Chronology - Quarter 4 1962 home
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1962 October 1 - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2.
  • Air Force Space Systems Division revised the Development Plan for the Gemini launch vehicle. Nation: USA. The budget was raised to $181.3 million. Cost increases in work on the vertical test facility at Martin's Baltimore plant, on the conversion of pad 19 at Cape Canaveral, and on aerospace ground equipment had already generated a budget increase to $172.6 million during September. The new Development Plan also indicated that the first launch date had slipped to December 1963.
1962 October 1 -
  • Storm "Daisy" threatens Mercury MA-8 Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Flight: Mercury MA-8. Tropical storm 'Daisy' was studied by Mercury operations activities for its possible effects on the Mercury-Atlas 8 (MA-8) mission, but flight preparations continued. References: 483.
1962 October -
  • Project SAINT cut back. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: SAINT, SAINT II. Project SAINT satellite interceptor project was cut back, leading to its eventually cancellation. The spacecraft would have rendezvoused with hostile satellites, inspected them with television cameras, and then disabled them.
1962 Q4 - Launch Site: WTR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2.
  • Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1962 Q4 - Launch Site: WTR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2.
  • Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1962 Q4 - Launch Site: WTR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2.
  • Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1962 Q4 - Launch Site: WTR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2.
  • Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 2 - 11:46 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576B2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 4D. FAILURE: Failure.
  • NTMP K-3 Target mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 2 - 22:11 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta A. LV Configuration: Thor Delta A 345/D13.
  • Explorer 14 Nation: USA. Program: Explorer. Payload: EPE B (S-3A). Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Solar. Spacecraft: EPE. Agency: NASA. Perigee: 2,558 km (1,589 mi). Apogee: 96,229 km (59,793 mi). Inclination: 42.30 deg. Period: 2,184.60 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Gamma-1. USAF Sat Cat: 432. Decay Date: 1964-12-31. Magnetosphere studies. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). References: 2, 6.
1962 October 3 -
  • Zagami Meteorite Fall (Mars Meteorite) Nation: Nigeria.
1962 October 3 - 12:15 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC14. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 113D.
  • Mercury MA-8 Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Payload: Mercury SC16. Mass: 1,374 kg (3,029 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Mercury. Location of Spacecraft: Astronaut Hall of Fame, Titusville, FL. Agency: NASA. Perigee: 153 km (95 mi). Apogee: 285 km (177 mi). Inclination: 32.50 deg. Period: 88.80 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Delta-1. USAF Sat Cat: 433. Duration: 0.38 days. Decay Date: 1962-10-03. Crew: Schirra. Flight: Mercury MA-8. The Sigma 7 spacecraft with Astronaut Walter M. Schirra, Jr., as pilot was launched into orbit by a Mercury-Atlas vehicle from Atlantic Missile Range. In the most successful American manned space flight to date, Schirra traveled nearly six orbits, returning to earth at a predetermined point in the Pacific Ocean 9 hours, 13 minutes after liftoff. Within 40 minutes after landing, he and his spacecraft were safely aboard the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Kearsarge. Schirra attempted and achieved a nearly perfect mission by sticking rigorously to mission plan. References: 2, 6, 16, 26, 33, 59, 60, 278.
1962 October 4 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn V.
  • First full-duration static firing of the Apollo J-2 engine Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Rocketdyne Division successfully completed the first full-duration (250-seconds) static firing of the J-2 engine. References: 16.
1962 October 4 - 18:10 GMT - Launch Site: Delamar Dry Lake DZ. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 37.3 N x 114.9 W. Launch Vehicle: X-15. LV Configuration: X-15 3-10-19. FAILURE: Failure of APU, ball nose, and yaw damper.
  • X-15A VO Stability test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 34 km (21 mi). Maximum Speed - 5620 kph. Maximum Altitude - 34200 m. References: 2.
1962 October 5 -
  • Schirra would have been killed if Mercury MA-8 had gone above 640 km Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Flight: Mercury MA-8. A U.S. Air Force spokesman, Lt. Colonel Albert C. Trakowski, announced that special instruments on unidentified military test satellites had confirmed the danger that astronaut Walter M. Schirra, Jr., could have been killed if his MA-8 space flight had taken him above a 400-mile altitude. The artificial radiation belt, created by the U.S. high altitude nuclear test in July, sharply increases in density above 400-miles altitude at the geomagnetic equator and reaches peak intensities of 100 to 1,000 times normal levels at altitudes above 1,000 miles. References: 483.
1962 October 5 -
  • European Southern Observatory founded. Nation: Europe.
1962 October 5 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC41/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 5 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC60/8. Launch Pad: LC60/8?. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U. LV Configuration: R-16U 17 min salvo.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 6 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 395-A1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-35.
  • Research and development Category II test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 7 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D.
  • The Mercury-Atlas 8 (MA-8) press conference was held at the Rice University, Houston, Texas. Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Astronaut Schirra expressed his belief that the spacecraft was ready for the 1-day mission, that he experienced absolutely no difficulties with his better than 9 hours of weightlessness, and that the flight was of the 'textbook' variety. References: 483.
1962 October 9 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D.
  • Mercury spacecraft 20 delivered to Cape Canaveral Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Spacecraft: Mercury. Flight: Mercury MA-9. Spacecraft 20 was delivered to Cape Canaveral for the Mercury-Atlas 9 (MA-9) 1-day mission flight. References: 483.
1962 October 9 - Launch Site: Altus AFB. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F.
  • Atlas SMS 577 operational. Nation: USA. Altus AFB SMS 577 operational References: 4460.
1962 October 9 - 18:35 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC1W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 352 / Agena B 1134.
  • KH-5 9046A Nation: USA. Payload: KH-5 s/n 9046A/Agena B 1134. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-5. Agency: U.S. Air Force. Perigee: 213 km (132 mi). Apogee: 427 km (265 mi). Inclination: 82.00 deg. Period: 91.00 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Epsilon-1. USAF Sat Cat: 436. Decay Date: 1962-10-16. KH-5; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. 50% of stellar terrain film was blank due to shutter malfunction. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
  • SRV 603 Nation: USA. Spacecraft: KH-5. Agency: USAF. COSPAR: 1962-B-Epsilon-x. References: 2, 279.
1962 October 9 - 18:58 GMT - Launch Site: Delamar Dry Lake DZ. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 37.3 N x 114.9 W. Launch Vehicle: X-15. LV Configuration: X-15 2-30-51.
  • X-15A VO Stability test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 39 km (24 mi). Maximum Speed - 5979 kph. Maximum Altitude - 39700 m. References: 2.
1962 October 11 - Launch Site: Barking Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF?. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 12 - 16:24 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC16. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-9.
  • Mk 6 re-entry vehicle test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 13 - Launch Vehicle: GR-1.
  • GR-1 FOBS missile authorised. Nation: USSR. State Committee for Defence Technology (GKOT) Decree 640/06 'On start of work on the GR-1' was issued. References: 474.
1962 October 13 - 06:59 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 AC3.353.
  • AS&E-4 X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 317 km (196 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 14 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A1. LV Configuration: Polaris A1T-8.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 15 -
  • Ranger 3 showed that gamma-rays greater than expected Nation: USA. Program: Ranger. Spacecraft: Ranger 3-4-5. The analysis of scientific measurements made by the Ranger III lunar probe showed that gamma-ray intensity in interplanetary space was ten times greater than expected, NASA reported. Measurements were taken by gamma-ray spectrometers on Ranger III after it was launched on January 26. NASA scientists, however, did not believe that gamma-ray intensity was "great enough to require any changes in the design of radiation shielding for manned spacecraft." References: 16.
1962 October 15 -
  • Five additional Ranger spacecraft to be added Nation: USA. Program: Ranger. Spacecraft: Ranger 6-7-8-9. NASA announced that five additional Ranger spacecraft would be added to the lunar exploration program, raising the total to 14 to be launched through 1964. References: 16.
1962 October 15 - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3C.
  • Titan III research and development begun. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Dynasoar. Following Congressional approval of development funding, Air Force headquarters issued System Program Directive 9, authorizing research and development of Titan III, System 624A. By this time the funding and schedule for development of the Titan IIIC booster was the pacing item in the Dynasoar project. The launch schedule had to be revised and reduced yet once again. Delivery of the first Dyna-Soar was to be made by October 1964 and first orbital launch by the end of 1965. While the first glider test would be 14 months later than the original July 1957 schedule, the first orbital flight was expected six months earlier.
1962 October 15 - 08:39 GMT - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Blandine. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Veronique. LV Configuration: Veronique AGI37.
  • Bio (Rat) Life science mission Nation: France. Agency: FR. Apogee: 120 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 15 - 16:17 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 2. LV Configuration: Skylark-2 SL82.
  • Antenna test / SpE Ionosphere mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 154 km (95 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 16 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC60/8. Launch Pad: LC60/8?. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 16 - 09:14 GMT - Launch Site: Johnston Island. Launch Complex: LE2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor DSV-2E. LV Configuration: Thor DSV-2E 156. FAILURE: At 86 seconds after launch a booster failure occurred and the missile began tumbling.
  • BLUEGILL DOUBLE PRIME Nuclear test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). The third attempt to launch a nuclear warhead using a Thor IRBM. At 86 seconds after launch a booster failure occurred and the missile began tumbling. Range safety destroyed the errant booster at 156 seconds after launch. Some radioactive fallout from the warhead was detected on Johnston Atoll. References: 2.
1962 October 16 - 15:06 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.31GI.
  • Langmir Probe / CWPE Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 166 km (103 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 17 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC41/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 17 - 09:00 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92. LV Configuration: Vostok 8A92 T15000-03.
  • Cosmos 10 Nation: USSR. Payload: Zenit-2 11F61 s/n 5. Mass: 4,700 kg (10,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2. Agency: RVSN. Perigee: 178 km (110 mi). Apogee: 376 km (233 mi). Inclination: 64.90 deg. Period: 90.00 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Zeta-1. USAF Sat Cat: 437. Duration: 4.00 days. Decay Date: 1962-10-21. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite. Also performed radiation measurements. References: 2, 6,93.
1962 October 17 - 15:52 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AC6.832.
  • VLF Propagation Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 141 km (87 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 18 - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-5. Model: R-5B.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 508 km (315 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 18 - 00:53 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC31B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 422. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 18 - 08:31 GMT - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Blandine. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Veronique. LV Configuration: Veronique AGI36.
  • Bio (Rat) Life science mission Nation: France. Agency: FR. Apogee: 110 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 18 - 16:59 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC12. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 215D (AA7) / Agena B 6005 (AA7).
  • Ranger 5 Nation: USA. Program: Ranger. Mass: 340 kg (740 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Lunar. Spacecraft: Ranger 3-4-5. Agency: NASA. COSPAR: 1962-B-Eta-1. USAF Sat Cat: 439. The Ranger V lunar probe was launched from Atlantic Missile Range by an Atlas-Agena B launch vehicle. The Agena B stage attained parking orbit and 25 minutes later reignited to send Ranger V toward the moon. A malfunction in the Agena B guidance system resulted in excessive spacecraft velocity. The spacecraft's solar cells did not provide power and reversed command signals caused the telemetry antenna to lose earth acquisition. This made reception of the flight-path correction signal impossible and rendering its television cameras useless. Reversed command signals caused the telemetry antenna to lose earth acquisition, and mid-course correction was not possible. The spacecraft missed the Moon by 725 km and went into solar orbit. Gamma-ray data were collected for 4 hours prior to the loss of power. Ranger V was to have relayed television pictures of the lunar surface and rough-landed an instrumented capsule containing a seismometer. The spacecraft was tracked for 8 hours, 44 minutes, before its small reserve battery went dead. Additional Details: Ranger 5. References: 2, 6, 16, 278, 296.
1962 October 19 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Blandine. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Veronique. LV Configuration: Veronique AGI44.
  • Test mission Nation: France. Agency: FR. Apogee: 135 km (83 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 19 - 18:15 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 14F.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 20 - 04:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Mayak-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 63S1.
  • Cosmos 11 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-A1 s/n 1. Mass: 315 kg (694 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Navigation. Spacecraft: DS-A1. Agency: RVSN. Perigee: 240 km (140 mi). Apogee: 858 km (533 mi). Inclination: 48.90 deg. Period: 95.60 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Theta-1. USAF Sat Cat: 441. Completed Operations Date: 1962-10-28. Decay Date: 1964-05-18. Carried military experiments to test communications and navigation equipment needed for command and control of Soviet nuclear forces (later used on the Uragan navigation satellites). Also conducted operational monitoring of cosmic rays, radiation from nuclear tests, and natural and artifically-produced radiation belts. References: 2, 6, 99.
1962 October 20 - 08:30 GMT - Launch Site: Johnston Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Sergeant. Model: Castor-Recruit.
  • CHECKMATE Nuclear test Nation: USA. Agency: AEC. Apogee: 147 km (91 mi). Test of the Los Alamos XW-50X1 60 kiloton nuclear warhead. Launch vehicle was a solid propellant XM-33 Strypi rocket with a Recruit booster stage. The warhead detonated at an altitude of 147 km, 66 km from Johnston Island. Observers on the island saw a green and blue circular region surrounded by a red ring. This faded in less than a minute. Blue-green streamers and pink striations developed that lasted half an hour. At this yield, even with the high altitude, extensive disruption of communications were not reported. References: 2.
1962 October 21 - Launch Site: Barking Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF?. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 22 - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-5. Model: R-5B.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 22 - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-5. Model: R-5M.
  • Nuclear test K-3 Nuclear test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). The R-12 (other sources say an R-5M) launched a live thermonuclear warheads toward Sary Shagan which was detonated at an altitude of 300 km. High altitude tests designed to test electromagnetic pulse effects on electronics, especially ABM system radars. References: 2.
1962 October 22 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-9. Model: Romashka. FAILURE: Failure.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1962 October 22 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Blandine. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Veronique. LV Configuration: Veronique AGI46.
  • Test mission Nation: France. Agency: FR. Apogee: 120 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 23 -
  • Gemini ground support equipment for Apollo program Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Gemini. At the request of NASA, about 300 pieces of Gemini ground support equipment were examined by NAA engineers. It appeared that about 190 items would be usable on the Apollo program. References: 16.
1962 October 23 - 11:01 GMT - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Blandine. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Veronique. LV Configuration: Veronique AGI32.
  • Airglow Aeronomy /ionosphere mission Nation: France. Agency: FR. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). Diffuse solar radiation mission. References: 2.
1962 October 23 - 19:10 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike AC20.463.
  • Firefly III ETHEL Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 137 km (85 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 23 - 19:30 GMT - Launch Site: Mud Lake DZ. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 37.9 N x 117.1 W. Launch Vehicle: X-15. LV Configuration: X-15 3-11-20.
  • X-15A VO Stability test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 41 km (25 mi). Maximum Speed - 6056 kph. Maximum Altitude - 41000 m. References: 2.
1962 October 24 -
  • Final manned lunar landing mode report Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. Faced by opposition of mode selection by Jerome Wiesner, Kennedy's science adviser, NASA let contracts to McDonnell and STL for direct two-man flight modes. Both concluded that it was feasible but would require LH2/LOX stages for descent and ascent from lunar surface, which NASA/STG adamantly opposed. This was also the last stab - for the time being - at 'lunar Gemini'.

    The Office of Systems under NASA's Office of Manned Space Flight completed a manned lunar landing mode comparison embodying the most recent studies by contractors and NASA Centers. The report was the outgrowth of the decision announced by NASA on July 11 to continue studies on lunar landing modes while basing planning and procurement primarily on the lunar orbit rendezvous (LOR) technique. Additional Details: Final manned lunar landing mode report. References: 16.

1962 October 24 - 09:46 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: HAD. LV Configuration: HAD 111.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE. Apogee: 133 km (82 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 24 - 17:55 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78 T103-15. FAILURE: 16 seconds after ignition of Stage 4, Block L's S1.5400A1 engine exploded. A lubricant leak resulted in the jamming of a shaft in the turbopump gearbox and break up of the turbine.
  • Sputnik 22 Nation: USSR. Program: Mars. Payload: 2MV-4 s/n 3. Mass: 6,500 kg (14,300 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Mars. Spacecraft: Mars 2MV-4. Agency: RVSN. Perigee: 202 km (125 mi). Apogee: 260 km (160 mi). Inclination: 65.10 deg. Period: 89.10 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Iota-1. USAF Sat Cat: 443. Decay Date: 1962-10-29. Mars probe intended to photograph Mars on a flyby trajectory. The spacecraft broke into many pieces, some of which apparently remained in Earth orbit for a few days. This occurred during the Cuban missile crisis and was picked up by U.S. military radar installations, who originally feared it might by the start of a Soviet nuclear attack. References: 2, 6, 64, 65, 118, 296.
1962 October 25 - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Mayak-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 63S1. FAILURE: Launch vehicle failed to orbit - unknown cause.
  • 1MS Nation: USSR. Program: MS. Class: Technology. Spacecraft: 1MS. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: F621025A. References: 2.
1962 October 25 - 06:00 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Exos. LV Configuration: Exos CRL AA13.195.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 669 km (415 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 25 - 06:30 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AA6.444.
  • Firefly III ENID Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 137 km (85 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 25 - 23:28 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 AC3.138.
  • Extreme ultraviolet Mon / XR / RPA Solar ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 213 km (132 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 26 - Launch Vehicle: Little Joe II, Saturn I, Saturn V.
  • New numbering system for flight missions of the Apollo spacecraft Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Flight missions of the Apollo spacecraft were to be numerically identified in the future according to the following scheme :

    Pad aborts: PA-1, PA-2, etc.

    Missions using Little Joe II launch vehicles: A-001, A-002, etc. Missions using Saturn C-1 launch vehicles: A-101, A-102, etc. Missions using Saturn C-1B launch vehicles: A-201, A-202, etc. Missions using Saturn C-5 launch vehicles: A-501, A-502, etc.

    The 'A' denoted Apollo, the first digit stood for launch vehicle type or series, and the last two digits designated the order of Apollo spacecraft flights within a vehicle series. References: 16.

1962 October 26 - Launch Site: Johnston Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Javelin.
  • Mass spectrometer Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 26 - 09:44 GMT - Launch Site: Johnston Island. Launch Complex: LE1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor DSV-2E. LV Configuration: Thor DSV-2E 141.
  • BLUEGILL TRIPLE PRIME Nuclear test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). On the fourth attempt, a Thor IRBM was used to launch a Mk 4 Re-entry Vehicle containing a 186 kg W-50 nuclear warhead of either 200 or 400 kilotons yield. The detonation occurred at an altitude of 50 km, 31 km SSW of Johnston Atoll. A fireball formed, the colourful afterglow continuing for 30 minutes of the explosion. At this altitude the extensive disruption of the ionosphere seen in later explosions did not occur. References: 2.
1962 October 26 - 09:58 GMT - Launch Site: Johnston Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike X-11.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 26 - 10:05 GMT - Launch Site: Johnston Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike X-12.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 26 - 10:11 GMT - Launch Site: Johnston Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike X-14.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 26 - 10:22 GMT - Launch Site: Johnston Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike X-17.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 26 - 10:59 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576A1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 159D.
  • NTMP K-5 / Pod 20 Target Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 26 - 16:14 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 353 / Agena D 1401.
  • Starfish Radiation 1 Nation: USA. Payload: Star-Rad 1 / Agena D 1401. Mass: 1,100 kg (2,400 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: Starfish. Agency: U.S. Air Force. Perigee: 197 km (122 mi). Apogee: 5,458 km (3,391 mi). Inclination: 71.40 deg. Period: 146.50 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Kappa-1. USAF Sat Cat: 444. Decay Date: 1967-10-05. Artificial radiation data. References: 2, 6.
1962 October 26 - 17:05 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC15. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-12.
  • Mk 6 re-entry vehicle test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 27 - 23:15 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta A. LV Configuration: Thor Delta A 346/D14.
  • Explorer 15 Nation: USA. Program: Explorer. Payload: EPE C (S-3C SERB). Mass: 45 kg (99 lb). Class: Solar. Spacecraft: EPE. Agency: NASA. Perigee: 306 km (190 mi). Apogee: 17,610 km (10,940 mi). Inclination: 17.90 deg. Period: 314.70 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Lambda-1. USAF Sat Cat: 445. Decay Date: 1978-12-19. Radiation decay data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). References: 2, 6.
1962 October 28 - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-5. Model: R-5M.
  • Nuclear test K-4 Nuclear test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). In a test of nuclear fratricide and ABM effectiveness, an R-5M (some sources say an R-12) launched a live thermonuclear warhead toward Semipalitinsk/Sary Shagan which was detonated at an altitude of 150 km. Two R-9 ICBM's were launched minutes earlier, timed to pass through the zone of the explosion. Both missiles guided to the planned impact zone without apparent ill-effect. This high altitude test was designed to test electromagnetic pulse effects on electronics, especially ABM system radars and incoming 'friendly' ICBM's. References: 2.
1962 October 28 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC51. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-9. Model: Romashka. FAILURE: Failure.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). In a test of nuclear fratricide and ABM effectiveness, an R-5M (some sources say an R-12) launched a live thermonuclear warhead toward Semipalitinsk/Sary Shagan which was detonated at an altitude of 150 km. Two R-9 ICBM's were launched minutes earlier, timed to pass through the zone of the explosion. Both missiles guided to the planned impact zone without apparent ill-effect. This high altitude test was designed to test electromagnetic pulse effects on electronics, especially ABM system radars and incoming 'friendly' ICBM's. References: 2.
1962 October 29 - Launch Site: Barking Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF?. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 29 - 23:21 GMT - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Blandine. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Veronique. LV Configuration: Veronique AGI34.
  • Aeronomy /ionosphere mission Nation: France. Agency: FR. Apogee: 180 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 30 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn V.
  • Contract for production of the S-II stage signed Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. NASA announced the signing of a contract with the Space and Information Systems Division of NAA for the development and production of the second stage (S-II) of the Saturn C-5 launch vehicle. The $319.9-million contract, under the direction of Marshall Space Flight Center, covered the production of nine live flight stages, one inert flight stage, and several ground-test units for the advanced Saturn launch vehicle. NAA had been selected on September 11, 1961, to develop the S-II. References: 16.
1962 October 30 - 01:50 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150A NASA 04.54UG.
  • OAO sensors Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 188 km (116 mi). References: 2.
1962 October 31 -
  • NAA completed the firm-cost proposal for the definitive Apollo program Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. NAA completed the firm-cost proposal for the definitive Apollo program and submitted it to NASA. MSC had reviewed the contract package and negotiated a program plan position with NAA. References: 16.
1962 October 31 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn V.
  • Contract for the S-IVB stage for use in the Saturn C- 1B Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. NASA announced that the Douglas Aircraft Company had been awarded a $2.25million contract to modify the S-IVB stage for use in the Saturn C- 1B program. References: 16.
1962 October -
  • Apollo CM blowout emergency escape hatch not needed Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. Elimination of the requirement for personal parachutes nullified consideration of a command module (CM) blowout emergency escape hatch. A set of quick-acting latches for the inward-opening crew hatch would be needed, however, to provide a means of egress following a forced landing. The latches would be operable from outside as well as inside the pressure vessel. Outside hardware for securing the ablative panel over the crew door would be required as well as a method of releasing the panel from inside the CM. References: 16.
1962 October -
  • Gemini fuel cell for the lunar excursion module studied Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Gemini. The feasibility of using the Gemini fuel cell for the lunar excursion module was studied by NAA. However, because of modifications to meet Apollo control and auxiliary requirements, the much lighter Gemini system would ultimately weigh about as much as the Apollo fuel cell. In addition, the Gemini fuel cell schedule would slip if the system had to be adapted to the Apollo mission. References: 16.
1962 October 31 - 08:03 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Ablestar. LV Configuration: Thor Ablestar 319 AB012.
  • Anna 1B Nation: USA. Mass: 161 kg (354 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic. Spacecraft: Anna. Agency: U.S. Navy. Perigee: 1,075 km (667 mi). Apogee: 1,181 km (733 mi). Inclination: 50.10 deg. Period: 107.90 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Mu-1. USAF Sat Cat: 446. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). References: 2, 6.
1962 October 31 - 23:33 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike AC20.461. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Firefly III HAZEL Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 1 - Launch Vehicle: N1.
  • Chelomei takes over Lavochkin and Myasishchev OKBs Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1. Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-L1. At Khrushchev's decision Chelomei takes over Lavochkin's OKB-301 and Myasishchev's OKB-23. Lavochkin had built objects 205, 207, 400 (SA-1,2,5); Chelomei UR-96 ABM-1. References: 70.
1962 November 1 - Launch Site: Ile du Levant. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: CERES. Launch Vehicle: Berenice. LV Configuration: Berenice 004.
  • Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: France. Agency: ONERA. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 1 - Launch Site: Sary Shagan. Launch Complex: LC6. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: V-1000.
  • Operation K-5 ABM test Nation: USSR. Agency: PRO. Apogee: 25 km (15 mi). References: 2.
1962 November - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2.
  • During the first three weeks of the month, Air Force Space Systems Division and Martin-Baltimore negotiated the terms of the contract for Phase I of the Gemini launch vehicle program. Nation: USA. The resulting cost-plus-fixed-fee contract included an estimated cost of $52.5 million and a fixed fee of $3.465 million. This contract covered the development and procurement of the first launch vehicle and preparations for manufacturing and procuring the remaining 14 vehicles required by the Gemini program.
1962 November 1 - 11:15 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: R-12.
  • Nuclear Test K-5 Nuclear test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 60 km (37 mi). R-12 test flight with live nuclear warhead, successful warhead detonation in Semipalitinsk at an altitude of 60 km. High altitude test designed to study electromagnetic pulse effects on electronics, especially ABM system radars. Communications were disrupted over a wide area for over an hour. References: 2.
1962 November 1 - 11:54 GMT - Launch Site: Johnston Island. Launch Complex: LE2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor DSV-2E. LV Configuration: Thor DSV-2E 226.
  • KINGFISH Nuclear test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). A Thor IRBM was used to launch a Mk 4 Reentry Vehicle containing a 186 kg W-50 nuclear warhead of either 200 or 400 kilotons yield. The detonation occurred at an altitude of 98 km, 69 km SSW of Johnston Atoll, and resulted in dramatic aurora-like effects visible as far away as Hawaii. More notably, the explosion had a massive effect on the ionosphere which disrupted radio communications over the entire central Pacific for three hours. References: 2.
1962 November 1 - 12:16 GMT - Launch Site: Johnston Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike X-24.
  • Electron density Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 1 - 12:24 GMT - Launch Site: Johnston Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike X-27.
  • Electron density Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 1 - 12:40 GMT - Launch Site: Johnston Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike X-28.
  • Electron density Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 1 - 16:14 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78 T103-16.
  • Mars 1 Nation: USSR. Program: Mars. Payload: 2MV-4 s/n 4 / Sputnik 23. Mass: 894 kg (1,970 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Mars. Spacecraft: Mars 2MV-4. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: 1962-B-Nu-3. USAF Sat Cat: 450. Mars probe intended to photograph Mars on a flyby trajectory. Launched from Sputnik 23 in a 157 x 238 km, 65 degree parking orbit. Sixty-one radio transmissions were held in which a large amount of data was collected. On March 21, 1963, when the spacecraft was at a distance of 106 million km communications ceased, possibly due to a malfunction in the spacecraft orientation system. Mars 1 closest approach to Mars occurred on June 19, 1963 at a distance of approximately 193,000 km, after which the spacecraft entered a heliocentric orbit. Announced mission: Prolonged exploration of outer space during flight to the planet Mars; establishment of inter-planetary radio communications; photgraphing of the planet Mars and subsquent radio-transmission to Earth of the photographs of the surface of Mars thus obtained. References: 2, 6, 118, 296.
1962 November 2 - 04:25 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike Nike AC20.462.
  • Firefly III LISA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 3 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC41/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U.
  • Operational test launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 4 -
  • Mercury veteran Enos dies Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Enos, the 6-year-old chimpanzee who made a two-orbit flight around the earth aboard the Mercury-Atlas 5 (MA-5) spacecraft (November 29, 1961, entry) died at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico. The chimpanzee had been under night and day observation and treatment for 2 months before his death. He was afflicted with shigella dysentary, a type resistant to antibiotics, and this caused his death. Officials at the Air Medical Research Laboratory stated that his illness and death were in no way related to his orbital flight the year before. References: 483.
1962 November 4 - 07:15 GMT - Launch Site: Johnston Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike Hercules.
  • DOMINIC TIGHTROPE Nuclear test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 24 km (14 mi). This was a DOD sponsored live test of the Nike Hercules air defense missile system. The low-kiloton range W-31 warhead detonated at 21 km altitude 3 km SSW of Johnston Atoll. This was the last U.S. atmospheric test. On Johnston Island an intense white flash was accompanied by a strong heat pulse. A yellow-orange disc formed, slowly changing to a purple toroid which faded from view after several minutes. References: 2.
1962 November 4 - 15:35 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78 T103-17. FAILURE: After T+260 sec, a malfunction of the pressurization system of the central sustainer led to cavitation in the oxidizer pipeline and LOX pump, followed at T+292s by the fuel pump.
  • Sputnik 24 Nation: USSR. Program: Mars. Payload: 2MV-3 s/n 1. Mass: 890 kg (1,960 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Venus. Spacecraft: Mars 2MV-3. Agency: RVSN. Perigee: 170 km (100 mi). Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). Inclination: 64.80 deg. Period: 87.90 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Xi-1. USAF Sat Cat: 451. Decay Date: 1962-11-05. Mars probe intended to make a soft landing on Mars. Although the escape stage and payload reached orbit, the strong third stage vibrations shook a fuse loose from its mount in the main nozzle of the escape stage Block L's engine. The engine could not be ignited and remained in Earth orbit. It decayed about two months after insertion. References: 2, 6, 64, 65, 118, 296.
1962 November 5 - 22:04 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC1W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 356 / Agena B 1136.
  • KH-4 9047 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-4 s/n 9047 / Agena B 1136. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-4. Agency: U.S. Air Force. Perigee: 208 km (129 mi). Apogee: 403 km (250 mi). Inclination: 75.00 deg. Period: 90.60 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Omicron-1. USAF Sat Cat: 453. Decay Date: 1962-12-03. KH-4; film capsule; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. Camera door malfunctioned, flare degraded 15% of film. References: 2, 6.
  • SRV 599 Nation: USA. Spacecraft: KH-4. Agency: USAF. COSPAR: 1962-B-Omicron-x. References: 2, 279.
1962 November 6 - 19:45 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 AC3.148.
  • HR solar spectrum Solar extreme ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 308 km (191 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 7 -
  • Selection of Grumman to build the Apollo lunar excursion module Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM, Apollo Lunar Landing. NASA announced that the Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation had been selected to build the lunar excursion module of the three-man Apollo spacecraft under the direction of MSC. The contract, still to be negotiated, was expected to be worth about $350 million, with estimates as high as $1 billion by the time the project would be completed. Additional Details: Selection of Grumman to build the Apollo lunar excursion module. References: 16.
1962 November 7 - 10:25 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.99CI.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 132 km (82 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 7 - 10:53 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.16CA.
  • Sodium release (14.13?) Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 165 km (102 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 7 - 19:43 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 16F.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 8 - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC38. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike Zeus. Model: Nike Zeus. LV Configuration: Nike Zeus-3.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 9 -
  • Raytheon contracted for the Apollo spacecraft guidance computer Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. The Manned Spacecraft Center (MSC) and the Raytheon Company came to terms on the definitive contract for the Apollo spacecraft guidance computer. References: 16.
1962 November 9 -
  • Plans for additional Vostoks quashed Nation: USSR. Program: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 7, Vostok 8, Vostok 9, Vostok 10, Vostok 11, Vostok 12, Vostok 13. Kamanin prepared recommendations for General Staff discussions on future Vostok military flights. His plan involved construction of ten additional spacecraft including new versions to test military equipment for reconnaisance, interception, and combat objectives. Flights would begin in 1963: manned flights of ten days duration; flights with biological payloads of 30 days duration; flights with biological payloads in high orbits to test the effects of Van Allen radiation belt exposure; flights that would conduct a range of technology experiments, including manual landing; landing with the cosmonaut within the capsule; depressurisation of the capsule to vacuum test equipment and suits for future spacewalks; etc). The plan was killed by his superiors. References: 376.
1962 November 9 - 03:12 GMT - Launch Site: Point Mugu. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike Zeus. Model: Nike Zeus. LV Configuration: Nike Zeus-3.
  • PM-16? sim target Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 9 - 18:23 GMT - Launch Site: Mud Lake DZ. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 37.9 N x 117.1 W. Launch Vehicle: X-15. LV Configuration: X-15 2-31-52. FAILURE: Engine failure. Crash landing on Mud Lake.
  • X-15A VO Stab, Bound.Layer test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 16 km (9 mi). Engine only produced 35% power. Emergency landing at Mud Lake. Aircraft seriously damaged when gear failed. McKay injured. Maximum Speed - 1640 kph. Maximum Altitude - 16450 m. References: 2.
1962 November 11 - 01:03 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 AC3.452.
  • Firefly III FANNY Aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 260 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 11 - 20:17 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 128D / Agena B SPS 2405.
  • Samos 11 Nation: USA. Payload: Samos E-6 no. 3 / TRS 1 / Agena B 2405. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Samos. Agency: U.S. Air Force. Perigee: 128 km (79 mi). Apogee: 292 km (181 mi). Inclination: 96.00 deg. Period: 88.70 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Pi-1. USAF Sat Cat: 455. Decay Date: 1962-11-12. Second generation photo surveillance; radio relay of images; Satellite and Missile Observation Satellite. Poor results. SAMOS project cancelled. References: 2, 6, 278.
  • TRS 1 Nation: USA. Payload: ERS 1. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: ERS. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: 1962-B-Pi-xx. References: 2, 279.
  • FTV 2405 RV Nation: USA. Payload: E-6 RV. Spacecraft: Samos. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: 1962-B-Pi-xx. References: 2, 279.
1962 November 12 -
  • Plans for Vostok female cosmonaut flight discussed. Nation: USSR. Program: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6, Vostok 6A. A meeting was held to discuss alternatives for the next two Vostok flights. Alternatives were simultaneous flight of two capsules, each with a female cosmonaut; or one female flight and a male 5 to 7 day flight. The flight would occur no earlier than April 1963. References: 376.
1962 November 13 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D.
  • Cooper named for Mercury MA-9 1-day orbital mission Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Flight: Mercury MA-9. Gordon Cooper was named as the pilot for Mercury-Atlas 9 (MA-9) 1-day orbital mission slated for April 1963. Alan Shepard, pilot of Mercury-Redstone 3 (MR-3) was designated as backup pilot. References: 483.
1962 November 13 - 10:10 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 7C. LV Configuration: Skylark-7C SL114.
  • Solar X-rays / Meteors / O3 Solar / aeronomy / chemica mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 206 km (128 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 13 - 22:30 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 AC3.453.
  • Firefly III GILDA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 253 km (157 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 14 - 22:36 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: OSTF2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 13F. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 15 -
  • Firings of the prototype Apollo service propulsion engine completed Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. The Aerojet-General Corporation reported completion of successful firings of the prototype service propulsion engine. The restartable engine, with an ablative thrust chamber, reached thrusts up to 21,500 pounds. (Normal thrust rating for the service propulsion engine is 20,500.) References: 16.
1962 November 15 - Launch Site: Dyess AFB. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F.
  • Atlas SMS 578 operational. Nation: USA. Dyess AFB SMS 578 operational References: 4460.
1962 November 16 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D.
  • Mercury spacecraft 15A delivered to Cape Canaveral Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Spacecraft: Mercury. Flight: Mercury MA-10. Mercury spacecraft 15A was delivered to Cape Canaveral for the Mercury-Atlas 10 (MA-10) orbital manned 1-day mission. References: 483.
1962 November 16 - 01:26 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 AC3.449 (SF6).
  • Firefly III KAREN Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 234 km (145 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 16 - 17:45 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC34. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Saturn I. Model: Saturn C-1. LV Configuration: Saturn C-1 SA-3.
  • Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 167 km (103 mi). Third suborbital test of Saturn I. Saturn-Apollo 3 (Saturn C-1, later called Saturn I) was launched from the Atlantic Missile Range. Upper stages of the launch vehicle were filled with 23000 gallons of water to simulate the weight of live stages. At its peak altitude of 167 kilometers (104 miles), four minutes 53 seconds after launch, the rocket was detonated by explosives upon command from earth. The water was released into the ionosphere, forming a massive cloud of ice particles several miles in diameter. By this experiment, known as "Project Highwater," scientists had hoped to obtain data on atmospheric physics, but poor telemetry made the results questionable. The flight was the third straight success for the Saturn C-1 and the first with maximum fuel on board. References: 2.
1962 November 17 -
  • Four injured when an electrical spark ignited a fire in a Navy altitude chamber Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. Four Navy officers were injured when an electrical spark ignited a fire in an altitude chamber, near the end of a 14-day experiment at the U.S. Navy Air Crew Equipment Laboratory, Philadelphia, Pa. The men were participating in a NASA experiment to determine the effect on humans of breathing pure oxygen for 14 days at simulated altitudes. References: 16.
1962 November 17 - 17:06 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC29A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3X-5. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 50 km (31 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 18 - 04:57 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150A NASA 04.27NP.
  • LeRC LH2 test Technology test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 206 km (128 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 19 - 1962 November 19 - Launch Site: Cuxhaven. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Seliger. Model: Seliger Rocket.
  • Seliger rocket reaches 40 km Nation: Germany. Berthold Seliger made the first launches of his rockets from Cuxhaven. Three 3.4 m long, single stage rockets reached altitudes of 40 km. The on-board transmitters were tracked by the Bochum Observatory.
1962 November 19 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC31B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 421A.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 19 - Launch Site: Cuxhaven. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Seliger. Model: Seliger 1.
  • Test mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DRG. Apogee: 40 km (24 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 19 - Launch Site: Cuxhaven. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Seliger. Model: Seliger 1.
  • Test mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DRG. Apogee: 40 km (24 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 19 - Launch Site: Cuxhaven. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Seliger. Model: Seliger 1.
  • Test mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DRG. Apogee: 40 km (24 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 20 - 21:41 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 300A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 300A NASA 06.06GA.
  • Thermosphere Probe 1 Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 345 km (214 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 21 - 18:20 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LC-A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C. LV Configuration: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C 201.
  • ERCS / 279L 3 Communications mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 22 - 01:11 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 7. LV Configuration: Skylark-7 SL27.
  • Test mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 114 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 24 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC41/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 24 - 22:01 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC1W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 367 / Agena B 1135.
  • KH-4 9048 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-4 s/n 9048 / Agena B 1135. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-4. Agency: U.S. Air Force. Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Apogee: 339 km (210 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.90 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Rho-1. USAF Sat Cat: 481. Decay Date: 1962-12-13. KH-4. Some film exposed through base. References: 2, 6.
1962 November 25 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC41/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U. FAILURE: Failure.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1962 November 26 -
  • General Staff rejects construction of additional Vostoks Nation: USSR. Program: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 7, Vostok 8, Vostok 9, Vostok 10. The letter to Ustinov, head of the Military Industrial Commission, opposed acquisition of ten additional spacecraft. However Korolev had secretly begun final assembly of four additional Vostoks in his factory. References: 376.
1962 November 26 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: Bacchus?. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C20.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 27 - Launch Site: CELPA. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C30.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 27 - Launch Site: Johnston Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Javelin.
  • RPA Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 27 - 10:17 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: HAD. LV Configuration: HAD 112.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE. Apogee: 113 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 27 - 18:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.21US.
  • Solar extreme ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 203 km (126 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 28 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D.
  • Mercury Simulator 2 modified to the 1-day configuration. Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Spacecraft: Mercury. Flight: Mercury MA-9. Mercury Simulator 2 was modified to the 1-day Mercury orbital configuration in preparation for the Mercury-Atlas 9 (MA-9) flight. References: 483.
1962 November 28 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D.
  • Retrofire initiated 2 seconds late during Mercury MA-8 Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Retrofire was reported to have initiated 2 seconds late during the Mercury-Atlas 8 (MA-8) mission. Because of this, the mechanics and tolerances of the Mercury orbital timing device were reviewed for the benefit of operational personnel, and the procedural sequence for Mercury retrofire initiation was outlined. References: 483.
1962 November 28 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: Bacchus?. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C32.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 28 - 00:00 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike Nike AC20.454.
  • Firefly III MABEL Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 121 km (75 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 28 - 10:17 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 7C. LV Configuration: Skylark-7C SL165.
  • Grenade / Chaff Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 230 km (140 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 28 - 23:25 GMT - Launch Site: Point Mugu. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike Zeus. Model: Nike Zeus. LV Configuration: Nike Zeus-3.
  • PM-17? St3 guidance Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 29 -
  • Final tests for female cosmonauts. Nation: USSR. Program: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6, Vostok 6A. Academic examinations were completed of the female cosmonaut corps. Kuznetsova had missed to much training and was excluded from even taking the test. Of the four women remaining, only Tereshkova did not receive the highest marks. This was attributed to her being too nervous and excited during the examination. All were given the rank of Junior Lieutenant in the VVS Soviet Air Force.

    Kamanin considered Tereshkova as the leading candidate for the first flight, with Solovyova as her back-up. In personality they were equivalent to Gagarin/Nikolayev - indeed, Tereshkova was considered 'Gagarin in a skirt'. Ponomaryova and Yerkina were equal candidates for the second female Vostok flight. The group would go to a resort in the Urals from 30 November to 10 January. The final decision as to which one would fly would only be made 3 or 4 days before the flight. References: 376.

1962 November 29 - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC38. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike Zeus. Model: Nike Zeus. LV Configuration: Nike Zeus-3.
  • Simulated target Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 29 - 16:33 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA5B. Launch Pad: LA5B?. Launch Vehicle: Black Knight. Model: Black Knight 301/C. LV Configuration: Black Knight-301/C BK.18.
  • Gaslight Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: UK. Agency: RAE. Apogee: 576 km (357 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 30 - Launch Site: Walker AFB. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F.
  • Atlas SMS 579 operational. Nation: USA. Walker AFB SMS 579 operational References: 4460.
1962 November 30 - Launch Site: CELPA. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C29.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 30 - Launch Site: Ile du Levant. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: CERES. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C37.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 30 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: Bacchus?. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C11.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 30 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: Bacchus?. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C26.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 30 - Launch Site: Aberporth. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Leopard. LV Configuration: Leopard L6.
  • Leopard 6 test Nation: UK. Agency: RAE. Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 30 - 10:57 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.108CI.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 122 km (75 mi). References: 2.
1962 November 30 - 11:15 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.17CA.
  • Langmuir / Sodium Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 1 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: Bacchus?. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C27. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1962 December - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2.
  • Aerojet-General contract for the first phase of the Gemini launch vehicle engine program. Nation: USA. Air Force Space Systems Division and Aerojet-General negotiated a cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the first phase of the Gemini launch vehicle engine program, February 14, 1962, through June 30, 1963. The contract required delivery of one set of engines, with the remaining 14 sets included for planning purposes. Estimated cost of the contract was $13.9 million, with a fixed fee of $917,400 for a total of $14,817,400.
1962 December -
  • Nike Zeus ASAT test. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Program 505. The extended range Nike Zeus was first tested in ASAT mode from White Sands against a point in space. After several tests with good results, McNamara authorised the Army to complete the ASAT facility at Kwajalein Atoll, including storage of the system's nuclear warheads.
1962 December -
  • Soyuz draft project completed. Nation: USSR. Program: Soyuz. Spacecraft: Soyuz A, Soyuz B, Soyuz V, Soyuz P, Soyuz R. The draft project for a versatile manned spacecraft included the Soyuz-A circumlunar spacecraft, the military Soyuz-P fighter and Soyuz-R reconn bird.
By the end of 1962 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D Mercury s/n 77D.
  • Mercury MA-9A (cancelled) Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Payload: Mercury SC19. Spacecraft: Mercury. Location of Spacecraft: Swiss Museum of Transport & Communication, Lucerne, Switzerland. Crew: Cooper. Flight: Mercury MA-9A. NASA’s Mercury orbital operations plan of July 19, 1961 had four spacecraft equipped for three-orbit flights. However by Schirra’s flight the seven-astronaut corps was down to four. So even thought the flight-ready SC19 had been delivered to Cape Canaveral on March 20, 1962, the decision was taken to cancel the remaining short-duration mission and move directly to an 18 orbit mission.
December 1962 -
  • SAINT is cancelled. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: SAINT, SAINT II. The unmanned SAINT-I and manned SAINT-II anti-satellite systems are cancelled.
1962 December 1 - 18:06 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.32GI.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 169 km (105 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 1 - 20:34 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.20UA.
  • UM Pitot 2 Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 131 km (81 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 1 - 21:25 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.45GA.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 126 km (78 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 1 - 21:34 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.68GA.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 108 km (67 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 1 - 23:20 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.45AA AC5.465.
  • Firefly III TERRY Aeronomy sodium release mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 222 km (137 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 3 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn V.
  • Four firms to design the Apollo Vertical Assembly Building (VAB) Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, acting for NASA, awarded a $3.332 million contract to four New York architectural engineering firms to design the Vertical Assembly Building (VAB) at Cape Canaveral. The massive VAB became a space-age hangar, capable of housing four complete Saturn V launch vehicles and Apollo spacecraft where they could be assembled and checked out. The facility would be 158.5 meters (520 feet high) and would cost about $100 million to build. Subsequently, the Corps of Engineers selected Morrison-Knudson Company, Perini Corp., and Paul Hardeman, Inc., to construct tile VAB. References: 16.
1962 December 3 - 23:20 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.46AA AC5.468.
  • Firefly III SHARON Aeronomy sodium release mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/AFCRL. Apogee: 222 km (137 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 4 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn V.
  • First test of the Apollo main parachute system Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. The first test of the Apollo main parachute system, conducted at the Naval Air Facility, El Centro, Calif., foreshadowed lengthy troubles with the landing apparatus for the spacecraft. One parachute failed to inflate fully, another disreefed prematurely, and the third disreefed and inflated only after some delay. No data reduction was possible because of poor telemetry. North American was investigating. References: 16.
1962 December 4 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C21.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 4 - 00:01 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike Nike AC20.466.
  • Firefly III IVY Aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 4 - 03:45 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache AC5.467.
  • Firefly III ESTHER Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 135 km (83 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 4 - 04:45 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike Nike AC20.455.
  • Firefly III DINAH Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 115 km (71 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 4 - 07:06 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.67GA.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 114 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 4 - 07:56 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 5. LV Configuration: Skylark-5 SL166.
  • Grenade / Chaff Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 105 km (65 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 4 - 10:28 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: HAD. LV Configuration: HAD 113.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE. Apogee: 113 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 4 - 21:30 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 361 / Agena D 1155.
  • KH-4 9049 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-4 s/n 9049 / Agena D 1155. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-4. Agency: U.S. Air Force. Perigee: 194 km (120 mi). Apogee: 273 km (169 mi). Inclination: 65.10 deg. Period: 89.20 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Sigma-1. USAF Sat Cat: 490. Decay Date: 1962-12-08. KH-4. Mission failed. During air catch chute tore, capsule sank. References: 2, 6.
1962 December 5 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 395-A1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-11.
  • Research and development Category II test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 5 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Dragon 1. LV Configuration: Dragon D-03. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 80 km (49 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 5 - 01:51 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike Nike AC20.460.
  • Firefly III PATSY Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 5 - 21:25 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 21F.
  • Research and development test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). Last Atlas F R&D flight. References: 2.
1962 December 6 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC29A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3X-6. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 50 km (31 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 6 - 00:00 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.109CI.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 128 km (79 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 6 - 05:32 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.47GA.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 119 km (73 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 6 - 05:43 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.66GA.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 122 km (75 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 6 - 20:31 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC16. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-11. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). Titan II flight N-11, the eighth in a series being conducted by the Air Force to develop the weapon system, was launched from Cape Canaveral. It carried a design change intended to reduce the amplitude of longitudinal oscillations which had appeared during first stage operation on all seven previous Titan II flights. This phenomenon, which subsequently became known as POGO, generated g-forces as high as nine in the first stage and over three at the position on the missile corresponding to the location of the spacecraft on the Gemini launch vehicle. Fearing the potentially adverse effect on astronaut performance of such superimposed g-forces, NASA established 0.25g at 11 cycles per second as the maximum level tolerable for Gemini flights. As a first try at solving the POGO problem, Titan II N-11 carried standpipes in each leg of the stage I oxidizer feed lines to interrupt the coupling between the missile's structure and its propulsion system. This coupling was presumed to be the cause of the instability. Postflight analysis, however, revealed that the POGO fix was unsuccessful; longitudinal oscillation had actually been multiplied by a factor of two. References: 2.
1962 December 7 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Monica. Model: Meteo-MD. LV Configuration: Meteo-MD MD-01/6 (106). FAILURE: Failure.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 17 km (10 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 7 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC32B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 424.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 8 - Launch Site: CELPA. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C28.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 8 - 01:08 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 AC3.450.
  • Firefly III LAURA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 220 km (130 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 9 - Launch Site: CELPA. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C31.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 10 -
  • Selection of lunar orbit rendezvous for Apollo explained to Kennedy Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM, Apollo Lunar Landing. NASA Administrator James E. Webb, in a letter to the President, explained the rationale behind the Agency's selection of lunar orbit rendezvous (rather than either direct ascent or earth orbit rendezvous) as the mode for landing Apollo astronauts on the moon. Arguments for and against any of the three modes could have been interminable: "We are dealing with a matter that cannot be conclusively proved before the fact," Webb said. "The decision on the mode . . . had to be made at this time in order to maintain our schedules, which aim at a landing attempt in late 1967." References: 16.
1962 December 11 -
  • First static firing of the Apollo tower jettison motor Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. The first static firing of the Apollo tower jettison motor, under development by Thiokol Chemical Corporation, was successfully performed. References: 16.
1962 December 11 - 01:30 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AC6.447.
  • Firefly III DANA Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 108 km (67 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 11 - 03:27 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun Ferdinand 3.
  • Ferdinand 3 Ionosphere mission Nation: Norway. Agency: NTNF. Apogee: 121 km (75 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 12 -
  • Apollo spacecraft systems modifications to achieve a 100-day Earth- orbital capability. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Apollo X. Owen E. Maynard, Head of MSC's Spacecraft Integration Branch, reported on his preliminary investigation of the feasibility of modifying Apollo spacecraft systems to achieve a 100-day Earth- orbital capability. His investigation examined four basic areas: (1) mission, propulsion, and flight time; (2) rendezvous, reentry, and landing; (3) human factors; and (4) spacecraft command and communications. Although modifications to some systems might be extensive- and would involve a considerable weight increase for the vehicle-such a mission using Apollo hardware was indeed feasible.
1962 December 12 - Launch Site: Ile du Levant. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: CERES. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C24.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 12 - Launch Site: Ile du Levant. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: CERES. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C25.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 12 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC41/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 12 - 11:38 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576A3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 161D.
  • NTMP K-6 Target mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 12 - 12:10 GMT - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike Zeus. Model: Nike Zeus. LV Configuration: Nike Zeus-3.
  • K-6 Atlas Intercept Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 12 - 23:46 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike Nike AC20.456.
  • Firefly III NETTY Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 101 km (62 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 13 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC41/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 13 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LC-B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Terrier. Model: Terrier Asp IV.
  • Vista-300 test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 13 - 04:07 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 365 / Agena D 2351.
  • Black Sphere Nation: USA. Program: ELINT. Payload: NRL PL120. Mass: 23 kg (50 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: NRL ELINT. Agency: U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy. Perigee: 230 km (140 mi). Apogee: 2,385 km (1,481 mi). Inclination: 70.30 deg. Period: 111.80 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Tau-1. USAF Sat Cat: 502. Decay Date: 1967-02-09. Identified by McDowell as probable NRL ELINT satellite. References: 2, 6.
  • Injun 3 Nation: USA. Mass: 52 kg (114 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: Injun. Agency: U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy. Perigee: 240 km (140 mi). Apogee: 2,406 km (1,495 mi). Inclination: 70.30 deg. Period: 112.10 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Tau-2. USAF Sat Cat: 504. Decay Date: 1968-08-25. Radiation decay data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
  • SURCAL 2A Nation: USA. Payload: NRL PL121. Mass: 3.00 kg (6.60 lb). Class: Calibration. Spacecraft: SURCAL. Agency: U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy. Perigee: 222 km (137 mi). Apogee: 2,762 km (1,716 mi). Inclination: 70.20 deg. Period: 115.80 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Tau-3. USAF Sat Cat: 507. Decay Date: 1963-07-01. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
  • SURCAL 1A Nation: USA. Mass: 37 kg (81 lb). Class: Calibration. Spacecraft: SURCAL. Agency: U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy. Perigee: 227 km (141 mi). Apogee: 2,160 km (1,340 mi). Inclination: 70.30 deg. Period: 109.30 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Tau-4. USAF Sat Cat: 508. Decay Date: 1966-01-18. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
  • Calsphere 1A Nation: USA. Program: ELINT. Payload: NRL ELINT. Mass: 23 kg (50 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: NRL ELINT. Agency: U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy. Perigee: 228 km (141 mi). Apogee: 2,069 km (1,285 mi). Inclination: 70.30 deg. Period: 108.40 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Tau-5. USAF Sat Cat: 513. Decay Date: 1967-02-05. Identified by McDowell as probable NRL ELINT satellite. References: 2, 6.
1962 December 13 - 23:30 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta B. LV Configuration: Thor Delta B 355/D15.
  • Relay 1 Nation: USA. Payload: NASA A-15. Mass: 78 kg (171 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Comsat. Spacecraft: Relay. Agency: NASA. Perigee: 1,319 km (819 mi). Apogee: 7,440 km (4,620 mi). Inclination: 47.50 deg. Period: 185.10 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Upsilon-1. USAF Sat Cat: 503. Communications satellite technology tests. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 2, 6.
1962 December 14 - 1962 December 14 - 18:44 GMT - Launch Site: Mud Lake DZ. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 37.9 N x 117.1 W. Launch Vehicle: X-15. LV Configuration: X-15 3-12-22.
  • X-15A VO Stab, UVP Test/Ultraviolet Astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 43 km (26 mi). Maximum Speed - 6021 kph. Maximum Altitude - 43100 m. References: 2.
1962 December 14 - 20:52 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun Ferdinand 2.
  • Ferdinand 2 Ionosphere mission Nation: Norway. Agency: NTNF. Apogee: 123 km (76 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 14 - 21:26 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC1E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 368 / Agena D 1156.
  • KH-4 9050 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-4 s/n 9050 / Agena D 1156. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-4. Agency: U.S. Air Force. Perigee: 200 km (120 mi). Apogee: 386 km (239 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 90.30 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Phi-1. USAF Sat Cat: 505. Decay Date: 1963-01-08. KH-4; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. Best mission to date. References: 2, 6.
1962 December 15 -
  • Preliminary statement of work for a manned space station study program . Nation: USA. Spacecraft: MORL, Orbital Workshop. MSC researchers compiled a preliminary statement of work for a manned space station study program in anticipation of study contracts to be let to industry for a supportive study. The study requirements outlined the general scope of such investigations and suggested guidelines for research areas such as configurations, onboard spacecraft systems, and operational techniques. Ideally, studies by aerospace companies would help NASA formulate a logical approach for a space station program and how it might be implemented. Throughout the study, an overall objective would be simplicity: no artificial gravity and maximum use of existing launch vehicles and spacecraft systems to achieve the earliest possible launch date.
1962 December 15 - 03:00 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC31B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 423.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 15 - 17:30 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 AC3.451 (SF6).
  • Firefly III MARTHA Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 222 km (137 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 16 - 14:33 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: LA3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Scout X-3. LV Configuration: Scout X-3 S115.
  • Explorer 16 Nation: USA. Program: Explorer. Payload: S-55B. Mass: 100 kg (220 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Micrometeoroid. Spacecraft: S-55. Agency: NASA. Perigee: 744 km (462 mi). Apogee: 1,159 km (720 mi). Inclination: 52.00 deg. Period: 104.10 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Chi-1. USAF Sat Cat: 506. Micrometeoroid data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). References: 2, 6.
1962 December 17 - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC38. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike Zeus. Model: Nike Zeus. LV Configuration: Nike Zeus-3.
  • DM-15S Test 1 Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 180 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 17 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC41/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 17 - 20:36 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 131D / Agena B 1205. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Midas 6 Nation: USA. Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1205. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Class: Early Warning. Spacecraft: Midas. Agency: U.S. Air Force. COSPAR: F621217A. Decay Date: 1962-12-17. Missile Defense Alarm System. Carried ERS-3, ERS-4 subsatellites. References: 126, 278.
  • TRS 3 Nation: USA. Payload: ERS 3. Spacecraft: Midas. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: F621217B. References: 279.
  • TRS 4 Nation: USA. Payload: ERS 4. Spacecraft: Midas. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: F621217C. References: 279.
1962 December 18 - 05:03 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 8. LV Configuration: Kappa 8 K-8-11.
  • Cosmic rays mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 202 km (125 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 18 - 17:26 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: OSTF1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 64E. FAILURE: Failure.
  • NTMP K-4 ABM test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 18 - 19:45 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 AC3.139.
  • Extreme ultraviolet Mon / RPA Solar extreme ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 224 km (139 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 19 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: VE. Model: Topaze VE111. LV Configuration: Topaze VE111 C3.
  • Test mission Nation: France. Agency: ONERA. Apogee: 80 km (49 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 19 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LC-A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1B(m). LV Configuration: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1B(m) 21-1.
  • Ion Engine Test A Technology mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 2,000 km (1,200 mi). When the high-voltage power supplies were first turned-on, intermittent high-voltage breakdowns occurred, and the beam power supply became inoperative. Post-flight examination of the power supply indicated the high-voltage breakdowns were probably caused by pressure buildup in the primary propulsion unit due to gas vented from the spacecraft batteries. The primary propulsion unit high voltage section was not adequately vented to keep the pressure low enough. Engine thrusting was not accomplished in this test. References: 2.
1962 December 19 - 01:25 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC5. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Scout X-3. LV Configuration: Scout X-3 S118.
  • Transit 5A Nation: USA. Program: Transit. Payload: Transit 5A-1. Mass: 61 kg (134 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Transit. Agency: U.S. Navy. Perigee: 336 km (208 mi). Apogee: 347 km (215 mi). Inclination: 90.60 deg. Period: 91.40 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Psi-1. USAF Sat Cat: 509. Decay Date: 1986-09-25. First operational solar-powered prototype; failed first day. The satellite verified a new technique for deploying the solar panels and for separating from the rocket, but otherwise it was not successful because of trouble with the power system. References: 2, 6.
1962 December 19 - 07:33 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2G-4.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 19 - 20:08 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC15. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-13.
  • Mk 6 re-entry vehicle test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 19 - 21:51 GMT - Launch Site: Point Mugu. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike Zeus. Model: Nike Zeus. LV Configuration: Nike Zeus-3.
  • PM-19/Eniwetok Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 20 - Launch Site: Plattsburgh AFB. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F.
  • Atlas SMS 556 - last Atlas squadron - operational. Nation: USA. Plattsburgh AFB SMS 556 (last Atlas squadron) operational References: 4460.
1962 December 20 - 19:25 GMT - Launch Site: Mud Lake DZ. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 37.9 N x 117.1 W. Launch Vehicle: X-15. LV Configuration: X-15 3-13-23.
  • X-15A VO Stab, MH-96 test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 48 km (29 mi). Maximum Speed - 6103 kph. Maximum Altitude - 48900 m. References: 2.
1962 December 21 -
  • Apollo CM boilerplate (BP) 3 delivered Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. North American delivered CM boilerplate (BP) 3, to Northrop Ventura, for installation of an earth-landing system. BP-3 was scheduled to undergo parachute tests at El Centro, Calif., during early 1963. References: 16.
1962 December 22 - 09:23 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92. LV Configuration: Vostok 8A92 T15000-10.
  • Cosmos 12 Nation: USSR. Payload: Zenit-2 11F61 s/n 6. Mass: 4,700 kg (10,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2. Agency: RVSN. Perigee: 202 km (125 mi). Apogee: 385 km (239 mi). Inclination: 64.80 deg. Period: 90.40 min. COSPAR: 1962-B-Omega-1. USAF Sat Cat: 517. Duration: 8.00 days. Decay Date: 1962-12-30. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite. Also performed radiation measurements. References: 2, 6,93.
1962 December 22 - 09:29 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576A1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 160D.
  • NTMP K-7 / Pod 4 ABM sensor test / plume characterization mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 2,259 km (1,403 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 22 - 10:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike Zeus. Model: Nike Zeus. LV Configuration: Nike Zeus-3.
  • K-7 Atlas Intercept Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 22 - 14:15 GMT - Launch Site: AMR DZ. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W. Launch Vehicle: Skybolt. LV Configuration: Skybolt ALBM 20032.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 580 km (360 mi). References: 2.
1962 December 26 - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2.
  • Gemini Launch Vehicle Configuration Control Board. Nation: USA. Air Force Space Systems Division established the Gemini Launch Vehicle Configuration Control Board to draw up and put into effect procedures for approving and disapproving specifications and engineering change proposals for the Gemini launch vehicle. It formally convened for the first time on March 5, 1963.
1962 December 28 -
  • First test firings of the Apollo CM reaction control engines Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. North American's Rocketdyne Division completed the first test firings of the CM reaction control engines. References: 16.
1962 December -
  • Static firings of the Apollo launch escape motor Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. North American reported three successful static firings of the launch escape motor. The motor would pull the CM away from the launch vehicle if there were an abort early in a mission. References: 16.

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