Chronology - Quarter 4 1957

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Previous Home Next 1957 October 1 - Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. Vanguard tracking system operational. Nation: USA. Program: Vanguard. Class: Technology. Spacecraft: Vanguard 1. Project Vanguard world-wide tracking system (minitrack) became operational. References: 17. 1957 October 1 - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Long Tom. Test mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 2 - 19:29 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC6. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. Model: Jupiter A. LV Configuration: Jupiter A CC-39. Jupiter A Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Launched at 1429 hours EST from AMR. The flight was successful, the impact point was 445 metres long and 452 meters to the right of the predicted impact point, giving a radial miss distance of. 634 meters. This was the first flight test of the NAA A-6 engine with a sea level thrust of 78,000 pounds. Missed aimpoint by 572 m. References: 2. 1957 October 3 - Launch Site: Eniwetok. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Farside. Shot 2 Test/Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 800 km (490 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 3 - 17:13 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor DM-18. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18 107. FAILURE: Failure. Series I research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF 6555 ATW. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. 1957 October 4 - 19:16 GMT - Launch Site: Atlantic Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 5.5 N x 89.5 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon II5.52F. SUI 76 Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 113 km (70 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 4 - 19:28 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Sputnik 8K71PS. LV Configuration: Sputnik 8K71PS No. 1PS. Sputnik 1 Nation: USSR. Payload: PS. Mass: 84 kg (185 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: Sputnik 1. Agency: MVS. Perigee: 227 km (141 mi). Apogee: 945 km (587 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 96.10 min. COSPAR: 1957-Alpha-2. USAF Sat Cat: 2. Decay Date: 1958-01-03. First artificial satellite; transmitted signals for 21 days. Launching of first ever artificial satellite of the Earth; physical study of the atmosphere; remained in orbit until January 4, 1958. This event began the space race by galvanizing interest and action on the part of the American public to support an active role in space research, technology, and exploration. References: 2, 6, 177. 1957 October 5 - Launch Vehicle: Redstone. Model: Jupiter C. Von Braun promises first US satellite in 60 days. Nation: USA. Program: Explorer. Payload: Explorer A. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: Explorer A. Von Braun briefs Secretary of Defence McElroy on Jupiter-C/Redstone for immediate US satellite launch. Promises launch in 60 days. Medaris says 90. References: 86. 1957 October 7 - Launch Site: Eniwetok. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Farside. FAILURE: Failure. Shot 3 Test/Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 700 km (430 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 8 - X-1E Flight 18 Nation: USA. Payload: X-1E flight 18. Class: Manned. Type: Rocketplane. Spacecraft: X-1E. Crew: Walker Joseph. NACA flight 17. Mach 2.24. References: 49, 97. 1957 October 9 - Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. Vanguard supported by Eisenhower. Nation: USA. Program: Vanguard. Class: Technology. Spacecraft: Vanguard 1. President Eisenhower in a White House press release congratulated the Soviet scientists on SPUTNIK I. He gave a brief history of the development of the U.S.-IGY satellite program and pointed to the separation of Project Vanguard from work on ballistic missiles. References: 17. 1957 October 10 - Hywards, Brass Bell, and Robo consolidated into Dyna-Soar. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Dynasoar, Hywards, Bomi, Brass Bell, Robo. The launch of Sputnik spurs immediate actions within the government to accelerate manned spacecraft work. ARDC headquarters consolidated Hywards, Brass Bell, and Robo studies into a three-step abbreviated development plan for System 464L, Dyna-Soar. On the same day a NACA Hypersonic Steering Committee met to consider the best configuration for such a vehicle. Langley's Faget pushed non-gliding ballistic capsules, another NACA group felt lifting bodies were the best solution, but the majority of participants favoured the flat-bottomed glider configuration. 1957 October 11 - 16:33 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor DM-18. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18 108. FAILURE: Turbopump gearbox failure. Series I research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF 6555 ATW. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). Thor missile launched at Cape Canaveral, the second tested, achieved its designed 1,500-mile range. References: 2. 1957 October 13 - 18:15 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 2.2 N x 143.1 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon II5.53F. SUI 77 Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 14 - Dynasoar selected as X-15 follow-on. Nation: USA. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Dynasoar. USAF and NACA reviewed preliminary studies dating from 1954 on a boost-glide research vehicle to follow the X-15; all studies were combined into a single plan which was accepted by the Air Force and later designated as Dyna-Soar. References: 17. 1957 October 14 - National space flight program proposed Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. The Rocket and Satellite Research Panel, established in 1946 as the V-2 Upper Atmosphere Research Panel and renamed the Upper Atmosphere Rocket Research Panel in 1948, together with the American Rocket Society proposed a national space flight program and a unified National Space Establishment. The mission of such an Establishment would be nonmilitary in nature, specifically excluding space weapons development and military operations in space. By 1959, this Establishment should have achieved an unmanned instrumented hard lunar landing and, by 1960, an unmanned instrumented lunar satellite and soft lunar landing. Manned circumnavigation of the moon with return to earth should have been accomplished by 1965 with a manned lunar landing mission taking place by 1968. Beginning in 1970, a permanent lunar base should be possible. References: 16. 1957 October 14 - 01:04 GMT - Launch Site: Holloman. Launch Complex: A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee. Meteorites mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 14 - 21:16 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 2.3 N x 150.4 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon II5.54F. SUI 78 Aeronomy / Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 113 km (70 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 15 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1, R-2. Russia to assist China in missile development Nation: China. Program: Long March. Russian and China sign New Defense Technical Accord, whereby Russia will supply China with protoype atomic bomb and two R-2 missiles, and related technical data. Under the agreement the Soviet Union will provide to China the necessary specialists, training, and tooling for licensed production of the R-2 ballistic missile (an improved version of the V-2). References: 87. 1957 October 15-21 - X-20 Dyna Soar conference. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Dynasoar. A 'Round 3' conference involving studies for a follow-on to the X-15 program, which subsequently led to the X-20 Dyna Soar, was held at the Ames Aeronautical Laboratory. During the course of the meeting, Alfred J. Eggers, Jr., of Ames advanced several proposals for possible manned satellite vehicle development projects. References: 483. 1957 October 16 - 20:02 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 7.1 N x 156.6 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon II5.55F. SUI 79 Aeronomy / Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 17 - 00:09 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 6.5 N x 156.9 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon II5.56F. SUI 80 Aeronomy / Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 17 - 02:18 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 6.2 N x 157.0 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon II5.57F. SUI 81 Aeronomy / Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 17 - 23:44 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 3.4 N x 158.0 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon II5.59F. SUI 83 Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 127 km (78 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 18 - 09:35 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 1.9 N x 159.9 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon II5.60F. SUI 84 Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 18 - 19:43 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 0.8 N x 160.5 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon II5.61F. SUI 85 Aeronomy / Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 121 km (75 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 18 - 23:43 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 0.4 N x 160.9 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon II5.62F. SUI 86 Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 121 km (75 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 19 - 18:50 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 2.1 S x 161.1 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 87. II5.63F Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 122 km (75 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 20 - Launch Site: Eniwetok. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Farside. Shot 5 Test/Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 5,000 km (3,100 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 20 - 01:06 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 2.5 S x 161.4 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 88. II5.64F Aeronomy / Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 104 km (64 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 20 - 03:57 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 2.8 S x 161.5 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 89. II5.65F Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 20 - 20:11 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 6.6 S x 162.2 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 90. II5.66F Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 22 - Launch Site: Eniwetok. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Farside. Shot 6 Test/Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 5,000 km (3,100 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 22 - 22:31 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 17.7 S x 163.4 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 91. II5.67F Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 23 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: X-17. LV Configuration: X-17 1-204-7. Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 23 - Launch Site: Holloman. Launch Complex: A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee. Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 23 - 01:07 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC26B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter. LV Configuration: Jupiter IRBM AM-3. Research and development test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF/ABMA. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). The fifth Jupiter was fired from the AMR at 2007 hours EST. This was the first flight with a heat protected nose cone. The ST-90 inertial guidance stabilised platform was operated with partially closed circuits. Cut-off was effected by the guidance system at 170.37 seconds. Since fuel was not depleted, flight time was 9.5 seconds longer than had been predicted for an approximate 1,100 nm range. The range error was 10.2 nm with a 3.4 nm lateral error. The nose cone survived re-entry and impacted in the general vicinity of the predicted impact point. Again, a successful flight. References: 2. 1957 October 23 - 19:22 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. Model: Vanguard. LV Configuration: Vanguard TV-2. Vanguard TV2 test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). IGY Vanguard prototype (TV-2) with simulated second and third stage successfully met test objectives, by reaching 109-mile altitude and 4,250 mph. References: 2. 1957 October 24 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: X-17. LV Configuration: X-17 3-204-3. Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 24 - 16:32 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor DM-18. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18 109. Series I research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF 6555 ATW. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). Stripped down Thor long-range flight test successful from AMR, impacting 4400 km downrange. References: 2. 1957 October 25 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike Nike. GE RV Model test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 30 km (18 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 25 - Launch Site: Holloman. Launch Complex: A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee. Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 26 - 19:47 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 39.1 S x 166.0 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 92. II5.68F Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 27 - 02:46 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 40.5 S x 166.2 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 93. II5.69F Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 29 - 00:13 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 50.7 S x 169.7 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 94. II5.70F Aeronomy / Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 30 - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: VLAD. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Burya. LV Configuration: Burya 2/3. FAILURE: Failure. Burya flight 2 Nation: USSR. Agency: SSSR. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. 1957 October 30 - 21:40 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 60.1 S x 176.1 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 95. II5.71F Aeronomy / Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 31 - 00:29 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 60.7 S x 176.6 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 96. II5.72F Aeronomy / Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 October 31 - 04:52 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC6. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. Model: Jupiter A. LV Configuration: Jupiter A CC-41. FAILURE: Loss of inter-compartment pressure at 68 sec. Ground cut-off command given. Jupiter A Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 40 km (24 mi). Launched at 2352 hours EST from AMR. The flight was unsuccessful. Actual range was 48 nm, whereas the predicted range wee 130.588 nm. At 68 seconds, a disturbance occurred in the lateral accelerometer and computer systems. Erroneous guidance instructions were transmitted to the control systems, causing a sharp yaw at 70 seconds. Cut-off was initiated at 98.1 seconds. One of the objectives was to indoctrinate troops for participation in the tactical portions of the countdown. Missed aimpoint by 151,000 m. References: 2. 1957 October 31 - 19:51 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 65.1 S x 177.9 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 97. II5.73F Aeronomy / Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November - Faget presentation on manned orbital flight. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Mercury. A presentation on manned orbital flight was made by Maxime A. Faget. The concept included the use of existing ballistic missiles for propulsion, solid-fuel retrorockets for reentry initiation, and a nonlifting ballistic shape for the reentering capsule. This concept was considered to be the quickest and safest approach for initial manned flights into orbit. References: 483. 1957 November - Launch Vehicle: Buran. Buran trisonic intercontinental cruise missile cancelled. Nation: USSR. Program: Navaho. Spacecraft: M-42. Council of Soviet Ministers (SM) Decree 'On termination of work on the 40 Buran intercontinental cruise missile' was issued. Buran was being prepared for its first flight when Myasishchev's project was cancelled. After successful flight tests of Lavochkin’s Burya missile, the Soviet leadership did not see any need for continued development of a parallel ramjet design. Following the cancellation, Myasishchev sought approval for test of an air-launched version. 1957 November 1 - 01:00 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 65.4 S x 177.6 W. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 98. II5.74F Aeronomy / Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 3 - 02:30 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Sputnik 8K71PS. LV Configuration: Sputnik 8K71PS No. 2PS. Sputnik 2 Nation: USSR. Payload: PS-2. Mass: 508 kg (1,119 lb). Class: Biology. Spacecraft: Sputnik 2. Agency: MVS. Perigee: 212 km (131 mi). Apogee: 1,660 km (1,030 mi). Inclination: 65.30 deg. Period: 103.70 min. COSPAR: 1957-Beta-1. USAF Sat Cat: 3. Decay Date: 1958-04-14. Carried dog Laika. Study of the physical processes and conditions of life in outer space. After the surprise public impact of Sputnik 1, the satellite and launch teams were called back from vacation and in one month assembled the satellite (using equipment already developed for dog sounding rocket flights). After the launch, Soviet space officials said that the spacecraft would not return and that the dog had enough food and oxygen to live for up to 10 days. Only 45 years later was it revealed that Laika overheated, panicked and died within 5 to 7 hours of launch. What turned out to be the first space crypt remained in orbit a total of 162 days, then burned up in the atmosphere on April 14, 1958. References: 2, 6, 177. 1957 November 3 - 20:08 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 70.2 S x 175.7 E. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 99. II5.75F Aeronomy / Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 3 - 23:24 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 70.8 S x 175.8 E. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 100. II5.76F Aeronomy / Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 4 - 01:41 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 71.2 S x 176.1 E. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 101. II5.77F Aeronomy / Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 113 km (70 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 4 - 03:47 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 71.5 S x 176.8 E. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 102. II5.78F Aeronomy / Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 4 - 07:16 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 72.0 S x 176.7 E. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 103. II5.79F Aeronomy / Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 4 - 18:52 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 70.9 S x 173.6 E. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 104. II5.80F Aeronomy / Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 5 - 01:25 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 69.5 S x 173.6 E. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 105. II5.81F Aeronomy / Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 5 - 21:59 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 66.2 S x 174.7 E. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 107. II5.83F Aeronomy / Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 6 - Chelomei OKB-52 gains in importance. Nation: USSR. Ministry of Aviation Industry (MAP) Decree 'On subordinating OKB-52 to GSNII-642' was issued. References: 474. 1957 November 7 - Launch Vehicle: Redstone. Eisenhower enunciates science policy. Nation: USA. President Eisenhower in major address on science and security announced that scientists had solved the problem of ballistic missile reentry and showed the nose cone of an Army Jupiter-C missile which was intact after a flight through space. He announced the creation of the office of Special Assistant to the President for Science and Technology and the appointment of James R. Killian, president of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, to the new post. References: 17. 1957 November 7 - 16:05 GMT - Launch Site: Holloman. Launch Complex: A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee. LV Configuration: Aerobee USAF-89. Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 8 - Launch Vehicle: Redstone. Model: Jupiter C. Von Braun ordered to launch satellite. Nation: USA. Program: Explorer. Secretary of Defense Neil McElroy directed the Army to proceed with the launching of the Explorer earth satellites. This order, in effect, resumed the Orbiter project that had been eliminated from the IGY satellite planning program on September 9, 1955. Von Braun was to modify two Jupiter-C missiles (modified Redstones) and attempt to place an artificial earth satellite in orbit by March 58. References: 86. 1957 November 8 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: X-17. LV Configuration: X-17 3-204-4. Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 8 - 14:57 GMT - Launch Site: Holloman. Launch Complex: A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee. LV Configuration: Aerobee USAF-90. FAILURE: Failure. Test / ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 8 - 20:43 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 48.3 S x 173.9 E. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 108. II5.84F Aeronomy / Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 110 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 8 - 23:15 GMT - Launch Site: Pacific Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 48.0 S x 173.8 E. Launch Vehicle: Rockoon. Model: Loki Rockoon. LV Configuration: Loki Rockoon SUI 109. II5.85F Aeronomy / Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: SUI. Apogee: 110 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 9 - 16:54 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-1. Model: A-1. Ionosphere / aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: MVS. Apogee: 330 km (200 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 10 - Launch Site: Holloman. Launch Complex: A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee. Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 12-13 - Fluid mechanics research key to spaceflight. Nation: USA. At a meeting of the NACA Subcommittee on Fluid Mechanics, it was stated that many aspects of space flight and astronautics would depend heavily on research advances in the field that had been broadly termed fluid mechanics. Research in this area involved internal and external gas flows associated with high-speed flights within the atmosphere and reentry into the atmosphere of spacecraft vehicles. The subcommittee recommended to NACA that research in these matters be intensified. References: 483. 1957 November 13 - 11:52 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 1. LV Configuration: Skylark-1 SL04. Grenade / Chaff / Sodium release Test / aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 127 km (78 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 13 - 17:28 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC9. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Navaho. Model: Navaho G-26. LV Configuration: Navaho II SM-64 11. FAILURE: Destroyed by range safety after telemetry dropped out at T+75 seconds. Navaho G-26 Flight 7 Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). The booster functioned well, and the cruise stage separated at 20.4 km altitude and Mach 3.24. The ramjets ignited, but before the ground knew that, the telemetry dropped out completely due to a faulty voltage regulator on the missile. Range safety ordered the missile's self destruction at T+75 seconds. References: 2. 1957 November 14 - UN calls for inspections to insure objects in outer space only for peaceful purposes Nation: International. The General Assembly of the United Nations adopted Resolution 1148 (XII), calling, in part, for "the joint study of an inspection system designed to ensure that the sending of objects through outer space shall be exclusively for peaceful and scientific purposes." References: 16. 1957 November 15 - Abbreviated development plan for Dyna-Soar. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Dynasoar. Air Force headquarters approved the abbreviated development plan for Dyna-Soar. 1957 November 15 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: X-17. LV Configuration: X-17 1-204-8. Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 19 - Resolution for aggressive NACA program in space research. Nation: USA. Preston R. Bassett of the NACA Committee on Aerodynamics presented a resolution urging NACA to adopt an aggressive program in space research technology. References: 483. 1957 November 19 - 16:29 GMT - Launch Site: Holloman. Launch Complex: A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee. LV Configuration: Aerobee Smoke Puff. Release 1, KNO3-Al Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 121 km (75 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 20 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Double Cajun T40. MW-2 model test flight Nation: USA. Agency: NACA. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 21 - Special Committee on Space Technology Nation: USA. The National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics established a Special Committee on Space Technology to study and delineate problem areas that must be solved to make space flight a practical reality and to consider and recommend means for attacking these problems. Dr. H. Guyford Stever of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology was named chairman. References: 483. 1957 November 21 - National Space Establishment recommended Nation: USA. The Rocket and Satellite Research Panel recommended the creation of a National Space Establishment in the Executive Branch of the Government. According to the proposal, activities of this agency would be under civilian leadership, and the organization would be charged with formulating and supervising a space research program. An annual budget of $1 billion for a period of 10 years was recommended. References: 483. 1957 November 21-22 - NACA Propulsion Conference Nation: USA. Over one-half of the NACA Propulsion Conference was devoted to the discussion of possible space propulsion systems. Three particular systems appeared to afford excellent choices for such purposes. These were: the chemical rocket, the nuclear rocket, and the nuclear-electric rocket. It was the considered opinion of the conference members that the chemical rocket would be quite adequate for a round trip to the moon. References: 483. 1957 November 22 - First hydrogen-fluorine rocket engine test. Nation: USA. First hydrogen-fluorine rocket engine successfully operated at NACA Lewis Laboratory, demonstrating a 40-percent performance improvement over other propellant combinations. References: 17. 1957 November 23 - Launch Vehicle: R-5, Soyuz. Special units formed to handle ICBM/IRBM nuclear warheads Nation: USSR. Deployment of the R-5M in 1956 caused the Sixth Directorate of the Ministry of Military Forces of the USSR's First Military Subdivision, consisting of two brigades, to be formed. The need for a new arrangement for safeguarding nuclear weapons deployed with field units led to a decree replacing the Sixth Directorate with a Twelfth General Directorate of the Ministry of Defence, charged with the development, trials, deployment, and security of nuclear warheads. 1957 November 25 - $3 million of fiscal year 1958 funds for Dyna-Soar. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Dynasoar. Air Force headquarters issued Development Directive 94, which allocated $3 million of fiscal year 1958 funds for Dyna-Soar. 1957 November 26 - Launch Site: Holloman. Launch Complex: A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee. Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 November 27 - Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor. Thor and Jupiter IRBM's ordered into production. Nation: USA. Thor and Jupiter IRBM's ordered into production for ultimate deployment by the USAF. References: 17. 1957 November 27 - X-1B Flight 25 Nation: USA. Payload: X-1B flight 25. Class: Manned. Type: Rocketplane. Spacecraft: X-1B. Crew: Armstrong. NACA flight 15. First reaction-control flight. References: 49, 97. 1957 November 27 - 02:10 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC26B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter. LV Configuration: Jupiter IRBM AM-3A. FAILURE: At 202 seconds of flight mechanical failure of the turbo-pump caused a complete loss of thrust. Research and development test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF/ABMA. Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). Fired from AMR at 2110 hours EST. Main stage, lift-off, and powered flight were normal. The missile passed through the critical dynamic pressure period and followed the prescribed trajectory until 202 seconds of flight when the engine thrust was terminated. From an analysis covering the period before thrust termination, mechanical failure of the turbo-pump stopped the flow of propellants to the combustion chamber causing a complete loss of thrust. Telemetry signals ceased at 232 seconds. The missile was at an altitude of 65,000 feet when an explosion was observed from the Test Centre above the horizon. The long range mission of this flight was not accomplished; however, other primary and secondary missions were considered successful. References: 2. 1957 December 1 - Mercury ballistic shape proposed. Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Maxime Faget of NACA Langley proposed ballistic shape of Mercury capsule, while A. Eggers of Ames and E. S. Love and J. V. Becker of Langley proposed glider configurations of manned spacecraft later incorporated in Dyna-Soar and Apollo studies. References: 17. 1957 December - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan-Vanguard. Titan plus Vanguard proposed to place instrument package into lunar orbit Nation: USA. The Martin Company proposed to the Department of Defense (DOD) that a stage of the Titan intercontinental ballistic missile be combined with the Vanguard rocket to provide a launch vehicle capable of placing an instrument package into lunar orbit and, ultimately, on the lunar surface. References: 16. 1957 December 4 - NASA precursor. Nation: USA. The American Rocket Society's proposal for an Astronautical Research and Development Agency, which was presented to President Eisenhower on October 14, 1957, was announced. References: 17. 1957 December 4 - Mars and Beyond televised. Nation: USA. The final show in the Walt Disney / Wernher Von Braun series was broadcast after the launch of Sputnik 1 but before Von Braun's own Explorer 1 was orbited. It treated a mass audience to Von Braun's plans for a manned expedition to Mars. 1957 December 5 - Advanced Research Projects Agency created. Nation: USA. An announcement was made that an Advanced Research Projects Agency would be created in the Department of Defense to direct its space projects. References: 483. 1957 December 6 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1, R-2. R-2 licensed for production in China. Nation: USSR. On 6 December 1957 an agreement was signed to license production of the R-2 to China. A huge team of Russian rocket engineers and technicians went to Beijing to set up the production line. This rocket provided the technological base for the subsequent Chinese rocket programs. 1957 December 6 - 16:44 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. Model: Vanguard. LV Configuration: Vanguard TV-3. FAILURE: Vehicle lost thrust and exploded after 2 seconds. Vanguard 1A Nation: USA. Program: Vanguard. Payload: Vanguard Test Satellite. Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: Vanguard 1. Agency: U.S. Navy. COSPAR: F571206A. Decay Date: 1957-12-06. First US orbital attempt. IGY Vanguard (TV-3), the first with three live stages, failed to launch a test satellite. References: 126. 1957 December 7 - 22:11 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor DM-18. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18 112. Research and development Series II test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF 6555 ATW. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). References: 2. 1957 December 9 - US Air Force recommends immediate goal of landing on the moon Nation: USA. Program: Lunex. The Air Force Scientific Advisory Board Ad Hoc Committee on Space Technology recommended acceleration of specific military projects and a vigorous space program with the immediate goal of landings on the moon because "Sputnik and the Russian ICBM (intercontinental ballistic missile) capability have created a national emergency." References: 16. 1957 December 10 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn I. National Integrated Missile and Space Vehicle Development Program Nation: USA. Program: Horizon. The Army Ballistic Missile Agency completed and forwarded to higher authority the first edition of A National Integrated Missile and Space Vehicle Development Program, which had been in preparation since April 1957. Included was a "short-cut development program" for large payload capabilities, covering the clustered-engine booster of 1.5 million pounds of thrust to be operational in 1963. The total development cost of $850 million during the years 1958-1963 covered 30 research and development flights, some carrying manned and unmanned space payloads. One of six conclusions given in the document was that "Development of the large (1520 K-pounds thrust) booster is considered the key to space exploration and warfare." Later vehicles with greater thrust were also described. References: 16. 1957 December 10 - Air Force Directorate of Astronautics. Nation: USA. The Air Force created a Directorate of Astronautics to manage and coordinate astronautical research programs, including work on satellites and antimissile-missile weapons. Brigadier General Homer A. Boushey was named to head the office. Later in the month the order was rescinded by James H. Douglas, Secretary of the Air Force, who considered the creation of such a group before the activation of the Advanced Research Projects Agency to be premature. References: 483. 1957 December 10 - 17:35 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun OB6.02F. Ionosphere / fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 145 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1957 December 10 - 18:10 GMT - Launch Site: San Nicolas. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Asp. Model: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp NN8.51F. Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 169 km (105 mi). References: 2. 1957 December 10 - 21:36 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun SS6.39. FAILURE: Failure. Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 2.00 km (1.20 mi). References: 2. 1957 December 11 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: X-17. LV Configuration: X-17 1-204-9. Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1957 December 11 - 00:36 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC6. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. Model: Jupiter A. LV Configuration: Jupiter A CC-42. Jupiter A Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Successfully fired at 1936 hours EST from AMR. The missile followed the trajectory very closely and impacted on target. All missions were successfully accomplished. The predicted impact range was 141.895 nm. The miss distance has bean certified as 153 meters radial, 94 meters over, and 121 meters to the left of the predicted impact point. The primary objective of the rest was to flight test Hardtack adaptation kit components as passengers. Missed aimpoint by 209 m. References: 2. 1957 December 13 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike. Model: Nike T40 T55. Heat Transfer Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: NACA. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). References: 2. 1957 December 14 - Military-Industrial Commission (VPK) is created. Nation: USSR. Central Committee and Council of Soviet Ministers Decree 'On creation of the Military-Industrial Commission on the basis of the Special Committee of the Council of Ministers and on change of the defence industry system from ministries to State Committees' References: 474. 1957 December 17 - 17:39 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC14. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas A. LV Configuration: Atlas A 12A. Research and development test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 120 km (70 mi). First successful test firing of USAF Atlas ICBM, the missile landing in the target area after a flight of 600 miles. References: 2. 1957 December 19 - 00:07 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC26B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter. LV Configuration: Jupiter IRBM AM-4. FAILURE: Thrust ended abruptly at 116.87 seconds of flight due to turbo-pump malfunction. Research and development test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF/ABMA. Fired from AMR at 1507 hours EST. The main-stage, lift-off, and powered flight were normal. The missile followed the prescribed trajectory. Thrust ended abruptly at 116.87 seconds of flight which resulted in a short-range impact. Failure was again attributed to turbo-pump malfunction. The long-range mission. was not accomplished; however, other primary and secondary missions were successfully accomplished. The abrupt shutdown of the power plant resulted in a range of approximately 149 nm and an altitude of approximately 50 nm. References: 2. 1957 December 19 - 20:12 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor DM-18. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18 113. Research and development Series II test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF 6555 ATW. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). A Thor missile, the eighth tested and the fourth successfully, completed the first fully-guided Thor IRBM flight using an all-inertial guidance system. References: 2. 1957 December 21 - Implementation of the Dyna-Soar program. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Dynasoar. ARDC headquarters issued System Development Directive 464L, directing the implementation of the Dyna-Soar program. 1957 December 24 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1, R-2. R-2 missiles arrive in China. Nation: China. Program: Long March. A Red Army missile battalion with two R-2's and their launchers arrive in Beijing by rail. They are secretly moved to the premises of the Fifth Academy in the middle of the night. References: 87. 1957 December 30 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn I. Saturn I first proposed. Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Von Braun produces 'Proposal for a National Integrated Missile and Space Vehicle Development Plan'. First mention of 1,500,000 lbf booster (Saturn I) References: 86, 27. Previous Home Next Contact us with any corrections, additions, or comments. Conditions for use of drawings, pictures, or other materials from this site.. To contact astronauts or cosmonauts. © Mark Wade, 1997 - 2008 except where otherwise noted.