Chronology - Quarter 3 1960 home
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1960 July 1 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -.
  • 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). References: 88.
1960 July - Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: R-7A.
  • Flight test series of production R-7A ICBM completed Nation: USSR. 15 launches were in the flight test series, with 14 successes. These rockets were completed at Aviation Factory Number 1, 'Progress', in Kuibyshev (Samara).
1960 July 1 - 14:35 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 AA3.107.
  • Meteorites mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 162 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 1 - 17:29 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC20. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I J-2. FAILURE: Destroyed 90 m above pad.
  • Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi). Titan 1 J (Mk 4 RV) References: 2.
1960 July 2 - 00:04 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: LA3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Scout X-1. LV Configuration: Scout X-1 ST-1. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 1,380 km (850 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 2 - 06:58 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 60D.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 4 -
  • Russia- sounding rocket test. Nation: USSR. Soviet Tass announced that Russia last month successfully launched a new 4,400-pound-thrust rocket carrying a rabbit and two dogs to a reported altitude of 124.8 miles. References: 17.
1960 July 5 - Launch Vehicle: Hawk, Nova, Saturn C-3, Saturn I, Saturn V.
  • House recommends a high priority manned expedition to the moon Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. The House Committee on Science and Astronautics declared: "A high priority program should be undertaken to place a manned expedition on the moon in this decade. A firm plan with this goal in view should be drawn up and submitted to the Congress by NASA. Such a plan, however, should be completely integrated with other goals, to minimize total costs. The modular concept deserves close study. Particular attention should be paid immediately to long lead-time phases of such a program." The Committee also recommended that development of the F-1 engine be expedited in expectation of the Nova launch vehicle, that there be more research on nuclear engines and less conventional engines before freezing the Nova concept, and that the Orion project be turned over to NASA. It was the view of the Committee that "NASA's 10-year program is a good program, as far as it goes, but it does not go far enough. Furthermore the space program is not being pushed with sufficient energy." References: 16.
1960 July 5 - 15:56 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: R-7A.
  • R-7A I-6 test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,350 km (830 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 6 - Launch Site: Fort Wingate. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. Model: Redstone. LV Configuration: Redstone 1019.
  • Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Successful missile test. Missed aimpoint by 176 m. References: 2.
1960 July 7 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1X-39. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1960 July 7 - 15:27 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: R-7A.
  • R-7A I-7 test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,350 km (830 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 8 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn C-3, Saturn I, Saturn V.
  • Kiwi-A Prime tested at full power. Nation: USA. Program: NERVA. Second experimental reactor (Kiwi-A Prime) in the Project Rover nuclear rocket program was successfully tested at full power and duration at Jackass Flats, Nev. References: 17.
1960 July 9 -
  • NASA selects companies for competitive design studies of Surveyor Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Surveyor. After reviewing proposals by 37 companies, NASA awarded contracts to the Hughes Aircraft Company, McDonnell Aircraft Corporation, North American Aviation, Inc., and Space Technology Laboratories, Inc., for preliminary competitive design studies of an instrumented soft-landing lunar spacecraft, the Surveyor. The companies were scheduled to submit their reports in December. References: 16.
1960 July 9 - 04:00 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.04GA.
  • Grenade Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 105 km (65 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 11 -
  • Surveyor project starts. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Surveyor. NASA selected Hughes, North American, Space Technology Laboratory, and McDonnell to study designs for the first lunar soft-landing spacecraft. References: 17.
1960 July 11 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D.
  • Atlas operational plans given high priority Nation: USA. M. Gen. Tom Gerrity appointed head of new BMC for operational site selection through turnover References: 4460.
1960 July 11 - 04:24 GMT - Launch Site: Akita. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 8. LV Configuration: Kappa 8 K-8-1.
  • Test mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 12 -
  • Mercury astronaut desert survival training Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. The astronauts underwent a five and one half day course in 'desert survival' training at the Air Training Command Survival School, Stead Air Force Base, Nevada. The possibility of an arid-area landing was remote but did exist. So this training was accomplished to supply the astronaut with the confidence and ability to survive desert conditions until recovery. The course consisted of one and one half days of academics, one day of field demonstrations, and three days of isolated remote-site training. Survival equipment normally installed in the Mercury spacecraft was used to provide the most realistic conditions. References: 483.
1960 July 13 - 00:23 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.403.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 13 - 14:47 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Strongarm. Model: Strongarm. LV Configuration: Strongarm OB11.03. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USA BRL. Apogee: 670 km (410 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 14-15 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn C-2, Saturn C-3, Saturn I, Saturn V.
  • Space Exploration Program Council Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. The third meeting of the Space Exploration Program Council was held at NASA Headquarters. The question of a speedup of Saturn C-2 production and the possibility of using nuclear upper stages with the Saturn booster were discussed. The Office of Launch Vehicle Programs would plan a study on the merits of using nuclear propulsion for some of NASA's more sophisticated missions. If the study substantiated such a need, the amount of in-house basic research could then be determined. References: 16.
1960 July 14 - 02:43 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Strongarm. Model: Strongarm. LV Configuration: Strongarm OB11.04. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USA BRL. Apogee: 710 km (440 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 14 - 10:05 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.409.
  • Firefly FRANCES Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 148 km (91 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 15 -
  • USAF Air Staff approval for SAINT development Nation: USA. Spacecraft: SAINT, SAINT II.
1960 July 15 - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-11. Model: R-11A.
  • Ionosphere / aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 206 km (128 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 15 - 06:10 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1X-42.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 15 - 10:02 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.401.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 120 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 17 - 04:11 GMT - Launch Site: Akita. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 8. LV Configuration: Kappa 8 K-8-2.
  • Test mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 182 km (113 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 18 - 10:01 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.405.
  • Firefly CARRY Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 19 - 16:00 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1X-41.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 20 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LC-B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AEC probe.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AEC. Apogee: 120 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 20 - 17:39 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1E-1.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 20 - 20:34 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1E-2.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 21 -
  • Dyna-Soar three-step approach. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Dynasoar. Air Force headquarters issued System Development Requirement 19, which sanctioned the three-step approach.
1960 July 21 - 01:32 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.413.
  • Firefly IDA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 21 - 10:02 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.406.
  • Firefly LILY Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 151 km (93 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 22 - 04:53 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.18GE.
  • SBE-2 Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 129 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 22 - 10:11 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.402.
  • Firefly HEDY Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 108 km (67 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 22 - 12:05 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: LA1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Iris. LV Configuration: Iris NASA 5.01GT.
  • Aeronomy / test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 224 km (139 mi). First flight of NASA's Iris sounding rocket successful. References: 2.
1960 July 22 - 23:46 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576B1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 74D. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Initial operational capability operational readiness test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 25 -
  • Name Apollo approved for the advanced manned space flight program Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. NASA Director of Space Flight Programs Abe Silverstein notified Harry J. Goett, Director of the Goddard Space Flight Center, that NASA Administrator T. Keith Glennan had approved the name "Apollo" for the advanced manned space flight program. The program would be so designated at the forthcoming NASA-Industry Program Plans Conference. References: 16.
1960 July 25 - 08:30 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.420.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 120 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 25 - 11:54 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA5A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Knight. Model: Black Knight 201. LV Configuration: Black Knight-201 BK.07.
  • Gaslight Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: UK. Agency: RAE. Apogee: 531 km (329 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 26 - 10:17 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.421.
  • Firefly JANET Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 119 km (73 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 27 - 10:19 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.425.
  • Firefly DOLLY Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 115 km (71 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 28 -
  • Apollo Program Announced Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Class: Manned. Type: Lunar spacecraft. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. Name 'Apollo' selected by Silverstein. Conference with aerospace industry outlined NASA's plans for circumlunar and lunar flight. References: 26, 27.
1960 July 28 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Caleb. LV Configuration: Caleb NOTS EV-II.
  • TV-1 test Nation: USA. Agency: USN NOTS. Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). Research and Development Flight (TV-1) References: 2.
1960 July 28 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8K72. LV Configuration: Vostok 8K72 L1-10. FAILURE: At ignition one of the combustion chambers in strap on Block B or G burned through. The strap on separated from the core at 17 seconds into the flight and the launch vehicle exploded at 28.5 seconds.
  • Korabl-Sputnik Nation: USSR. Program: Vostok. Payload: Vostok 1K s/n 1. Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Vostok. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: F600728A. Decay Date: 1960-07-23. First attempted flight of the Vostok 1K manned spacecraft prototype. Dogs Chaika and Lisichka perished in the explosion of the rocket. References: 175.
1960 July 28-29 -
  • Announcement of the Apollo program to American industry Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. The first NASA-Industry Program Plans Conference was held in Washington, D.C. The purpose was to give industrial management an overall picture of the NASA program and to establish a basis for subsequent conferences to be held at various NASA Centers. The current status of NASA programs was outlined, including long-range planning, launch vehicles, structures and materials research, manned space flight, and life sciences.

    NASA Deputy Administrator Hugh L. Dryden announced that the advanced manned space flight program had been named "Apollo." George M. Low, NASA Chief of Manned Space Flight, stated that circumlunar flight and earth orbit missions would be carried out before 1970. This program would lead eventually to a manned lunar landing and a permanent manned space station. Additional Details: Announcement of the Apollo program to American industry. References: 16.

1960 July 28 - 08:30 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.419.
  • Firefly AMY Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 111 km (68 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 28 - 19:36 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Long Tom. LV Configuration: Long Tom LT12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE. Apogee: 126 km (78 mi). References: 2.
1960 July 28 - 21:38 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC20. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I J-4. FAILURE: 130 km range.
  • Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). Titan 1 J (Mk 4 RV) References: 2.
1960 July 29 - 13:13 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC14. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 50D. FAILURE: Structural failure of Atlas.
  • Mercury MA-1 Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 13 km (8 mi). Mercury-Atlas 1 (MA-1) was launched from the Atlantic Missile Range in a test of spacecraft structural integrity under maximum heating conditions. After 58.5 seconds of flight, MA-1 exploded and the spacecraft was destroyed upon impact off-shore. None of the primary capsule test objectives were met. The mission objectives were to check the integrity of the spacecraft structure and afterbody shingles for a reentry associated with a critical abort and to evaluate the open-loop performance of the Atlas abort-sensing instrumentation system. The spacecraft contained no escape system and no test subject. Standard posigrade rockets were used to separate the spacecraft from the Atlas, but the retrorockets were dummies. The flight was terminated because of a launch vehicle and adapter structural failure. The spacecraft was destroyed upon impact with the water because the recovery system was not designed to actuate under the imposed flight conditions. Later most of the spacecraft, the booster engines, and the liquid oxygen vent valve were recovered from the ocean floor. Since none of the primary flight objectives was achieved, Mercury-Atlas 2 (MA-2) was planned to fulfill the mission. References: 2.
1960 July 30 - 20:20 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1E-4.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 1 - Launch Site: Sea-launched. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: UNKPL. Launch Vehicle: R-13.
  • Test mission Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 1 - 08:30 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.408.
  • Firefly RUTHY Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 113 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 1 - 10:23 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.410.
  • Firefly HILDA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 126 km (78 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 2 - 03:14 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Strongarm. Model: Strongarm. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USA BRL. Apogee: 550 km (340 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 2 - 13:30 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NN2.32.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NRL. Apogee: 148 km (91 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 3 -
  • Status of Star City emphasised. Nation: USSR. Decree 'On training of cosmonauts only at the Cosmonaut Training Centre' was issued. References: 474.
1960 August 3 -
  • Official 'birthday' for Baikonur. Nation: USSR. Decree 'On naming June 2, 1955, as the birthday of NIIP-5' was issued. References: 474.
1960 August 3 - Launch Vehicle: Redstone. Model: Redstone MRLV.
  • Redstone launch vehicle No. 1 was delivered to Cape Canaveral for the MR-1 (Mercury-Redstone). Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. References: 483.
1960 August 3 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike Nike Recruit.
  • Glide Rocket Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA LaRC. Apogee: 27 km (16 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 3 - 00:58 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1X-37.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 3 - 15:26 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 300A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 300A NASA 06.03UI.
  • UM ionospheric Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 415 km (257 mi). First Sparrowbee sounding rocket launched from Wallops Station, lifting 25 kg University of Michigan payload to 415 km altitude. References: 2.
1960 August 4 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1X-44.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 4 - 16:59 GMT - Launch Site: Silver Lake DZ. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 35.3 N x 116.1 W. Launch Vehicle: X-15. LV Configuration: X-15 1-9-17.
  • X-15A test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 23 km (14 mi). Maximum Speed - 3533 kph. Maximum Altitude - 23809 m. Unofficial world speed record. This topped Captain Apt's speed of 2,094 mph attained in the X-2 on September 27, 1956. References: 2.
1960 August 6 - 09:00 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.411.
  • Firefly GERTA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 138 km (85 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 8 - Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 63S1.
  • Kosmos 63S1 small booster and DS small satellites authorised. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: DS-1, DS-2. Central Committee of the Communist Party and Council of Soviet Ministers Decree 'On the Creation of the Rocket-Carrier 63S1 Based on the R-12 Missile, and the Development and Launch of Small Artificial Satellite--start of work on launcher and satellites at OKB-586' References: 474.
1960 August 8 - 10:15 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.412.
  • Firefly BETSEY Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 109 km (67 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 9 - 18:09 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC12. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 32D.
  • Research and development / aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 10 - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC38. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike Zeus. Model: Nike Zeus. LV Configuration: Nike Zeus 9.
  • First Tactical launch Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 10 - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 300. LV Configuration: Aerobee 300 TATTLETALE PCC 5.
  • Signals intelligence test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 383 km (237 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 10 - 01:31 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC6. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. Model: Redstone. LV Configuration: Redstone 2023. FAILURE: Erroneously destroyed during boost by range personnel.
  • Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). Missile test failure. References: 2.
1960 August 10 - 10:35 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.418.
  • Firefly JEANNIE Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 104 km (64 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 10 - 10:35 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 2. LV Configuration: Skylark-2 SL61.
  • Grenades / Chaff test Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 171 km (106 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 10 - 20:37 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC1E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 231 / Agena A 1057.
  • Discoverer 13 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-1 prototype / Agena A 1057. Mass: 850 kg (1,870 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-1. Agency: U.S. Air Force. Perigee: 258 km (160 mi). Apogee: 683 km (424 mi). Inclination: 82.80 deg. Period: 94.00 min. COSPAR: 1960-Theta-1. USAF Sat Cat: 48. Decay Date: 1960-11-14. KH-1 prototype; designed to test capsule recovery system; did not carry camera; capsule successfully recovered from ocean. References: 2, 6.
1960 August 10 - 22:46 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC19. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I J-7.
  • Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Titan 1 J (Mk 4 RV) References: 2.
1960 August 12 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1, DF-2, Kosmos 2, R-2.
  • Soviet/China break. Nation: China. In the preceding months relations between the Soviet advisors and Chinese engineers had been strained by increasing Soviet secrecy. The Russians catch Chinese students at the Moscow Aviation Institute stealing restricted missile data. Finally Khrushchev declared the suspension of military assistance to China. All 1,343 Soviet specialists are withdrawn from the Fifth Academy in Beijing and return to Russia. They leave behind 343 uncompleted contracts. A total of 257 technical development projects were cancelled as a result.
1960 August 12 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LC-B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Hopi. Model: Kiva/Hopi.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 12 - 09:39 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Delta. LV Configuration: Thor Delta 270/D2.
  • Echo 1 Nation: USA. Payload: A-11. Mass: 76 kg (167 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Comsat. Spacecraft: Echo. Agency: NASA. Perigee: 966 km (600 mi). Apogee: 2,157 km (1,340 mi). Inclination: 47.30 deg. Period: 117.30 min. COSPAR: 1960-Iota-1. USAF Sat Cat: 49. Decay Date: 1968-05-24. Balloon; passively relayed TV and voice transmissions. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 2, 6.
1960 August 12 - 13:00 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 66D.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 12 - 16:48 GMT - Launch Site: Silver Lake DZ. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 35.3 N x 116.1 W. Launch Vehicle: X-15. LV Configuration: X-15 1-10-19.
  • X-15A High Alt test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 41 km (25 mi). Maximum Speed - 2851 kph. Maximum Altitude - 41605 m. Established a new altitude record for a manned vehicle of 136,500 feet. This topped Captain Kincheloe's record altitude of 126,200 feet attained on September 7, 1956, in the X-2 rocket research aircraft. References: 2.
1960 August 12 - 18:28 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1X-47.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 13 -
  • Army mapping of lunar landing sites completed. Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Army announced completion of a project for mapping lunar landing sites. References: 17, 27.
1960 August 13 -
  • First photo-geological survey of the surface of the moon Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Secretary of the Interior Fred A. Seaton and Secretary of the Army Wilber M. Brucker announced that the U.S. Geological Survey had completed the first known photogeological survey of the surface of the moon. Additional Details: First photo-geological survey of the surface of the moon. References: 16.
1960 August 13 - 07:19 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Viper. Model: Viper Falcon.
  • TP Annie Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 120 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 13 - 09:47 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Viper. Model: Viper Falcon.
  • TP Norma Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 97 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 15 -
  • Electric arc jet rocket engine contract. Nation: USA. NASA announced selection of Plasmadyne Corp. for contract negotiations on a 1-kilowatt electric arc jet rocket engine. References: 17.
1960 August 16 - 01:42 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Asp. Model: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp AA8.404.
  • Firefly ARLENE Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 104 km (64 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 16 - 10:41 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.426.
  • Firefly PEGGY Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 103 km (64 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 17 - Launch Site: Aberporth. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Jaguar. Model: Jaguar 1. LV Configuration: Jaguar 1 G1.
  • Test mission Nation: UK. Agency: RAE. Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 17 - 10:42 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.427.
  • Firefly SUSAN Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 114 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 18 - 01:35 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Asp. Model: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp AA8.415.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 18 - 02:42 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.428.
  • Firefly LINDA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 133 km (82 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 18 - 10:15 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Asp. Model: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp AA8.416.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 18 - 19:57 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC1W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 237 / Agena A 1056.
  • Discoverer 14 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-1 9009 / Agena A 1056. Mass: 850 kg (1,870 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-1. Agency: U.S. Air Force. Perigee: 177 km (109 mi). Apogee: 803 km (498 mi). Inclination: 79.60 deg. Period: 94.40 min. COSPAR: 1960-Kappa-1. USAF Sat Cat: 54. Decay Date: 1960-09-16. KH-1; film capsule recovered 1.2 days later; 1st successful photosurveillance mission. First successful mission. Cameras operated satisfactorily. References: 2, 6.
1960 August 18 - 19:58 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Ablestar. LV Configuration: Thor Ablestar 262 AB004?. FAILURE: Exploded 2.5 minutes after launch.
  • Courier 1A Nation: USA. Mass: 225 kg (496 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Courier. Agency: DARPA. COSPAR: F600818A. Decay Date: 1960-08-18. Experimental communications sattelite. References: 126.
1960 August 19 -
  • U-2 pilot Powers sentenced to prison for 10 years Nation: USSR.
1960 August 19 - 03:20 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1X-43.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 19 - 08:44 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8K72. LV Configuration: Vostok 8K72 L1-12.
  • Korabl-Sputnik 2 Nation: USSR. Program: Vostok. Payload: Vostok 1K s/n 2. Mass: 1,440 kg (3,170 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Vostok. Agency: RVSN. Perigee: 281 km (174 mi). Apogee: 340 km (210 mi). Inclination: 64.60 deg. Period: 90.70 min. COSPAR: 1960-Lambda-1. USAF Sat Cat: 55. Duration: 1.09 days. Decay Date: 1960-08-20. The Soviet Union launched its second unmanned test of the Vostok spacecraft, the Korabl Sputnik II, or Sputnik V. The spacecraft carried two dogs, Strelka and Belka, in addition to a gray rabbit, rats, mice, flies, plants, fungi, microscopic water plants, and seeds. Electrodes attached to the dogs and linked with the spacecraft communications system, which included a television camera, enabled Soviet scientists to check the animals' hearts, blood pressure, breathing, and actions during the trip. After the spacecraft reentered and landed safely the next day, the animals and biological specimens were reported to be in good condition.
    Officially: Development of systems ensuring man's life functions and safety in flight and his return to Earth. References: 2, 6, 175.
1960 August 19 - 10:40 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.429.
  • Firefly OLIVE Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 106 km (65 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 19 - 16:34 GMT - Launch Site: Silver Lake DZ. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 35.3 N x 116.1 W. Launch Vehicle: X-15. LV Configuration: X-15 1-11-21.
  • X-15A test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 23 km (14 mi). Maximum Speed - 3510 kph. Maximum Altitude - 24343 m. References: 2.
1960 August 19 - 19:56 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.430.
  • Firefly RENA (SF6) Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 105 km (65 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 23 - Launch Vehicle: DF-1, DF-2, Kosmos 2, R-2.
  • Last Russian advisers leave China. Nation: China. Program: Long March. The last Russian technical advisers are withdrawn from China. References: 87.
1960 August 23 -
  • Final Department of Defense approval for SAINT development. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: SAINT, SAINT II.
1960 August 23 - 17:01 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150A NASA 04.16UE.
  • Cosmic rays mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 190 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 23 - 17:10 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 AA3.128.
  • Solar extreme ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 237 km (147 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 24 -
  • McDonnell proposed a one-man space station. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Mercury Mark I. McDonnell Aircraft Corporation proposed a one-man space station comprising a Mercury capsule plus a cylindrical space laboratory capable of supporting one astronaut in a shirtsleeve environment for 14 days in orbit. Gross weight of the combined vehicle at launch would be 7259 pounds (Mercury, as of October 25, 1960, was 4011 pounds), which would provide an 1100-pound, laboratory-test payload in a 150-nautical-mile orbit, boosted by an Atlas-Agena B. The result would be a 'minimum cost manned space station.'
1960 August 25 - 01:04 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Asp. Model: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp AA8.244.
  • Firefly Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 25 - 14:28 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike AA5.431.
  • Firefly ZELDA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 102 km (63 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 26 - 01:03 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Asp. Model: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp AA8.417.
  • Firefly Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 26 - 11:00 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 2. LV Configuration: Skylark-2 SL13.
  • Sodium release / Meteorites Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 109 km (67 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 29 - 03:38 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trailblazer. Model: Trailblazer 1. LV Configuration: Trailblazer 1 TB Ic.
  • D58 Trailblazer re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 260 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 29 - 06:13 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trailblazer. Model: Trailblazer 1. LV Configuration: Trailblazer 1 TB Id.
  • D58 Trailblazer re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 260 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 30 -
  • Industry briefing on feasibility studies for the Apollo spacecraft Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. The Goddard Space Flight Center GSFC conducted its industry conference in Washington, D.C., presenting details of GSFC projects, current and future. The objectives of the proposed six-month feasibility contracts for an advanced manned spacecraft were announced. Additional Details: Industry briefing on feasibility studies for the Apollo spacecraft. References: 16.
1960 August 30 -
  • Cosmonaut medical standards set. Nation: USSR. Decree 866-361 'On the Status of Cosmonauts--medical requirements for cosmonauts' was issued. References: 474.
1960 August 30 - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Asp. Model: Nike Asp. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Firefly Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 30 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC20. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I J-5.
  • Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1960 August 31 - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 300. LV Configuration: Aerobee 300 TATTLETALE PCC 6.
  • Signals intelligence test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 1 -
  • Apollo Project Office formed Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. In an organizational change within STG, Maxime A. Faget was appointed Chief of the Flight Systems Division and Robert O. Piland was named Assistant Chief for Advanced Projects. The Apollo Project Office was formed with Piland as Head of the Office; members included John B. Lee, J. Thomas Markley, William W. Petynia,and H. Kurt Strass. References: 16.
1960 September 1 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-2. Model: R-2.
  • Nation: China. Agency: PRC. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). The rocket was built in the Soviet Union but used Chinese propellants. This launch took place just a month after all Soviet experts were withdrawn from China. References: 2.
1960 September 1 - Launch Site: Shijiedu. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: T-7.
  • Test mission Nation: China. Agency: Shanghai. Apogee: 60 km (37 mi). First launch of the all-up missile. References: 2.
1960 September -
  • VKA-23 spaceplane. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: VKA-23 Design 1, VKA-23 Design 2. Following the very critical review of the first M-48 spaceplane design by the expert commission, Myasishchev went back to the drawing board. In March to September 1960 this work resulted in definition of two alternative configurations. The first alternative was an unconventional faceted shock-wave riding design (see VKA-23 Design 1). The second Myasishchev VKA-23 design was an elegant-looking, porpoise-fuselaged winged vehicle.
1960 September 2 -
  • Accelerated joint planning effort for NASA Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. NASA Administrator T. Keith Glennan directed that an accelerated joint planning effort be made by persons at NASA Headquarters who were most familiar with the Saturn, Apollo, manned orbital laboratory, and unmanned lunar and planetary programs. They were to determine whether the Saturn and Saturn-use programs were effectively integrated and whether sufficient design study and program development work had been done to support decisions on projected Saturn configurations. Additional Details: Accelerated joint planning effort for NASA. References: 16.
1960 September 2 - Launch Site: Warren AFB. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D.
  • Atlas SMS 564 operational. Nation: USA. Warren -1 AFB SMS 564 operational References: 4460.
1960 September 2 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1X-45.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 3 - 14:08 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.19GE.
  • SBE 3 flare particles Magnetosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 122 km (75 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 3 - 17:29 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.20GE.
  • SBE 4 Magnetosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 122 km (75 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 8 -
  • Marshall Space Center founded. Nation: USA.
1960 September 10 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn V.
  • Contract for development of the Saturn J-2 engine Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. A NASA contract for approximately $44 million was signed by Rocketdyne Division of NAA for the development of the J-2 engine. References: 16.
1960 September 10 - Launch Site: Sea-launched. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: BELA. Launch Vehicle: R-11. Model: R-11FM.
  • Test mission Nation: USSR. Agency: VMF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 12 - Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: R-7A.
  • R-7A accepted for military service. Nation: USSR. Decree 'On adoption of the R-7A into armaments' was issued. References: 474.
1960 September 12 - 20:38 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576B3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 47D. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Initial operational capability demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 13 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn C-2.
  • Apollo Study Bidder's Conference Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Class: Manned. Type: Lunar spacecraft. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM, Apollo Lunar Landing. Bidder's conference for circumlunar Apollo. Specification: Saturn C-2 compatability (6,800 kg mass for circumlunar mission); 14 day flight time; three-man crew in shirt-sleeve environment. References: 26, 27.
1960 September 13 -
  • STG briefing for prospective bidders for Apollo Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. An STG briefing was held at Langley Field, Va., for prospective bidders on three six-month feasibility studies of an advanced manned spacecraft as part of the Apollo program. A formal Request for Proposal was issued at the conference. References: 16.
1960 September 13 -
  • South African deep-space tracking facility Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. A formal agreement was signed by the United States and South Africa providing for the construction of a new deep-space tracking facility at Krugersdorp, near Johannesburg. It would be one of three stations equipped to maintain constant contact with lunar and planetary spacecraft. References: 16.
1960 September 13 - 17:55 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1XE-5. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1960 September 13 - 22:14 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC1E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 246 / Agena A 1058.
  • Discoverer 15 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-1 9010 / Agena A 1058. Mass: 863 kg (1,902 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-1. Agency: U.S. Air Force. Perigee: 200 km (120 mi). Apogee: 755 km (469 mi). Inclination: 80.90 deg. Period: 94.10 min. COSPAR: 1960-Mu-1. USAF Sat Cat: 57. Decay Date: 1960-10-18. KH-1; film capsule lost at sea. Mission failed. Attained orbit successfully. Capsule sank prior to retrieval. References: 2, 6.
1960 September 15 - 14:01 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 100. LV Configuration: Aerobee 100 AA1.126.
  • Solar Constant Solar ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 102 km (63 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 15 - 21:28 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1XE-6.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 16 -
  • 27 research rockets for COSPAR Nation: USA. 27 research rockets were launched by U.S. scientists as a part of the COSPAR International Rocket Interval for 1960. References: 17.
1960 September 16 - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-2. Model: R-2A.
  • Ionosphere / aeronomy / biological mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 210 km (130 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 17 - 00:50 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 76D.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 19 - 16:35 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LC-A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Journeyman. LV Configuration: Journeyman NASA 11.01GE.
  • NERV I Cosmic rays mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 1,884 km (1,170 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 19 - 18:31 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC14. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 79D.
  • Research and development test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Atlas ICBM fired 9030 statute miles, from Cape Canaveral to the Indian Ocean off the Cape of Good Hope in 50 minutes, the second record distance flight. References: 2.
1960 September 20 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D.
  • Mercury Atlas launch vehicle 67-D delivered to Cape Canaveral Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. The Atlas launch vehicle 67-D was delivered to Cape Canaveral for the Mercury-Atlas 2 (MA-2) reentry test mission. References: 483.
1960 September 20 - 12:55 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 AA3.142.
  • Thermal / CR Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 195 km (121 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 21 - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-11. Model: R-11A.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 210 km (130 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 21 - 13:01 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Blue Scout Jr. LV Configuration: Blue Scout Jr D-1.
  • Blue Scout first launch, with Radiation Probe (HETS) payload. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 26,700 km (16,500 mi). USAF Blue Scout rocket fired from Cape Canaveral placed instrumented payload 16,600 miles above the earth, the first of 11 such tests, but no data were received due to radio malfunction. References: 2.
1960 September 21 - 23:20 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun OB6.05. FAILURE: Failure.
  • H2O / ne Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 22 - 06:32 GMT - Launch Site: Akita. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 8. LV Configuration: Kappa 8 K-8-3.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 22 - 20:56 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-2. Model: R-2A.
  • Ionosphere / aeronomy / biology mission Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 210 km (130 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 22 - 22:05 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1XE-7. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1960 September 23 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1X-48.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 23 - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-11. Model: R-11A.
  • Ionosphere / aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 23 - 01:05 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1XE-8. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1960 September 23 - 17:52 GMT - Launch Site: Palmdale Omni DZ. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 34.7 N x 118.0 W. Launch Vehicle: X-15. LV Configuration: X-15 1-13-25. FAILURE: Engines fail.
  • X-15A test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 16 km (9 mi). Maximum Speed - 1783 kph. Maximum Altitude - 16168 m. Premature shutdown of both XLR-11's. References: 2.
1960 September 25 - 15:13 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC12. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas Able. LV Configuration: Atlas Able 80D / Able-5. FAILURE: Second stage exploded.
  • Pioneer (P 30) Nation: USA. Program: Pioneer. Payload: Pioneer P 30 / Able VA. Mass: 175 kg (385 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Lunar. Spacecraft: Pioneer P 3. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 1,290 km (800 mi). COSPAR: F600925A. Decay Date: 1960-09-25. An attempt to launch a Pioneer satellite into lunar orbit failed when one of the upper stages of the Atlas- Able rocket malfunctioned. References: 16, 126, 278.
1960 September 26 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D.
  • Roll-out inspection of Mercury Atlas launch vehicle 77-D Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. The roll-out inspection of Mercury Atlas launch vehicle 77-D was conducted at Convair-Astronautics. This launch vehicle was allocated for the Mercury-Atlas 3 (MA-3) mission, but was later canceled and Atlas booster 100-D was used instead. References: 483.
1960 September 26 - Launch Site: Ile du Levant. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: CERES. Launch Vehicle: Antares. Model: OPd-56-39-22D. LV Configuration: OPd-56-39-22D 006.
  • Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: France. Agency: ONERA. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 26 - 11:25 GMT - Launch Site: Akita. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 8. LV Configuration: Kappa 8 K-8-4.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 185 km (114 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 27 -
  • Reentry capsule parachute tests. Nation: USA. Parachute designed to slow reentry speed of space capsules successfully tested at a speed of 2,000 mph after rocket boost to 30-mile altitude, over Eglin AFB, Fla. References: 17.
1960 September 27 - 14:44 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.21GE.
  • SBE 5 Magnetosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 129 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 27 - 22:10 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Asp. Model: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp AA8.350.
  • Lunar X-ray X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 233 km (144 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 28 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC19. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I J-8.
  • Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 28 - 22:45 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun OB6.07.
  • H2O / ne Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 105 km (65 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 29 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn C-3, Saturn I, Saturn V.
  • RAND Corporation to evaluate nuclear propulsion missions Nation: USA. Program: NERVA. In a memorandum to NASA Associate Administrator Robert C. Seamans, Jr., Robert L. King, Executive Secretary, described the action taken on certain items discussed at the July 14-15 meeting of the Space Exploration Program Council. Among these actions was the awarding of a contract to The RAND Corporation to evaluate missions for which nuclear propulsion would be desirable. Included in the study would be the determination of availability dates, cost of development, operational costs, the safety aspects of the missions, and an evaluation of research requirements. References: 16.
1960 September 29 - 02:46 GMT - Launch Site: Akita. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 6H. LV Configuration: Kappa 6H K-6H-TW-9.
  • K-6H-1 Grenade Aeronomy mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 70 km (43 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 29 - 14:20 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC15. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I G-8.
  • RVX-4 test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 29 - 20:31 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576B2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 33D. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Initial operational capability demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 30 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn C-2, Saturn I.
  • Space Exploration Program Council Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. The fourth meeting of the Space Exploration Program Council was held at NASA Headquarters. The results of a study on Saturn development and utilization was presented by the Ad Hoc Saturn Study Committee. Objectives of the study were to determine (1) if and when the Saturn C-2 launch vehicle should be developed and (2) if mission and spacecraft planning was consistent with the Saturn vehicle development schedule. No change in the NASA Fiscal Year 1962 budget was contemplated. The Committee recommended that the Saturn C-2 development should proceed on schedule (S-II stage contract in Fiscal Year 1962, first flight in 1965). The C-2 would be essential, the study reported, for Apollo manned circumlunar missions, lunar unmanned exploration, Mars and Venus orbiters and capsule landers, probes to other planets and out-of- ecliptic, and for orbital starting of nuclear upper stages. Additional Details: Space Exploration Program Council. References: 16.
1960 September 30 - Launch Site: Ile du Levant. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: CERES. Launch Vehicle: Antares. Model: OPd-56-39-22D. LV Configuration: OPd-56-39-22D 007.
  • Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: France. Agency: ONERA. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 30 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LC-B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Viper. Model: Nike Viper I.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AEC. Apogee: 80 km (49 mi). References: 2.
1960 September 30 - October 3 -
  • STG Evaluation Board for advanced manned spacecraft Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. Charles J. Donlan of STG, Chairman of the Evaluation Board which would consider contractors' proposals on feasibility studies for an advanced manned spacecraft, invited the Directors of Ames Research Center, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Flight Research Center, Lewis Research Center, Langley Research Center, and Marshall Space Flight Center to name representatives to the Evaluation Board. The first meeting was to be held on October 10 at Langley Field, Va. References: 16.
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