Chronology - Quarter 2 1963

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Previous Home Next 1963 April 1 - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. POGO problems in the Titan II. Nation: USA. The Titan II-Gemini Coordination Committee was established to direct efforts to reduce longitudinal vibration (POGO) in the Titan II and to improve engine reliability. Air Force Space Systems Division (SSD) and Aerospace had presented to NASA and the Air Force a series of briefings on the POGO problem that culminated in a briefing to the Gemini Program Planning Board. The main problem was that POGO level satisfactory in the weapon system was too high to meet NASA standards for the Gemini program, and further reduction in the POGO level required a much more elaborate and extensive analytic and experimental program than had so far been considered necessary. The board approved the SSD/Aerospace proposals and established a committee to oversee work toward a POGO remedy. The high-level committee was composed of officials from Air Force Ballistic Systems Division, SSD, Space Technology Laboratories, and Aerospace. 1963 April 1 - Launch Site: Kerguelen. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. Ionosphere mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2. Spring 1963 - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: RT-1. Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. Spring 1963 - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: RT-1. Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 1 - 23:01 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC1E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 376 / Agena D 1160. KH-4 9053 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-4 s/n 9053 / Agena D 1160. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-4. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 198 km (123 mi). Apogee: 408 km (253 mi). Inclination: 74.90 deg. Period: 90.50 min. COSPAR: 1963-007A. USAF Sat Cat: 562. Decay Date: 1963-04-26. KH-4; film capsule recovered 3.1 days later. Best imagery to date. References: 2, 6. 1963 April 2 - Final contract with McDonnell for the Gemini spacecraft. Nation: USA. Program: Gemini. Spacecraft: Gemini. NASA announced the signing of a contract with McDonnell for the Gemini spacecraft. Final negotiations had been completed February 27, 1963. Estimated cost was $428,780,062 with a fixed fee of $27,870,000 for a total estimated cost-plus-fixed-fee of $456,650,062. NASA Headquarters spent two weeks on a detailed review of the contract before signing. Development of the spacecraft had begun in December 1961 under a preliminary letter contract which the final contract superseded. The contract call for a 13 flight-rated spacecraft, 12 to be used in space flight, one to be used for ground testing. In addition, McDonnell would provide two mission simulator trainers, a docking simulator trainer, five boilerplates, and three static articles for vibration and impact ground tests. 1963 April 2 - 08:16 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78/E6. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78/E6 G103-11. Luna 4 Nation: USSR. Program: Luna. Payload: E-6 s/n 3. Mass: 1,422 kg (3,134 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Lunar. Spacecraft: Luna E-6. Agency: RVSN. Perigee: 167 km (103 mi). Apogee: 182 km (113 mi). Inclination: 64.70 deg. Period: 87.98 min. COSPAR: 1963-008A. USAF Sat Cat: 563. Decay Date: 1963-04-03. Luna 4 was the second attempted Soviet unmanned lunar soft lander probe. The spacecraft, rather than being sent on a straight trajectory toward the Moon, was placed first in an earth parking orbit. The rocket stage then reignited and put the spaccecraft on a translunar trajectory. Failure of Luna 4 to make a required midcourse correction resulted in it missing the Moon by 8336.2 km on April 6, at 4:26 a.m. Moscow time. It thereafter entered a barycentric Earth orbit. The Soviet news agency, Tass, reported that data had been received from the spacecraft throughout its flight and that radio communication would continue for a few more days. References: 2, 6, 16, 64, 296. 1963 April 3 - Charles W Frick resigned as Apollo ASPO Manager Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Charles W. Frick resigned as ASPO Manager and Robert O. Piland was named Acting ASPO Manager. References: 16. 1963 April 3 - 02:00 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta B. LV Configuration: Thor Delta B 357/D17. Explorer 17 Nation: USA. Program: Explorer. Payload: AE A (S-6). Mass: 185 kg (407 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere. Spacecraft: AE. Agency: NASA GSF. Perigee: 254 km (157 mi). Apogee: 891 km (553 mi). Inclination: 57.60 deg. Period: 96.10 min. COSPAR: 1963-009A. USAF Sat Cat: 564. Decay Date: 1966-11-24. Atmospheric research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). References: 2, 6. 1963 April 3 - 16:46 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150A NASA 04.58UI. Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 237 km (147 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 4 - 15:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NB3.118. Solar X-rays Spectrum 1 Solar x-ray mission Nation: USA. Agency: NRL. Apogee: 205 km (127 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 5 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 395-A1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I V-1. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 5 - 03:01 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC5. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Scout X-3. LV Configuration: Scout X-3 S119. FAILURE: Failure. Transit 5A-2 Nation: USA. Program: Transit. Payload: Transit 5A-2. Mass: 84 kg (185 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Transit. Agency: U.S. Air Force. COSPAR: F630405A. Decay Date: 1963-04-05. Replacement for the failed Transit 5A; failed to reach orbit. References: 126. 1963 April 6 - The General Staff considers the topic of spaceflight and is opposed to greater VVS participation. Nation: USSR. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6. They are not against the flight of four Vostoks in 1963, though. References: 376. 1963 April 6 - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Mayak-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 63S1. FAILURE: First stage failed. DS-P1 s/n 2 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-P1. Class: Military. Type: Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: F630406A. Prototype ABM radar target; supported developmental experiments for ABM systems. References: 2. 1963 April 6 - 04:03 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 1. LV Configuration: Black Brant I AD-1-26. Ionosphere / fields Aurora / aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 144 km (89 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 6 - 07:25 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 1. LV Configuration: Black Brant I AD-1-23. Aurora / ionosphere / fields mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 8 - 16:00 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC29A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3X-18. Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 9 - Vostok proposed as the first 'space trainer'. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. In a meeting between the VVS and OKB-1 engineers, Korolev and Keldysh push for acceptance by the military and use of Vostok as the first 'space trainer'. Cosmonauts would train for spaceflight on Vostok missions before being assigned to operational flights aboard Soyuz.. This was consistent with aircraft practice (e.g. where the first effective jet fighter, the MiG-15, was converted to the MiG-15UTI and became the standard jet trainer for the VVS). It also envisioned a future where operational Vostok and Soyuz spacecraft would be mass-produced by the military and flown as regularly as fighter aircraft. References: 376. 1963 April 9 - 20:28 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.108GI. D-region Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 163 km (101 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 10 - Link to build Apollo lunar mission simulators Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. North American awarded a $9.5 million letter contract to the Link Division of General Precision, Inc., for the development and installation of two spacecraft simulators, one at MSC and the other at the Launch Operations Center. Except for weightlessness, the trainers would simulate the entire lunar mission, including sound and lighting effects. References: 16. 1963 April 10 - 20:33 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3X-14. FAILURE: Failure. Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. 1963 April 11 - Manned Orbital Research Laboratory (MORL). Nation: USA. Spacecraft: MORL. Christopher C. Kraft, Jr., John D. Hodge, and William L. Davidson of MSC's light Operations Division met at Langley with a large contingent of that Center's research staff to discuss LaRC's proposed Manned Orbital Research Laboratory (MORL). Langley spokesmen briefed their Houston visitors on the philosophy and proposed program phases leading to an operational MORL. Kraft and his colleagues then emphasized the need for careful study of operational problems involved with the MORL, as well as those associated with the smaller crew ferry and logistics supply vehicles. Specifically, they cited crew selection and training requirements, the need for a continuous recovery capability, communications requirements, and handling procedures for scientific data. 1963 April 11 - 04:30 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC31B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 425A. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 11 - 18:03 GMT - Launch Site: Hidden Hills DZ. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 36.1 N x 116.0 W. Launch Vehicle: X-15. LV Configuration: X-15 1-33-54. X-15A KC-1/APU Test/Imaging mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 22 km (13 mi). Maximum Speed - 4608 kph. Maximum Altitude - 22680 m. First flight in scientific and advanced research series - carried aerial mapping camera. References: 2. 1963 April 11 - 20:30 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF06. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 534. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 12 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF02. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 565. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 12 - 05:30 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150A NASA 04.96II. CSIRO VLF Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 198 km (123 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 12 - 14:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 KP3.1. FAILURE: Failure. Visible Dayglow Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: KPNO. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 13 - Vostok plans in 1963. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Decree 'On plans for Vostok launches in 1963' was issued. References: 474. 1963 April 13 - Decree issued for four Vostok flights in 1963. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6. Decree issued by the Soviet ministers and Central Committee setting out four Vostok flights in 1963. Two are to be launched by 15 June. References: 376. 1963 April 13 - At a meeting with the VVS, Korolev outlines his revised plans for the next fights. Nation: USSR. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6. He plans a male flight for 8 days, during which a woman would be sent aloft for 2 to 3 days. References: 376. 1963 April 13 - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike Zeus. Model: Nike Zeus. LV Configuration: Nike Zeus-3. K-21 Titan Intercept Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 13 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 395-A3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-1. NTMP K-21 Target mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 13 - 11:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Mayak-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 63S1. Cosmos 14 Nation: USSR. Payload: DS-U / Omega-1. Class: Technology. Spacecraft: Omega. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 250 km (150 mi). Apogee: 410 km (250 mi). Inclination: 48.90 deg. Period: 91.10 min. COSPAR: 1963-010A. USAF Sat Cat: 567. Decay Date: 1963-08-29. Tested VNIIEM electric gyrodyne satellite orientation technology. References: 2, 6. 1963 April 17 - Preliminary configuration freeze for the Apollo LEM Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. At a mechanical systems meeting at MSC, customer and contractor achieved a preliminary configuration freeze for the LEM. Several features of the design of the two stages were agreed upon: Descent four cylindrical propellant tanks (two oxidizer and two fuel); four- legged deployable landing gear Ascent a cylindrical crew cabin (about 234 centimeters (92 inches) in diameter) and a cylindrical tunnel (pressurized) for equipment stowage; an external equipment bay. Additional Details: Preliminary configuration freeze for the Apollo LEM. References: 16. 1963 April 17 - Nelyubov, Anikeyev, and Filatyev dismissed from the cosmonaut corps. Nation: USSR. The VVS General Staff issues a decree discharging Nelyubov, Anikeyev, and Filatyev from the cosmonaut corps. References: 376. 1963 April 17 - 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 April 17 - 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 April 17 - 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 April 17 - 09:23 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 7C. LV Configuration: Skylark-7C SL167. Grenade / Sphere / Sodium release Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 236 km (146 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 18 - 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 April 18 - 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 April 18 - 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 April 18 - 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 April 18 - 20:16 GMT - Launch Site: Hidden Hills DZ. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 36.1 N x 116.0 W. Launch Vehicle: X-15. LV Configuration: X-15 3-15-25. FAILURE: Nose gear scoop door opens at Mach 3.4. X-15A HT,Local flow,IR Test/Technology mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 28 km (17 mi). Nose landing gear failed. Maximum Speed - 6066 kph. Maximum Altitude - 28190 m. References: 2. 1963 April 18 - 21:00 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 300A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 300A NASA 06.07GA. Thermo Probe 2(AE-A) Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 342 km (212 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 19 - Cosmonaut training for Vostok 5/6. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6. It is clear that the female cosmonauts are trained and ready for an August flight, and the men (Bykovskiy, Volynov, Leonov, Khrunov) can complete training by that date. The male cosmonauts object to spending 7 to 8 days in a spacesuit in the ground spacecraft mock-up as required by the flight doctors. They don't want to spend more than 3 to 4 days. References: 376. 1963 April 19 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC15. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-21. FAILURE: Failure. Research and development test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). Mk 6 re-entry vehicle References: 2. 1963 April 20 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Sergeant. Model: Shotput. LV Configuration: Shotput 6. San Marco Satellite test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 426 km (264 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 20 - 10:01 GMT - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Blandine. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Veronique. LV Configuration: Veronique AGI35. Airglow Aeronomy /ionosphere mission Nation: France. Agency: FR. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 22 - Air lock for the Mercury spacecraft Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Spacecraft: Mercury Mark I. The Bendix Corporation reported to the Manned Spacecraft Center that it had completed the design and fabrication of an air lock for the Mercury spacecraft. This component was designed to collect micrometeorites during orbital flight. Actually the air lock could accommodate a wide variety of experiments, such as ejecting objects into space and into reentry trajectories, and exposing objects to a space environment for observation and retrieval for later study. Because of the modular construction, the air lock could be adapted to the Gemini and Apollo spacecraft. References: 483. 1963 April 22 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. Mercury Spacecraft 20 mated to Atlas launch vehicle Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Spacecraft: Mercury. Flight: Mercury MA-9. Spacecraft 20 was moved from Hanger S at Cape Canaveral to Complex 14 and mated to Atlas launch vehicle 130-D in preparation for the Mercury-Atlas 9 (MA-9) mission. The first simulated flight test was begun immediately. References: 483. 1963 April 22 - 08:30 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92. LV Configuration: Vostok 8A92 T15000-08. Cosmos 15 Nation: USSR. Payload: Zenit-2 11F61 s/n 8. Mass: 4,720 kg (10,400 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2. Agency: NII-88. Perigee: 194 km (120 mi). Apogee: 336 km (208 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.80 min. COSPAR: 1963-011A. USAF Sat Cat: 569. Duration: 5.00 days. Decay Date: 1963-04-27. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite. Also carried weather, radiation experiments. References: 2, 6,93. 1963 April 23 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF05. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 585. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 23-24 - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. The Gemini Abort Panel met. Martin-Baltimore's analysis of the last three Titan II flight tests tended to show that successful crew escape would have been possible. Nation: USA. McDonnell presented data on spacecraft structural capabilities, but lack of data on what to expect from Titan II catastrophic failure meant that spacecraft structural capabilities remained a problem. Also some questions had existed as to what could happen to the adapter retrosection during and after an abort. A study had been made of this problem, assuming a 70,000 foot altitude condition, and there appeared to be no separation difficulties. This study investigated the period of up to 10 seconds after separation, and there was no evidence that recontact would occur. 1963 April 23 - 20:48 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150A NASA 04.44GI. Electron density Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 199 km (123 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 23 - 22:07 GMT - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Blandine. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Veronique. LV Configuration: Veronique AGI49. Aeronomy /ionosphere mission Nation: France. Agency: FR. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 24 - 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 April 24 - 20:59 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: OSTF1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 65E. Research and development test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi). First successful E missile from OSTF-1, SMS 576 References: 2. 1963 April 26 - 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 April 26 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Dragon 1. LV Configuration: Dragon D-04. FAILURE: Failure. Test mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 58 km (36 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 26 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC5. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Scout X-2M. LV Configuration: Scout X-2M S121. FAILURE: Failure. P 35-4 Nation: USA. Program: DMSP. Payload: OPS 1298. Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: Program 35. Agency: U.S. Air Force. COSPAR: F630426B. Decay Date: 1963-04-26. Military weather satellite to provide targetting information for reconnaisance satellites. References: 126. 1963 April 26 - 18:31 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3X-20. Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 26 - 20:13 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 372 / Agena D 1411. FAILURE: Attitude sensors were misaligned. No orbit. KH-5 9055A Nation: USA. Payload: KH-5 s/n 9055A. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-5. Agency: U.S. Air Force. COSPAR: F630426AA. Decay Date: 1963-04-26. Mission failed. References: 126. 1963 April 27 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 395-C. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-8. Dinner Party Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Research and development launch. Mk 6 re-entry vehicle. References: 2. 1963 April 27 - 02:03 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 135F. ABRES REX-II re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 28 - Launch Vehicle: N1. Model: N1 1964. N1 Plans Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: TMK-1, L3-1963, OS-1 (1965). An Inter-Institution Soviet considers Korolev's N1 plans. He believes the first booster will be launched in 1965. The N1 is to have a payload capability of 75 tonnes to a 250 km altitude orbit, 50 tonnes to a 3000 km altitude orbit, and 16 tonnes in geostationary orbit. It could launch spacecraft capable of landing men on the moon and returning them to earth, or manned flybys of Mars or Venus. Three to ten launches would be needed for such missions, with the components being docked together in low earth orbit. The N1 can also be used to launch a large space station for military research. After the N1 discussion a decision is made that cosmonauts will not have to spend more than three to four days in a spacecraft mock-up on the ground to prove their readiness for flight. A simulation of the entire flight duration is not necessary. References: 376. 1963 April 28 - 08:50 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92. LV Configuration: Vostok 8A92 E15000-02. Cosmos 16 Nation: USSR. Payload: Zenit-2 11F61 s/n 10. Mass: 4,720 kg (10,400 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2. Agency: NII-88. Perigee: 201 km (124 mi). Apogee: 379 km (235 mi). Inclination: 64.70 deg. Period: 90.30 min. COSPAR: 1963-012A. USAF Sat Cat: 571. Duration: 10.00 days. Decay Date: 1963-05-08. Program partially completed. Part of the information lost due to failure of engine block stabilization system. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite. Also performed radiation measurements. References: 2, 6,93. 1963 April 30 - NASA / Department of Defense dispute over Gemini management responsibility. Nation: USA. Program: Gemini. Spacecraft: Gemini. In a NASA position paper, stimulated by Secretary of Defense McNamara's testimony on the fiscal year 1964 budget and an article in Missiles and Rockets interpreting his statements, Robert C. Seamans, Jr., NASA Associate Administrator, stressed NASA's primary management responsibility in the Gemini program. McNamara's remarks had been interpreted as presaging an Air Force take-over of Project Gemini. Seamans recognized the vital role of the Department of Defense in Gemini management and operations but insisted that NASA had the final and overall responsibility for program success. 1963 April 30 - Launch Site: Kindley. Launch Complex: COOP. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Deacon. Model: Deacon Judi. Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 30 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF03. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 595. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1963 April 30 - 04:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NB3.130. Ultraviolet Photometer Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NRL. Apogee: 197 km (122 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 1 - Rocketdyne gvien go ahead for Apollo LEM descent engine Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. Grumman reported that it had advised North American's Rocketdyne Division to go ahead with the lunar excursion module descent engine development program. Negotiations were complete and the contract was being prepared for MSC's review and approval. The go-ahead was formally issued on May 2. References: 16. 1963 May 1 - Launch Site: Al Kahir. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Al Kahir. Meteorological test Nation: Egypt. Agency: Egypt. Apogee: 80 km (49 mi). References: 2. 1963 May - Launch Vehicle: N1. Nuclear N1 designs Nation: USSR. At the end of 1961 the Glushko and Bondaryuk bureaux completed their draft projects on nuclear thermal engines for space vehicle upper stages. It was decided to continue work on development of an engine in the 30 to 40 tonne thrust range. In the following year Korolev was asked to study application of such engines, followed by a specific demand in May 1963 from the Scientific-Technical Soviet for specific recommendations. For a Mars expedition, it was calculated that the AF engine would deliver 40% more payload than a chemical stage, and the V would deliver 50% more. But Korolev’s study also effectively killed the program by noting that his favoured solution, a nuclear electric ion engine, would deliver 70% more payload than the Lox/LH2 stage. Further investigation of nuclear thermal stages for the N1 does not seem to be pursued. Bondaryuk and Glushko turned to Chelomei and his competing UR-700 rocket for future application of such stages. 1963 May - Launch Vehicle: R-16, R-5, Soyuz. Subdirectorate for Nuclear Operations was formed within the Twelfth Directorate Nation: USSR. As the number of ballistic missiles deployed increased, a specialised Subdirectorate for Nuclear Operations was formed within the Twelfth Directorate. 1963 May 1 - 10:15 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 395-A1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I V-4. FAILURE: Failure. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. References: 2. 1963 May 1 - 16:59 GMT - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Blandine. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Veronique. LV Configuration: Veronique AGI45. Aeronomy /ionosphere mission Nation: France. Agency: FR. Apogee: 160 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 2 - Launch Site: Cuxhaven. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Seliger. Model: Seliger Rocket. Seliger rocket reaches 120 km altitude. Nation: Germany. Seliger launched his 12.8 m long, three-stage rocket at an attempt to reach an altitude of 150 km. The effects of his contracts with the military were apparent. The 74th Panzer batallion at Altenwalde provided security, field communications, two jeeps as command posts, and a helicopter to search for the missile after the flight. The first launch of the day was that of a single-stage rocket to 50 km altitude. The mission was to measure high altitude winds and test the new parachute recovery system. The payload was successfully recovered in Wernerwald. Preparation of the three stage rocket took three hours, leading up to the planned 16:00 launch time. The 6 m long rocket lifted off at 16:03 but only reached an altitude of 120 km. 1963 May 2 - Launch Site: Cuxhaven. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Seliger. Model: Seliger 1. Test mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DRG. Apogee: 50 km (31 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 2 - 15:03 GMT - Launch Site: Cuxhaven. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Seliger. Model: Seliger 3. Test mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DRG. Apogee: 120 km (70 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 2 - 17:03 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 AC3.510. Extreme ultraviolet Mon 2 / XR / RPA Solar ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 232 km (144 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 2 - 17:59 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 3-16-26. X-15A APU,UVP,IR,flow Test/Ultraviolet Astronomy/Technolgy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 63 km (39 mi). Maximum Speed - 5612 kph. Maximum Altitude - 63820 m. Carried earth background radiation instrument in support of Midas reconnsat development. References: 2. 1963 May 3 - Qualification drop test series for the earth landing system Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. At El Centro, Calif., Northrop Ventura conducted the first of a series of qualification tests for the Apollo earth landing system (ELS). The test article, CM boilerplate 3, was dropped from a specially modified Air Force C-133. The test was entirely successful. The ELS's three main parachutes reduced the spacecraft's rate of descent to about 9.1 meters (30 feet) per second at impact, within acceptable limits. References: 16. 1963 May 4 - Kamanin informed that a dual spaceflight has been decreed within the next 6 weeks. Nation: USSR. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6. Only today is Kamanin informed that a dual flight has been decreed within the next 3 to 6 weeks. The women are ready, but Bykovskiy and Volynov need a few parachute jumps and training in the hot mock-up. Leonov and Khrunov need additional centrifuge training as well. Bykovskiy and Volynov should be ready by 30 May, and Leonov and Khrunov by 15 June. Therefore earliest possible launch date is 5 to 15 June. Alekseyev's bureau is as always the pacing factor. He can adapt one of the female ejection seats for Bykovskiy, but not for Volynov. The space suit for Leonov will only be completed by 30 May. Kamanin talks to Korolev about dumping Alekseyev's bureau in the future. Cosmonaut parachute trainer Nikitin agrees that Bykovskiy can complete his parachute qualification at Fedosiya on 9-10 May. Further bad behaviour by Titov is reported during a trip to Kiev. He insulted an officer ('I am Titov, who are you?') and then had general's wives intervene on his behalf to get him out of trouble. References: 376. 1963 May 6 - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. The Gemini Program Planning Board approved the Air Force Systems Command development plan for the Gemini/Titan II improvement program. Nation: USA. The plan covered the development work required to man-rate the Titan II beyond the requirements of the Titan II weapon system and included three major areas: (1) reducing longitudinal oscillation levels to NASA requirements, (2) reducing the incidence of stage II engine combustion instability, and (3) cleaning up the design of stage I and II engines and augmenting the continuing engine improvement program to enhance engine reliability. The work was to be funded by the Titan Program Office of Air Force Ballistics Systems Division and managed by the Titan II/Gemini Coordination Committee, which had been established April 1. NASA found the plan satisfactory. 1963 May 7 - Yerkina excluded from Vostok 6 Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 6. Yerkina was excluded from Vostok 6 due to her performance during the three day test in the hot mock-up. She took off her boots after one day, and ate only three rations in three days. She was weak and fainted after coming out of the spacecraft. References: 376. 1963 May 7 - 11:38 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta B. LV Configuration: Thor Delta B 366/D18. Telstar 2 Nation: USA. Mass: 79 kg (174 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Telstar. Agency: AT&T. Perigee: 972 km (603 mi). Apogee: 10,802 km (6,712 mi). Inclination: 42.70 deg. Period: 225.30 min. COSPAR: 1963-013A. USAF Sat Cat: 573. Active repeater. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 2, 6. 1963 May 7 - 20:30 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 2. LV Configuration: Black Brant II BB-2A-22. Ionosphere mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 139 km (86 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 7 - 21:11 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150A NASA 04.98UA. JHU Airglow 5 Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 223 km (138 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 8 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF06. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 604. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 8 - 17:23 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.110CA. Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 166 km (103 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 9 - Cosmonauts Tour Glushko Factory Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Sokol SK-1. Flight: Vostok 5. Victory Day Holiday in the Soviet Union. The cosmonauts toured Glushko's engine factory. Glushko has 11,000 employees at four locations. The resentment between Glushko and Korolev, going back to their time in the Gulag, is apparent. Korolev calls during the tour but Glushko does not return his call. Later Alekseyev contacts Kamanin and proposes that Komarov be the back-up cosmonaut for Vostok 5 rather than Khrunov - because he hasn't finished the suit yet for Khrunov! References: 376. 1963 May 9 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC16. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-14. FAILURE: Failure. Research and development test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Mk 6 re-entry vehicle. References: 2. 1963 May 9 - 18:02 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150A NASA 04.97II. CSIRO VLF Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 203 km (126 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 9 - 20:06 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 119D / Agena B S01 1206. Midas 7 Nation: USA. Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1206. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Class: Early Warning. Spacecraft: Midas. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 3,609 km (2,242 mi). Apogee: 3,680 km (2,280 mi). Inclination: 87.30 deg. Period: 166.40 min. COSPAR: 1963-014A. USAF Sat Cat: 574. MIDAS 7 was the first operational MIDAS mission and the first equipped with the W-37 sensor. During its six weeks of operation, MIDAS 7 recorded nine US ICBM launches, including the first missile launch ever detected from space. References: 2, 6, 171, 172, 278. TRS 2 Nation: USA. Payload: ERS 5. Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: TRS. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 2,269 km (1,409 mi). Apogee: 4,902 km (3,045 mi). Inclination: 87.20 deg. Period: 165.00 min. COSPAR: 1963-014B. USAF Sat Cat: 579. Decay Date: 1973-07-31. Solar cells damage data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6, 278. TRS 3 Nation: USA. Payload: ERS 6. Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: TRS. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 3,591 km (2,231 mi). Apogee: 3,691 km (2,293 mi). Inclination: 87.30 deg. Period: 166.40 min. COSPAR: 1963-014C. USAF Sat Cat: 608. Solar cells damage data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6, 278. Dash 1 Nation: USA. Class: Technology. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Dash. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 3,558 km (2,210 mi). Apogee: 3,724 km (2,313 mi). Inclination: 87.30 deg. Period: 166.30 min. COSPAR: 1963-014D. USAF Sat Cat: 589. References: 2, 6, 278. Westford Nation: USA. Class: Communications. Type: Passive. Spacecraft: Westford Needles. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: 1963-014xx. References: 2, 279. 1963 May 10 - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC38. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike Zeus. Model: Nike Zeus. LV Configuration: Nike Zeus-3. FAILURE: Failure. Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 10 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3X-12. Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 10 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Blandine. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Veronique. LV Configuration: Veronique AGI48. Coronagraph Solar ultraviolet mission Nation: France. Agency: FR. Apogee: 135 km (83 mi). No recovery. Solar corona (UV) / Ptr mission. References: 2. 1963 May 10 - 14:45 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NE3.140R. Solar extreme ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: NRL. Apogee: 214 km (132 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 11 - Vostok 5 / Vostok 6 Planning Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6. Korolev reports still problems with components of the electrical system from the Kharkov factory -- the same problems that existed in 1962. The cosmonauts will go to Tyuratam on 27/28 May, with launch planned for 3/5 June. Bykovskiy is named prime for Vostok 5, with Volynov his backup. Tereshkova is named prime for Vostok 6, with Solovyova and Ponomaryeva both as her backups. This selection is however made despite strong support for Ponomaryeva as prime by Keldysh and Rudenko. References: 376. 1963 May 11 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LC-B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Hopi. Model: Kiva/Hopi. Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). References: 2. 1963 Early in the Month - STL to build the mechanically throttled descent engine for the Apollo LEM Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. Grumman selected Space Technology Laboratories (STL) to develop and fabricate a mechanically throttled descent engine for the LEM, paralleling Rocketdyne's effort. Following NASA and MSC concurrence, Grumman began negotiations with STL on June 1. References: 16. 1963 May 13 - Korolev fights excessive VVS staff at Tyuratam. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Sokol SK-1. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6, Mercury MA-9. The VVS wants to send 55 staff to Tyuratam for the launches, but Korolev wants no more than 25. This is just possible - 11 cosmonauts, 8 engineers, and vital support staff only. Bykovskiy was to start a two day run in the hot mock-up, but it was called off due to defects with his suits - the biosensors were wired to his helmet microphone! The suit seems not even to have been tested before delivery. Alekseyev was supposed to have it ready by 9 May, now it will only be ready for use by 14 May. Gordon Cooper is scheduled for a 34 hour Mercury flight tomorrow.... References: 376. 1963 May 13 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 395-D. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-19. Flying Frog Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Research and development launch. Mk 6 re-entry vehicle. References: 2. 1963 May 14 - Attempt to launch Mercury MA-9 Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Flight: Mercury MA-9. An attempt was made to launch Mercury-Atlas 9 (MA-9), but difficulty developed in the fuel pump of the diesel engine used to pull the gantry away from the launch vehicle. This involved a delay of approximately 129 minutes after the countdown had reached T-60 minutes. After these repairs were effected, failure at the Bermuda tracking station of a computer converter, important in the orbital insertion decision, forced the mission to be canceled at T-13 minutes. At 6:00 p.m. e.d.t., Walter C. Williams reported that the Bermuda equipment had been repaired, and the mission was rescheduled for May 15, 1963. References: 483. 1963 May 14 - Tereshkova and Solovyova rated most ready to fly on Vostok 6. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 6, Vostok 5. Tereshkova and Solovyova are most ready to fly and will be sent to Fedosiya for sea training first. Ponomaryova and Yerkina will follow tomorrow. Bykovskiy started his run in the hot mock-up at 10:00 am. References: 376. 1963 May 14 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: Bacchus?. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C51. Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 14 - 15:45 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.66NP. Paraglider Technology mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 185 km (114 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 14 - 20:11 GMT - Launch Site: Hidden Hills DZ. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 36.1 N x 116.0 W. Launch Vehicle: X-15. LV Configuration: X-15 3-17-28. X-15A Heating,UVP,IR Test/Ultraviolet Astronomy/Technology mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 29 km (18 mi). Maximum Speed - 5792 kph. Maximum Altitude - 29140 m. References: 2. 1963 May 15 - Cooper's flight scrubbed; Bukovskiy to start in Vostok 5 hot mock-up. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 5, Mercury MA-9. Cooper's flight was scrubbed due to a problem with the Bermuda tracking site. Bykovskiy's suit microphone failed on the second day in the hot-mock-up and he as to communicate by telephone or telegraph. The doctor's insistence that each cosmonaut spend the full duration of his planned flight in the hot mock-up is idiotic. The US practice is to simulate the active portions of the flight only. In actuality every day spent in a suit on the earth is as gruelling as three days in space. References: 376. 1963 May 15 - 13:04 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC14. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 130D. Mercury MA-9 Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Payload: Mercury SC20. Mass: 1,376 kg (3,033 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Mercury. Location of Spacecraft: Space Center Houston (NASA Johnson Space Center's Visitor Center), Houston, TX. Agency: NASA MSC. Perigee: 163 km (101 mi). Apogee: 265 km (164 mi). Inclination: 32.50 deg. Period: 88.70 min. COSPAR: 1963-015A. USAF Sat Cat: 576. Duration: 1.43 days. Decay Date: 1963-05-16. Crew: Cooper. Flight: Mercury MA-9. Final Mercury mission, Faith 7, was piloted by Astronaut L. Gordon Cooper, Jr. References: 2, 6, 16, 26, 33, 59, 60, 278. 1963 May 15 - 18:22 GMT - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: Bacchus?. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C42. MPE Ba-3 Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 155 km (96 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 15 - 18:50 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 1-35-56. FAILURE: Nose gear scoop door opens at Mach 5.2. X-15A Opt Deg/Trav Probe Test/Technology mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 37 km (22 mi). Maximum Speed - 6204 kph. Maximum Altitude - 37860 m. Lost both nose landing gear tires and forward fuselage buckled after APU gear box pressure loss. References: 2. 1963 May 16 - Bykovsky's ordeal in Vostok-5 hot mock-up to be ended on third day. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 5, Mercury MA-9. It is decided that extending Bykovskiy's ordeal in the hot mock-up to a third day makes no sense. The IAKM doctors are utterly incompetent. Cooper has landed after a successful flight. The US is now hot on our tail in the space race. References: 376. 1963 May 16 - 04:00 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AC6.472. Firefly IV CLAIRE Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 156 km (96 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 16 - 14:38 GMT - Launch Site: Sonmiani. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.77IA. Rehbar 3? (Na) Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 146 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 16 - Landing of Mercury MA-9 Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Flight: Mercury MA-9. After 22 orbits, virtually all spacecraft systems had failed, and Cooper manually fired the retrorockets and the spacecraft reentered the atmosphere, landing safely in the Pacific Ocean at 23:24 GMT, 34 hours, 19 minutes, and 49 seconds after liftoff. Cooper was reported in good condition, and this turned out to be the final Mercury flight. 1963 May 17 - Problems with Titov again. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Sokol SK-1. Flight: Vostok 5. Problems with Titov again. While on a road trip with a journalist, he left a satchel with sensitive and classified papers unattended in his car - documents from Korolev, secret state decrees by the Supreme Soviet, etc. At 12:30 Volynov took Bykovskiy's place in the hot mock-up. Examination of Bykovskiy's suit showed that it had been incorrectly assembled. References: 376. 1963 May 17 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3X-15. Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 17 - 23:00 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 301. ERCS 279L Communications mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 18 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC60/7. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U. FAILURE: Failure. Combat training launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. 1963 May 18 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC60/6. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U. Combat training launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 18 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC60/8. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U. Combat training launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 18 - 01:06 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA14.141DA AC5.469. Firefly IV SARAH Aeronomy sodium release mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 185 km (114 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 18 - 08:55 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AC6.473. Firefly IV DORIS Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 167 km (103 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 18 - 10:06 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA14.140DA AC5.471. Firefly IV BLANCHE Aeronomy sodium release mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 187 km (116 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 18 - 22:21 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 364 / Agena D 1165. KH-6 8002 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-6 s/n 8002 / Agena D 1165. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-6. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 147 km (91 mi). Apogee: 506 km (314 mi). Inclination: 74.50 deg. Period: 91.00 min. COSPAR: 1963-016A. USAF Sat Cat: 578. Decay Date: 1963-05-27. KH-6. Second launch of KH-6. Operation was successful but no film was used. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6. 1963 May 20 - Volynov completes three days in the Vostok 5 hot mock-up. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 5. References: 376. 1963 May 20 - Launch Site: Salto di Quirra. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.137IA. Sodium release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 20 - 02:09 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 9M. LV Configuration: Kappa 9M K-9M-2. Ionosphere mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 345 km (214 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 21 - The cosmonauts are informed of the selections for the Vostok 5/6 flights. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6. Korolev asks Ponomaryova why she is so sad - 'I am not sad, but serious, as always'. References: 376. 1963 May 21 - Launch Site: Ile du Levant. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: CERES. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C48. Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 21 - Launch Site: Reggane. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C45. Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 21 - Launch Site: Salto di Quirra. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.138IA. Sodium release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 21 - Launch Site: Salto di Quirra. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.139IA. Sodium release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 21 - 05:30 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NB3.119. Far ultraviolet Telescope Far ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NRL. Apogee: 192 km (119 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 21 - 18:25 GMT - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: Bacchus?. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C43. MPE Ba-4 Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 125 km (77 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 22 - Kennedy leaves decision to NASA for Mercury MA-10 flight Nation: USA. Program: Mercury. Flight: Mercury MA-10. President Kennedy at a regular press conference responded to a question regarding the desirability of another Mercury flight by saying that NASA should and would make that final judgement. References: 483. 1963 May 22 - Vostok 5 ready for launch on 10 June. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 5. It is reported that the spacecraft will be ready for launch on 5 June and the launch vehicle on 10 June. References: 376. 1963 May 22 - 01:10 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.130DA. Firefly IV IRENE Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 135 km (83 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 22 - 03:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Mayak-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 63S1. Cosmos 17 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-A1 s/n 2. Mass: 322 kg (709 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Navigation. Spacecraft: DS-A1. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 251 km (155 mi). Apogee: 658 km (408 mi). Inclination: 48.90 deg. Period: 93.70 min. COSPAR: 1963-017A. USAF Sat Cat: 580. Completed Operations Date: 1963-05-30. Decay Date: 1965-06-02. 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. 1963 May 22 - 04:38 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: LA3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Scout X-3. LV Configuration: Scout X-3 S116. RFD-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 145 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 22 - 05:10 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.13CA. Sodium-Lithium release trail Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 186 km (115 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 22 - 08:51 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.14CA. Sodium-Lithium release trail Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 184 km (114 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 23 - Major redesign of the Apollo guidance computer Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. MIT suggested a major redesign of the Apollo guidance computer to make the CM and LEM computers as similar as possible. NASA approved the redesign and the Raytheon Company, subcontractor for the computer, began work. References: 16. 1963 May 23 - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike Zeus. Model: Nike Zeus. LV Configuration: Nike Zeus-3 20138. ZK-20 DM-15S Agena Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 23 - 05:13 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.15CA. Sodium-Lithium release trail Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 23 - 08:46 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 7C. LV Configuration: Skylark-7C SL115. XR / Ozone / Meteors Solar x-ray / aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 201 km (124 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 24 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: Bacchus?. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C41. Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 24 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF07. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 658. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 24 - 00:45 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.40CA. Sodium release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 205 km (127 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 24 - 09:00 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.41CA. Sodium release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 204 km (126 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 24 - 10:33 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92. LV Configuration: Vostok 8A92 E15000-12. Cosmos 18 Nation: USSR. Payload: Zenit-2 11F61 s/n 11. Mass: 4,720 kg (10,400 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2. Agency: NII-88. Perigee: 212 km (131 mi). Apogee: 269 km (167 mi). Inclination: 64.60 deg. Period: 89.30 min. COSPAR: 1963-018A. USAF Sat Cat: 586. Duration: 9.00 days. Decay Date: 1963-06-02. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite. Also performed radiation measurements. References: 2, 6,93. 1963 May 24 - 17:33 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC15. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-17. Research and development test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Mk 6 re-entry vehicle References: 2. 1963 May 25 - VPK meets to approve plans for Vostok 5 and 6 flights. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6. It was proposed that Vostok 5 carry a small 1.5 kg optical telescope to allow better visual observations outside of the spacecraft. References: 376. 1963 May 25 - Launch Site: CELPA. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C35. Sodium cloud Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 189 km (117 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 25 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC41/15. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U. Combat training launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 25 - 00:47 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.42CA. Sodium release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 197 km (122 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 26 - 05:34 GMT - Launch Site: Barking Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike. Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF?. Apogee: 103 km (64 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 27 - Kamanin and the VVS contingent arrive at Tyuratam for the launch campaign. Nation: USSR. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6. References: 376. 1963 May 28 - Cosmonaut's parachute trainer Nikitin killed in an accident. Nation: USSR. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6. He tangled in the air with another member of a group jump, Aleksei Novikov. Both were killed. The Vostok 5 and 6 launch vehicles and spacecraft are both in the MIK assembly wall. Work began on them two weeks ago. Nevertheless Korolev is not happy with the results. He wants the tests run over from the start. Round-the-clock work begins from this day. The bad weather and the news of Nikitin's death produce an atmosphere of gloom. Nikitin's funeral is scheduled for 30 May. Therefore the cosmonauts have delayed their departure in order to attend the funeral and will not arrive at Tyuratam until 31 May. Kamanin was very worried about the effect of Nikitin's death on the female cosmonauts' nerves. The final decree set the launch dates as 2/3 June, with landing on 7/8 June. Kamanin gets into a heated argument with Rudenko, who wants to fly all of the cosmonauts to Tyuratam on a single aircraft. He doesn't see what the big deal is -- after all, state ministers fly together all the time. References: 376. 1963 May 29 - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. The vertical test facility (VTF) at Martin-Baltimore was activated. Nation: USA. The VTF comprised a 165-foot tower and an adjacent three-story blockhouse with ground equipment similar to that used at complex 19. In it, the completely assembled Gemini launch vehicle was tested to provide a basis for comparison with subsequent tests conducted at complex 19. Each subsystem was tested separately, then combined systems tests were performed, concluding with the Combined Systems Acceptance Test, the final step before the launch vehicle was presented for Air Force acceptance. 1963 May 29 - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Javelin. Model: Nike Javelin. LV Configuration: Nike Javelin TRUMP 1. TRUMP 1 test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF APGC. Apogee: 131 km (81 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 29 - 03:45 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC31B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 428. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 29 - 04:35 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 7C. LV Configuration: Skylark-7C SL127. LF / Resonance / SpE / XR Ionosphere / solar x-rays mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 209 km (129 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 29 - 16:56 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC16. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-20. FAILURE: Failed 55 seconds after launch. Research and development test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Titan II flight N-20, the 19th in the series of Air Force research and development flights, was launched from Cape Canaveral. It carried oxidizer standpipes and fuel accumulators to suppress longitudinal oscillations (POGO). During the spring of 1963, static firings of this configuration had been successful enough to confirm the hypothesis that POGO was caused by coupling between the missile structure and its propulsion system, resulting in an unstable closed loop system. Standpipes and accumulators, by interrupting the coupling reduced the source of instability. Flight N-20 failed 55 seconds after launch and yielded no POGO data. Although the failure was not attributed to the installed POGO fix, Air Force Ballistics Systems Division decided officially that no further Titan II development flights would carry the POGO fix because so few test flights remained to qualify the weapon system operationally. This decision did not stand, however, and the POGO fix was flown again on N-25 (November 1), as well as on two later flights. References: 2. 1963 May 29 - 18:43 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 3-18-29. X-15A Aero heating/VO Stab test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 28 km (17 mi). Inner panel of left windshield cracked. Maximum Speed - 6208 kph. Maximum Altitude - 28040 m. References: 2. 1963 May 30 - Launch Site: CELPA. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C39. Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1963 May 30 - Launch Site: CELPA. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C36. Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1963 May - First estimates of reliability for the Apollo LEM Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. In its first estimates of reliability for the LEM, Grumman reported a 0.90 probability for mission success and 0.994 for crew safety. (The probabilities required by NASA were 0.984 and 0.9995, respectively.) References: 16. 1963 May - Grumman completed the Apollo LEM M-1 mockup Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. Grumman completed the LEM M-1 mockup and began installing equipment in the vehicle. Also, the contractor began revising cabin front design to permit comparisons of visibility. References: 16. 1963 May - Launch Vehicle: Little Joe II. Major change to the Little Joe II launch vehicle Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. NASA and General Dynamics Convair negotiated a major change on the Little Joe II launch vehicle contract. It provided for two additional launch vehicles which would incorporate the attitude control subsystem (as opposed to the early fixed-fin version). On November 1, MSC announced that the contract amendment was being issued. NASA Headquarters' approval followed a week later. References: 16. 1963 June 1 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F. Atlas F propellant loading accident. Nation: USA. Exploded during propellant loading (Walker AFB 1) 1963 June 1 - Vostok 5/6 Flight Preparations Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 5. Sunday before the launch. Rudenko goes to the Syr Darya for a swim. The cosmonauts play volleyball, then receive instruction from Rauschenbach on manual orientation of the spacecraft for re-entry. Then everyone goes to the beach for swimming and chess. Good river bass are cooked for dinner. In the evening, the film The Magnificent Seven is screened. Kamanin finds it violent but involving - the two hours go by in no time. References: 376. 1963 June 1 - Cosmonauts and brass arrive at the cosmodrome for the Vostok 5/6 launch. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 5, Vostok 6. A meeting is held to discuss emergency recovery of the Vostoks. There is no realistic chance of their survival if they land at sea in the South Atlantic, Pacific, or Antarctic Oceans, however plans must be made. Several ships and three to four Tu-114 aircraft would be required to have any realistic chance of recovery. However these are not available. References: 376. 1963 June 1 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC41/15. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U. FAILURE: Failure. Operational test launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2. 1963 June - Most Apollo CM subsystem designs frozen Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. Most CM subsystem designs frozen. References: 16. 1963 June - Launch Vehicle: Proton. Model: Proton 8K82. Tests of clustered Proton engines begun Nation: USSR. Glushko conducted tests of the new engine from 1961 to 1963, followed by tests of the clustered engine assembly from June 1963 to January 1965. Through use of a regenerative fuel pump cycle Glushko was able to improve the thrust of the engine by 12.5%. It was therefore decided to use only the large Glushko engine in the first stage. The first layout had one engine at the base of the core and 4 to 8 fuel tanks with peripheral engines. Now the centre engine was abandoned and the ‘clean’ oxidiser tank core was surrounded by six fuel tank/engine assemblies. This had the advantage of reducing the length of the stage while increasing the dry weight fraction. 1963 June 1 - 02:50 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Mayak-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 63S1. FAILURE: First stage failed 4 seconds after launch. DS-MT s/n 1 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-MT. Class: Technology. Spacecraft: DS-MT. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: F630601A. Payload developed by the VNIIEM to test electric gyrodyne orientation systems. Also studied variations in the intensity of cosmic rays. References: 2. 1963 June 2 - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. Stage I of Gemini launch vehicle 1 was erected in Martin-Baltimore's vertical test facility. Nation: USA. Stage II was erected on June 9, and posterection inspection was completed June 12. Subsystem Functional Verification Tests began June 10. 1963 June 2 - 00:26 GMT - Launch Site: Walker AFB. Launch Complex: Missile Site 579. Launch Pad: 579-1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 77F. Error mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. 1963 June 3 - Vostok 5/6 Flight Preparations Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 6, Vostok 5. At 9 am Tereshkova, Solovyova, and Ponomaryova practice donning and doffing their space suits. Bykovskiy and Volynov prepare their ship's logs. Korolev discusses plans for tests of the cosmonaut's ability to discern objects from space. Colonel Kirillov completes preparation of the spacecraft for flight. References: 376. 1963 June 4 - The State Commission for Vostok 5/6 launches meets. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 6, Vostok 5. All is ready, but the wind