Chronology - Quarter 1 1963 home
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1963 - Launch Vehicle: Martlet. Model: Martlet 1.
  • The Martlet One Flight Vehicle was designed in mid-1962 as a first generation test vehicle for the HARP project. The primary role of the Martlet One was to test the fundamental technologies that were Nation: Canada. The main body of the vehicle was intended contain coloured chemicals for release during flight to produce a visible trail. This was to allow the wind and atmospheric conditions to be observed along the flight path. (primarily wind shear at altitudes near apogee). Ground observers were to determine the effect of high altitude winds on the chemical trail. The nose was designed to hold a small one watt radio telemetry transmitter and other electronic instruments.

    Only four Martlet Ones were manufactured. Two were flown during the initial test series and the remaining two were retired. The first Martlet One was launched on January 21, 1963. It was launched at an elevation of 80 degrees and flew for 145 seconds. During its flight it rose to an altitude of 26 km and landed 11 km down range. The second Martlet One was launched on February 1, 1963 and flew for 146 seconds. It rose to an altitude of 27 km and landed about 11 km down range. These two flights were sufficient to prove the launch concept. The initial test series also included several wooden test slugs.

    The Martlet 1 series was retired in favour of the much improved Martlet 2 family of vehicles. Also, the cost of installation of the gun and the ground support infrastructure left precious little funds for an extensive initial test series.

    MARTLET ONE SPECIFICATIONS

    • Mass: 205 kg (450 lb.)

    • Body Diameter: 0.168 m (6.6 inches)

    • Length: 1.78 m (70 inches)

    • Sabot: Metallic pusher plate with four laminated plywood centring petals; outside diameter of sabot 0.417 m (16.4')

    • Gun Launcher: 16.4 inch L45 smooth-bored gun. This was a standard 16 inch battleship gun which had the rifling bored out. Propellant load 330 kg cordite.

    by Richard K Graf

1963 - Launch Site: Barbados. Launch Complex: HARP. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Martlet. Model: Martlet 2.
  • Test mission Nation: Canada. Agency: HARP. Apogee: 80 km (49 mi). References: 2.
1963 - Launch Site: Leba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Meteor. Model: Meteor-1.
  • Test mission Nation: Poland. Agency: PIHM. Apogee: 36 km (22 mi). References: 2.
1963 During the Year -
  • Space Television Reconnaissance System (TGR) Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: TGR. Chelomei began project work in 1963 on a Space Television Reconnaissance System (TGR). The television apparatus was developed by VNII-380 GKRE (I A Rosselevich) and TsNII Kometa MRP (A I Savin). Savin had developed the original draft project, but Chelomei was given overall control. But the project had no sound scientific research basis at that point - it was not advanced enough for a draft project. Work was abandoned and no such system would be put into operation until the Yantar 4KS1 of the 1980's.
1963 January 2 -
  • Plesetsk cosmodrome authorised. Nation: USSR. Military-Industrial Commission (VPK) Decree 15-5 'On creation of the space and missile cosmodrome at NIIP-51 at Mirniy/Plesetsk' was issued. References: 474.
1963 January 3 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D.
  • Mercury MA-9 flight to go 22 orbits. Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Tentative plans were made by NASA to extend the Mercury-Atlas 9 (MA-9) flight from 18 to 22 orbits. References: 483.
1963 January 4 - 08:49 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78/E6. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78/E6 T103-09. FAILURE: The escape stage's BOZ unit failed to operate due to failure of a DC transformer of the power system. The stage with payload remained in Earth orbit.
  • Sputnik 25 Nation: USSR. Program: Luna. Payload: E-6 s/n 1. Class: Planetary. Type: Lunar. Spacecraft: Luna E-6. Agency: NII-88. Perigee: 165 km (102 mi). Apogee: 189 km (117 mi). Inclination: 64.60 deg. Period: 88.00 min. COSPAR: 1963-001B. USAF Sat Cat: 522. Decay Date: 1963-01-05. References: 2, 6, 64, 65.
1963 January 7 - 1963 January 7 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC31B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 423A. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1963 January 7 - 21:09 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 369 / Agena D 1157.
  • KH-4 9051 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-4 s/n 9051 / Agena D 1157. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-4. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 202 km (125 mi). Apogee: 384 km (238 mi). Inclination: 82.00 deg. Period: 90.30 min. COSPAR: 1963-002A. USAF Sat Cat: 525. Decay Date: 1963-01-24. KH-4. Erratic vehicle attitude. Frame ephemeris not created. References: 2, 6.
1963 January 9 -
  • Agreement reached on future Vostok flights Nation: USSR. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6, Vostok 6A, Vostok 7, Vostok 8, Vostok 9, Vostok 10. After eight months of debate, a Vostok project plan was finally agreed. There would be a single female cosmonaut flight in March-Apriil 1963. This would be followed by 4 to 5 additional Vostok flights in 1963 and 2 to 3 flights in 1964. This plan was approved by Malinovskiy, Keldysh, Smirnov, and Dementiev and forwarded to the Communist Party Central Committee. However Rudenko and others were still opposed. References: 376.
1963 January 10 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn I.
  • Unmanned Apollo spacecraft to be flown on Saturn C-1 Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. MSC and OMSF agreed that an unmanned Apollo spacecraft must be flown on the Saturn C-1 before a manned flight. SA-10 was scheduled to be the unmanned flight and SA-111, the first manned mission. References: 16.
1963 January 10 -
  • Soviet Air Force Cosmonaut Training Group 2 selected. Nation: USSR. The group was selected to provide astronauts for the Soyuz manned spaceflight program.. Qualifications: Military pilots, engineers, or navigators under 40 years of age; graduate of military academy or civilian university; under 170 cm tall; under 70 kg in weight..
1963 January 10 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC16. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-15. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Mk 6 re-entry vehicle test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1963 January 11 -
  • Korolev lays out detailed plan for future Vostok flights Nation: USSR. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6, Vostok 6A, Vostok 7, Vostok 8, Vostok 9, Vostok 10. Korolev and Kamanin meet to lay out Vostok flight plan. There were three variants possible for the March flights: 1) A single female flight of 2 to 3 days; 2) Two female flights launched one day apart, but landing at the same time; 3) An 'absurd' version: launch of a female cosmonaut for a three day flight, followed two days after her landing by a male cosmonaut on a 5 to 7 day flight. The planners selected the two female flight variant. References: 376.
1963 January 13 - Launch Site: Cuxhaven. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -.
  • DRG launches at Cuxhaven Nation: Germany. The DRG (German Rocket Society) launched three model rockets but they fell in the flats and were not recovered.
1963 January 14 -
  • Mercury spacecraft 15A was redesignated 15B and allocated as a backup for the MA-9 mission. Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Spacecraft: Mercury. Flight: Mercury MA-10. In the event Mercury-Atlas 10 (MA-10) were flown, 15B would be the prime spacecraft. Modifications were started immediately with respect to the hand controller rigging procedures, pitch and yaw control valves, and other technical changes. References: 483.
1963 January 16 - 21:59 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC1E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 363 / Agena B 2313.
  • OPS 0180 Nation: USA. Payload: Ferret 3 / Agena B 2313. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Ferret. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 461 km (286 mi). Apogee: 522 km (324 mi). Inclination: 81.90 deg. Period: 94.40 min. COSPAR: 1963-003A. USAF Sat Cat: 527. Decay Date: 1969-01-09. References: 2, 6.
1963 January 17 -
  • Department of Defense (DOD) and NASA management responsibilities in the Cape Canaveral area. Nation: USA. NASA Administrator James E. Webb and Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara signed a new agreement on Department of Defense (DOD) and NASA management responsibilities in the Cape Canaveral area. The Air Force would continue as single manager of the Atlantic Missile Range and host agency at the 15,000-acre Cape Canaveral launch area. NASA's Launch Operations Center would manage and serve as host agency at the Merritt Island Launch Area, north and west of existing DOD installations. DOD and NASA would each be responsible for their own logistics and administration in their respective areas. Specific mission functions - e.g., preparation, checkout, launch, test evaluation - would be performed by each agency in its own behalf, regardless of location. DOD retained certain fundamental range functions, including scheduling, flight safety, search and rescue operations, and downrange airlift and station operation.
1963 January 17 -
  • Mercury MA-10 a possibility. Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Spacecraft: Mercury. Flight: Mercury MA-9. Asked by a Congressional committee if NASA planned another Mercury flight after MA-9, Dr Robert C. Seamans stated, in effect, that schedules for the original Mercury program and the 1-day orbital effort were presumed to be completed in fiscal year 1963. If sufficient test data were not accumulated in the MA-9 flight, backup launch vehicles and spacecraft were available to fulfill requirements. References: 483.
1963 January 17 - 18:59 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 3-14-24.
  • X-15A VO Alt, IR expt Test/Technology mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 82 km (50 mi). First civilian flight above 80 km. Maximum Speed - 5917 kph. Maximum Altitude - 82810 m. Second astronaut wings flight (USAF definition). References: 2.
1963 January 18 -
  • Two aerodynamic strakes added to Apollo CM Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. Two aerodynamic strakes were added to the CM to eliminate the danger of a hypersonic apex-forward trim point on reentry. (During a high-altitude launch escape system (LES) abort, the crew would undergo excessive g forces if the CM were to trim apex forward. During a low-altitude abort, there was the potential problem of the apex cover not clearing the CM. The strakes, located in the yaw plane, had a maximum span of one foot and resulted in significant weight penalties. Additional Details: Two aerodynamic strakes added to Apollo CM. References: 16.
1963 January 18 -
  • Contract to Bell for two Apollo lunar landing research vehicles Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LLRV. NASA's Flight Research Center (FRC) announced the award of a $3.61 million contract to Bell Aerosystems Company of Bell Aerospace Corporation for the design and construction of two manned lunar landing research vehicles. The vehicles would be able to take off and land under their own power, reach an altitude of about 1,220 meters (4,000 feet), hover, and fly horizontally. A fan turbojet engine would supply a constant upward push of five-sixths the weight of the vehicle to simulate the one-sixth gravity of the lunar surface. Tests would be conducted at FRC. References: 16.
1963 January 18 -
  • Soyuz expert commission Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Soyuz A, Soyuz B, Soyuz V, Raketoplan. Flight: Soyuz 11. Smirnov insisted on the following after reviewing Korolev's design: 1) there must be a space suit for every crew member; 2) the spacecraft must be able to use lift during re-entry to change its landing point; 3) the spacecraft must have ejection seats. Korolev and his assistants categorically rejected these demands. Smirnov was only insisting on the availability of suits, not that they be worn at all times; and only on small lifting surfaces to give the capsule more manoeuvrability during re-entry. But Korolev rejected even this. Later the commission went to Chelomei's bureau to see his Raketoplan manned spaceplane design. But this was not even laid out on paper yet, with the draft project not scheduled to be completed until the end of February. Chelomei has already been working on this for two years. In January 1961 he gave a presentation to the General Staff and made big promises in regard to this spacecraft - but nothing has been completed. The only spacecraft that will be realistically available in the next three to five years is Korolev's - anything else would only be purely experimental. References: 376.
1963 January 21 - Launch Vehicle: Martlet. Model: Martlet 1.
  • Martlet 1 Shot 1 Nation: Canada. Apogee: 26 km (16 mi). The gun-launched rocket was shot at an elevation of 80 degrees and flew for 145 seconds. During its flight it rose to an altitude of 26 km and landed 11 km down range. References: 2.
1963 January 21 -
  • VVS Review of Soyuz Nation: USSR. Program: Soyuz. Spacecraft: Soyuz A, Soyuz B, Soyuz V, Soyuz P, Soyuz R. Flight: Soyuz 11. The primary objective of the design is to achieve docking to two spacecraft in earth orbit. Secondary objectives are the operation of scientific and military equipment from the spacecraft. Three different spacecraft, all launched by an R-7 derived booster, are required to achieve this:

    • 7K spacecraft, capable of carrying three men into space and returning them to earth. The 5.5 tonne spacecraft has three modules, including the BO living module and the SA re-entry capsule
    • 9K booster stage, with a fuelled mass of 18 tonnes. After docking with the 7K this is capable of boosting the combined spacecraft to earth escape velocity. The 9K is equipped with a 450 kgf main engine and orientation engines of 1 to 10 kgf. It will have 14 tonnes propellant when full loaded. Four sequential docking with a tanker spacecraft will be required to fill the tanks before the final docking with the 7K.
    • 11K tanker, with a mass of 5 tonnes.

    The system will conduct fuellings and dockings in a 250 km altitude parking orbit, and be boosted up to 400,000 km altitude on lunar flyby missions. The system will be ready in three years. Military variants proposed are the Soyuz-P and Soyuz-R. Each spacecraft will have 400 kg of automatic rendezvous and docking equipment. Manual docking will be possible once the spacecraft are within 300 m of each other.

    Korolev still insists on an unguided landing and categorically rejects the use of wings. A parachute will deploy and slow the capsule to 10 m/s. Then a retrorocket will fire just before impact with the earth to provide a zero-velocity soft landing. Korolev still insists that spacesuits will not be carried for the crew. First test flight of the 7K, without docking, could not occur until the second half of 1964. References: 376.

1963 January 22 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn V.
  • Orbiting Space Station. Nation: USA. Program: Skylab. Spacecraft: LORL. Addressing an Institute of Aerospace Science meeting in New York, George von Tiesenhausen, Chief of Future Studies at NASA's Launch Operations Center, stated that by 1970 the United States would need an orbiting space station to launch and repair spacecraft. The station could also serve as a manned scientific laboratory. In describing the 91-m-long, 10-m-diameter structure, von Tiesenhausen said that the station could be launched in two sections using Saturn C-5 vehicles. The sections would be joined once in orbit.
1963 January 23 -
  • VVS Generals discuss Soyuz Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Soyuz A, Soyuz B, Soyuz V. Flight: Soyuz 11. They decide that the VVS must insist on spacesuits or at least light pressure garments for the crew, and windows that will allow the crew to view the parachute cupola and ground during landings. It is agreed that the insistence on ejection seats and wings can be dropped. References: 376.
1963 January 23 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC26A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter. LV Configuration: Jupiter IRBM CM-106.
  • Combat training launch Nation: Italy. Agency: Italia. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1963 January 23 - Launch Site: Tonopah. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Deacon. Model: Deacon Arrow II.
  • Tracking Flare test Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). References: 2.
1963 January 23 - Launch Site: Tonopah. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Deacon. Model: Deacon Arrow II.
  • Tracking Flare test Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). References: 2.
1963 January 23 - 18:10 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC32B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 419.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1963 January 25 - 10:44 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576B2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 39D. FAILURE: Failure.
  • NTMP K-9/OT ABM test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1963 January 26 -
  • New assignments for the seven original astronauts Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Gemini. MSC announced new assignments for the seven original astronauts: L. Gordon Cooper, Jr., and Alan B. Shepard, Jr., would be responsible for the remaining pilot phases of Project Mercury; Virgil I. Grissom would specialize in Project Gemini; John H. Glenn, Jr., would concentrate on Project Apollo; M. Scott Carpenter would cover lunar excursion training; and Walter M. Schirra, Jr., would be responsible for Gemini and Apollo operations and training. As Coordinator for Astronaut Activities, Donald K. Slayton would maintain overall supervision of astronaut duties.

    Specialty areas for the second generation were: trainers and simulators, Neil A. Armstrong; boosters, Frank Borman; cockpit layout and systems integration, Charles Conrad, Jr.; recovery system, James A. Lovell, Jr.; guidance and navigation, James A. McDivitt; electrical, sequential, and mission planning, Elliot M. See, Jr.; communications, instrumentation, and range integration, Thomas P. Stafford; flight control systems, Edward H. White II; and environmental control systems, personal equipment, and survival equipment, John W. Young. References: 16.

1963 January 27 - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-11. Model: R-11A.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1963 January 27 - 01:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-1. Model: A-1.
  • Test mission Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1963 January 28 -
  • Philco prime contractor for the Mission Control Center Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. NASA announced the selection of the Philco Corporation as prime contractor for the Mission Control Center (MCC) at MSC. To be operational in mid-1964, MCC would link the spacecraft with ground controllers at MSC through the worldwide tracking network. References: 16.
1963 January 29 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 395-A1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-8.
  • Research and development Category II test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1963 January 29-30 - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2.
  • Titan II development flight failures caused by problems in the airborne radio guidance system. Nation: USA. At a launch guidance and control coordination meeting, Aerospace described three Titan II development flight failures that had been caused by problems in the General Electrical Mod III airborne radio guidance system. Although these failures did not appear to be the result of inherent design faults that might react on the Gemini program, Aerospace felt that a tighter quality assurance program was needed: 'GE has a poor MOD III (G) quality control program, basically poor workmanship.'
1963 January 30 -
  • Selection of four companies as major Apollo LEM subcontractors Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. Grumman and NASA announced the selection of four companies as major LEM subcontractors:

    1. Rocketdyne for the descent engine
    2. Bell Aerosystems Company for the ascent engine
    3. The Marquardt Corporation for the reaction control system
    4. Hamilton Standard for the environmental control system
    References: 16.
1963 January 31 -
  • Smirnov opposed to dual female Vostok flight. Nation: USSR. Program: Vostok. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6, Vostok 6A. Smirnov only wants to fly two, not four Vostoks this year. One male, and one female cosmonaut would be launched in a group flight. Correct approvals cannot be obtained in time for manufacture of four Vostoks until August of this year. Later Kamanin has another scene with Titov. The cosmonaut was drunk on a factory visit, and defied the militia when confronted. References: 376.
1963 January 31 - 08:51 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576A3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 176D.
  • NTMP K-12 ABM test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 1 - Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511.
  • Soyuz 'leaves drafting boards' Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1. Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz A. Soyuz 'leaves drafting boards'. References: 26.
1963 February 1 - Launch Vehicle: Martlet. Model: Martlet 1.
  • Martlet 1 Shot 2 Nation: Canada. Apogee: 27 km (16 mi). The second Martlet One flew for 146 seconds. It rose to an altitude of 27 km and landed about 11 km down range. These two flights were sufficient to prove the launch concept. The initial test series also included several wooden test slugs. References: 2.
1963 February 1 -
  • 35 Soviet Cosmonauts in six groups in training Nation: USSR. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6, Vostok 6A, Vostok 7, Vostok 8, Vostok 9, Vostok 10. These were:
    • Group 1 - Four cosmonauts (Solovyova, Ponomareva, Tereshkova, Yerkina) in final training for two simultaneous female flights in March 1963
    • Group 2: Three male cosmonauts (Komarov, Bykovsky, Volynov) in training for two or three individual flights of over five days duration in the second half of 1963
    • Group 3: Four flown cosmonauts (Gagarin, Titov, Nikolayev, Popovich) in academic training but also very occupied in public relations tasks
    • Group 4: Six cosmonauts from the first group - not trained for Vostok and available for Vostok or Soyuz flights in 1964 and later (Nelyubov, Shonin, Khrunov, Zikin, Gorbutko, Filyatev)
    • Group 5: Seven pilot-cosmonauts, just selected and starting training
    • Group 6: Eight engineer-cosmonauts, just started training.
    References: 376.
1963 February -
  • LLRV contract Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Apollo LLRV. After conceptual planning and meetings with engineers from Bell Aerosystems, Buffalo, NY, a company with experience in vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft, NASA issued Bell a $50,000 study contract in December 1961. Bell had independently conceived a similar, free-flying simulator, and out of this study came the NASA Headquarters' endorsement of the LLRV concept, resulting in a $3.6 million production contract awarded to Bell for delivery of the first of two vehicles for flight studies at the FRC within 14 months.
February 1963 - Launch Vehicle: R-26, UR-100.
  • Council of Fili Nation: USSR. The Soviet leadership reviewed missile development since the Pitsunda meeting. Both the Yangel R-26 and Chelomei UR-100 were proposed as small ICBM’s to be put into mass production as a counter to the American Minuteman. The UR-100 was an ampulised missile with a guaranteed ten-year storage life. Yangel had not solved the problems of long-term storage of corrosive storable fuel yet. Therefore Khrushchev, supported by Kozlov and Brezhnev, selected the UR-100. A decree for mass production was issued on 30 May 1963.
1963 February 2 - 06:56 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 202.
  • ERCS 279L Communications mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 3 - 09:29 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78/E6. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78/E6 G103-10. FAILURE: Upper stage gyro platform failure.
  • E-6 s/n 2 failure. Nation: USSR. Program: Luna. Payload: E-6 s/n 2. Class: Planetary. Type: Lunar. Spacecraft: Luna E-6. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: F630203A. Decay Date: 1963-02-03. Apparent causes were instabilities in the torque sensor circuit and the pitch-free floating gyro device. The upper stages and payload broke up on re-entry into the atmosphere over the Pacific. References: 64, 65.
1963 February 4 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-108.
  • Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 4 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-109.
  • Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 5 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-111.
  • Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 5 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-110.
  • Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 6 - 17:59 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC15. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-16.
  • Mk 6 re-entry vehicle test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 7 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn I, Saturn V.
  • Simplified terminology for the Saturn booster series Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. NASA announced a simplified terminology for the Saturn booster series: Saturn C-1 became "Saturn I," Saturn C-1B became "Saturn IB," and Saturn C-5 became "Saturn V." References: 16.
1963 February 7 - Launch Site: Cuxhaven. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Seliger. Model: Seliger Rocket.
  • Seliger rockets reach 80 km. Nation: Germany. Seliger launched three rockets. The 3.4 m long single stage version reached an altitude of 52 km, and the 6.0 m long two stage version reached 80 km. Each stage had a thrust of 5000 kgf. Bochum Observatory tracked the radio transmitters of the payloads during their ascent. The wreckage of the missiles was found on the flats. Seliger announced plans to launch a three-stage rocket to 150 km altitude.
1963 February 7 - Launch Site: Cuxhaven. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Seliger. Model: Seliger 2.
  • Test mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DRG. Apogee: 80 km (49 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 7 - Launch Site: Cuxhaven. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Seliger. Model: Seliger 1.
  • Test mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DRG. Apogee: 52 km (32 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 7 - Launch Site: Cuxhaven. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Seliger. Model: Seliger 2.
  • Test mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DRG. Apogee: 80 km (49 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 7 - 16:00 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC29A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3X-8.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 8 -
  • Department of Defense objectives in the Gemini program. Nation: USA. Program: Gemini. Spacecraft: Gemini. Colonel Kenneth W Schultz of Headquarters, Air Force Office of Development Planning, outlined Department of Defense objectives in the Gemini program at the first meeting of the Gemini Program Planning Board. He defined three general objectives: conducting orbital experiments related to such possible future missions as the inspection and interception of both cooperative and passive or noncooperative objects in space under a variety of conditions, logistic support of a manned orbiting laboratory, and photo reconnaissance from orbit; gaining military experience and training in all aspects of manned space flight; and assessing the relationship between man and machine in the areas of potential military missions.
1963 February 8 -
  • Further construction of Vostok spacecraft approved. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Decree 24 'On the Manufacture of 'Vostok' Objects --manufacture of Vostok spacecraft in 1963' was issued. References: 474.
1963 February 11 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC70. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-9. Model: Desna.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,160 km (720 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 11 - 15:30 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3X-7.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 12 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn V.
  • Marion Power Shovel selected to build the Saturn V crawler-transport Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. NASA selected the Marion Power Shovel Company to design and build the crawler-transport, a device to haul the Apollo space vehicle (Saturn V, complete with spacecraft and associated launch equipment) from the Vertical Assembly Building to the Merritt Island, Fla., launch pad, a distance of about 5.6 kilometers (3.5 miles). The crawler would be 39.6 meters (130 feet) long, 35 meters (115 feet) wide, and 6 meters (20 feet) high, and would weight 2.5 million kilograms (5.5 million pounds). NASA planned to buy two crawlers at a cost of $4 to 5 million each. Formal negotiations began on February 20 and the contract was signed on March 29. References: 16.
1963 February 12 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D.
  • The Manned Spacecraft Center announced a mid-May flight for Mercury-Atlas 9 (MA-9). Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Flight: Mercury MA-9. Originally scheduled for April, the launch date was delayed by a decision to rewire the Mercury-Atlas flight control system, as a result of the launch vehicle checkout at the plant inspection meeting. References: 483.
1963 February 12 - 01:47 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LC-A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Journeyman. LV Configuration: Journeyman NASA 11.06UE.
  • Electron Spectrometer Magnetospheric mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 1,675 km (1,040 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 13 - 11:55 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576A1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 182D.
  • NTMP K-8 / NC20.133 ABM test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 14 - 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.
1963 February 14 - 00:30 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 AB3.345.
  • Sphere Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 234 km (145 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 14 - 05:35 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta B. LV Configuration: Thor Delta B 358/D16.
  • Syncom I; Syncom 1 Nation: USA. Payload: Syncom 1. Mass: 39 kg (85 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Comsat. Spacecraft: Syncom. Agency: NASA GSF. Perigee: 34,392 km (21,370 mi). Apogee: 36,739 km (22,828 mi). Inclination: 33.30 deg. Period: 1,425.50 min. COSPAR: 1963-004A. USAF Sat Cat: 553. Completed Operations Date: 1963-02-14. Experimental commsat; lost contact following orbital injection. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). Four score. Last known longitude (10 March 1987) 172.58 deg E drifting at 2.429 deg E per day. References: 2, 6.
1963 February 15 - 16:34 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NC3.134.
  • Bennett Mass Spec Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NRL. Apogee: 239 km (148 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 16 - 1963 February 16 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trailblazer. Model: Trailblazer 1.
  • Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 280 km (170 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 16 - 00:30 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC38. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike Zeus. Model: Nike Zeus. LV Configuration: Nike Zeus-3.
  • DM-15S Test 2 Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 240 km (140 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 16 - 21:45 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 395-C. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-7. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Awful Tired Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 5.00 km (3.10 mi). Research and development launch - Mk 6 re-entry vehicle References: 2.
1963 February 18 - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2.
  • Pilot safety philosophy and procedures would be carried over from Mercury-Atlas to Gemini-Titan. Nation: USA. In a letter transmitting copies of the Gemini Launch Vehicle Pilot Safety Program to Gemini contractors and other organizations engaged in Gemini development and operations, Air Force Space Systems Division explained that pilot safety philosophy and procedures would be carried over from Mercury-Atlas to Gemini-Titan.
1963 February 18 -
  • Soviet Ministers' decree on use of Vostok Nation: USSR. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6, Vostok 6A, Vostok 7, Vostok 8, Vostok 9, Vostok 10. The Soviet Ministers finally issued decree 24. Four additional spacecraft are to be completed in the first half of 1963. Together with the two existing spacecraft, these will be used for two female flights, three male flights of up to ten days duration, and one 30-day biosat flight. References: 376.
1963 February 18 - 17:43 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NE3.140.
  • Solar extreme ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: NRL. Apogee: 306 km (190 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 19 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Emma. LV Configuration: Emma 05.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 60 km (37 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 19 - 16:33 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC5. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Scout X-3M. LV Configuration: Scout X-3M S126.
  • P 35-3 Nation: USA. Program: DMSP. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: Program 35. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 488 km (303 mi). Apogee: 810 km (500 mi). Inclination: 100.50 deg. Period: 97.80 min. COSPAR: 1963-005A. USAF Sat Cat: 533. Decay Date: 1979-12-26. Military weather satellite to provide targetting information for reconnaisance satellites. References: 2, 6.
1963 February 20 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn I.
  • Saturn engine-out capability investigated Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. At a meeting of the MSC-MSFC Flight Mechanics Panel, it was agreed that Marshall would investigate "engine-out" capability (i.e., the vehicle's performance should one of its engines fail) for use in abort studies or alternative missions. Not all Saturn I, IB, and V missions included this engine-out capability. Also, the panel decided that the launch escape system would be jettisoned ten seconds after S-IV ignition on Saturn I launch vehicles. References: 16.
1963 February 20 -
  • Smithsonian received Friendship 7 Mercury spacecraft Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Spacecraft: Mercury. The Smithsonian Institution received the Friendship 7 Mercury spacecraft (MA-6 Glenn flight) in a formal presentation ceremony from Dr. Hugh L. Dryden, the NASA Deputy Administrator. Astronaut John Glenn presented his flight suit, boots, gloves, and a small American flag that he carried on the mission. References: 483.
1963 February 20 - 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.
1963 February 20 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC32B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 421B.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 20 - 23:18 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.35CA.
  • Grenades / Sodium release? Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 164 km (101 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 20 - 23:34 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.58GA.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 113 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 20 - 23:47 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.48GA.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 113 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 21 - 17:58 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-117.
  • Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 21 - 23:16 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.39CA.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 172 km (106 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 24-March 23 -
  • Lunar Surface Experiments Panel Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo ALSEP. The MSC Lunar Surface Experiments Panel held its first meeting. This group was formed to study and evaluate lunar surface experiments and the adaptability of Surveyor and other unmanned probes for use with manned missions. References: 16.
1963 February 26 - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Mass spectrometer Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 27 - 19:30 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.86CI.
  • Eclipse inst test Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 151 km (93 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 28 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -.
  • First use of a Thrust-Augmented-Thor/Agena Nation: USA. First use of a Thrust-Augmented-Thor/Agena space booster at Vandenberg. References: 88.
1963 February 28 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Hopi. Model: Hopi Dart. LV Configuration: Hopi Dart F1. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA MSFC. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 28 - 09:02 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576A3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 188D.
  • NTMP K-10 ABM test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 28 - 21:48 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.59GA.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 113 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1963 February 28 - 21:48 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC1E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor SLV-2A Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 354 / Agena D 1159 (No solids). FAILURE: Failure.
  • KH-4 9052 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-4 s/n 9052. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-4. Agency: U.S. Air Force. COSPAR: F630228A. Decay Date: 1963-02-28. KH-4. Mission failed. References: 126.
  • SRV 610 Nation: USA. Spacecraft: KH-4. Agency: USAF. COSPAR: F630228B. References: 279.
1963 February 28 - 22:11 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.53GA.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 103 km (64 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 1 -
  • Apollo-derived 18 crew space station. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: LORL. MSC proposed building a manned space station using hardware already under development for the Apollo program. MSC's plan called for an orbiting station with a capacity for 18 crewmen. Manning would be accomplished through successive flights of six-man, modified Apollo-type spacecraft that would rendezvous with the station in orbit.
1963 March 1 -
  • Mercury spacecraft 9A completed Project Orbit Run 110. Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Spacecraft: Mercury. Mercury spacecraft 9A, configured for manned 1-day mission requirements, completed Project Orbit Run 110. For this test, only the reaction control system was exercised; as a result of the run, several modifications were made involving pressurization and fuel systems. References: 483.
1963 March - Launch Vehicle: RT-2.
  • RT-2 draft project completed Nation: USSR. Korolev completed the draft project in March 1963. The modular design had three stages, each with three nozzles.
1963 March 1 - 01:20 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 7C. LV Configuration: Skylark-7C SL84.
  • XR / La / RF / CW / SpE Ionosphere / solar x-rays mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 209 km (129 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 1 - 21:00 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 134F.
  • ABRES REX-I / Pod 1 Re-entry vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 4 - 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.
1963 March 5 -
  • American agreement with Australia to build new tracking stations Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. NASA announced an American agreement with Australia, signed on February 26, that permitted the space agency to build and operate several new tracking stations "down under." A key link in the Jet Propulsion Laboratory's network of Deep Space Instrumentation Facilities would be constructed in Tidbinbilla Valley, 18 kilometers (11 miles) southwest of Canberra. Equipment at this site included a 26-meter (85-foot) parabolic dish antenna and electronic equipment for transmitting, receiving, and processing radio signals from spacecraft. Tracking stations would be built also at Carnarvon and Darwin. References: 16.
1963 March 6 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn I.
  • North American completed Apollo boilerplate (BP) 9 Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. North American completed construction of Apollo boilerplate (BP) 9, consisting of launch escape tower and CSM. It was delivered to MSC on March 18, where dynamic testing on the vehicle began two days later. On April 8, BP-9 was sent to MSFC for compatibility tests with the Saturn I launch vehicle. References: 16.
1963 March 6 - 22:30 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 AC3.372.
  • Mass spectrometer Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 228 km (141 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 7 - Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511.
  • Korolev approves draft plan for 'Soyuz Complex' Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1. Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz A, Soyuz 7K-OK, Soyuz B, Soyuz V. Final design approval for Soyuz A spacecraft for earth orbit and circumlunar flight using orbital rendezvous, docking, and refuelling technques. Except for change of orbital module from cylindrical to spherical design, and changes to rendezvous radar tower arrangement, this design was essentially identical to the Soyuz 7K-OK that flew three years later. Additional Details: Korolev approves draft plan for 'Soyuz Complex'. References: 23.
1963 March 7 - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2.
  • Study group to recommend DOD experiments for inclusion in the Gemini flight program. Nation: USA. The Gemini Program Planning Board, meeting in Washington, agreed to the establishment of an ad hoc study group to compare NASA and Department of Defense (DOD) objectives for the Gemini program and to recommend DOD experiments for inclusion in the Gemini flight program. The group met in continuous session March 25 to April 26, presenting its final report to the board on May 6. The board then recommended that a program of inflight military experiments be immediately approved, that the Air Force establish a field office at Manned Spacecraft Center to manage DOD participation in the Gemini program in general and integration of experiments in particular, and that work on preventing longitudinal oscillations in stage I and combustion instability in stage II of the Gemini launch vehicle to be urgently pursued. The board declined to recommend additional flights in the Gemini program, as suggested by the study group, to encompass experiments that would not fit into the framework of the planned Gemini program. The Secretary of Defense and NASA Administrator concurred in the Board's recommendations.
1963 March 7 - 18:49 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-120.
  • Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 8 -
  • Ustinov challenges Vostok plans Nation: USSR. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6, Vostok 6A, Vostok 7, Vostok 8, Vostok 9, Vostok 10. Ustinov, Smirnov, and other industry leaders challenge the plan for dual female flights. They would send only one woman aloft in Vostok s/n 007. Vostok s/n 008 would be held as a reserve. If Vostok s/n 007 was successful, s/n 008 would be used for a simultaneous manned flight. Training was to be complete by 1 April. The Soviet Air Force was categorically against this sudden revision. There were four women that had completed advanced training and were ready for flight, while there were only three men in training for flights later in the year. It would be impossible to complete the training of the male cosmonauts in a few weeks. However the spacecraft would reach the end of their storage life by May-June 1963 and would have to be used by then. References: 376.
1963 March 8 - 19:30 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.107GI.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 155 km (96 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 9 - 00:01 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.54GA.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 119 km (73 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 9 - 00:01 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.60GA.
  • Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 117 km (72 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 10 - 02:42 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576B3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 102D. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1963 March 11 -
  • First Apollo LM fire-in-the-hole model test Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. Grumman completed its first "fire-in-the-hole" model test. Even though preliminary data agreed with predicted values, they nonetheless planned to have a support contractor, the Martin Company, verify the findings. References: 16.
1963 March 11 - 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.
1963 March 11 - 04:30 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 7C. LV Configuration: Skylark-7C SL85.
  • XR / La / RF / CW / SpE Ionosphere / solar x-rays mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 209 km (129 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 12 - 05:21 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576B2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 64D.
  • Operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 12 - 09:50 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: HAD. LV Configuration: HAD 116.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE. Apogee: 124 km (77 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 13 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn I.
  • First long-duration static test of Saturn SA-5 first stage Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. The first stage of the Saturn SA-5 launch vehicle was static fired at MSFC for 144.44 seconds in the first long-duration test for a Block II S-1. The cluster of eight H-1 engines produced 680 thousand kilograms (1.5 million pounds) of thrust. An analysis disclosed anomalies in the propulsion system. In a final qualification test two weeks later, when the engines were fired for 143.47 seconds, the propulsion problems had been corrected. References: 16.
1963 March 14 -
  • Unmanned lunar orbiter spacecraft Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Lunar Orbiter. Homer E. Newell, Director of NASA's Office of Space Sciences, summarized results of studies by Langley Research Center and Space Technology Laboratories on an unmanned lunar orbiter spacecraft. These studies had been prompted by questions of the reliability and photographic capabilities of such spacecraft. Both studies indicated that, on a five-shot program, the probability was 0.93 for one and 0.81 for two successful missions; they also confirmed that the spacecraft would be capable of photographing a landed Surveyor to assist in Apollo site verification. References: 16.
1963 March 14 - Launch Site: ETR 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.
1963 March 14 - Launch Site: ETR 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.
1963 March 14 - Launch Site: ETR 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.
1963 March 14 - 01:01 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 203.
  • ERCS 279L Communications mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 15 - 11:38 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576B1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 46D. FAILURE: Failure.
  • TALL TREE 1 operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 16 - 02:05 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576D. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 63F.
  • OT TALL TREE 5 operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 16 - 02:19 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150A NASA 04.70CG.
  • Lockheed XR 2 X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 201 km (124 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 16 - 08:32 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576A1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 193D. FAILURE: Failure.
  • NTMP K-14/NC20.145 Target/Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 18 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC31B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 425.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 18 - 21:13 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC1W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor SLV-2A Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 360 / Agena D 1164 (No solids). FAILURE: Failure.
  • KH-6 8001 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-6 s/n 8001. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-6. Agency: U.S. Air Force. COSPAR: F630318A. Decay Date: 1963-03-18. First launch of KH-6. Mission failed. References: 126.
  • P-11 No. 1 Nation: USA. Payload: P-11 No. 1. Mass: 80 kg (176 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: SSF. Agency: U.S. Air Force. COSPAR: F630318B. Decay Date: 1963-03-18. Ferret subsatellite aboard first launch of KH-6. Mission failed. References: 172.
  • P-11 Nation: USA. Payload: P-11. Spacecraft: P 11. Agency: USAF. COSPAR: F630318C. References: 279.
1963 March 19 -
  • Chamberlin reassigned from Manager of Project Gemini. Nation: USA. Program: Gemini. Spacecraft: Gemini. James A Chamberlin was reassigned from Manager of Project Gemini to Senior Engineering Advisor to Robert R Gilruth, Director of Manned Spacecraft Center. Charles W Mathews was reassigned from Chief, Spacecraft Technology Division, to Acting Manager of Project Gemini.
1963 March 19 - 16:00 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC29A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3X-11.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 20 -
  • Soyuz draft project was submitted to the expert commission Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Soyuz A, Soyuz B, Soyuz V, Soyuz P, Soyuz R. Aside from the baseline Soyuz-B circumlunar mission, the draft project also proposed the Soyuz-P space interceptor and the Soyuz-R command-reconnaissance spacecraft. The military projects Soyuz-P and Soyuz-R were ‘subcontracted’ to OKB-1 Filial Number 3, based in Samara. The Soyuz B circumlunar version did not receive the same level of financial support.
1963 March 21 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC110L. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: N1.
  • Design work starts on N1 launch complex. Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L3. References: 96.
1963 March 21 -
  • Soyuz development approved. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Soyuz A, Soyuz B, Soyuz V. Central Committee of the Communist Party and Council of Soviet Ministers Decree 'On approval of work on the Soyuz complex' was issued. References: 474.
1963 March 21 -
  • Vostok launch plans in 1963. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Central Committee of the Communist Party and Council of Soviet Ministers Decree 'On preparation of proposals on launches of Vostok spacecraft' was issued. References: 474.
1963 March 21 -
  • Raketoplan model launched atop R-12. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Raketoplan. Raketoplan model reached 400 km altitude, re-entered at 4 km/sec. Flew a total distance of 1900 km before being recovered by parachute. First test flight of a lifting re-entry vehicle in the world. References: 376.
1963 March 21 -
  • Vostok programme cut back - second female flight cancelled Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6, Vostok 6A, Vostok 7, Vostok 8, Vostok 9, Vostok 10. Vostok flight plans were drastically curtailed at a meeting of the Presidium of the Communist Party. Korolev presented the plan for 1963 as approved by the Interorganizational Soviet at the beginning of the year. This plan, already in an advanced stage of execution, was rejected utterly by Kozlov and Vershinin. The Ministry of Defence announced its categorical opposition to further Vostok production. It was finally decided that there would be only two flights in 1963 using existing spacecraft. These were scheduled for June and would consist of simultaneous female and male flights. Kamanin was infuriated that although he was ordered by a leadership decree in December 1961 to train five women for spaceflight, the same leadership was now asking - Who ordered this? What was the purpose? Are we sure they're ready? References: 376.
1963 March 21 - Launch Vehicle: N1. Model: N1 1964.
  • Presidium of Inter-institution Soviet Nation: USSR. Program: Soyuz. Spacecraft: Soyuz A, Soyuz B, Soyuz V, Soyuz 7K-OK. The expert commission report on Soyuz is reviewed by the Chief Designers from 10:00 to 14:00. The primary objective of the Soyuz project is to develop the technology for docking in orbit. This will allow the spacecraft to make flights of many months duration and allow manned flyby of the moon. Using docking of 70 tonne components launched by the N1 booster will allow manned flight to the Moon, Venus, and Mars. Keldysh, Chelomei and Glushko all support the main objective of Soyuz, to obtain and perfect docking technology. But Chelomei and Glushko warn of the unknowns of the project. Korolev agrees with the assessment that not all the components of the system - the 7K, 9K, and 11K spacecraft - will fly by the end of 1964. But he does argue that the first 7K will fly in 1964, and the first manned 7K flight will come in 1965. References: 376.
1963 March 21 - 08:30 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92. LV Configuration: Vostok 8A92 T15000-01.
  • Cosmos 13 Nation: USSR. Payload: Zenit-2 11F61 s/n 9. Mass: 4,700 kg (10,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2. Agency: NII-88. Perigee: 214 km (132 mi). Apogee: 303 km (188 mi). Inclination: 65.20 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1963-006A. USAF Sat Cat: 554. Duration: 8.00 days. Decay Date: 1963-03-29. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite. Also performed radiation measurements. References: 2, 6,93.
1963 March 21 - 11:40 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: PL1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: R-12.
  • M-12 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 405 km (251 mi). First flight of Raketoplan Chelomei, launched at 16:40 Moscow Time. The reentry vehicle was destroyed during reentry. Maximum Altitude - 400 km. Maximum Speed - 14,400 kph. Distance of free flight - 1900 km. References: 2.
1963 March 21 - 15:23 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC15. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-18.
  • Mk 6 re-entry vehicle test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 21 - 21:10 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: OSTF2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 83F.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 24 -
  • VVS Chief of Staff Malinovskiy says that manned flights should be cut back due to safety considerations. Nation: USSR. Kamanin considers this a strange attitude - many die every day in auto or aircraft accidents, but not one death will be tolerated in the conquest of space. The whole plan for the next Vostok missions are thrown back for reconsideration. Many meetings occur over the next week - the basic question, was the MO / RVSN / VVS interested in manned space flight or not? Finally the decision was made to continue - a 180 degree reversal from the original position. References: 376.
1963 March 24 - 00:29 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 52F. FAILURE: Failure.
  • OT TALL TREE 4 operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 26 -
  • Beginning of Apollo CM environmental control system tests Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. MSC announced the beginning of CM environmental control system tests at the AiResearch Manufacturing Company simulating prelaunch, ascent, orbital, and reentry pressure effects. Earlier in the month, analysis had indicated that the CM interior temperature could be maintained between 294 K (70 degrees F) and 300 K (80 degrees F) during all flight operations, although prelaunch temperatures might rise to a maximum of 302 K (84 degrees F). References: 16.
1963 March 27 -
  • Cosmonauts Nelyubov, Anikeyev and Filatyev were arrested drunk and disorderly by the militia at Chkalovskiy station. Nation: USSR. This was not the first time. The VVS hierarchy wants them all dismissed from the cosmonaut corps. Gagarin says that only Filatyev should be fired. Kamanin would prefer to see all three go, but cannot afford to lose 25% of his flight-ready cosmonauts. He would hope to at least keep Nelyubov, who was a candidate for the third or fourth Vostok flights, but did not perform well on the centrifuge. References: 376.
1963 March 27 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC32B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 419A.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 28 -
  • Manned Earth Orbiting Laboratory. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: MORL. Associate Administrator Robert C. Seamans, Jr., asked Abraham Hyatt of Headquarters to organize a task team to study the concept of a Manned Earth Orbiting Laboratory. Seamans pointed out that such a laboratory was under consideration by several government agencies and that NASA and the Department of Defense were at that time supporting a number of advanced feasibility studies. He said that such a laboratory bore a very heavy interrelationship between manned space flight, space sciences, and advanced research and technology and that NASA's top management was faced with the decision whether to initiate hardware development. Hyatt's aft's team thus must examine broadly the needs of an orbiting laboratory from NASA's viewpoint, as well as that of outside agencies, and the operational and scientific factors impinging on any possible decision to undertake hardware development.
1963 March 28 - 00:15 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.30GG.
  • Ultraviolet geocorona? Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 28 - 07:54 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.08UA.
  • UM Composition 1 Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 190 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 28 - 09:30 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: HAD. LV Configuration: HAD 118.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE. Apogee: 133 km (82 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 28 - 19:06 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.09UA.
  • UM Composition 2 Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 190 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 28 - 20:06 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.87CI.
  • Eclipse inst test Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 161 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 28 - 20:11 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC34. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Saturn I. Model: Saturn I. LV Configuration: Saturn I SA-4.
  • Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 129 km (80 mi). Fourth suborbital test of Saturn I. The S-I Saturn stage reached an altitude of 129 kilometers (80 statute miles) and a peak velocity of 5,906 kilometers (3,660 miles) per hour. This was the last of four successful tests for the first stage of the Saturn I vehicle. After 100 seconds of flight, No. 5 of the booster's eight engines was cut off by a preset timer. That engine's propellants were rerouted to the remaining seven, which continued to burn. This experiment confirmed the "engine-out" capability that MSFC engineers had designed into the Saturn I. References: 2.
1963 March 29 - 02:57 GMT - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: RN. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun Falling Sphere 2.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 177 km (109 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 30 - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike Zeus. Model: Nike Zeus. LV Configuration: Nike Zeus-3.
  • K-17 Titan Intercept Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1963 March 30 - 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.
1963 March 30 - 08:45 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 395-A2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-3.
  • NTMP K-17 Target mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
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