,626 mi). Inclination: 87.00 deg. Period: 181.50 min.
1966 June 26 - .
15:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP KX-20 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1966 June 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- Initial launch of a satellite by Titan IIIB/Agena - .
Nation: USA.
Nation's initial launch of a satellite by a Titan IIIB/Agena space booster (first launch of a Titan III from Vandenberg AFB)..
1966 June 30 - .
10:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- NTMP KX-39 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1966 July 11 - .
19:22 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1966 July 12 - .
07:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 July 12 - .
17:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-30 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 30 / OPS 1850. 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: 1966-07-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 2322 . COSPAR: 1966-062A. Apogee: 261 km (162 mi). Perigee: 150 km (90 mi). Inclination: 95.50 deg. Period: 88.70 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 July 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1966 July 14 - .
02:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Partial Failure..
Failed Stage: 1.
- OV1-07 - .
Payload: PasComSat. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
Decay Date: 1978-01-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 2324 . COSPAR: 1966-063A. Apogee: 1,022 km (635 mi). Perigee: 985 km (612 mi). Inclination: 144.20 deg. Period: 105.20 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OV1-08 PasComSat - .
Mass: 555 kg (1,223 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
Decay Date: 1978-01-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 2324 . COSPAR: 1966-063xx. Apogee: 410 km (250 mi). Perigee: 393 km (244 mi). Inclination: 144.20 deg. Period: 92.60 min.
1966 July 22 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-B.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Giant Train Follow-On Operational Test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 July 26 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 July 26 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Force modification test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 July 29 - .
18:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 3014 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 01 (Gambit) / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1966-08-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 2376 . COSPAR: 1966-069A. Apogee: 252 km (156 mi). Perigee: 154 km (95 mi). Inclination: 94.20 deg. Period: 88.50 min.
After the initial launch attempt oil the 28th was held at T minus 12 seconds, the first Titan IIIB/Agena D was successfully launched from Vandenberg AFB. All primary and secondary test objectives were met during the launch and flight which completed the research and development program for the Titan IIIB. This newest member of the Titan III (SLV-5) KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A).
1966 August 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF24.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 August 4 - .
10:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout B.
- OV3-03 - .
Mass: 75 kg (165 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV3.
USAF Sat Cat: 2389 . COSPAR: 1966-070A. Apogee: 3,141 km (1,951 mi). Perigee: 349 km (216 mi). Inclination: 81.40 deg. Period: 121.40 min. Radiation measurements. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 August 5 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 August 8 - .
17:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- ABRES MBRV-1 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1966 August 9 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Initial launch of a Long Tank Thor/Agena D - .
Nation: USA.
Initial launch of a Long Tank Thor/Agena D (Thorad/Agena D) space booster..
1966 August 9 - .
20:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4A 1036 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1036 / Agena D 1631 / OPS 1545. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1966-09-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 2393 . COSPAR: 1966-072A. Apogee: 284 km (176 mi). Perigee: 190 km (110 mi). Inclination: 100.10 deg. Period: 89.20 min. KH-4A. All cameras operated satisfactorily..
1966 August 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1966 August 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 August 16 - .
18:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-31 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 31 / OPS 1832. 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: 1966-08-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 2396 . COSPAR: 1966-074A. Apogee: 330 km (200 mi). Perigee: 143 km (88 mi). Inclination: 93.20 deg. Period: 89.20 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OPS 6810 - .
Payload: SSF-B No. 5. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1970-03-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 2397 . COSPAR: 1966-074B. Apogee: 522 km (324 mi). Perigee: 511 km (317 mi). Inclination: 93.20 deg. Period: 94.90 min. Radar monitoring..
1966 August 18 - .
02:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout A.
1966 August 19 - .
19:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- Midas 11 - .
Payload: Midas RTS 2 / Agena TV 1352 / Agena D / OPS 0856. 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: 2403 . COSPAR: 1966-077A. Apogee: 3,708 km (2,304 mi). Perigee: 3,658 km (2,272 mi). Inclination: 89.70 deg. Period: 167.40 min. Missile Defense Alarm System..
- ORS 1 - .
Payload: ERS 15. Mass: 5.00 kg (11.00 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ERS.
USAF Sat Cat: 2412 . COSPAR: 1966-077C. Apogee: 3,700 km (2,200 mi). Perigee: 3,680 km (2,280 mi). Inclination: 89.70 deg. Period: 167.60 min. Cold welding experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- SECOR 7 - .
Payload: EGRS 7. Mass: 17 kg (37 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USA ACE.
Class: Earth.
Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR.
USAF Sat Cat: 2411 . COSPAR: 1966-077B. Apogee: 3,700 km (2,200 mi). Perigee: 3,671 km (2,281 mi). Inclination: 89.70 deg. Period: 167.50 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 August 22 - .
20:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 August 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Target - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). AFWTR supported the Navy's first launch of a Bomarc A target missile from Vandenberg AFB..
1966 August 26 - .
21:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF23.
Launch Pad: LF23?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 August 29 - .
19:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 September 15 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- First launch of a Thor/Burner II from Vandenberg - .
Nation: USA.
1966 September 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1966 September 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Black River Follow-On Operational Test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 September 16 - .
04:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Burner 2.
- DMSP-Block-4A F7 - .
Payload: DAPP 1416 (FTV-3) / OPS 6026. Mass: 125 kg (275 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft Bus: DMSP.
Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A.
USAF Sat Cat: 2418 . COSPAR: 1966-082A. Apogee: 857 km (532 mi). Perigee: 674 km (418 mi). Inclination: 98.30 deg. Period: 100.20 min. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1966 September 16 - .
17:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-32 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 32 / OPS 1686. 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: 1966-09-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 2419 . COSPAR: 1966-083A. Apogee: 328 km (203 mi). Perigee: 146 km (90 mi). Inclination: 93.90 deg. Period: 89.20 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OPS 6874 - .
Payload: EHH B5. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1968-05-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 2420 . COSPAR: 1966-083B. Apogee: 501 km (311 mi). Perigee: 461 km (286 mi). Inclination: 94.10 deg. Period: 94.20 min. Radar monitoring..
1966 September 20 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 September 20 - .
21:14 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1035 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1035 / Agena D 1628 / OPS 1703. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1966-10-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 2427 . COSPAR: 1966-085A. Apogee: 430 km (260 mi). Perigee: 182 km (113 mi). Inclination: 85.10 deg. Period: 90.60 min. KH-4A. All cameras operated satisfactorily. First mission flown with pan geometry modification..
1966 September 22 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 September 28 - .
19:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 4096 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 02 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1966-10-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 2433 . COSPAR: 1966-086A. Apogee: 287 km (178 mi). Perigee: 146 km (90 mi). Inclination: 93.90 deg. Period: 88.80 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 October 2 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- First Thor/Delta launch at Vandenberg AFB. - .
Nation: USA.
1966 October 2 - .
10:39 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Delta E.
- ESSA 3 - .
Payload: TOS A. Mass: 145 kg (319 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: ESSA.
Program: Tiros.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: TOS.
USAF Sat Cat: 2435 . COSPAR: 1966-087A. Apogee: 1,486 km (923 mi). Perigee: 1,387 km (861 mi). Inclination: 100.90 deg. Period: 114.60 min. Environmental Survey Satellite 3; replace ESSA 1. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1966 October 3 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1A.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 October 5 - .
22:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- Midas 12 - .
Payload: Midas RTS 3 / Agena TV 1353 / Agena D / OPS 1920. 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: 2481 . COSPAR: 1966-089A. Apogee: 3,724 km (2,313 mi). Perigee: 3,657 km (2,272 mi). Inclination: 89.80 deg. Period: 167.60 min. Missile Defense Alarm System..
- SECOR 8 - .
Payload: EGRS 8. Mass: 17 kg (37 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USA ACE.
Class: Earth.
Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR.
USAF Sat Cat: 2520 . COSPAR: 1966-089B. Apogee: 3,707 km (2,303 mi). Perigee: 3,674 km (2,282 mi). Inclination: 90.00 deg. Period: 167.60 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 October 11 - .
19:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- ABRES SBGRV-1 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 50 km (31 mi).
1966 October 12 - .
19:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-33 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 33 / OPS 2055. 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: 1966-10-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 2489 . COSPAR: 1966-090A. Apogee: 287 km (178 mi). Perigee: 155 km (96 mi). Inclination: 91.00 deg. Period: 89.00 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OPS 5345/Agena D - .
Payload: SGLS 1 / OPS 5345. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1966-10-21 . USAF Sat Cat: 2490 . COSPAR: 1966-090B. Apogee: 258 km (160 mi). Perigee: 181 km (112 mi). Inclination: 90.90 deg. Period: 89.00 min. Not identified as a subsatellite ferret by McDowell..
1966 October 13 - .
22:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 October 14 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1966 October 21 - .
20:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 October 28 - .
11:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout B.
- OV3-02 - .
Mass: 82 kg (180 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV3.
Decay Date: 1971-09-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 2517 . COSPAR: 1966-097A. Apogee: 1,599 km (993 mi). Perigee: 319 km (198 mi). Inclination: 81.90 deg. Period: 104.20 min. Radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 November 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1966 November 2 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF22.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1966 November 2 - .
20:23 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-34 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 34 / OPS 2070. 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: 1966-11-10 . USAF Sat Cat: 2523 . COSPAR: 1966-098A. Apogee: 305 km (189 mi). Perigee: 159 km (98 mi). Inclination: 91.00 deg. Period: 89.20 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OPS 5424/Agena D - .
Payload: Agena Pickaback / OPS 5424. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1966-11-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 2525 . COSPAR: 1966-098B. Apogee: 324 km (201 mi). Perigee: 208 km (129 mi). Inclination: 91.00 deg. Period: 89.90 min. Not identified as a subsatellite ferret by McDowell..
1966 November 8 - .
19:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4A 1037 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1037 / Agena D 1632 / OPS 1866. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1966-11-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 2537 . COSPAR: 1966-102A. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). Perigee: 179 km (111 mi). Inclination: 100.00 deg. Period: 89.20 min. KH-4A. Second pan geometry mission. Higher than normal base plus fog encountered on both main camera records..
1966 November 9 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 30 km (18 mi).
1966 November 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 November 22 - .
21:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 November 24 - .
10:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-B.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Bubble Girl Follow-On Operational Test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 December 5 - .
21:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-35 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 35 / OPS 1890. 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: 1966-12-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 2606 . COSPAR: 1966-109A. Apogee: 341 km (211 mi). Perigee: 137 km (85 mi). Inclination: 104.60 deg. Period: 89.20 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 December 11 - .
21:09 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- OV1-09 - .
Mass: 230 kg (500 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
USAF Sat Cat: 2610 . COSPAR: 1966-111A. Apogee: 4,582 km (2,847 mi). Perigee: 475 km (295 mi). Inclination: 99.10 deg. Period: 139.40 min. Radiation bio-hazard experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OV1-10 - .
Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
Decay Date: 2002-11-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 2611 . COSPAR: 1966-111B. Apogee: 604 km (375 mi). Perigee: 541 km (336 mi). Inclination: 93.40 deg. Period: 96.10 min. Radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 December 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ERCS 1 Communications mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). First Emergency Rocket Communications Satellite test.
1966 December 14 - .
18:14 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 8968 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 03 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1966-12-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 2618 . COSPAR: 1966-113A. Apogee: 392 km (243 mi). Perigee: 147 km (91 mi). Inclination: 109.50 deg. Period: 89.90 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 December 20 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 December 21 - .
22:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3.
- Prime 1 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi).
The first SV-5D Precision Recovery Including Maneuvering Entry (PRIME) maneuverable reentry vehicle was launched from Vandenberg by the first Series 7000 Atlas standard launch vehicle (SLV-3, Vehicle #7001). Managed by Space Systems Division, PRIME was designed to explore and advance the development of possible future manned and unmanned lifting body vehicles that would have the capability of operating like a spacecraft in orbit and of flying and maneuvering like an aircraft in the sensible atmosphere. Research was to be applicable to later Space Transportation System (STS) technology. The first test of the X-23A SV-5D lifting body re-entry shape. It was a zero cross-range suborbital flight, with recovery 6935 km downrange. The ballute deployed at 30.440 m, followed by the main parachute at 13,700 m, and the vehicle was descending within 275 m of the target point. Nevertheless the air-snatch was unsuccessful, and the vehicle sank. However 90% of the planned telemetry was successfully transmitted by radio.
1966 December 22 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Flight operational test / salvo launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 December 22 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Flight operational test / salvo launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1966 December 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- 123 launches from Vandenberg in one year - .
Nation: USA.
Liftoff of a Thrust-Augmented-Thor/Agena D space booster combination marked the 123rd major launch operation from Vandenberg AFB since January. This annual launch record remains unbroken 30 years later..
1966 December 29 - .
12:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- OPS 1584 - .
Payload: Ferret 10 / Agena D 2731. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
Decay Date: 1969-04-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 2634 . COSPAR: 1966-118A. Apogee: 495 km (307 mi). Perigee: 487 km (302 mi). Inclination: 75.00 deg. Period: 94.40 min.
1967 January 11 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- First and only launch of a Castor/Scramjet - .
Nation: USA.
First and only launch of a Castor/Scramjet from Vandenberg AFB..
1967 January 11 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Force modification research and development mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The third and final Minuteman II flight test missile with a Mark 12 reentry vehicle was launched from Vandenberg AFB. .
1967 January 11 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 4300C.
Launch Pad: 4300C.
LV Family:
Sergeant.
Launch Vehicle:
Castor.
- Marquardt Scramjet Technology mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 54 km (33 mi).
1967 January 14 - .
21:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1038 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1038 / Agena D 1629 / OPS 1664. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1967-02-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 2642 . COSPAR: 1967-002A. Apogee: 355 km (220 mi). Perigee: 177 km (109 mi). Inclination: 80.10 deg. Period: 89.80 min. KH-4A. Fair image quality..
1967 January 18 - .
01:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ABRES TVX-13 (21) re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1967 January 22 - .
15:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES Mk 12R PDV re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1967 January 24 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 January 26 - .
17:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Delta E.
- ESSA 4 - .
Payload: TOS B. Mass: 132 kg (291 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: ESSA.
Program: Tiros.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: TOS.
USAF Sat Cat: 2657 . COSPAR: 1967-006A. Apogee: 1,440 km (890 mi). Perigee: 1,326 km (823 mi). Inclination: 102.00 deg. Period: 113.40 min. Replaced ESSA 2. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1967 January 30 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 January 31 - .
12:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout B.
FAILURE: Failure..
Failed Stage: U.
- OV3-05 - .
Payload: OV3-05. Mass: 80 kg (176 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV3.
Decay Date: 1967-01-21 .
1967 February 2 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ERCS 2 Communications mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 February 2 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- Agena D - .
Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-7.
Decay Date: 1967-02-15 . USAF Sat Cat: 2665 . COSPAR: 1967-007B. Apogee: 285 km (177 mi). Perigee: 126 km (78 mi). Inclination: 102.70 deg. Period: 88.61 min.
- KH 7-36 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 36 / OPS 4399. 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: 1967-02-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 2664 . COSPAR: 1967-007A. Apogee: 357 km (221 mi). Perigee: 136 km (84 mi). Inclination: 103.00 deg. Period: 89.50 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1967 February 7 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 February 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1967 February 8 - .
08:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Burner 2.
- DMSP-Block-4A F8 - .
Payload: DAPP 2418 (FTV-2) / OPS 6073. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft Bus: DMSP.
Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A.
USAF Sat Cat: 2669 . COSPAR: 1967-010A. Apogee: 846 km (525 mi). Perigee: 771 km (479 mi). Inclination: 99.10 deg. Period: 101.10 min. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program; lower than planned orbit, but still operational..
1967 February 13 - .
22:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ABRES TX-22 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1967 February 21 - .
22:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - ripple launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 February 21 - .
22:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - ripple launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 February 22 - .
22:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1039 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1039 / Agena D 1635 / OPS 4750. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1967-03-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 2686 . COSPAR: 1967-015A. Apogee: 380 km (230 mi). Perigee: 180 km (110 mi). Inclination: 80.00 deg. Period: 90.10 min. KH-4A. Normal KH-4 mission. Light from horizon camera on both main camera records during 1039-1..
1967 February 24 - .
19:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 4204 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 04 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1967-03-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 2687 . COSPAR: 1967-016A. Apogee: 414 km (257 mi). Perigee: 135 km (83 mi). Inclination: 107.00 deg. Period: 90.00 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1967 March 5 - .
23:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3.
- Prime 2 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi).
The second SV-5D Precision Recovery Including Maneuvering Reentry (PRIME) lifting body was successfully launched from Vandenberg by an Atlas booster. Although the SV-5D was not recovered, its on-board sensors provided excellent data on the effects of reentry. This was also the first spacecraft to perform cross-range maneuvers during reentry. The X-23A SV-5D lifting body vehicle demonstrated a 1055 km cross-range manoeuvre, but again air snatch failed.
1967 March 7 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 March 16 - .
17:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ABRES MBRV-2 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). The second Maneuvering Ballistic Reentry Vehicle (MBRV-2) was launched down the Western Test Range by Atlas 151F. Performance of the launch vehicle was satisfactory, but the MBRV failed to accomplish its planned reentry. .
1967 March 17 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- AFWTR assumed operational control of Vanguard - .
Nation: USA.
AFWTR assumed operational control of the range Instrumentation Ship, Vanguard.
1967 March 17 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Gift Horse Follow-On Operational Test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 March 22 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 March 30 - .
18:54 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- KH-4A 1040 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1040 / Agena D 1636 / OPS 4779. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1967-04-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 2736 . COSPAR: 1967-029A. Apogee: 326 km (202 mi). Perigee: 167 km (103 mi). Inclination: 85.00 deg. Period: 89.50 min. KH-4A. Satellite flown nose first, all cameras operated satisfactorily..
1967 April 7 - .
11:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES AX-1 / Pod 30 Reentry test / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1967 April 7 - .
21:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
FAILURE: Failure.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1967 April 12 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-B.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Glamour Girl Follow-On Operational Test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 April 14 - .
03:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout A.
- Transit O-12 - .
Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 2754 . COSPAR: 1967-034A. Apogee: 1,064 km (661 mi). Perigee: 1,037 km (644 mi). Inclination: 90.10 deg. Period: 106.20 min. First APL-built Transit Operational satellite. Operational life of this and subsequent Transits was over 14 years..
1967 April 17 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ERCS 3 Communications mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Last Emergency Rocket Communications Satellite test.
1967 April 19 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Last of three successful Atlas/Prime missions - .
Nation: USA.
Last of three successful Atlas/Prime missions from Vandenberg AFB (first launch on 21 December 1966)..
1967 April 20 - .
01:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3.
- Prime 3 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi).
The third and last SV-5D Precision Recovery Including Maneuvering Entry (PRIME) flight vehicle, essentially a small maneuverahle reentry spacecraft, successfully performed cross-range maneuvers after being launched from Vandenberg on an Atlas booster. The series of three flights was so successful in demonstrating that a maneuverable spacecraft could survive reentry that the planned fourth flight test was cancelled. The full design 1145 km cross range was demonstrated, and the X-23A SV-5D lifting body vehicle was successfully snatched at 3700 m altitude, 8 km from the target point. With this success the rest of the project was cancelled, and the two remaining unflown X-22A's were sent to the USAF Museum at Wright Patterson Air Force Base.
1967 April 20 - .
11:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Delta E.
- ESSA 5 - .
Payload: TOS C. Mass: 145 kg (319 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: ESSA.
Program: Tiros.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: TOS.
USAF Sat Cat: 2757 . COSPAR: 1967-036A. Apogee: 1,422 km (883 mi). Perigee: 1,355 km (841 mi). Inclination: 102.00 deg. Period: 113.50 min. Replaced ESSA 3. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1967 April 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF22.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST Olympic Trials 1 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The 100th Minuteman IB (LGM-30B) missile (#65-101) was launched from Vandenberg AFB, California. .
1967 April 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The 100th Minuteman IB (LGM-30B) missile (#65-101) was launched from Vandenberg AFB, California. .
1967 April 26 - .
18:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
FAILURE: Stage 2 engine lost thrust..
Failed Stage: 2.
- OPS 4243 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 05 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1967-04-26 . KH-8 type satellite..
- SRV-1 - .
Payload: SRV-1. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
- SRV-2 - .
Payload: SRV-2. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
1967 April 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 April 28 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 May 4 - .
04:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF CRL.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1967 May 4 - .
16:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Robin - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF CRL.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1967 May 5 - .
16:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout A.
- Ariel 3 - .
Payload: UK 3 (UK-E). Mass: 90 kg (198 lb). Nation: UK.
Agency: SRC.
Class: Technology.
Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: Ariel.
Decay Date: 1970-12-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 2773 . COSPAR: 1967-042A. Apogee: 604 km (375 mi). Perigee: 499 km (310 mi). Inclination: 80.60 deg. Period: 95.60 min. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1967 May 9 - .
21:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
FAILURE: Failure of the booster cut-off switch..
Failed Stage: 1.
- KH-4A 1041 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1041 / Agena D 1634 / OPS 4696. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1967-07-13 . USAF Sat Cat: 2779 . COSPAR: 1967-043A. Apogee: 791 km (491 mi). Perigee: 183 km (113 mi). Inclination: 85.00 deg. Period: 94.30 min. KH-4A. Due to the failure of the booster cut-off switch, the satellite went into a highly eccentric orbit. Significant image degradation..
- SRV 731 - .
Payload: SRV 1041-1. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1993-03-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 2780 . COSPAR: 1967-043xx. Apogee: 145 km (90 mi). Perigee: 131 km (81 mi). Inclination: 84.90 deg. Period: 87.20 min.
- OPS 1967 - .
Payload: EHH B7. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1993-03-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 2780 . COSPAR: 1967-043B. Apogee: 458 km (284 mi). Perigee: 399 km (247 mi). Inclination: 84.90 deg. Period: 93.20 min. Radar monitoring. Due to the failure of the booster cut-off switch, the satellite went into a highly eccentric orbit..
1967 May 11 - .
14:23 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF21.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Force modification test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
The ninth, and last, Force Modernization Minuteman II (LGM-30F) research and development flight test missile^ FTM 2095, was launched from Vandenberg AFB. This missile also carried the fourth Mark 12 reentry vehicle to be test flown on a Minuteman missile launched from Vandenberg AFB.
1967 May 17 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg WTR.
Launch Platform: EAG-154.
LV Family:
Polaris.
Launch Vehicle:
Polaris A3.
- Antelope 4 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1967 May 17 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 May 18 - .
09:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout A.
- Transit O-13 - .
Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 2807 . COSPAR: 1967-048A. Apogee: 1,088 km (676 mi). Perigee: 1,059 km (658 mi). Inclination: 89.60 deg. Period: 106.70 min. Operational life over 20 years..
1967 May 19 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF24.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST Olympic Trials 2 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 May 19 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 May 19 - .
22:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ABRES SBGRV-2 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1967 May 22 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 May 22 - .
18:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-37 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 37 / OPS 4321. 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: 1967-05-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 2813 . COSPAR: 1967-050A. Apogee: 293 km (182 mi). Perigee: 135 km (83 mi). Inclination: 91.50 deg. Period: 88.80 min. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OPS 5557/Agena D - .
Payload: LOGACS / OPS 5557. Mass: 700 kg (1,540 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1967-05-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 2816 . COSPAR: 1967-050B. Apogee: 240 km (140 mi). Perigee: 148 km (91 mi). Inclination: 91.50 deg. Period: 88.40 min. Not identified as a subsatellite ferret by McDowell..
1967 May 24 - .
14:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Delta E1.
- Explorer 34 - .
Payload: IMP F. Mass: 75 kg (165 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Program: Explorer.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: IMP.
Decay Date: 1969-05-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 2817 . COSPAR: 1967-051A. Apogee: 214,379 km (133,208 mi). Perigee: 242 km (150 mi). Inclination: 67.10 deg. Period: 6,358.20 min. Radiation, magnetic field data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1967 May 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1967 May 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1967 May 30 - .
02:06 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout B.
FAILURE: Third stage failure..
Failed Stage: 3.
- ESRO 2A - .
Payload: Iris 1. Mass: 74 kg (163 lb). Nation: Europe.
Agency: ESRO.
Class: Technology.
Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: ESRO.
Decay Date: 1967-05-29 .
1967 May 31 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 May 31 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2 Agena D.
- Surcal 160 - .
Payload: NRL PL160 / Agena D 2704. Mass: 2.00 kg (4.40 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Surcal.
USAF Sat Cat: 2825 . COSPAR: 1967-053B. Apogee: 927 km (576 mi). Perigee: 923 km (573 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 103.50 min. 20 inch dia. calibration sphere. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- Calsphere 4 - .
Payload: Agena D 2704 / OPS 5712. Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Calsphere.
USAF Sat Cat: 2826 . COSPAR: 1967-053A. Apogee: 834 km (518 mi). Perigee: 815 km (506 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 101.40 min. The last Air Force Thor/Agena D, SLV-2 #443 and SS-01B #2704, was launched from Vandenberg. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- Surcal (151) - .
Payload: NRL PL151 / OPS 5712 / Poppy 5A (Poppy 24-inch). Mass: 4.00 kg (8.80 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
USAF Sat Cat: 2873 . COSPAR: 1967-053G. Apogee: 910 km (560 mi). Perigee: 902 km (560 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 103.10 min. Poppy naval signals intelligence satellite. Official and secondary mission: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- Calsphere 3 - .
Payload: NRL PL159. Mass: 38 kg (83 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Calsphere.
USAF Sat Cat: 2872 . COSPAR: 1967-053F. Apogee: 906 km (562 mi). Perigee: 900 km (550 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 103.10 min. Surveillance Calibration. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- Timation 1 - .
Mass: 700 kg (1,540 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Program: Navstar.
Class: Technology.
Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: Timation.
USAF Sat Cat: 2847 . COSPAR: 1967-053E. Apogee: 900 km (550 mi). Perigee: 894 km (555 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 102.90 min. Navigation experiments leading eventually to Navstar/GPS system. Operated for 74 months..
- GGSE 5 - .
Payload: NRL PL154 / Poppy 5D (Poppy multifaceted). Mass: 4.00 kg (8.80 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
USAF Sat Cat: 2834 . COSPAR: 1967-053D. Apogee: 913 km (567 mi). Perigee: 906 km (562 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 103.20 min. Poppy naval signals intelligence satellite. Official and secondary mission: Gravity gradient stabilization tests. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- SURCAL 150B - .
Payload: NRL PL150B. Mass: 2.00 kg (4.40 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: SURCAL.
USAF Sat Cat: 2909 . COSPAR: 1967-053J. Apogee: 816 km (507 mi). Perigee: 805 km (500 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 101.10 min. The last Air Force Thor/Agena D, SLV-2 #443 and SS-01B #2704, was launched from Vandenberg. 16 inch dia. calibration sphere. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- Surcal (153) - .
Payload: NRL PL153 / OPS 5712 / Poppy 5C (Poppy multifacete. Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
USAF Sat Cat: 2874 . COSPAR: 1967-053H. Apogee: 912 km (566 mi). Perigee: 905 km (562 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 103.20 min. Poppy naval signals intelligence satellite. Official and secondary mission: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1967 June 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 June 4 - .
18:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas SLV-3 Agena D.
- KH 7-38 - .
Payload: KH-7 no. 38 / OPS 4360. 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: 1967-06-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 2831 . COSPAR: 1967-055A. Apogee: 456 km (283 mi). Perigee: 149 km (92 mi). Inclination: 104.90 deg. Period: 90.60 min. The final Air Force Atlas/Agena D (SLV-3 #7128/SS-01B #4837) was successfully launched from Vandenberg AFB. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1967 June 9 - .
10:23 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F/Trident.
- ABRES SPDS (RMP-B-1) re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1967 June 16 - .
21:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4A 1042 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1042 / Agena D 1633 / OPS 3559. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1967-07-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 2850 . COSPAR: 1967-062A. Apogee: 380 km (230 mi). Perigee: 169 km (105 mi). Inclination: 80.00 deg. Period: 90.00 min. KH-4A. Small out-of-focus area in forward camera of 1042-1..
- SRV 725 - .
Payload: SRV 1042-1. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1968-10-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 2851 . COSPAR: 1967-062xx. Apogee: 197 km (122 mi). Perigee: 182 km (113 mi). Inclination: 80.20 deg. Period: 88.30 min.
- OPS 1873 - .
Payload: EHH B8. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1968-10-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 2851 . COSPAR: 1967-062B. Apogee: 517 km (321 mi). Perigee: 501 km (311 mi). Inclination: 80.20 deg. Period: 94.80 min. Radar monitoring..
1967 June 20 - .
16:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 4282 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 06 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1967-06-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 2858 . COSPAR: 1967-064A. Apogee: 325 km (201 mi). Perigee: 127 km (78 mi). Inclination: 111.40 deg. Period: 89.00 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1967 June 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg WTR.
Launch Platform: EAG-154.
LV Family:
Polaris.
Launch Vehicle:
Polaris A3.
- Antelope 5 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1967 June 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Follow-on operational missile test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 June 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg WTR.
Launch Platform: EAG-154.
LV Family:
Polaris.
Launch Vehicle:
Polaris A3.
- Antelope 6 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1967 June 23 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-B.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Buggy Wheel Follow-On Operational Test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 June 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 June 29 - .
21:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Burner 2.
- SECOR 9 - .
Payload: EGRS 9. Mass: 20 kg (44 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USA ACE.
Class: Earth.
Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR.
USAF Sat Cat: 2861 . COSPAR: 1967-065A. Apogee: 3,940 km (2,440 mi). Perigee: 3,803 km (2,363 mi). Inclination: 90.20 deg. Period: 172.10 min.
Two scientific satellites, an Army Sequential Collation of Range (SECOR) and a Navy Aurora I, were launched from Vandenberg aboard a Thor/Burner II. This was the first flight in the Department of Defense's Space Experiments Support Program (SESP), a tri-service program that allowed qualified government-sponsored space experimenters to fly payloads on Air Force boosters. Space Systems Division managed the program and provided boosters, payload integration, and launch services. Defense's Space Experiments Support Program (SESP), a tri-service program that allowed qualified government-sponsored space experimenters to fly payloads on Air Force boosters. Space Systems Division managed the program and provided boosters, payload integration, and launch services. Location survey. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A).
- Aurora 1 - .
Payload: Aurora (P 67-1). Mass: 21 kg (46 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Aurora.
USAF Sat Cat: 2876 . COSPAR: 1967-065B. Apogee: 3,937 km (2,446 mi). Perigee: 3,808 km (2,366 mi). Inclination: 90.20 deg. Period: 172.10 min.
Two scientific satellites, an Army Sequential Collation of Range (SECOR) and a Navy Aurora I, were launched from Vandenberg aboard a Thor/Burner II. This was the first flight in the Department of Defense's Space Experiments Support Program (SESP), a tri-service program that allowed qualified government-sponsored space experimenters to fly payloads on Air Force boosters. Space Systems Division managed the program and provided boosters, payload integration, and launch services. Defense's Space Experiments Support Program (SESP), a tri-service program that allowed qualified government-sponsored space experimenters to fly payloads on Air Force boosters. Space Systems Division managed the program and provided boosters, payload integration, and launch services. Investigated aurora borealis. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A).
1967 July 5 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GB40 Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 July 6 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES PDV re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1967 July 6 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1967 July 12 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GB42 Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 July 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 July 15 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF21.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 July 15 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- GIN BABY I research and development mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 July 20 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF22.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST Olympic Trials 3 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 July 22 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F/Trident.
- RMP-B-2 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1967 July 25 - .
03:48 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- OPS 1879 - .
Payload: Ferret 11 / Agena D 2732. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
Decay Date: 1969-06-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 2890 . COSPAR: 1967-071A. Apogee: 608 km (377 mi). Perigee: 390 km (240 mi). Inclination: 75.10 deg. Period: 94.50 min.
1967 July 27 - .
19:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
FAILURE: Partial Failure..
Failed Stage: 1.
- OV1-08S - .
Mass: 118 kg (260 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
Decay Date: 1972-02-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 2893 . COSPAR: 1967-072A. Apogee: 557 km (346 mi). Perigee: 529 km (328 mi). Inclination: 101.60 deg. Period: 95.50 min. Carried cosmic ray telescope. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OV1-11 - .
Mass: 555 kg (1,223 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: OV1.
Decay Date: 1972-02-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 2893 . COSPAR: 1967-072xx. Apogee: 146 km (90 mi). Perigee: 144 km (89 mi). Inclination: 101.70 deg. Period: 87.40 min. OV-1 11 did not reach orbit..
- OV1-12S - .
Mass: 140 kg (300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
Decay Date: 1980-07-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 2901 . COSPAR: 1967-072D. Apogee: 579 km (359 mi). Perigee: 497 km (308 mi). Inclination: 101.70 deg. Period: 95.40 min. Solar flare observations. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1967 July 28 - .
14:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- OGO 4 - .
Payload: OGO D (NASA S-50A). Mass: 634 kg (1,397 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OGO.
Decay Date: 1972-08-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 2895 . COSPAR: 1967-073A. Apogee: 885 km (549 mi). Perigee: 422 km (262 mi). Inclination: 86.00 deg. Period: 97.80 min.
OGO 4 was a large observatory instrumented with experiments designed to study the interrelationships between the aurora and airglow emissions, energetic particle activity, geomagnetic field variation, ionospheric ionization and recombination, and atmospheric heating which take place during a period of increased solar activity. After the spacecraft achieved orbit and the experiments were deployed into an operating mode, an attitude control problem occurred. This condition was corrected by ground control procedures until complete failure of the tape recording systems in mid-January 1969. At that time, due to the difficulty of maintaining attitude control without the tape recorders, the attitude control system was commanded off, and the spacecraft was placed into a spin-stabilized mode about the axis which was previously maintained vertically. In this mode, seven of the remaining experiments were turned off since no meaningful data could be observed by them. On October 23, 1969, the satellite was turned off. It was reactivated again in January 1970 for 2 months to obtain VLF observations.
1967 July 29 - .
08:48 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ABRES MBRV-3 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
Launched from Vandenberg AFB atop Atlas booster 150F, the third Maneuvering Ballistic Reentry Vehicle (MBRV-3) achieved the first successful flight and reentry of a maneuvering ballistic reentry vehicle in the Advanced Ballistic Reentry Systems (ABRES) program. MBRV-3 successfully accomplished its planned terminal maneuver during reentry, and all objectives were achieved.
1967 August 7 - .
21:44 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4A 1043 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1043 / Agena D 1637 / OPS 4827. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1967-09-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 2910 . COSPAR: 1967-076A. Apogee: 346 km (214 mi). Perigee: 174 km (108 mi). Inclination: 79.90 deg. Period: 89.70 min. KH-4A. Forward camera film came out of the rails on pass 230D. Film degraded past this point..
1967 August 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GB45 Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 August 16 - .
17:02 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 4886 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 07 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1967-08-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 2919 . COSPAR: 1967-079A. Apogee: 445 km (276 mi). Perigee: 123 km (76 mi). Inclination: 111.50 deg. Period: 90.10 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1967 August 23 - .
04:41 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Burner 2.
- DMSP-Block-4A F9 - .
Payload: DAPP 3419 (FTV-4) / OPS 7202. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft Bus: DMSP.
Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A.
USAF Sat Cat: 2920 . COSPAR: 1967-080A. Apogee: 873 km (542 mi). Perigee: 818 km (508 mi). Inclination: 98.90 deg. Period: 101.90 min. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1967 September 6 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GB46 Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 September 11 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-B.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Glowing Bright GB44 Follow-On Operational Test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 September 15 - .
19:41 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4B 1101 - .
Payload: KH-4B s/n 1101 / Agena D 1641 / OPS 5089. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1967-10-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 2946 . COSPAR: 1967-087A. Apogee: 372 km (231 mi). Perigee: 156 km (96 mi). Inclination: 80.00 deg. Period: 89.70 min. KH-4B. First mission of the KH-4B series. Best film to date..
1967 September 19 - .
18:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 4941 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 08 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1967-09-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 2952 . COSPAR: 1967-090A. Apogee: 401 km (249 mi). Perigee: 122 km (75 mi). Inclination: 106.00 deg. Period: 89.70 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1967 September 22 - .
02:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GB47 Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 September 25 - .
08:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout A.
- Transit O-14 - .
Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 2965 . COSPAR: 1967-092A. Apogee: 1,099 km (682 mi). Perigee: 1,030 km (640 mi). Inclination: 89.20 deg. Period: 106.50 min.
1967 September 27 - .
02:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GB48 Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 October 11 - .
07:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Burner 2.
- DMSP-Block-4A F10 - .
Payload: DAPP 4417 (FTV-5) / OPS 1264. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft Bus: DMSP.
Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A.
USAF Sat Cat: 2980 . COSPAR: 1967-096A. Apogee: 796 km (494 mi). Perigee: 638 km (396 mi). Inclination: 99.20 deg. Period: 99.10 min. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1967 October 11 - .
11:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES TVX-13 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1967 October 14 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ABRES MBRV-4 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1967 October 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF24.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST Olympic Trials 4 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 October 25 - .
19:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 4995 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 09 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1967-11-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 3012 . COSPAR: 1967-103A. Apogee: 431 km (267 mi). Perigee: 134 km (83 mi). Inclination: 111.50 deg. Period: 90.10 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1967 October 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F/Trident.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- RMP-B-3 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).
1967 November 2 - .
21:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4A 1044 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1044 / OPS 0562. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1967-12-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 3024 . COSPAR: 1967-109A. Apogee: 410 km (250 mi). Perigee: 184 km (114 mi). Inclination: 81.50 deg. Period: 90.40 min. KH-4A. All cameras operated fine..
- OPS 1587 - .
Payload: EHH B9. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1969-03-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 3025 . COSPAR: 1967-109B. Apogee: 525 km (326 mi). Perigee: 454 km (282 mi). Inclination: 81.60 deg. Period: 94.30 min. Radar monitoring..
- SRV 733 - .
Payload: SRV 1044-1. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1969-03-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 3025 . COSPAR: 1967-109xx. Apogee: 208 km (129 mi). Perigee: 179 km (111 mi). Inclination: 81.60 deg. Period: 88.40 min.
1967 November 3 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- GIN BABY II research and development mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 November 7 - .
13:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576B2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas D.
- ABRES Mk 11 AX-2 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Atlas 94D was the 91st, and last, D series missile to be launched from Vandenberg AFB since 12D was launched on 9 September 1959. Final launch of an Atlas D missile (first operational at Vandenberg on 9 September 1959)..
1967 November 10 - .
12:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ABRES BGRV-1 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1967 November 10 - .
17:53 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Delta E1.
- ESSA 6 - .
Payload: TOS D. Mass: 132 kg (291 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: ESSA.
Program: Tiros.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: TOS.
USAF Sat Cat: 3035 . COSPAR: 1967-114A. Apogee: 1,485 km (922 mi). Perigee: 1,409 km (875 mi). Inclination: 102.10 deg. Period: 114.80 min. Returned cloud cover images. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1967 November 14 - .
14:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GB51 Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 November 14 - .
15:22 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GB52 Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 November 17 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- GIN BABY III research and development mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 November 21 - .
14:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Research and technology/modification test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 December 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1967 December 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GB50 Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 December 5 - .
01:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout B.
- OV3-06 - .
Payload: ATCOS 2. Mass: 95 kg (209 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV3.
Decay Date: 1969-03-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 3057 . COSPAR: 1967-120A. Apogee: 443 km (275 mi). Perigee: 409 km (254 mi). Inclination: 90.00 deg. Period: 93.00 min. Ionospheric studies. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1967 December 5 - .
18:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 5000 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 10 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1967-12-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 3058 . COSPAR: 1967-121A. Apogee: 428 km (265 mi). Perigee: 141 km (87 mi). Inclination: 109.50 deg. Period: 90.20 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1967 December 8 - .
21:03 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- GIN BABY IV research and development mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 December 9 - .
22:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4B 1102 - .
Payload: KH-4B s/n 1102 / Agena D 1642 / OPS 1001. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1967-12-25 . USAF Sat Cat: 3063 . COSPAR: 1967-122A. Apogee: 248 km (154 mi). Perigee: 151 km (93 mi). Inclination: 81.60 deg. Period: 88.40 min. KH-4B. Noticeable image smear for forward camera, but best imagery to date..
1967 December 18 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT01B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 December 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F/Trident.
- RMP-B-4 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1967 December 22 - .
00:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT02B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The 125th Minuteman I (LGM-30B) missile was launched from Vandenberg AFB and was the 200th Minuteman ICBM to be launched down the Western Test Range since September 1962. .
1967 December 22 - .
01:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT03B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The 125th Minuteman I (LGM-30B) missile was launched from Vandenberg AFB and was the 200th Minuteman ICBM to be launched down the Western Test Range since September 1962. .
1967 December 23 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF24.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST Olympic Trials 5 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1967 December 28 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- GIN BABY V research and development mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg WTR.
Launch Platform: EAG-154.
LV Family:
Polaris.
Launch Vehicle:
Polaris A1.
- ISEP 6 Mk 2 RV - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1968 January 10 - .
09:58 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF25.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST Olympic Trials 6 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 January 11 - .
16:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Delta E1.
- Explorer 36 - .
Payload: GEOS B. Mass: 209 kg (460 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Program: Explorer.
Class: Astronomy.
Type: Solar satellite. Spacecraft: GEOS.
USAF Sat Cat: 3093 . COSPAR: 1968-002A. Apogee: 1,574 km (978 mi). Perigee: 1,081 km (671 mi). Inclination: 105.80 deg. Period: 112.20 min.
The geodetic instrumentation systems included (1) four optical beacons, (2) two C-band radar transponders, (3) a passive radar reflector, (4) a sequential collation of range radio range transponder, (5) a Goddard range and range rate transponder, (6) laser reflectors, and (7) Doppler beacons. Non-geodetic systems included a laser detector and a Minitrack interferometer beacon. The objectives of the spacecraft were to optimise optical station visibility periods and to provide complementary data for inclination-dependent terms established by the Explorer 29 (GEOS 1) gravimetric studies. The spacecraft was placed into a retrograde orbit to accomplish these objectives. Operational problems occurred in the main power system, optical beacon flash system, and the spacecraft clock, and adjustments in scheduling resulted in nominal operations.
1968 January 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 January 17 - .
10:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor SLV-2A Agena D.
- OPS 1965 - .
Payload: Ferret 12 / Agena D 2733. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
Decay Date: 1970-07-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 3097 . COSPAR: 1968-004A. Apogee: 536 km (333 mi). Perigee: 462 km (287 mi). Inclination: 75.10 deg. Period: 94.60 min.
The last scheduled Air Force Thrust Augmented Thor/Agena (SLV-2A //498/SS-01B #2733) to be launched from Vandenberg AFB was the 150th Thor/ Agena vehicle fired from there since Discoverer I was launched on 28 February 1959. From now on, the Air Force would use the more advanced Long Tank Thrust Augmented Thor (SLV-2G) - Thorad - and the newer SLV-2H.
1968 January 18 - .
19:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 5028 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 11 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1968-02-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 3098 . COSPAR: 1968-005A. Apogee: 405 km (251 mi). Perigee: 137 km (85 mi). Inclination: 111.50 deg. Period: 89.90 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1968 January 24 - .
22:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4A 1045 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1045 / Agena D 1640 / OPS 2243. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1968-02-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 3113 . COSPAR: 1968-008A. Apogee: 438 km (272 mi). Perigee: 179 km (111 mi). Inclination: 81.50 deg. Period: 90.70 min. KH-4A. All cameras operated satisfactorily..
- OPS 6236 - .
Payload: EHH B10. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1970-03-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 3114 . COSPAR: 1968-008B. Apogee: 545 km (338 mi). Perigee: 470 km (290 mi). Inclination: 81.70 deg. Period: 94.70 min. Radar monitoring..
- SRV 741 - .
Payload: SRV 1045-1. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1970-03-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 3114 . COSPAR: 1968-008xx. Apogee: 186 km (115 mi). Perigee: 185 km (114 mi). Inclination: 81.60 deg. Period: 88.20 min.
1968 January 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF22.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST Olympic Trials 7 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 January 31 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F/Trident.
- RMP-B-5 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1968 February 2 - .
10:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF24.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST Olympic Trials 8 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 February 2 - .
12:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
FAILURE: Failure.
- ST Olympic T. B-1 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1968 February 10 - .
11:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Research and technology/modification test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The final Mark 12 reentry vehicle test launch was conducted from Vandenberg AFB..
1968 February 26 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ABRES BGRV-2 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). The Boost Glide Re-entry Vehicle was launched from Vandenberg AFB, California to the area of Wake Island in the Pacific Ocean. It was launched from an Atlas missile booster and served to provide data on hypersonic manoeuvring flight characteristics..
1968 February 28 - .
15:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-B.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Glory Trip 04T Follow-On Operational Test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 March 2 - .
03:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout A.
- Transit O-18 - .
Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 3133 . COSPAR: 1968-012A. Apogee: 1,130 km (700 mi). Perigee: 1,014 km (630 mi). Inclination: 90.00 deg. Period: 106.70 min. First RCA-built Transit..
1968 March 6 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E/Trident.
- RMP-B-6 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi). The Air Force Western Test Range supported the initial west coast use of an Atlas E (74E) as a booster in an Advanced Ballistic Reentry Systems (ABRES) reentry vehicle development program. .
1968 March 13 - .
19:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 5057 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 12 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1968-03-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 3148 . COSPAR: 1968-018A. Apogee: 407 km (252 mi). Perigee: 128 km (79 mi). Inclination: 99.90 deg. Period: 89.90 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1968 March 14 - .
22:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4A 1046 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1046 / Agena D 1638 / OPS 4849. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1968-04-10 . USAF Sat Cat: 3152 . COSPAR: 1968-020A. Apogee: 390 km (240 mi). Perigee: 183 km (113 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 90.20 min. KH-4A. Image quality good for 1046-1 and fair for 1046-2..
- SRV 747 - .
Payload: SRV 1046-1 / OPS 7076. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1970-01-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 3153 . COSPAR: 1968-020xx. Apogee: 189 km (117 mi). Perigee: 189 km (117 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 88.30 min.
- OPS 7076 - .
Payload: EHH B11. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1970-01-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 3153 . COSPAR: 1968-020B. Apogee: 524 km (325 mi). Perigee: 481 km (298 mi). Inclination: 83.10 deg. Period: 94.60 min. Radar monitoring..
1968 March 26 - .
Launch Site:
Kwajalein,
Vandenberg.
- PASO established to coordinate all Department of Defense offensive/defensive ballistic missile tests. - .
The Joint Pacific Area Scheduling Office (JPASO) was established at Vandenberg AFB to centralize coordination and scheduling for all Department of Defense offensive/defensive ballistic missile tests.This was without regard to point of origin. Representatives from the Air Force Western Test Range, the Army's Kwajalein Missile Range (KMR), and the Navy's Pacific Missile Range (PMR) were the primary participants in the scheduling meetings.
1968 March 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF26.
Launch Pad: LF26?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST Olympic Trials 9 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 April 2 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Glory Trip 10T Follow-On Operational Test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 April 4 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1968 April 6 - .
09:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- OV1-13 - .
Mass: 107 kg (235 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
USAF Sat Cat: 3173 . COSPAR: 1968-026A. Apogee: 9,214 km (5,725 mi). Perigee: 587 km (364 mi). Inclination: 100.00 deg. Period: 198.70 min. Radiation, engineering experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OV1-14 - .
Mass: 101 kg (222 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
USAF Sat Cat: 3174 . COSPAR: 1968-026B. Apogee: 9,858 km (6,125 mi). Perigee: 568 km (352 mi). Inclination: 100.00 deg. Period: 207.00 min. Radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1968 April 10 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- ST Olympic T. B-2 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 April 16 - .
Launch Site:
Kwajalein,
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Atlas.
- Last Atlas E launch from Vandenberg AFB. - .
Atlas 68E, the 16th and last E model to be launched from Vandenberg AFB, completed its mission to Kwajalein as part of the SAMSO-Army Reentry Measurements Program Phase B (RMP-B)..
1968 April 17 - .
17:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 5105 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 13 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1968-04-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 3199 . COSPAR: 1968-031A. Apogee: 421 km (261 mi). Perigee: 127 km (78 mi). Inclination: 111.40 deg. Period: 89.90 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1968 April 18 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E.
- ABRES RVTO-1A-1 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
1968 April 24 - .
03:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 April 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas E/Trident.
- RMP-B-7 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
1968 April 30 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF22.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- GIANT BLADE 1 demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 May 1 - .
21:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4B 1103 - .
Payload: KH-4B s/n 1103 / OPS 1419. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1968-05-15 . USAF Sat Cat: 3228 . COSPAR: 1968-039B. Apogee: 243 km (150 mi). Perigee: 164 km (101 mi). Inclination: 83.10 deg. Period: 88.60 min. KH-4B. Out-of-focus imagery is present on both main camera records..
- SRV 807 - .
Payload: SRV 1103-1. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1968-05-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 3232 . COSPAR: 1968-039C. Apogee: 199 km (123 mi). Perigee: 142 km (88 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 87.90 min.
1968 May 3 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- ABRES Penaid TVX re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1968 May 17 - .
02:06 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout B.
- ESRO 2B - .
Payload: IRIS. Mass: 75 kg (165 lb). Nation: Europe.
Agency: ESRO.
Class: Technology.
Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: ESRO.
Decay Date: 1971-05-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 3233 . COSPAR: 1968-041A. Apogee: 1,085 km (674 mi). Perigee: 334 km (207 mi). Inclination: 97.20 deg. Period: 99.00 min.
1968 May 18 - .
08:23 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- Nimbus B - .
Mass: 570 kg (1,250 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Nimbus.
Decay Date: 1968-05-18 . Nimbus B2 meteorological satellite..
- EGRS 10 - .
Payload: Secor 10. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft: Secor.
Army-sponsored Sequential Collocation of Range (SECOR) satellite..
1968 May 22 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1968 May 22 - .
10:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- ST Olympic T. B-3 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 May 23 - .
04:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Burner 2.
- DMSP-Block-4A F11 - .
Payload: DAPP 4B F-1 (FTV-8) / OPS 7869. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft Bus: DMSP.
Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A.
USAF Sat Cat: 3266 . COSPAR: 1968-042A. Apogee: 883 km (548 mi). Perigee: 806 km (500 mi). Inclination: 98.90 deg. Period: 101.80 min. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1968 May 23 - .
05:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 June 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ABRES PDV re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1968 June 5 - .
17:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 5138 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 14 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1968-06-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 3278 . COSPAR: 1968-047A. Apogee: 456 km (283 mi). Perigee: 123 km (76 mi). Inclination: 110.50 deg. Period: 90.30 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1968 June 12 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Glory Trip 08T Follow-On Operational Test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 June 20 - .
21:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4A 1047 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1047 / Agena D 1645 / OPS 5343. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1968-07-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 3296 . COSPAR: 1968-052A. Apogee: 402 km (249 mi). Perigee: 183 km (113 mi). Inclination: 85.00 deg. Period: 90.30 min. KH-4A. Out-of-focus imagery is present on both main camera records..
- SRV 745 - .
Payload: SRV 1047-1. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1970-01-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 3297 . COSPAR: 1968-052xx. Apogee: 180 km (110 mi). Perigee: 180 km (110 mi). Inclination: 85.10 deg. Period: 88.10 min.
- OPS 5259 - .
Payload: EHH B12. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1970-01-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 3297 . COSPAR: 1968-052B. Apogee: 514 km (319 mi). Perigee: 435 km (270 mi). Inclination: 85.10 deg. Period: 94.10 min. Radar monitoring..
1968 June 22 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F/Trident.
- RMP-B-8 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1968 June 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1968 June 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ABRES RVTO-1A-2 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1968 July 4 - .
17:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Delta J.
- Explorer 38 - .
Payload: RAE A. Mass: 190 kg (410 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Program: Explorer.
Class: Astronomy.
Type: X-ray astronomy satellite. Spacecraft: RAE.
USAF Sat Cat: 3307 . COSPAR: 1968-055A. Apogee: 5,861 km (3,641 mi). Perigee: 5,835 km (3,625 mi). Inclination: 120.90 deg. Period: 224.30 min. Radio Astronomy Explorer; Earth, solar, cosmic radio emission data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1968 July 8 - .
18:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- GIANT FIST 1 demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 July 11 - .
19:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- OV1-15S - .
Payload: Spades. Mass: 470 kg (1,030 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
Decay Date: 1968-11-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 3318 . COSPAR: 1968-059A. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Perigee: 153 km (95 mi). Inclination: 89.80 deg. Period: 104.60 min. Studied relationship between atmospheric density and solar radiation. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OV1-16 Cannonball 1 - .
Payload: Loads. Mass: 600 kg (1,320 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
Decay Date: 1968-08-19 . USAF Sat Cat: 3319 . COSPAR: 1968-059B. Apogee: 556 km (345 mi). Perigee: 145 km (90 mi). Inclination: 89.80 deg. Period: 91.50 min. Ionospheric drag tests. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1968 July 12 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- ST Olympic T. B-4 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 August 6 - .
16:33 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 5187 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 15 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1968-08-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 3335 . COSPAR: 1968-064A. Apogee: 395 km (245 mi). Perigee: 142 km (88 mi). Inclination: 110.00 deg. Period: 89.90 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1968 August 7 - .
21:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4B 1104 - .
Payload: KH-4B s/n 1104 / Agena D 1644 / OPS 5955. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1968-08-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 3336 . COSPAR: 1968-065A. Apogee: 259 km (160 mi). Perigee: 160 km (90 mi). Inclination: 82.10 deg. Period: 88.70 min. KH-4B. Best imagery to date on any KH-4 systems. Bicolor and color infrared experiments were conducted on this mission..
1968 August 8 - .
20:12 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout B.
- Explorer 39 - .
Payload: ADE C. Mass: 9.00 kg (19.80 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Langley.
Program: Explorer.
Class: Earth.
Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ADE.
Decay Date: 1981-06-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 3337 . COSPAR: 1968-066A. Apogee: 2,538 km (1,577 mi). Perigee: 670 km (410 mi). Inclination: 80.70 deg. Period: 118.30 min. Air Density Explorer; atmospheric density and temperature data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
- Explorer 40 - .
Payload: Injun E. Mass: 70 kg (154 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Langley.
Program: Explorer.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Injun.
USAF Sat Cat: 3338 . COSPAR: 1968-066B. Apogee: 2,489 km (1,546 mi). Perigee: 679 km (421 mi). Inclination: 80.70 deg. Period: 117.80 min. Injun Explorer; radiation data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1968 August 16 - .
11:24 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Delta N.
- ESSA 7 - .
Payload: TOS E. Mass: 145 kg (319 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: ESSA.
Program: Tiros.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: TOS.
USAF Sat Cat: 3345 . COSPAR: 1968-069A. Apogee: 1,473 km (915 mi). Perigee: 1,431 km (889 mi). Inclination: 101.90 deg. Period: 114.90 min. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1968 August 16 - .
20:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3E.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas Burner 2.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- LCS 3 - .
Payload: LCS 3. Mass: 37 kg (81 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF,
USN.
Class: Earth.
Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Orbiscal.
Decay Date: 1968-08-16 .
An Atlas/Burner II (SLV-3, #7004), the first Atlas to be launched with a Burner II upper stage, was launched from Space Launch Complex 3 East (SLC-3E) at Vandenberg but failed to place its payload in orbit due to a malfunction of the nose-fairing heat shield separation system. First of two Atlas/Burner II space launches. 1 of 13 satellite launch attempts; investigate effects of ionosphere on radio signals.
- EGRS 12 - .
Payload: EGRS 12. Mass: 37 kg (81 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: Orbiscal.
- AVL-802 Rigid Sphere - .
Payload: AVL-802. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: Calsphere.
An Atlas/Burner II (SLV-3, #7004), the first Atlas to be launched with a Burner II upper stage, was launched from Space Launch Complex 3 East (SLC-3E) at Vandenberg but failed to place its payload in orbit due to a malfunction of the nose-fairing heat shield separation system.
- AVL-802 Grid Sphere 7-1 - .
Payload: AVL-802. Mass: 37 kg (81 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: Orbiscal.
- RM-18 - .
Payload: RM-18. Mass: 46 kg (101 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: RM.
- LIDOS - .
Payload: LIDOS. Mass: 37 kg (81 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: Orbiscal.
- Orbiscal 1 - .
Payload: Orbiscal 1. Mass: 37 kg (81 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: Orbiscal.
- EGRS 11 - .
Payload: EGRS 11. Mass: 37 kg (81 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: Orbiscal.
- Radcat - .
Payload: Radcat. Mass: 208 kg (458 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: Radcat.
1968 August 19 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1968 August 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Glory Trip 18T Follow-On Operational Test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 September 1 - .
18:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF21.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST (Partial fuel) - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1968 September 10 - .
18:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 5247 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 16 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1968-09-25 . USAF Sat Cat: 3375 . COSPAR: 1968-074A. Apogee: 404 km (251 mi). Perigee: 125 km (77 mi). Inclination: 106.10 deg. Period: 89.80 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1968 September 18 - .
21:32 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4A 1048 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1048 / Agena D 1647 / OPS 0165. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1968-10-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 3408 . COSPAR: 1968-078A. Apogee: 393 km (244 mi). Perigee: 167 km (103 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 90.10 min. KH-4A. Film in the forward camera separated and camera failed on mission 1048-2, also the stellar/index camera unit failed..
- OPS 8595 - .
Payload: EHH B13. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1969-09-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 3409 . COSPAR: 1968-078B. Apogee: 514 km (319 mi). Perigee: 500 km (310 mi). Inclination: 83.20 deg. Period: 94.80 min. Radar monitoring..
- SRV 749 - .
Payload: SRV 1048-1. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1969-09-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 3409 . COSPAR: 1968-078xx. Apogee: 236 km (146 mi). Perigee: 211 km (131 mi). Inclination: 83.20 deg. Period: 89.00 min.
1968 September 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F/Trident.
- RMP-B-9 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1968 September 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- RVTO-1A-3 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1968 October 3 - .
20:49 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout B.
- ESRO 1A - .
Payload: Aurorae. Mass: 81 kg (178 lb). Nation: Europe.
Agency: ESRO.
Class: Technology.
Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: ESRO.
Decay Date: 1970-06-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 3459 . COSPAR: 1968-084A. Apogee: 1,538 km (955 mi). Perigee: 258 km (160 mi). Inclination: 93.80 deg. Period: 103.00 min. Aurora, polar ionosphere investigations. .
1968 October 5 - .
11:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- OPS 0964 - .
Payload: Ferret 13 / Agena D 2734. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
Decay Date: 1971-03-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 3472 . COSPAR: 1968-086A. Apogee: 511 km (317 mi). Perigee: 483 km (300 mi). Inclination: 75.00 deg. Period: 94.60 min.
1968 October 7 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1968 October 23 - .
04:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Burner 2.
- DMSP-Block-4A F12 - .
Payload: DAPP 6422 (FTV-7) / OPS 4078. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft Bus: DMSP.
Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A.
USAF Sat Cat: 3510 . COSPAR: 1968-092A. Apogee: 828 km (514 mi). Perigee: 783 km (486 mi). Inclination: 98.70 deg. Period: 101.00 min. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1968 October 24 - .
17:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- GIANT FIST 2A demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 October 30 - .
08:23 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- ST Olympic T. B-5 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 November 3 - .
21:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4B 1105 - .
Payload: KH-4B s/n 1105 / Agena D 1646 / OPS 1315. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1968-11-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 3531 . COSPAR: 1968-098A. Apogee: 288 km (178 mi). Perigee: 150 km (90 mi). Inclination: 82.20 deg. Period: 88.90 min. KH-4B. Image quality is variable and displays areas of soft focus and image smear..
1968 November 6 - .
19:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 5296 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 17 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1968-11-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 3532 . COSPAR: 1968-099A. Apogee: 390 km (240 mi). Perigee: 130 km (80 mi). Inclination: 106.00 deg. Period: 89.70 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1968 November 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1968 November 13 - .
12:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Giant Fist 5 demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 November 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F/Trident.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- RMP-B-10 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1968 November 19 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-C.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Glory Trip 26T Follow-On Operational Test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 November 21 - .
18:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF25.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- GIANT BLADE 2 demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 November 24 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- RVTO-1A-4 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1968 December 4 - .
19:23 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 6518 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 18 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1968-12-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 3594 . COSPAR: 1968-108A. Apogee: 735 km (456 mi). Perigee: 137 km (85 mi). Inclination: 106.20 deg. Period: 93.30 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1968 December 7 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- ST Olympic T. B-6 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 December 10 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1968 December 12 - .
22:22 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4A 1049 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1049 / Agena D 1648 / OPS 4740. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1968-12-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 3604 . COSPAR: 1968-112A. Apogee: 248 km (154 mi). Perigee: 169 km (105 mi). Inclination: 81.00 deg. Period: 88.70 min. KH-4A. Degraded film.
- OPS 7684 - .
Payload: EHH C1 / OPS 7684. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
USAF Sat Cat: 3605 . COSPAR: 1968-112B. Apogee: 1,466 km (910 mi). Perigee: 1,378 km (856 mi). Inclination: 80.40 deg. Period: 114.30 min. ABM monitoring..
- SRV 751 - .
Payload: SRV 1049-1. Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
COSPAR: 1968-112xx. Apogee: 248 km (154 mi). Perigee: 169 km (105 mi). Inclination: 81.00 deg. Period: 88.70 min.
1968 December 15 - .
17:21 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Delta N.
- ESSA 8 - .
Payload: TOS F. Mass: 132 kg (291 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: ESSA.
Program: Tiros.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: TOS.
USAF Sat Cat: 3615 . COSPAR: 1968-114A. Apogee: 1,464 km (909 mi). Perigee: 1,414 km (878 mi). Inclination: 102.00 deg. Period: 114.60 min. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1968 December 20 - .
14:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 January 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1969 January 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F/Trident.
- RMP-B-11 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1969 January 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- ST Olympic T. B-7 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 January 22 - .
19:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 7585 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 19 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1969-02-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 3665 . COSPAR: 1969-007A. Apogee: 1,090 km (670 mi). Perigee: 142 km (88 mi). Inclination: 106.20 deg. Period: 97.00 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1969 January 29 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
- Four missile launches from Vandenberg - .
The Air Force Western Test Range supported four missile launches from Vandenberg, equalling the single-day record first set on 25 March 1966..
1969 January 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1969 January 29 - .
10:34 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 January 29 - .
13:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 January 30 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT32B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 January 30 - .
06:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Delta E1.
- Isis 1 - .
Payload: Isis A. Mass: 241 kg (531 lb). Nation: Canada.
Agency: CRCSS.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Isis.
USAF Sat Cat: 3669 . COSPAR: 1969-009A. Apogee: 3,458 km (2,148 mi). Perigee: 578 km (359 mi). Inclination: 88.40 deg. Period: 127.60 min. Ionospheric measurements; data correlated with measurements from Alouette 1. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1969 February 2 - .
08:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- Giant Fist 5 demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 February 5 - .
21:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4B 1106 - .
Payload: KH-4B s/n 1106 / Agena D 1650 / OPS 3890. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1969-02-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 3672 . COSPAR: 1969-010A. Apogee: 275 km (170 mi). Perigee: 147 km (91 mi). Inclination: 81.60 deg. Period: 88.70 min. KH-4B. The best image quality to date..
- OPS 2644 - .
Payload: EHH C2 / OPS 2644. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
USAF Sat Cat: 3673 . COSPAR: 1969-010B. Apogee: 1,429 km (887 mi). Perigee: 1,391 km (864 mi). Inclination: 80.40 deg. Period: 114.00 min. ABM monitoring..
- SRV 801R - .
Payload: SRV 1106-1. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
COSPAR: 1969-010xx. Apogee: 275 km (170 mi). Perigee: 147 km (91 mi). Inclination: 81.60 deg. Period: 88.70 min.
1969 February 20 - .
10:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- ST Olympic T. B-8 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 February 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1969 March 4 - .
19:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 4248 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 20 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1969-03-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 3772 . COSPAR: 1969-019A. Apogee: 461 km (286 mi). Perigee: 134 km (83 mi). Inclination: 92.00 deg. Period: 90.50 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1969 March 7 - .
08:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 March 12 - .
11:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- GIANT FIST 3 demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 March 15 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1969 March 18 - .
07:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A2.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- OV1-18S - .
Mass: 125 kg (275 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
Decay Date: 1972-08-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 3824 . COSPAR: 1969-025B. Apogee: 583 km (362 mi). Perigee: 466 km (289 mi). Inclination: 98.90 deg. Period: 95.20 min. Ionospheric, radiation, electric field data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OV1-19S - .
Mass: 124 kg (273 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
USAF Sat Cat: 3825 . COSPAR: 1969-025C. Apogee: 5,551 km (3,449 mi). Perigee: 483 km (300 mi). Inclination: 104.80 deg. Period: 151.10 min. Radiation experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- OV1-17A Orbiscal 2 - .
Payload: OV1-17P. Mass: 221 kg (487 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF OAR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1.
Decay Date: 1969-03-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 3826 . COSPAR: 1969-025D. Apogee: 309 km (192 mi). Perigee: 175 km (108 mi). Inclination: 99.10 deg. Period: 89.40 min. Radio beacon mountedon OV17 propulsion module. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1969 March 19 - .
21:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4A 1050 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1050 / Agena D 1651 / OPS 3722. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1969-03-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 3829 . COSPAR: 1969-026A. Apogee: 252 km (156 mi). Perigee: 165 km (102 mi). Inclination: 82.90 deg. Period: 88.60 min. KH-4A. Due to abnormal rotational rates after revolution 22, the mission was terminated after a total of three days collecting photography..
- OPS 2285 - .
Payload: EHH B14. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1971-12-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 3830 . COSPAR: 1969-026B. Apogee: 515 km (320 mi). Perigee: 502 km (311 mi). Inclination: 83.10 deg. Period: 94.70 min. Radar monitoring..
- SRV 737 - .
Payload: SRV 1050-1. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1971-12-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 3830 . COSPAR: 1969-026xx. Apogee: 168 km (104 mi). Perigee: 168 km (104 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 87.90 min.
1969 March 22 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF21.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 March 24 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT33B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 March 25 - .
19:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT34B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 April 11 - .
08:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Minuteman III (LGM-30G) flight test missile (FTM) 301, the first test missile launched from Vandenberg but the fourth R&D missile to be fired, completed a 5,000-mile flight and impacted near the Marshall Islands. .
1969 April 14 - .
07:54 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- Nimbus 3 - .
Payload: Nimbus B2. Mass: 575 kg (1,267 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Nimbus.
USAF Sat Cat: 3890 . COSPAR: 1969-037A. Apogee: 1,130 km (700 mi). Perigee: 1,071 km (665 mi). Inclination: 100.40 deg. Period: 107.30 min.
Primary experiments consisted of a satellite infrared spectrometer (SIRS) for determining the vertical temperature profiles of the atmosphere, an infrared interferometer spectrometer (IRIS) for measuring the emission spectra of the earth-atmosphere system, both high- and medium-resolution infrared radiometers (HRIR and MRIR) for yielding information on the distribution and intensity of infrared radiation emitted and reflected by the earth and its atmosphere, monitor of ultraviolet solar energy (MUSE) for detecting solar UV radiation, image dissector camera system for providing daytime cloudcover pictures in both real-time mode using the real time transmission system and tape recorder mode using the high data rate storage system, radioisotope thermoelectric generator (RTG) SNAP-19 to assess the operational capability of radioisotope power for space applications, and an interrogation, recording and location system (IRLS) experiment designed to locate, interrogate, record, and retransmit meteorological and geophysical data from remote collection stations. Nimbus-3 was successful and performed normally until July 22, 1969, when the IRIS experiment failed. The HRIR and the SIRS experiments were terminated on January 25, 1970, and June 21, 1970, respectively. The remaining experiments continued operation until September 25, 1970, when the rear horizon scanner failed. Without this horizon scanner, it was impossible to maintain proper spacecraft attitude, thus making most experimental observations useless. All spacecraft operations were terminated on January 22, 1972.
- SECOR 13 - .
Payload: EGRS 13. Mass: 20 kg (44 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USA ACE.
Class: Earth.
Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR.
USAF Sat Cat: 3891 . COSPAR: 1969-037B. Apogee: 1,129 km (701 mi). Perigee: 1,070 km (660 mi). Inclination: 100.30 deg. Period: 107.30 min. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). .
1969 April 15 - .
17:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 5310 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 21 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1969-04-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 3895 . COSPAR: 1969-039A. Apogee: 410 km (250 mi). Perigee: 135 km (83 mi). Inclination: 108.80 deg. Period: 90.00 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1969 April 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT19M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 April 17 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1969 April 18 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF25.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST 3 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 April 23 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT35B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 April 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF22.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT5F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 April 30 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1969 May 2 - .
01:46 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4A 1051 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1051 / Agena D 1649 / OPS 1101. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1969-05-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 3914 . COSPAR: 1969-041A. Apogee: 325 km (201 mi). Perigee: 168 km (104 mi). Inclination: 64.90 deg. Period: 89.50 min. KH-4A. Imagery of both pan camera records is soft and lacks crispness and edge sharpness..
- OPS 1721 - .
Payload: EHH B15. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1970-02-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 3915 . COSPAR: 1969-041B. Apogee: 470 km (290 mi). Perigee: 407 km (252 mi). Inclination: 65.70 deg. Period: 93.30 min. Radar monitoring..
- SRV 739 - .
Payload: SRV 1051-1. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1970-02-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 3915 . COSPAR: 1969-041xx. Apogee: 193 km (119 mi). Perigee: 177 km (109 mi). Inclination: 65.70 deg. Period: 88.20 min.
1969 May 2 - .
08:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF21.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 May 20 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 395-B.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan II.
- Glory Trip 39T Follow-On Operational Test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). SAC's launch of Titan II (#63-07738) completed its Follow-on Operational Test (FOT) program launches of the Titan II (LGM-25C)..
1969 May 20 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF26.
Launch Pad: LF26?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT9F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). A SAC crew launched the 50th Minuteman II missile (#64-15525) from Vandenberg AFB. .
1969 May 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1969 May 28 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF25.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT7F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 May 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 June 3 - .
16:49 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIB.
- OPS 1077 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 22 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1969-06-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 3984 . COSPAR: 1969-050A. Apogee: 414 km (257 mi). Perigee: 137 km (85 mi). Inclination: 110.00 deg. Period: 90.00 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1969 June 5 - .
14:42 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2H Agena D.
- OGO 6 - .
Payload: OGO F. Mass: 634 kg (1,397 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OGO.
Decay Date: 1979-10-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 3986 . COSPAR: 1969-051A. Apogee: 1,089 km (676 mi). Perigee: 397 km (246 mi). Inclination: 82.00 deg. Period: 99.70 min.
OGO 6 was a large observatory instrumented with 26 experiments designed to study the various interrelationships between, and latitudinal distributions of, high-altitude atmospheric parameters during a period of increased solar activity. On June 22, 1969, the spacecraft potential dropped significantly during sunlight operation and remained so during subsequent sunlight operation. This unexplained shift affected seven experiments which made measurements dependent upon knowledge of the spacecraft plasma sheath. During October 1969, a string of solar cells failed, but the only effect of the decreased power was to cause two experiments to change their mode of operation. Also during October 1969, a combination of manual and automatic attitude control was initiated, which extended the control gas lifetime of the attitude control system. In August 1970, tape recorder (TR) no. 1 operation degraded, so all recorded data were subsequently taken with TR no. 2. By September 1970, power and equipment degradation left 14 experiments operating normally, 3 partially, and 9 off. From October 14, 1970, TR no. 2 was used only on Wednesdays (world days) to conserve power and extend TR operation. In June 1971, the number of 'on' experiments decreased from 13 to 7, and on June 28, 1971, the spacecraft was placed in a spin-stabilized mode about the yaw (Z) axis and turned off due to difficulties with spacecraft power. OGO 6 was turned on again from October 10, 1971, through March 1972, for operation of experiment 25 by The Radio Research Laboratory, Japan.
1969 June 10 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIC.
- MOL Program cancelled - .
Nation: USA.
Class: Manned.
Type: Manned space station. Spacecraft: MOL.
Deputy Secretary of Defense David Packard announced the cancellation of the Air Force's Manned Orbiting Laboratory (MOL) program because of the need to reduce defense spending. The cancellation was expected to save $ 1.5 billion of the projected total $ 3.0 billion program costs. The SLC-6 launch facility at Vandenberg, 90% complete, would be finished and mothballed. MOL reconnaisance systems useful on unmanned satellites would be completed for a total cost of $ 225 million. Ten thousand aerospace workers were laid off as a result of the cancellation. The program was initiated in 1965 to advance the development of both manned and unmanned defense-oriented space equipment and to ascertain the full extent of man's utility in space for defense purposes. Following MOL termination, NASA requested that the MOL food and diet contract with Whirlpool Corporation and the space suit development contract with Hamilton Standard Division, United Aircraft Corporation, be transferred to NASA.
1969 June 11 - .
13:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF24.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT11F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 June 18 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT37B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 June 19 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1969 June 20 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF21.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 June 21 - .
08:47 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Delta E1.
- Explorer 41 - .
Payload: IMP G. Mass: 174 kg (383 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Program: Explorer.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: IMP.
Decay Date: 1972-12-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 3990 . COSPAR: 1969-053A. Apogee: 98,159 km (60,993 mi). Perigee: 80,374 km (49,941 mi). Inclination: 86.00 deg. Period: 4,906.30 min. Cislunar radiation data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1969 July 1 - .
04:36 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT38B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 July 2 - .
09:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- ST Olympic TR. B-9 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 July 3 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1969 July 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF25.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT14F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The 250th Minuteman missile to be launched from Vandenberg AFB was a SAC Operational Test flight missile. .
1969 July 12 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1969 July 15 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF26.
Launch Pad: LF26?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT13F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 July 15 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF22.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT12F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 July 23 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT41B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 July 23 - .
04:39 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Burner 2.
- DMSP-Block-4A F13 - .
Payload: DAPP 7421 (FTV-6) / OPS 1127. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft Bus: DMSP.
Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A.
USAF Sat Cat: 4047 . COSPAR: 1969-062A. Apogee: 835 km (518 mi). Perigee: 768 km (477 mi). Inclination: 98.80 deg. Period: 100.90 min. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1969 July 24 - .
01:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2H Agena D.
- KH-4B 1107 - .
Payload: KH-4B s/n 1107 / Agena D 1652 / OPS 3654. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1969-08-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 4050 . COSPAR: 1969-063A. Apogee: 203 km (126 mi). Perigee: 182 km (113 mi). Inclination: 74.90 deg. Period: 88.40 min. KH-4B. Forward camera failed on pass 1 and remained inoperative throughout the rest of the mission..
1969 July 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 July 30 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
1969 July 31 - .
10:19 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- OPS 8285 - .
Payload: Ferret 14 / Agena D 2735. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
Decay Date: 1973-01-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 4054 . COSPAR: 1969-065A. Apogee: 536 km (333 mi). Perigee: 465 km (288 mi). Inclination: 75.00 deg. Period: 94.60 min.
1969 August 20 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ABRES RVTO-1A-5 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1969 August 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF24.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT17F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 August 23 - .
16:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan 23B.
- OPS 7807 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 23 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1969-09-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 4078 . COSPAR: 1969-074A. Apogee: 377 km (234 mi). Perigee: 138 km (85 mi). Inclination: 108.10 deg. Period: 89.60 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1969 August 24 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1969 August 27 - .
02:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF22.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT15F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 August 28 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT42B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 September 3 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1969 September 3 - .
02:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF26.
Launch Pad: LF26?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT20F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 September 11 - .
01:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT36B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 September 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 September 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F/Trident.
- RMP-B-12 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1969 September 20 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1969 September 20 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- ST Olympic TR. B-10 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 September 22 - .
21:11 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- KH-4A 1052 - .
Payload: KH-4A s/n 1052 / Agena D 1653 / OPS 3531. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1969-10-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 4102 . COSPAR: 1969-079A. Apogee: 253 km (157 mi). Perigee: 178 km (110 mi). Inclination: 85.00 deg. Period: 88.80 min. KH-4A. Last of the KH-4A missions, all camera systems operated satisfactorily..
- SRV 743R - .
Payload: SRV 1052-1. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1971-05-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 4103 . COSPAR: 1969-079xx. Apogee: 211 km (131 mi). Perigee: 211 km (131 mi). Inclination: 85.10 deg. Period: 88.70 min.
- OPS 4710 - .
Payload: EHH B16. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4A.
Decay Date: 1971-05-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 4103 . COSPAR: 1969-079B. Apogee: 496 km (308 mi). Perigee: 490 km (300 mi). Inclination: 85.20 deg. Period: 94.50 min. Radar monitoring. Last of the KH-4A missions..
1969 September 23 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
FAILURE: Failure.
- SSTTP 1 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). Safeguard System Test Target..
1969 September 24 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF25.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT21F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 September 30 - .
13:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- OPS 1807 - .
Payload: EHH B17. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1970-10-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 4111 . COSPAR: 1969-082A. Apogee: 484 km (300 mi). Perigee: 446 km (277 mi). Inclination: 69.60 deg. Period: 93.90 min.
- Surcal - .
Payload: NRL PL161 / OPS 7613 / Poppy 6A (Poppy multifacet. Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
USAF Sat Cat: 4259 . COSPAR: 1969-082D. Apogee: 928 km (576 mi). Perigee: 899 km (558 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 103.30 min. Launch of a quadruplet of Poppy naval signals intelligence satellites. Official and secondary mission: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- Surcal - .
Payload: NRL PL176 / OPS 7613 P/L 1. Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Surcal.
USAF Sat Cat: 4256 . COSPAR: 1969-082B. Apogee: 918 km (570 mi). Perigee: 893 km (554 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 103.10 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- SOICAL Cylinder - .
Payload: S69-4 Cylinder. Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: SOICAL.
USAF Sat Cat: 4166 . COSPAR: 1969-082J. Apogee: 812 km (504 mi). Perigee: 791 km (491 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 100.90 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- Timation 2 - .
Mass: 700 kg (1,540 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Program: Navstar.
Class: Technology.
Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: Timation.
USAF Sat Cat: 4257 . COSPAR: 1969-082C. Apogee: 925 km (574 mi). Perigee: 898 km (557 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 103.20 min. Navigation experiments leading eventually to Navstar/GPS system. Operated for 6 years..
- SOICAL Cone - .
Payload: S69-4 Cone. Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: SOICAL.
USAF Sat Cat: 4132 . COSPAR: 1969-082K. Apogee: 870 km (540 mi). Perigee: 844 km (524 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 102.10 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- Tempsat 2 - .
Mass: 9.00 kg (19.80 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Tempsat.
USAF Sat Cat: 4168 . COSPAR: 1969-082H. Apogee: 924 km (574 mi). Perigee: 899 km (558 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 103.20 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- Surcal - .
Payload: NRL PL164 / OPS 7613 / Poppy 6D (Poppy multifacete. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
USAF Sat Cat: 4295 . COSPAR: 1969-082G. Apogee: 926 km (575 mi). Perigee: 899 km (558 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 103.30 min. Poppy naval signals intelligence satellite..
- Surcal - .
Payload: NRL PL163 / OPS 7613 / Poppy 6C (Poppy multifacete. Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
USAF Sat Cat: 4247 . COSPAR: 1969-082F. Apogee: 925 km (574 mi). Perigee: 898 km (557 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 103.20 min. Poppy naval signals intelligence satellite. Official and secondary mission: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- Surcal - .
Payload: NRL PL162 / OPS 7613 / Poppy 6B (Poppy multifacet. Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Naval SIGINT. Spacecraft: Poppy.
USAF Sat Cat: 4237 . COSPAR: 1969-082E. Apogee: 925 km (574 mi). Perigee: 899 km (558 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 103.30 min. Poppy naval signals intelligence satellite. Official and secondary mission:Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1969 October 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Eniwetok Atoll placed on a caretaker status - .
Nation: USA.
1969 October 1 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF21.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 October 1 - .
22:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout B.
FAILURE: Partial Failure..
Failed Stage: 4.
- ESRO 1B - .
Payload: Boreas. Mass: 80 kg (176 lb). Nation: Europe.
Agency: ESRO.
Class: Technology.
Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: ESRO.
Decay Date: 1969-11-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 4114 . COSPAR: 1969-083A. Apogee: 378 km (234 mi). Perigee: 298 km (185 mi). Inclination: 85.00 deg. Period: 91.30 min.
Ionospheric and auroral investigations; lower than planned orbit. Fourth satellite of ESRO. Also registered by the United States in A/AC.105/INF.220 as United States space object 1969-83A, with category B and orbital parameters 90.6 min, 280 x 339 km x 85.1 deg.
1969 October 3 - .
01:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT44B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). SAC's 1st Strategic Aerospace Division launched the 150th Minuteman IB, LGM-30B #64-424, to be launched from Vandenberg. .
1969 October 10 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F/Trident.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: 1.
- RMP-B-13 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1969 October 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF24.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT22F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 October 15 - .
11:16 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 October 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT45B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 October 24 - .
18:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan 23B.
- OPS 8455 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 24 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1969-11-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 4186 . COSPAR: 1969-095A. Apogee: 740 km (450 mi). Perigee: 136 km (84 mi). Inclination: 108.00 deg. Period: 93.40 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1969 October 31 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 November 7 - .
07:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- ST Olympic TR. B-11 operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 November 8 - .
01:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout B.
- Azur - .
Payload: GRS A. Mass: 71 kg (156 lb). Nation: Germany.
Agency: DFVLR.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: AZUR.
USAF Sat Cat: 4221 . COSPAR: 1969-097A. Apogee: 2,127 km (1,321 mi). Perigee: 373 km (231 mi). Inclination: 102.70 deg. Period: 110.50 min. German Research Satellite A; examined Van Allen belts, solar particles, aurora. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1969 November 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1969 November 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1969 November 18 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1969 November 19 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF21.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ST - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 November 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg.
- Bikini Atoll (Marshall Islands) turned over to UN - .
Nation: USA.
Bikini Atoll (Marshall Islands) turned over to U.N. Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands..
1969 November 26 - .
05:27 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT49B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1969 December 3 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ABRES RVTO-1A-6 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1969 December 4 - .
21:37 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2H Agena D.
- KH-4B 1108 - .
Payload: KH-4B s/n 1108 / Agena D 1655 / OPS 6617. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1970-01-10 . USAF Sat Cat: 4264 . COSPAR: 1969-105A. Apogee: 229 km (142 mi). Perigee: 161 km (100 mi). Inclination: 81.40 deg. Period: 88.40 min. KH-4B. Cameras operated satisfactorily and the mission carried 811 ft of aerial color film added to the end of the film supply..
1969 December 5 - .
22:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT50B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). A SAC Minuteman 1 missile was the 500th major missile and space launch from Vandenberg since 1958 that was supported by the Air Force Western Test Range. .
1969 December 12 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F/Trident.
- RMP-B-14 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1969 December 16 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- SSTTP 2 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Safeguard System Test Target..
1970 January 14 - .
18:43 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan 23B.
- OPS 6531 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 25 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1970-02-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 4296 . COSPAR: 1970-002A. Apogee: 383 km (237 mi). Perigee: 134 km (83 mi). Inclination: 110.00 deg. Period: 89.70 min. The 25th Air Force Titan IIIB/Agena D space booster was launched from Vandenberg AFB. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1970 January 15 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1970 January 23 - .
11:31 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Delta N6.
- ITOS 1 - .
Payload: Tiros M. Mass: 309 kg (681 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NOAA.
Program: Tiros.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: ITOS.
USAF Sat Cat: 4320 . COSPAR: 1970-008A. Apogee: 1,479 km (919 mi). Perigee: 1,434 km (891 mi). Inclination: 101.80 deg. Period: 115.00 min.
NASA successfully launched the Improved Tiros Operational Satellite (ITOS I) (TIROS-M) from Vandenberg AFB aboard a two-stage, Long Tank Thrust Augmented Thor/Delta (SLV-2K), Thorad/Delta, using six solid-propellaiit, strap-on Thiokol TX 354-5 Castor II motors. This was the first use of the "Super Six" Thor/Delta (DSV-3N-6) booster vehicle that employed the six Castor II motors, three of which ignited 30 seconds after lift-off. Generating nearly 600,000 pounds of thrust, the new launch vehicle could orbit a spacecraft weighing more than twice as much as the previous Tiros Operational Satellites. Improved TIROS Operational Satellite. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C).
- Oscar 5 - .
Payload: Australis-Oscar 5. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: Australia.
Agency: Clemson.
Program: Oscar.
Class: Communications.
Type: Amateur radio communications satellite. Spacecraft: Oscar.
USAF Sat Cat: 4321 . COSPAR: 1970-008B. Apogee: 1,478 km (918 mi). Perigee: 1,434 km (891 mi). Inclination: 101.80 deg. Period: 115.00 min.
Australis-OSCAR 5 was launched piggyback with ITOS-1 (TIROS-M weather satellite. Weight 17.7 kg (9 kg of which was battery mass). Box shaped 304 x 431 x 152 mm. 2 meter monopole and 10 meter dipole antennas. It was the first amateur satellite to be remotely controlled. Built by students at The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Battery powered, Australis-OSCAR 5 transmitted telemetry on both 2 meter (144.050 MHz at 50 mW) and 10 meter (29.450 MHz at 250 mW) bands that operated for 23 and 46 days respectively. Passive magnetic attitude stabilization was performed by carrying two bar magnets to align with the Earth's magnetic field in order to provide a favorable antenna footprint. The University of Melbourne compiled tracking reports from hundreds of stations in 27 countries.
1970 February 4 - .
02:59 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- SERT 2 - .
Mass: 1,404 kg (3,095 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Cleveland.
Class: Technology.
Type: Ion engine technology satellite. Spacecraft: SERT.
USAF Sat Cat: 4327 . COSPAR: 1970-009A. Apogee: 1,046 km (649 mi). Perigee: 1,039 km (645 mi). Inclination: 99.20 deg. Period: 106.00 min.
Space Electric Rocket Test; the ion engines aboard were operated until 1981. The SERT 2 development program started in 1966 and included thruster ground tests of 6742 hours and 5169 hours duration. A prototype version of the SERT 2 spacecraft was ground-tested for a period of 2400 hours with an operating ion engine. In addition to diagnostic equipment and related ion engine hardware, the spacecraft had two identical 15 cm diameter, mercury ion engines. Flight objectives included in-space operation for a period of 6 months, measurement of thrust, and demonstration of electromagnetic compatibility. The thruster maximum power level was 0.85 kW, and this provided operation at a 28 mN thrust level at 4200 s specific impulse. Flight data were obtained from 1970 to 1981 with an ion engine operating intermittently in one of three different modes, namely, HV ion extraction, discharge chamber operation only, or just neutralizer operation. Major results were that two mercury engines thrusted for periods of 3781 hours and 2011 hours. Test duration was limited due to shorts in the ion optical system. Thrust measured in space and on the ground agreed within the measurement uncertainties. Up to 300 thruster restarts were demonstrated. One power-processing unit accumulated nearly 17,900 hours during the course of the mission. Additionally, the ion propulsion system was electromagnetically compatible with all other spacecraft systems.
1970 February 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F/Trident.
- RMP-B-15 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1970 February 11 - .
08:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Burner 2.
- DMSP-Block-5A F1 - .
Payload: DAPP 1524 / OPS 0054. Mass: 195 kg (429 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft Bus: DMSP.
Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5A.
USAF Sat Cat: 4331 . COSPAR: 1970-012A. Apogee: 840 km (520 mi). Perigee: 749 km (465 mi). Inclination: 98.80 deg. Period: 100.80 min. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1970 February 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT53B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). A Wing II configuration LGM-30B Minuteman I became the 275th Minuteman missile to be launched from Vandenberg AFB since September 1962. .
1970 March 4 - .
22:15 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2H Agena D.
- KH-4B 1109 - .
Payload: KH-4B s/n 1109 / Agena D 1657 / OPS 0440. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1970-03-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 4342 . COSPAR: 1970-016A. Apogee: 257 km (159 mi). Perigee: 167 km (103 mi). Inclination: 88.00 deg. Period: 88.80 min. KH-4B. Cameras operated satisfactorily but the overall image quality of both the forward and aft records is variable..
- OPS 3402 - .
Payload: EHH B18. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1971-11-10 . USAF Sat Cat: 4343 . COSPAR: 1970-016B. Apogee: 509 km (316 mi). Perigee: 441 km (274 mi). Inclination: 88.10 deg. Period: 94.10 min. Radar monitoring; may or may not have existed!!!.
- SRV 819 - .
Payload: SRV 1109-1. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1971-11-10 . USAF Sat Cat: 4343 . COSPAR: 1970-016xx. Apogee: 164 km (101 mi). Perigee: 164 km (101 mi). Inclination: 88.10 deg. Period: 87.80 min.
1970 March 5 - .
03:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT54B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 March 7 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1970 March 7 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1970 March 10 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT62B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 March 11 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF22.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT24F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 March 13 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F/Trident.
- RMP-B-16 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1970 March 23 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT63B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 March 26 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT25M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 March 31 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF26.
Launch Pad: LF26?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT23F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 April 1 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
- SAMTEC activated at Vandenberg AFB. - .
Headquarters Air Force Western Test Range (AFWTR) was inactivated and Headquarters Space and Missile Test Center (SAMTEC) was activated at Vandenberg AFB. The 6595th Aerospace Test Wing at Vandenberg was reassigned from SAMSO to SAMTEC. The 6555th Aerospace Test Wing at Patrick AFB, Florida, was redesignated the 6555th Aerospace Test Group and assigned to the 6595th Aerospace Test Wing as part of the reorganization that brought AFSC range and launch operations at Vandenberg under a single command for the first time.
1970 April 2 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 April 8 - .
08:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- Nimbus 4 - .
Payload: Nimbus D. Mass: 620 kg (1,360 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Nimbus.
USAF Sat Cat: 4362 . COSPAR: 1970-025A. Apogee: 1,099 km (682 mi). Perigee: 1,088 km (676 mi). Inclination: 100.10 deg. Period: 107.10 min.
A Long Tank Thrust Augmented Thor/Agena D space booster lifted NASA's Nimbus 4 meteorological satellite into orbit from Vandenberg. This was the 400th launch.. of the Thor booster that was originally developed by the Air Force as an intermediate range ballistic missile (IRBM) in the 1950s. Environmental research. Primary experiments consisted of an image dissector camera system for providing daytime cloudcover pictures both in real-time and recorded modes, temperature-humidity infrared radiometer (THIR) for measuring daytime and nighttime surface and cloudtop temperatures as well as the water vapor content of the upper atmosphere, infrared interferometer spectrometer (IRIS) for measuring the emission spectra of the earth/atmosphere system, satellite infrared spectrometer (SIRS) for determining the vertical profiles of temperature and water vapor in the atmosphere, a monitor of ultraviolet solar energy (MUSE) for detecting solar UV radiation, a backscatter ultraviolet (BUV) detector for monitoring the vertical distribution and total amount of atmospheric ozone on a global scale, a filter wedge spectrometer (FWS) for accurate measurement of IR radiance as a function of wavelength from the earth/atmosphere system, a selective chopper radiometer (SCR) for determining the temperatures of six successive 10-km layers in the atmosphere from absorption measurements in the 15-micrometer CO2 band, and an interrogation, recording, and location system (IRLS) for locating, interrogating, recording, and retransmitting meteorological and geophysical data from remote collection stations. The spacecraft performed well until April 14, 1971, when attitude problems started. The experiments then operated on a limited time basis until September 30, 1980.
- TOPO 1 - .
Payload: Topo A. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USA TOPO.
Class: Earth.
Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: TOPO.
USAF Sat Cat: 4363 . COSPAR: 1970-025B. Apogee: 1,087 km (675 mi). Perigee: 1,084 km (673 mi). Inclination: 100.00 deg. Period: 107.00 min. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). .
1970 April 15 - .
15:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan 23B.
- OPS 2863 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 26 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1970-05-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 4375 . COSPAR: 1970-031A. Apogee: 388 km (241 mi). Perigee: 130 km (80 mi). Inclination: 111.00 deg. Period: 89.70 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1970 April 18 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1970 April 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF24.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT48F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 April 22 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 April 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF22.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT57F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 May 1 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
1970 May 5 - .
03:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT64B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 May 8 - .
07:49 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 May 14 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Plasma mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1970 May 15 - .
Launch Site:
,
Vandenberg.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan IIIC.
1970 May 20 - .
21:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2H Agena D.
- KH-4B 1110 - .
Payload: KH-4B s/n 1110 / Agena D 1656 / OPS 4720. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1970-06-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 4405 . COSPAR: 1970-040A. Apogee: 247 km (153 mi). Perigee: 162 km (100 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 88.60 min. KH-4B. The overall image quality is less than that provided by recent missions and 2,000 feet of S0-349.
- OPS 8520 - .
Payload: EHH B19. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1974-03-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 4406 . COSPAR: 1970-040B. Apogee: 499 km (310 mi). Perigee: 490 km (300 mi). Inclination: 83.10 deg. Period: 94.50 min. Radar monitoring; may or may not have existed!!!..
1970 May 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF25.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT55F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 May 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT65B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 May 30 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F/Trident.
- RMP-B-17 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1970 June 8 - .
23:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT72B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 June 9 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ABRES RVTO-1A-7 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1970 June 17 - .
08:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 June 18 - .
21:26 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Vehicle:
Arcas.
- Aeronomy mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Apogee: 60 km (37 mi).
1970 June 19 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT28M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 June 20 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT27M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 June 24 - .
04:33 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 June 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT73B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 June 25 - .
14:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan 23B.
- OPS 6820 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 27 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1970-07-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 4422 . COSPAR: 1970-048A. Apogee: 393 km (244 mi). Perigee: 144 km (89 mi). Inclination: 108.90 deg. Period: 89.80 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1970 June 26 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF22.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT59F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 July 2 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1970 July 9 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF24.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT66F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 July 14 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT71B-2 Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 July 18 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT30M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 July 23 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- SSTTP M1-3 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
Flight Test Missile 970, a Minuteman I (LGM-30B), was the 300th Minuteman missile launched from Vandenberg AFB and the first missile launched in support of the Army's Safeguard System Test Targets Program (SSTTP). Since the first Minuteman missile was fired on 28 September 1962, 165 LGM-30Bs, 50 LGM-30AS, 75 Minuteman lis and 10 Minuteman Ills had been launched from Vandenberg.
1970 July 23 - .
01:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2H Agena D.
- KH-4B 1111 - .
Payload: KH-4B s/n 1111 / Agena D 1654 / OPS 4324. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1970-08-19 . USAF Sat Cat: 4477 . COSPAR: 1970-054A. Apogee: 379 km (235 mi). Perigee: 156 km (96 mi). Inclination: 59.90 deg. Period: 89.80 min. KH-4B. The overall image quality is good..
1970 July 28 - .
23:17 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The final flight test missile in the basic Minuteman III research and development program was launched from Vandenberg AFB. Twenty-five missiles had been launched in the program - eleven from Vandenberg and fourteen from Cape Canaveral. .
1970 July 29 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1970 August 3 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF25.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT61F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 August 4 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- ERCS GT16L operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 August 11 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF26.
Launch Pad: LF26?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT06F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 August 14 - .
08:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT31M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 August 18 - .
14:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan 23B.
- OPS 7874 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 28 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1970-09-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 4492 . COSPAR: 1970-061A. Apogee: 377 km (234 mi). Perigee: 149 km (92 mi). Inclination: 111.10 deg. Period: 89.80 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1970 August 20 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT74B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 August 26 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT43M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 August 26 - .
10:01 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC1W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2G Agena D.
- OPS 8329 - .
Payload: Ferret 15. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Ferret.
Decay Date: 1975-03-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 4503 . COSPAR: 1970-066A. Apogee: 499 km (310 mi). Perigee: 496 km (308 mi). Inclination: 75.00 deg. Period: 94.50 min.
1970 August 27 - .
06:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- OLD FOX 01M demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 August 27 - .
13:23 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC5.
LV Family:
Scout.
Launch Vehicle:
Scout A.
- Transit O-19 - .
Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 4507 . COSPAR: 1970-067A. Apogee: 1,201 km (746 mi). Perigee: 946 km (587 mi). Inclination: 90.00 deg. Period: 106.70 min. The last Scout booster to be launched by an all-military crew was fired from Vandenberg AFB. Future Scout operations would be conducted by contractor launch teams under Air Force technical management. .
1970 August 28 - .
09:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- SSTTP M1-4 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Safeguard System Test Target. Safeguard M1-4 intercept by Spartan of a Minuteman 1B target..
1970 September 2 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT75B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 September 3 - .
08:39 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Burner 2.
- DMSP-Block-5A F2 - .
Payload: DAPP 2525 / OPS 0203. Mass: 195 kg (429 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft Bus: DMSP.
Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5A.
USAF Sat Cat: 4512 . COSPAR: 1970-070A. Apogee: 837 km (520 mi). Perigee: 739 km (459 mi). Inclination: 99.00 deg. Period: 100.60 min. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1970 September 14 - .
23:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF25.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT67F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The 81st Minuteman II (LGM-30F) missile to be fired from Vandenberg AFB became the 1,000th missile to be launched from the base since December 1958. .
1970 September 17 - .
18:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF26.
Launch Pad: LF26?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT68F operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 September 25 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- OT GT76B operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 September 26 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1970 September 26 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1970 September 26 - .
07:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- OLD FOX 02M demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 October 3 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT46M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 October 3 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- SSTTP M1-27 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Safeguard System Test Target. Safeguard M1-27 intercept by Spartan of a Minuteman 1B target..
1970 October 5 - .
23:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT77B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 October 7 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT47M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 October 22 - .
22:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF26.
Launch Pad: LF26?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT70F (Salvo) operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Space and Missile Test Center (SAMTEC) supported the first salvo launch of two Minuteman II missiles from Vandenberg AFB. This was the third simultaneous launch of Minuteman missiles from Vandenberg. .
1970 October 22 - .
22:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF25.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT69F (Salvo) operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Space and Missile Test Center (SAMTEC) supported the first salvo launch of two Minuteman II missiles from Vandenberg AFB. This was the third simultaneous launch of Minuteman missiles from Vandenberg. .
1970 October 23 - .
17:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan 23B.
- OPS 7568 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 29 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1970-11-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 4596 . COSPAR: 1970-090A. Apogee: 396 km (246 mi). Perigee: 135 km (83 mi). Inclination: 111.10 deg. Period: 89.80 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1970 October 26 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT78B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 November 2 - .
23:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT51M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 November 4 - .
09:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF21.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- STM-1W research and development mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first Minuteman III follow-on R&D flight test missile was launched from Vandenberg AFB. .
1970 November 6 - .
02:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT52M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 November 8 - .
07:50 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT79B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 November 14 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- OLD FOX 03M demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 November 18 - .
21:29 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2H Agena D.
- KH-4B 1112 - .
Payload: KH-4B s/n 1112 / Agena D 1658 / OPS 4992. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1970-12-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 4721 . COSPAR: 1970-098A. Apogee: 227 km (141 mi). Perigee: 180 km (110 mi). Inclination: 82.90 deg. Period: 88.50 min. KH-4B. The forward camera failed on pass 104 and remained inoperative throughout the rest of the mission..
- SRV 827 - .
Payload: SRV 1112-1. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft Bus: P 11.
Spacecraft: SSF.
Decay Date: 1977-09-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 4722 . COSPAR: 1970-098xx. Apogee: 206 km (128 mi). Perigee: 195 km (121 mi). Inclination: 83.20 deg. Period: 88.50 min.
- OPS 6829 - .
Payload: EHH B20. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1977-09-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 4722 . COSPAR: 1970-098B. Apogee: 505 km (313 mi). Perigee: 493 km (306 mi). Inclination: 83.10 deg. Period: 94.60 min. Radar monitoring..
1970 December 7 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT56M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 December 11 - .
11:35 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Delta N6.
- NOAA 1 - .
Payload: ITOS A. Mass: 306 kg (674 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NOAA.
Program: Tiros.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: ITOS.
USAF Sat Cat: 4793 . COSPAR: 1970-106A. Apogee: 1,473 km (915 mi). Perigee: 1,423 km (884 mi). Inclination: 101.70 deg. Period: 114.80 min. Built for NASA; operated by NOAA. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
- CEPE - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Program: Tiros.
Spacecraft: CEPE.
USAF Sat Cat: 4794 . COSPAR: 1970-106B. Apogee: 1,484 km (922 mi). Perigee: 1,426 km (886 mi). Inclination: 101.70 deg. Period: 114.92 min.
1970 December 18 - .
01:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT58M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1970 December 22 - .
08:38 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A3.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F/Trident.
- ABRES RVTO-2A-1 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1970 December 24 - .
01:55 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1.
1971 January 11 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- SSTTP M1-30 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Safeguard System Test Target. Safeguard M1-30 intercept by Spartan of a Minuteman 1B target..
1971 January 21 - .
18:28 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan 23B.
- OPS 7776 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 30 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1971-02-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 4874 . COSPAR: 1971-005A. Apogee: 418 km (259 mi). Perigee: 139 km (86 mi). Inclination: 110.90 deg. Period: 90.10 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1971 January 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- OLD FOX 04M demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1971 January 29 - .
02:10 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF09.
Launch Pad: LF09?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT90B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1971 February 3 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF24.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- FOT GT101F Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1971 February 5 - .
05:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT60M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1971 February 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT91B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1971 February 17 - .
03:52 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC10W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Burner 2.
- DMSP-Block-5A F3 - .
Payload: DAPP 3526 / OPS 5268. Mass: 195 kg (429 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: DMSP.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft Bus: DMSP.
Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5A.
USAF Sat Cat: 4953 . COSPAR: 1971-012A. Apogee: 799 km (496 mi). Perigee: 741 km (460 mi). Inclination: 98.70 deg. Period: 100.20 min. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
- Calsphere 5 - .
Payload: NRL PL170C / OPS 5268. Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Calsphere.
Decay Date: 1990-01-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 4963 . COSPAR: 1971-012E. Apogee: 360 km (220 mi). Perigee: 340 km (210 mi). Inclination: 98.20 deg. Period: 91.50 min. Radar calibarion sphere. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- Calsphere 4 - .
Payload: NRL PL170B / OPS 5268. Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Calsphere.
Decay Date: 1989-09-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 4958 . COSPAR: 1971-012D. Apogee: 502 km (311 mi). Perigee: 486 km (301 mi). Inclination: 98.40 deg. Period: 94.50 min. Radar calibarion sphere. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- Calsphere 3A - .
Payload: NRL PL170A / OPS 5268. Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRL.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Calsphere.
Decay Date: 1989-10-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 4957 . COSPAR: 1971-012C. Apogee: 531 km (329 mi). Perigee: 509 km (316 mi). Inclination: 98.40 deg. Period: 95.00 min. Radar calibarion sphere. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1971 February 17 - .
07:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- OLD FOX 05M demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1971 February 17 - .
20:04 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2H Agena D.
FAILURE: Failure.
Failed Stage: U.
- KH-4B 1113 - .
Payload: KH-4B s/n 1113. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1971-02-17 .
KH-4B. The launch vehicle had a very cold boattail due to a hose discovered to be leaking away warming air to the boattail. The boattail was colder than usual, below freezing. Based on earlier tests of the Thor for just that condition, as relayed by Ed Dierdorf, Thor chief engineer at the time, the temp low was of no concern.
The only problem was that those tests were made with a Thor that carried a Rocketdyne engine lubricated with "lube oil". The Thor being launched used a fuel additive, "Orinite" (like STP "super snot"). The technician that pumped the Orinite into its cannister later stated, "It wasn't for lack of orinite. I put it in just like the procedure said, and I could feel when it was full (with the hand pump). To make sure, I gave it another slug."
That "other slug" cracked the output valve that was only supposed to be cracked by turbopump output pressure. When it cracked the output valve a bit of the "honey" squirted down the tube toward engine bearing jets. This line had a low spot in it by design. The Orinite settled there. When it was chilled by the low temp air at lox loading, the Orinite formed a plug.
Unaware of this chain of circumstances, Launch Director Philip Payne made the decision to launch. The rocket (carrying Agena D and payload) flew for 18 seconds, then wiped out its gears, causing the turbine to overspeed and shed its vanes. These punctured various parts in the boattail like machine gun bullets. With loss of power, the rocket fell not far from the launch pad into Bear Creek canyon.
The final cause was therefore found to be loss of engine lubrication at startup.
- SRV 825 - .
Payload: SRV 1113-1. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
- SRV 826 - .
Payload: SRV 1113-2. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
1971 February 23 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- SSTTP M1-28 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Safeguard System Test Target..
1971 February 25 - .
02:00 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF25.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- FOT GT102F Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1971 February 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1971 February 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1971 February 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF04.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT80M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1971 March 2 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF03.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT92B-3 Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1971 March 17 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF06.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- SSTTP M1-13 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Safeguard System Test Target..
1971 March 21 - .
03:45 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan 33B.
- Jumpseat 1 - .
Mass: 700 kg (1,540 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: Jumpseat.
USAF Sat Cat: 5053 . COSPAR: 1971-021A. Apogee: 33,800 km (21,000 mi). Perigee: 390 km (240 mi). Inclination: 63.20 deg. Period: 596.70 min.
1971 March 24 - .
07:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- OT GT01GM operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). SAC launched the first Minuteman III Operational Test (Phase I) missile from Vandenberg AFB. .
1971 March 24 - .
21:05 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC3W.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thorad SLV-2H Agena D.
- KH-4B 1114 - .
Payload: KH-4B s/n 1114 / Agena D 1660 / OPS 5300. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: CIA,
NRO.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-4B.
Decay Date: 1971-04-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 5059 . COSPAR: 1971-022A. Apogee: 245 km (152 mi). Perigee: 156 km (96 mi). Inclination: 81.50 deg. Period: 88.40 min. KH-4B. The overall image quality is good and comparable to the best of past missions. On-board program failed.
1971 April 1 - .
02:57 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC2E.
LV Family:
Thor.
Launch Vehicle:
Thor Delta E1.
- Isis 2 - .
Payload: Isis B. Mass: 264 kg (582 lb). Nation: Canada.
Agency: CRCSS.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Isis.
USAF Sat Cat: 5104 . COSPAR: 1971-024A. Apogee: 1,424 km (884 mi). Perigee: 1,358 km (843 mi). Inclination: 88.20 deg. Period: 113.60 min. Ionospheric research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1971 April 1 - .
08:40 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT82M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1971 April 5 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg 576A1.
LV Family:
Atlas.
Launch Vehicle:
Atlas F.
- ABRES LAR-1 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Spacecraft: ABRES.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1971 April 8 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF21.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1971 April 14 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM1.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1971 April 14 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg BOM2.
Launch Vehicle:
Bomarc.
- Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1971 April 15 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg WTR.
Launch Platform: EAG-154.
LV Family:
Polaris.
Launch Vehicle:
Polaris A2.
- Safeguard M1-7 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1971 April 22 - .
15:30 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg SLC4W.
LV Family:
Titan.
Launch Vehicle:
Titan 23B.
- OPS 7899 - .
Payload: KH-8 no. 31 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NRO,
USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: KH-8.
Decay Date: 1971-05-13 . USAF Sat Cat: 5171 . COSPAR: 1971-033A. Apogee: 403 km (250 mi). Perigee: 132 km (82 mi). Inclination: 110.60 deg. Period: 89.80 min. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1971 April 23 - .
09:25 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF26.
Launch Pad: LF26?.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- OLD FOX 06F demonstration and shakedown operations launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1971 April 26 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF07.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 1B.
- FOT GT93B Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1971 May 7 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg WTR.
Launch Platform: EAG-154.
LV Family:
Polaris.
Launch Vehicle:
Polaris A2.
- Safeguard M1-8 Target mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1971 May 19 - .
06:20 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF24.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- FOT GT105F Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1971 May 21 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF05.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- OT GT83M operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1971 May 24 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF22.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 2.
- FOT GT103F Follow-on Test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1971 May 27 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF02.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- OT GT03GM operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). A Minuteman III fired for a SAC Phase I Operational Test was the 350th Minuteman missile launched from Vandenberg AFB since September 1962. .
1971 May 27 - .
06:56 GMT - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex:
Vandenberg LF08.
LV Family:
Minuteman.
Launch Vehicle:
Minuteman 3.
- OT GT02GM operational test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF SAC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). A Minuteman III fired for a SAC Phase I Operational Test was the 350th Minuteman missile launched from Vandenberg AFB since September 1962. .
1971 June 4 - .
Launch Site:
Vandenberg.
Launch Complex: