1964 January 1 - 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.
1964 - Launch Vehicle: Mustard. -
MUSTARD - Multi-Unit Space Transport And Recovery Device study Nation: UK. British Aircraft Corporation study of 1964-1965 for winged reuseable space shuttle using the 'triamese' concept - reduced costs by use of two boosters nearly identical to the orbiter vehicle. The components were lifting bodies with a configuration similar to the US HL-10 vehicle.
1964 - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Hopi. Model: Sidewinder-Raven. -
Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USA ERDL. Apogee: 113 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1964 Duing the year - Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. -
Development of Soyuz-R and Soyuz-P begun. Nation: USSR. Program: Almaz. Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz R, Soyuz P, Soyuz PPK, Soyuz 7K-TK. KB Kozlov began active development of the military applied versions of the Soyuz. A new version of the R-7 launch vehicle, the 11A514, was put into development to support launch of the Soyuz-P, now designated the 7K-PPK (pilotiruemovo korablya-perekhvatchika, manned interceptor spacecraft). The Soyuz-R would include the small orbital station 11F71 with photo-reconnaissance and ELINT equipment. To dock with the 11F71 station Kuibishev developed the transport spacecraft 11F72 7K-TK. This version of the Soyuz was equipped with rendezvous, docking, and transition equipment, including an airlock, that allowed the two cosmonauts to enter the station without using EVA. The launch vehicle for the 7K-TK would be the 11A511, known today as the Soyuz.
1964 Duing the year - Launch Vehicle: R-17. -
R-17 (Scud B) accepted for military service Nation: USSR.
1964 January-March - -
Air Force's Manned Orbiting Laboratory and NASA's Manned Orbiting Research Laboratory studied. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: MOL. In the wake of the Air Force's Manned Orbiting Laboratory project and the likelihood of NASA's undertaking some type of manned orbiting research laboratory, Director of Advanced Manned Missions Studies Edward Z. Gray sought to achieve within NASA a better understanding of the utility of such projects as a base for experiments in space. Accordingly, he created three separate working groups to deal with possible experiments in three separate categories: (l) big-medical, (2) scientific, and (3) engineering.
1964 January 6 - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike Zeus. Model: Nike Zeus. LV Configuration: Nike Zeus-3. -
Interceptor mission Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 8 - -
NASA criticises Manned Orbiting Laboratory. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: MORL. In an interview for Space Business Daily, Edward Z. Gray, Director of Advanced Studies in NASA's Office of Manned Space Flight, predicted that NASA's manned space station would be more sophisticated than the Defense Department's Manned Orbiting Laboratory. NASA had more than a dozen study projects under way, Gray said, that when completed would enable the agency to appraise requirements and pursue the best approach to developing such a space station.
1964 January 8 - 00:00 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC29A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3X-50. -
Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 8 - 13:15 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.129IA. -
ISRO 10.02? (Na) Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 187 km (116 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 8 - 20:10 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 1-43-69. FAILURE: Inertial instruments failure. -
X-15A SAS Off Stability test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 42 km (26 mi). Maximum Speed - 5818 kph. Maximum Altitude - 42642 m. References: 2.
1964 January 9 - Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2, Kosmos 3. -
R-12U and R-14U accepted into military service. Nation: USSR. Decree 'On adoption of the R-12U and R-14U shaft versions into armaments' was issued. References: 474.
1964 January 10 - -
Manned Orbiting Laboratory "an ominous harbinger...". Nation: USA. Spacecraft: MOL. James J. Haggerty, Jr., Space Editor for the Army-Navy-Air Force Journal and Register, called the assignment of the Manned Orbiting Laboratory to the Department of Defense 'an ominous harbinger of a reversal in trend, an indication that the military services may play a more prominent role in future space exploration at NASA's expense.... Whether you label it development platform, satellite platform, satellite or laboratory, it is clearly intended as a beginning for space station technology. It is also clearly the intent of this administration that, at least in the initial stages, space station development shall be under military rather than civil cognizance....'
1964 January 10 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF07. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 883. -
Demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: SAC 1STRAD. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 11 - -
Three U S Air Force test pilots in a simulated seven- day lunar landing mission Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. Three U. S. Air Force test pilots began a five-week training period at the Martin Company leading to their participation in a simulated seven- day lunar landing mission. This was part of Martin's year-long study of crew performance during simulated Apollo missions (under a $771,000 contract from NASA).
References: 16.
1964 January 11 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC1E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor SLV-2 Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 390 / Agena D 2354. -
Agena D 2354 Nation: USA. Program: ELINT. Mass: 700 kg (1,540 lb). Spacecraft: Ferret. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 906 km (562 mi). Apogee: 937 km (582 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 103.50 min. COSPAR: 1964-001A. USAF Sat Cat: 727. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
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GGSE 1 Nation: USA. Mass: 39 kg (85 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Gravity gradient. Spacecraft: GGSE. Agency: NRL. Perigee: 899 km (558 mi). Apogee: 916 km (569 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 103.20 min. COSPAR: 1964-001B. USAF Sat Cat: 728. Gravity gradient stabilization tests. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
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SECOR 1 Nation: USA. Payload: EGRS 1. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic. Spacecraft: SECOR. Agency: USA. Perigee: 904 km (561 mi). Apogee: 922 km (572 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 103.30 min. COSPAR: 1964-001C. USAF Sat Cat: 729. Located Pacific islands. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
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Solrad 7A; NRL Solar Rad Nation: USA. Payload: GRAB 5. Mass: 45 kg (99 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: GRAB. Agency: NRL. Perigee: 902 km (560 mi). Apogee: 920 km (570 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 103.20 min. COSPAR: 1964-001D. USAF Sat Cat: 730. Solar radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
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Unidentified Nation: USA. Program: ELINT. Payload: NRL PL135. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: NRL ELINT. Agency: NRL. Perigee: 902 km (560 mi). Apogee: 919 km (571 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 103.20 min. COSPAR: 1964-001E. USAF Sat Cat: 731. Identified by McDowell as probable NRL ELINT satellite. References: 2, 6.
1964 January 12 - 00:26 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.130IA. -
ISRO 10.03? (Na) Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 187 km (116 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 13 - 16:30 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-243. FAILURE: Failure. -
Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 13 - 21:50 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-244. -
Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 14 - Launch Site: Barking Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk-9a Sandia 152-21. -
Ballistic test Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 292 km (181 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 14 - 06:05 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 2. LV Configuration: Black Brant II AA-2-25. -
Auroral particles Aurora / ionosphere / micrometeorites mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 155 km (96 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 15 - -
First Apollo fuel cell delivered by Pratt and Whitney Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. The first fuel cell module delivered by Pratt and Whitney Aircraft to North American was started and put on load. The module operated normally and all test objectives were accomplished. Total operating time was four hours six minutes, with one hour at each of four loads-20, 30, 40, and 50 amperes. The fuel cell was shut down without incident and approximately 1,500 cubic centimeters (1.6 quarts) of water were collected.
References: 16.
1964 January 15 -
1964 January 15 - -
Phase II follow-on extended Apollo system studies. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Apollo X. Following completion of feasibility studies of an extended Apollo system at MSC, Edward Z. Gray, Advanced Manned Missions Program Director at Headquarters, told MSC's Maxime A. Faget, Director of Engineering and Development, to go ahead with phase II follow-on studies. Gray presented guidelines and suggested tasks for such a study, citing his desire for two separate contracts to industry to study the command and service modules and various concepts for laboratory modules.
1964 January 15 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC15. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-31. -
Research and development / Pod T test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 15 - 22:40 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.106CA. -
Sodium release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 114 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 16 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF02. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 870. -
Demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: SAC 1STRAD. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 16 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC32B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 438. -
Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 16-February 12 - -
First full-throttle firing of STL Apollo LEM descent engine Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. The first full-throttle firing of Space Technology Laboratories' LEM descent engine (being developed as a parallel effort to the Rocketdyne engine) was carried out. The test lasted 214 seconds, with chamber pressures from 66.2 to 6.9 newtons per square centimeter (96 to 10 psi). Engine performance was about five percent below the required level.
References: 16.
1964 January 16 - 04:28 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC67/21. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: R-36 8K67. -
Kura state trials missile launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 908 km (564 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 16 - 05:00 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.125CA. -
Sodium release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 16 - 11:34 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.126CA. -
Sodium release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 16 - 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 3-25-42. -
X-15A Sharp Upper Vert test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 21 km (13 mi). Maximum Speed - 5216 kph. Maximum Altitude - 21641 m. References: 2.
1964 January 17 - 05:01 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Javelin. LV Configuration: Javelin NASA 8.31DA. -
Composition / Airglow Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 925 km (574 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 19 - -
George M Low assigned to the position of Deputy Director of MSC Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. NASA assigned George M. Low to the position of Deputy Director of MSC. He would replace James C. Elms, who had resigned on January 17 to return to private industry. Although Low continued as Deputy Associate Administrator for Manned Space Flight at NASA Headquarters until May 1, he assumed his new duties at MSC the first part of February.
References: 16.
1964 January 1964 - -
Space station study contracts for a 24-man orbital laboratory. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: LORL. MSC announced two space station study contracts to compare concepts for a 24-man orbital laboratory: one with the Lockheed Aircraft Corporation and another with Douglas Aircraft Company, Inc., Missiles and Space Systems Division. The stations were to be designed for a useful orbital lifetime of about five years, with periodic resupply and crew rotations.
1964 January 19 - 10:59 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor SLV-2 Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2 Agena D 384 / Agena D 2303. -
OPS 3367A Nation: USA. Payload: DAPP. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Military. Spacecraft: AFP-43. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 789 km (490 mi). Apogee: 810 km (500 mi). Inclination: 99.00 deg. Period: 100.90 min. COSPAR: 1964-002B. USAF Sat Cat: 734. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
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OPS 3367B Nation: USA. Payload: DAPP. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Military. Spacecraft: AFP-43. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 791 km (491 mi). Apogee: 815 km (506 mi). Inclination: 99.00 deg. Period: 100.90 min. COSPAR: 1964-002C. USAF Sat Cat: 735. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
1964 January 20 - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. -
Martin-Baltimore conducted a static test-to-failure of the spacecraft/launch vehicle interface structure. Nation: USA. Test results demonstrated a very satisfactory minimum structural margin of 23 percent above ultimate conditions expected to be met in the transonic buffet conditions of launch. Plans were made to hold a structures meeting in Houston on March 17-19, 1964, for final review of all load conditions, stress distribution, and margins, in readiness for the Gemini-Titan 1 mission.
1964 January 20 - 17:02 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3X-57. -
Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 20 - 18:00 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 2. LV Configuration: Black Brant II CC-2A-29. -
Fin test Nation: Canada. Agency: CARDE. Apogee: 204 km (126 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 20 - 21:15 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 2. LV Configuration: Black Brant II CC-2A-30. -
Fin test Nation: Canada. Agency: CARDE. Apogee: 204 km (126 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 21 - -
North American design concept for the Apollo Block II Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. North American gave a presentation at MSC on the block change concept with emphasis on Block II CSM changes. These were defined as modifications necessary for compatibility with the LEM, structural changes to reduce weight or improve CSM center of gravity, and critical systems changes. (Block I spacecraft would carry no rendezvous and docking equipment and would be earth-orbital only. Block II spacecraft would be flight-ready vehicles with the final design configuration for the lunar missions.)
References: 16.
1964 January 21 - 21:14 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta B. LV Configuration: Thor Delta B 373/D23. -
Relay 2 Nation: USA. Payload: Relay B. Mass: 78 kg (171 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Comsat. Spacecraft: Relay. Agency: NASA GSF. Perigee: 1,961 km (1,218 mi). Apogee: 7,540 km (4,680 mi). Inclination: 46.40 deg. Period: 194.70 min. COSPAR: 1964-003A. USAF Sat Cat: 737. Experimental commsat. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 2, 6.
1964 January 22 -
1964 January 22 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-9. Model: Romashka. FAILURE: Failure. -
Operational test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1964 January 23 - -
Military Soviet on cosmonaut assignments Nation: USSR. Program: Vostok, Lunar L1. Spacecraft: Vostok, Soyuz A. Flight: Soyuz A-1, Soyuz A-2, Soyuz A-3, Soyuz A-4, Vostok 7, Vostok 8, Vostok 9, Vostok 10. The General Staff of the VVS considers future cosmonaut assignments. The acceptance of Beregovoi into the active cosmonaut corps is hotly contested. He has passed all the tests, but is 43 years old, and the official maximum age for a cosmonaut is 35. Finally it is decided that on 25 January six cosmonauts will begin training for Vostok flights (Volynov, Khrunov, Belyayev, Leonov, Komarov, and Beregovoi). On 1 February four crews will begin training for Soyuz flights: Crew 1: Nikolayev, Shonin, Demin, Kugno; Crew 2: Bykovsky, Zaikin, Artyukhin, Gulyayev; Crew 3: Popovich, Gorbatko, Ponomaryova, Kolodin; Crew 4: Titov, Shatalov, Solovyova, Zholobov.
References: 376.
1964 January 23 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 395-C. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-26. -
Research and development test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 24 - 00:16 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.61GA. -
Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 119 km (73 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 24 - 01:30 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF04. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 551. -
Operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: SAC 1STRAD. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 25 - -
Soviet Air Force Cosmonaut Training Group 2 Supplemental selected. Nation: USSR. The group was selected to provide experienced test pilot for the Soyuz manned spaceflight program.. Qualifications: Personal selection.. Beregovoi was a very experienced test pilot, but older than the official age criteria. However he had the support of leading figures in the space program. He joined the cosmonaut team on a 'special basis' in 1964.
1964 January 25 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC67/21. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: R-36 8K67. FAILURE: Failure. -
State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1964 January 25 - 05:30 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.79UE UNH64-1. -
ISRO 20.01? E'jet Magnetospheric mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 164 km (101 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 25 - 13:59 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor SLV-2 Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2 Agena B 397 (TA2) / Agena B 6301. -
Echo 2 Nation: USA. Payload: Echo C A-12. Mass: 256 kg (564 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Comsat. Spacecraft: Echo 2. Agency: NASA LaR. Perigee: 1,030 km (640 mi). Apogee: 1,315 km (817 mi). Inclination: 81.50 deg. Period: 108.80 min. COSPAR: 1964-004A. USAF Sat Cat: 740. Decay Date: 1969-06-07. Passive commsat; balloon; 1st joint US/USSR space mission. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 2, 6.
1964 January 26 - 21:59 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-191. -
Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 27 - -
Cosmonaut plans Nation: USSR. Program: Vostok, Lunar L1. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 9, Soyuz A-3. Marshall Rudenko questions Kamanin's crew assignments. He wants Volynov moved from the lead Vostok group and switched with Kolodin in the Soyuz group. References: 376.
1964 January 27 - 04:30 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.80UE UNH64-2. -
ISRO 20.02? E'jet Magnetospheric mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 164 km (101 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 28 - -
Agreement on space tracking station west of Madrid. Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. The United States and Spain agreed to the construction and operation of a $1.5 million space tracking and data acquisition station about 48 kilometers (30 miles) west of Madrid, Spain. Linked with the NASA Deep Space Instrumentation Facility, the station included a 26-meter (85-foot)-diameter parabolic antenna and equipment for transmitting, receiving, recording, data handling, and communications with the spacecraft.
Additional Details: Agreement on space tracking station west of Madrid.. References: 16.
1964 January 28 - Launch Site: Barking Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk-9a Sandia 152-8. -
Density Test / aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 290 km (180 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 28 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC31B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 448. -
Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 28 - 19:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.88GT. -
Attitude control test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 126 km (78 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 28 - 20:11 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 1-44-70. -
X-15A Stability test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 32 km (19 mi). Maximum Speed - 5821 kph. Maximum Altitude - 32736 m. First test of hypersonic speed brakes. References: 2.
1964 January 29 - -
Contract for Apollo tracking antennae Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. NASA announced the award of a $1.356 million contract to the Blaw-Knox Company for design and construction of three parabolic antennas, each 26 meters (85 feet) in diameter, for the Manned Space Flight Network stations at Goldstone, Calif.; Canberra, Australia; and near Madrid, Spain.
References: 16.
1964 January 29 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF03. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 808. -
Demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: SAC 1STRAD. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 29 - 03:09 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 300A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 300A NASA 06.09GA. -
Thermosphere probe Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 309 km (192 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 29 - 04:11 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.71GA. -
Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 254 km (157 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 29 - 04:18 GMT - Launch Site: Ascension. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.81GA. -
Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 124 km (77 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 29 - 10:00 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.81UE UNH64-3. -
ISRO 20.03? E'jet Magnetospheric mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 167 km (103 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 29 - 16:25 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC37B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Saturn I. Model: Saturn I. LV Configuration: Saturn I-Blk2 SA-5. -
Saturn 5 Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Payload: Saturn-SA 5. Mass: 17,100 kg (37,600 lb). Class: Technology. Type: RV. Spacecraft: Jupiter nose cone. Agency: NASA MSF. Perigee: 274 km (170 mi). Apogee: 740 km (450 mi). Inclination: 31.40 deg. Period: 94.80 min. COSPAR: 1964-005A. USAF Sat Cat: 744. Decay Date: 1966-04-30. First first mission of Block II Saturn with two live stages. SA-5, a vehicle development flight, was launched from Cape Kennedy Complex 37B at 11:25:01.41, e.s.t. This was the first flight of the Saturn I Block II configuration (i.e., lengthened fuel tanks in the S-1 and stabilizing tail fins), as well as the first flight of a live (powered) S-IV upper stage. The S-1, powered by eight H-1 engines, reached a full thrust of over 680,400 kilograms (1.5 million pounds) the first time in flight. The S-IV's 41,000 kilogram (90,000-pound-thrust cluster of six liquid-hydrogen RL-10 engines performed as expected. The Block II SA-5 was also the first flight test of the Saturn I guidance system.
References: 2, 6, 16, 26, 27.
1964 January 29 - 22:17 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.89GA. -
Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 122 km (75 mi). References: 2.
1964 January 30 - 09:45 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8K72K. -
Elektron 1 Nation: USSR. Program: Elektron. Payload: 2D s/n 1. Mass: 329 kg (725 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: Elektron-A. Agency: NII-88. Perigee: 413 km (256 mi). Apogee: 6,439 km (4,001 mi). Inclination: 60.90 deg. Period: 161.00 min. COSPAR: 1964-006A. USAF Sat Cat: 746. Studied inner Van Allen belt. Electron I and II launched by a single carrier rocket. Electron I: simultaneous study of the Earth's inner and outer radiation belts, cosmic rays and upper atmosphere. Electron II: simultaneous study of the Earth's inner and outer radiation belts, cosmic rays and outer space.
References: 2, 6, 175.
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Elektron 2 Nation: USSR. Program: Elektron. Payload: 2D s/n 2. Mass: 444 kg (978 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: Elektron-B. Agency: NII-88. Perigee: 5,611 km (3,486 mi). Apogee: 62,811 km (39,028 mi). Inclination: 60.20 deg. Period: 1,356.40 min. COSPAR: 1964-006B. USAF Sat Cat: 748. Decay Date: 1997-04-22. Studied outer Van Allen belt. Electron I and II launched by a single carrier rocket. Electron I: simultaneous study of the Earth's inner and outer radiation belts, cosmic rays and upper atmosphere. Electron II: simultaneous study of the Earth's inner and outer radiation belts, cosmic rays and outer space.
References: 2, 6, 175.
1964 January 30 - 15:49 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC12. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 199D (AA8) / Agena B 6008 (AA8). -
Ranger 6 Nation: USA. Program: Ranger. Payload: RA-6. Mass: 362 kg (798 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Lunar. Spacecraft: Ranger 6-7-8-9. Agency: NASA/JPL. COSPAR: 1964-007A. USAF Sat Cat: 747. Decay Date: 1964-02-02. Impacted Moon but TV camera malfunctioned. A midcourse trajectory correction was accomplished early in the flight by ground control. On February 2, 1964, 65.5 hours after launch, Ranger 6 impacted the Moon on the eastern edge of Mare Tranquillitatis (Sea of Tranquility). No camera data were obtained, probably because of failure due to an arc-over in the TV power system when it inadvertently turned on during the period of booster-engine separation.
References: 2, 6, 278, 296.
1964 January 31 - 13:30 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.82UE UNH64-4. -
ISRO 20.04? E'jet Magnetospheric mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 167 km (103 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 1 - -
Korolev's plans Nation: USSR. Program: Vostok, Lunar L1. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 7, Vostok 8, Vostok 9, Vostok 10, Vostok 11, Vostok 12, Soyuz A-3. Korolev is supporting establishment of a new institute, the IMBP, for study of biological reactions to spaceflight. He plans to complete 8 additional Vostok capsules, of which two or three will be used for unmanned life sciences missions. There is continued controversy over the next few days about the acceleration of Beregovoi's training to qualify him for an early spaceflight, and Volynov's movement from the Vostok to Soyuz training groups.
References: 376.
1964 February - -
The X-15A-2 delivered to NASA Nation: USA. Spacecraft: X-15A-2. The X-15A-2, modified from the number two aircraft, included among other new features, a 28-in. fuselage extension to carry liquid hydrogen for a supersonic combustion ramjet that was flown (as a dummy) but never tested. It also had external tanks for liquid ammonia and liquid oxygen. These tanks provided roughly 60 seconds of additional engine burn and were used on the aircraft's Mach 6.7 flight.
1964 February 2 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC60/8. Launch Pad: LC60/8?. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U. -
Military training launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 3 - 16:41 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-255. -
Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 4 - 01:05 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 5C. LV Configuration: Skylark-5C SL88. -
Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 118 km (73 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 4 - 01:35 GMT - Launch Site: Ascension. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.22UA. -
UM Pitot 4 Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 158 km (98 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 4 - 01:46 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.62GA. -
Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 116 km (72 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 5 - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. -
Gemini launch vehicle 2 stage I and interstage were erected in the vertical test facility at Martin-Baltimore. Nation: USA. Stage II was erected February 7. Subsystems Functional Verification Tests began February 21.
1964 February 5 - -
Soyuz mock-up Nation: USSR. Program: Vostok, Lunar L1. Spacecraft: Vostok. Flight: Vostok 7, Vostok 8, Vostok 9, Vostok 10, Vostok 11, Vostok 12, Vostok 13, Voskhod 1, Voskhod 2, Soyuz A-1, Soyuz A-2, Soyuz A-3, Soyuz A-4. The cosmonauts visit Korolev at OKB-1 for the first viewing of the mock-up of the Soyuz spacecraft. Korolev announces that single-place Vostoks will fly no more, and that instead four of the spacecraft will be completed during 1964 to take three crew members. This decision has been taken since it was now certain that Soyuz will not be ready to fly in 1964, and the impending first flights of American Gemini and Apollo spacecraft will give the USA a lead in manned spaceflight before Soyuz missions can be flown. Kamanin is disturbed by the decision. He recalls that in 1961 flight of the Vostok with two or three crew was discussed, with flights to occur in 1962-1963. But at that time Korolev cancelled the plans, saying the Soyuz would be used for such missions. Now Soyuz will not fly until 1965, and he has changed his tune. Furthermore, the modified Vostok is inherently risky, with no way to save the crew in case of a launch vehicle malfunction in the first 40 seconds of flight. Unlike Vostok, the three crew will not have individual ejection seats or parachutes to give them a chance of escape in the event of an abort. The crew will be subject to 10 to 25 G's during an abort. There is no assurance the environmental control system can be modified to handle three crew. It all seems very unsafe, and Kamanin believes the six consecutive successful Vostok flights have given Korolev's engineers a false sense of the safety of the Vostok system. Kamanin is perplexed. How does he plan to convert a single-place spacecraft to a three-place spacecraft in a few months? Korolev has no clear answers, but asks for the cosmonauts' support of the scheme.
References: 376.
1964 February 5 - 00:39 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.87GA. -
Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 126 km (78 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 5 - 03:20 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.63GA. -
Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 119 km (73 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 6 - -
Tsien and Mao Nation: China. Tsien tutors Mao on science. This is one of only six times that Tsien actually met Mao.
1964 February 6 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC41/3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U. -
Operational test launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 9 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C13. -
Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 9 - 04:12 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 AC3.603. -
Utah ionos probe Ionosphere / aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 228 km (141 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 10 - Launch Vehicle: Little Joe II. -
Grumman to stop all work on the Apollo LEM Little Joe II program Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. MSC directed Grumman to stop all work on the LEM Little Joe II program. This action followed the ASPO Manager's decision against a testing program for the LEM comparable to that for the CSM. References: 16.
1964 February 10 - -
Death of Eugen Saenger Nation: Germany. Saenger dies of a heart attack in Berlin while lecturing to his students at the Technical University in Berlin References: 47.
1964 February 10 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Dragon 1. LV Configuration: Dragon D-07. -
Test mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 470 km (290 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 10 - Launch Site: Green River. Launch Complex: Pad 2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. LV Configuration: Athena A001. FAILURE: Failure. -
USAF A001 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 40 km (24 mi). This was the first of several hundred launches from Green River, Utah, to impact points in the US Army's White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. The Athena was designed to simulate the re-entry environment of an intercontinental ballistic missile and was one of the few examples of sustained interstate missile tests within the United States.
References: 2.
1964 February 11 - -
Apollo LEM to use an inertial reference system Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. ASPO directed Grumman to provide an abort guidance system (AGS) in the LEM using an inertial reference system attached to the structure of the vehicle. Should the spacecraft's navigation and guidance system fail, the crew could use the AGS to effect an abort. Such a device eliminated the need for redundancy in the primary guidance system (and proved to be a lighter and simpler arrangement).
References: 16.
1964 February 11 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF06. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 692. -
Operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: SAC 1STRAD. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 12 - Launch Vehicle: N1. Model: N1 1962. -
Kremlin meeting on lunar landing plans Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L3. Spacecraft: L3-1963. VVS officers meet with O G Ivanovskiy for two hours. The Communist Party plans a lunar expedition in the 1968-1970 period. For this the N1 booster will be used, which has a low earth orbit payload of 72 tonnes. The minimum spacecraft to take a crew to the lunar surface and back will have a minimum payload of 200 tonnes; therefore three N1 launches will be required to launch components, which will have to be assembled in orbit. However all of these plans are only on paper, and Kamanin does not see any way the Soviet Union can beat the Americans to the moon, who are already flying Apollo hardware for that mission.
References: 376.
1964 February 12 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C52. -
Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 12 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C56. -
Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 12 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C44. -
Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 12 - 19:59 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: OSTF1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 48E. FAILURE: Failure. -
ST Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1964 February 12 - 20:30 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.28GT. -
Fin test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 145 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 13 - -
Studies on post-Apollo lunar exploration Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. MSC issued Requests for Proposals to more than 50 firms asking for studies and recommendations on how the lunar surface should be explored. Studies should show how lunar surveys could be performed and how points on the lunar surface might be located for future lunar navigation. Maximum use of equipment planned for the LEM and CM was expected. Part of the scientific apparatus aboard the LEM would be selenodetic equipment. The study would not include actual fabrication of hardware but might give estimates of cost and development times.
References: 16.
1964 February 13 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C40. -
Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 190 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 13 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC32B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 436. -
Research and development [After 48E] test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 13 - 04:29 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.88GA. -
Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 119 km (73 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 13 - 04:30 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.136GA. -
Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 119 km (73 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 13 - 04:55 GMT - Launch Site: Ascension. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.82GA. -
Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 119 km (73 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 13 - 05:00 GMT - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C57. -
Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 13 - 18:11 GMT - Launch Site: Walker AFB. Launch Complex: Missile Site 579. Launch Pad: 579-5. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 88F. FAILURE: Exploded during propellant loading. -
Accident Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). Operational ICBM test at Walker AFB. References: 2.
1964 February 14 - -
Apollo SM RCS to have emergency deorbit capability Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. MSC ordered North American to design the SM's reaction control system with the capability for emergency retrograde from earth orbit. References: 16.
1964 February 14 - 04:37 GMT - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C38. -
MPE Ba-5 Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 190 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 14 - 07:47 GMT - Launch Site: Johnston Island. Launch Complex: LE1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor DSV-2J. LV Configuration: Thor DSV-2J 299 (20002). -
AFP-437 demonstration interceptor mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF/DACO. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 15 - 04:37 GMT - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C34. -
MPE Ba-6 Aeronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 15 - 21:38 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 389 / Agena D 1174. -
KH-4A 1004 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-4A s/n 1004 / Agena D 1174. Mass: 1,590 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 172 km (106 mi). Apogee: 429 km (266 mi). Inclination: 74.90 deg. Period: 90.50 min. COSPAR: 1964-008A. USAF Sat Cat: 752. Decay Date: 1964-03-09. KH-4A. Main cameras operated satisfactorily. Minor degradations due to static and light leaks. References: 2, 6.
1964 February 16-March 21 - -
Grumman subcontracts for engines for the Apollo LEM Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. MSC gave its formal consent to two of Grumman's subcontracts for engines for the LEM: (1) With Bell Aerosystems for the ascent engine ($11,205,416 incentive-fee contract) (2) With Space Technology Laboratories for a descent engine to parallel that being developed by Rocketdyne ($18,742,820 fixed-fee contract).
References: 16.
1964 February 17 - 10:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 ND3.143. -
Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NRL. Apogee: 268 km (166 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 17 - 16:15 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 395-B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II B-15. -
Research and development test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 17 - 17:03 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-257. -
Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 18 - 21:50 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache ERDA 004. -
Sphere Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF/ERDA. Apogee: 205 km (127 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 19-20 - -
Acceptance testing of prototype Apollo space suit Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: A7L. MSC officials conducted acceptance testing of the 024 prototype space suit at the International Latex Corporation. (Reviewers identified several faults, but they were minor and the suit was accepted.) References: 16.
1964 February 19 - 05:47 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78M T15000-19. FAILURE: Second stage failure. -
3MV-1A Nation: USSR. Program: Mars. Payload: 3MV-1A s/n 2. Mass: 890 kg (1,960 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Venus. Spacecraft: Venera 3MV-1A. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: F640219A. Decay Date: 1964-02-19. References: 64, 65.
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3MV-1 No. 2 SA Nation: USSR. Program: Mars. Spacecraft: Venera 3MV-1. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: F640219B. References: 279.
1964 February 19 - 15:15 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC67/21. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: R-36 8K67. -
Kura state trials missile launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 906 km (562 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 19 - 17:57 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 3-26-43. -
X-15A SUV,Boundary Layer test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 23 km (14 mi). Maximum Speed - 5662 kph. Maximum Altitude - 23957 m. References: 2.
1964 February 19 - 21:30 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun ERDA 005. -
Sphere Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF/ERDA. Apogee: 154 km (95 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 20 - -
All 12 Gemini flights to end in water landings. Nation: USA. Program: Gemini. Spacecraft: Gemini. George E. Mueller, NASA Associate Administrator for Manned Space Flight, informed the staff of the Gemini Project Office (GPO) that all 12 Gemini flights would end in water landings, although Project Gemini Quarterly Report No. 8 for the period ending February 29, 1964, still listed the paraglider for the last three Gemini missions.
Additional Details: All 12 Gemini flights to end in water landings..
1964 February 20 - 03:00 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 7. LV Configuration: Skylark-7 SL30. FAILURE: Failure. -
Test mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 112 km (69 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 20 - 07:23 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.43GE. -
Auroral particles Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 204 km (126 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 21 - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. -
Gemini launch vehicle 1 Subsystem Functional Verification Tests (SSFVT) began on complex 19. Nation: USA. These repeated the SSFVT performed at Martin-Baltimore in the vertical test facility. Their purpose was to verify the vehicle's readiness to begin systems tests. SSFVT were completed on March 3.
1964 February 25 - 02:00 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF02. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 813. -
Operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: SAC 1STRAD. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 25 - 02:45 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF03. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 688. -
Operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: SAC 1STRAD. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 25 - 18:59 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas Agena D. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena D 285D / Agena D S01A 4803. -
KH 7-05 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-7 no. 5. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-7. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 135 km (83 mi). Apogee: 135 km (83 mi). Inclination: 95.60 deg. Period: 87.20 min. COSPAR: 1964-009A. USAF Sat Cat: 754. Decay Date: 1964-03-01. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6, 278.
1964 February 25 - 20:22 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 5E. -
ABRES WAC-3 / Pod 18 Re-entry vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 26 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn V. -
Lockheed recommendations on a scientific space station program. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: LORL. The Lockheed-California Company released details of its recommendations to MSC on a scientific space station program. The study concluded that a manned station with a crew of 24 could be orbiting the Earth in 1968. Total cost of the program including logistics spacecraft and ground support was estimated at $2.6 billion for five years' operation. Lockheed's study recommended the use of a Saturn V to launch the unmanned laboratory into orbit and then launching a manned logistics vehicle to rendezvous and dock at the station.
1964 February 26 - -
Soyuz plans Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L1. Spacecraft: Soyuz A, Soyuz B, Soyuz V. Flight: Soyuz A-1, Soyuz A-2, Soyuz A-3, Soyuz A-4. The cosmonauts meet with engineers at TsNII-30 in Noginsk to review plans for docking trainers for the new Soyuz spacecraft. The trainers were supposed to be completed by now, but they are being held up for television and optical equipment to be delivered from Leningrad and Sverdlovsk. The mock-up of the 7K manned spacecraft trainer is immobile; it can only be turned around its centre of mass. The 1/30 scale of the 9K and 11K propulsion spacecraft with which the 7K will dock are free to rotate in all 3 axes. The cosmonauts in the 7K mock-up will see the 9K or 11K via the television screen aboard the spacecraft or in the Soyuz spacecraft in what the engineers promise will be a life-like appearance. They will practice approach and docking from a simulated distance of 300 m at a typical approach rate of 2 m/s. At the scale of the installation, this will equate to 10 cm/s. After the trainer review General Ioffe briefed the cosmonauts on plans for an electronic digital computer, with a mass of 40 kg, which was being developed for use in spacecraft navigation. Kamanin sees that very close collaboration will be needed between TsNII-30, TsPK, and GKNII VVS to complete trainer development on an accelerated schedule.
References: 376.
1964 February 26 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U. FAILURE: Failure. -
State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1964 February 26 - 01:30 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC31B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 437. -
Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 26 - 20:15 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC15. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-32. -
Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 26 - 21:18 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.124UA. FAILURE: Failure. -
JHU Aurora 2 Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 161 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 27 - -
Apollo boilerplate (BP) 19 drop tested Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. Boilerplate (BP) 19 was drop tested at El Centro, Calif., simulating flight conditions and recovery of BP-12. A second BP-19 drop, on April 8, removed all constraints on the BP-12 configuration and earth landing system. Another aim, to obtain information on vehicle dynamics, was not accomplished because of the early firing of a backup drogue parachute.
References: 16.
1964 February 27 - 02:30 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC67/21. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: R-36 8K67. FAILURE: Failure. -
State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1964 February 27 - 13:26 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Mayak-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 63S1. -
Cosmos 25 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-P1 s/n 4. Mass: 355 kg (782 lb). Class: Military. Type: Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 260 km (160 mi). Apogee: 495 km (307 mi). Inclination: 49.10 deg. Period: 92.10 min. COSPAR: 1964-010A. USAF Sat Cat: 757. Completed Operations Date: 1964-11-21. Decay Date: 1964-11-21. Prototype ABM radar target; supported developmental experiments for ABM systems. References: 2, 6, 99.
1964 February 28 - 02:04 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC32B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 439. -
Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 28 - 03:20 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 402 / Agena D 2316. -
OPS 3722 Nation: USA. Payload: Ferret 5 / Agena D 2316. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Ferret. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 491 km (305 mi). Apogee: 516 km (320 mi). Inclination: 82.10 deg. Period: 94.70 min. COSPAR: 1964-011A. USAF Sat Cat: 759. Decay Date: 1969-02-19. References: 2, 6.
1964 February 29 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF04. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 581. -
Operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: SAC 1STRAD. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 29 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF05. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 636. -
Operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: SAC 1STRAD. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 February 29 - 05:32 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.44GE. -
Auroral particles Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 204 km (126 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 1 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78M s/n T15000-22. -
Venus launch delayed. Nation: USSR. Program: Venera. Payload: 3MV-1. Class: Planetary. Type: Venus. Spacecraft: Venera 3MV-1. Decay Date: 1964-03-01. The launch was delayed due to malfunctions during prelaunch service. References: 64.
1964 March 1 - 06:40 GMT - Launch Site: Johnston Island. Launch Complex: LE1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor DSV-2J. LV Configuration: Thor DSV-2J 209 (20006). -
AFP-437 demonstration interceptor mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF 10ADS. Apogee: 674 km (418 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 2 - 16:30 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-294. -
Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 3 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U. -
State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 4 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC41/4. Launch Pad: LC41/4?. Launch Vehicle: R-16. Model: R-16U. -
Operational test launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,210 km (750 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 4 - 09:53 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: HAD. LV Configuration: HAD 127. -
Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE. Apogee: 111 km (68 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 5 - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. -
Gemini launch vehicle (GLV) 1 and spacecraft No. 1 were mechanically mated at complex 19. Nation: USA. Before GLV and spacecraft were electrically mated, the launch vehicle's status was reverified with a Combined Systems Test (CST) performed on March 10. A special series of Electronic-Electrical Interference (EEI) Tests began March 12 and ended March 25. Evaluation of test results confirmed that the intent of EEI testing had been accomplished, despite some persistent anomalies. A successful post-EEI systems reverification CST was performed March 27.
1964 March 6 - Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. -
Martin-Baltimore received the propellant tanks for Gemini launch vehicle 4 from Martin-Denver, which had begun fabricating them in November 1963. Nation: USA. Flight: Gemini 4. Tank splicing was completed July 21. Aerojet-General delivered the stage II flight engine June 26, the stage I engine July 28. Engine installation was completed September 4. Final horizontal tests were completed and reviewed October 26, with Martin authorized to erect the vehicle in the vertical test facility.
1964 March 6 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF07. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 686. -
Operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: SAC 1STRAD. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 7 - 02:45 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun NASA 10.137GA. -
Grenades Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 114 km (70 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 9 - 21:54 GMT - Launch Site: Walker AFB. Launch Complex: Missile Site 579. Launch Pad: 579-2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 90F. FAILURE: Exploded during propellant loading. -
Accident Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). Operational ICBM test at Walker AFB. References: 2.
1964 March 10 - Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92. -
Zenit-2 spy satellite accepted into mlitary service Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Zenit-2. Defence Ministry of the USSR decree 0045 'On adopting the Zenit-2 satellite launched on the 8A92 into armaments' was issued.
1964 March 10 - Launch Site: Tonopah. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. LV Configuration: Tomahawk Sandia 152-5. -
Tomahawk-Dart 7" Test / aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 105 km (65 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 10 - 02:06 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 7C. LV Configuration: Skylark-7C SL129. -
Gamma / B / Solar X-rays / SpE Gamma ray astronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 11 - Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Bacchus. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: VE. Model: Topaze VE111L. LV Configuration: Topaze VE111L L2. -
Test mission Nation: France. Agency: ONERA. Apogee: 110 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 11 - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA5B. Launch Pad: LA5B?. Launch Vehicle: Black Knight. Model: Black Knight 201/C2. LV Configuration: Black Knight-201/C2 BK.12. -
Dazzle re-entry vehicle test Nation: UK. Agency: RAE. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 11 - 12:30 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3X-58. FAILURE: Failure. -
Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 11 - 20:14 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas Agena D. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena D 296D / Agena D S01A 4804. -
KH 7-06 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-7 no. 6. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-7. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 163 km (101 mi). Apogee: 203 km (126 mi). Inclination: 95.70 deg. Period: 88.20 min. COSPAR: 1964-012A. USAF Sat Cat: 764. Decay Date: 1964-03-16. KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6, 278.
1964 March 12 - -
Apollo LEM propulsion as backup to the SM engine Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo LM. North American was directed by NASA to study feasibility of using the LEM propulsion system as backup to the SM propulsion system. The most important item in the contractor's analysis was strength of the docking structure and its ability to withstand LEM main-engine and reaction control system thrusting.
References: 16.
1964 March 12 - -
Project Development Plan for the Manned Orbital Research Laboratory. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Apollo X, MORL, LORL. Edward Z. Gray, Advanced Manned Missions Director in the Office of Manned Space Flight, asked LaRC Director Charles J. Donlan to prepare a Project Development Plan for the Manned Orbital Research Laboratory, studies for which were already underway at the Center and under contract. This plan was needed as documentation for any possible decision to initiate an orbital research laboratory project. (Gray had also asked MSC to submit similar plans for an Apollo X, an Apollo Orbital Research Laboratory, and a Large Orbital Research Laboratory.) In addition to the Project Development Plan, Gray asked for system specifications for each candidate orbital laboratory system; both of these would form the basis for a project proposal with little delay 'should a climate exist in which a new project can be started.'
1964 March 12 - 02:07 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 7C. LV Configuration: Skylark-7C SL128. -
Gamma / B / Solar X-rays / SpE Gamma ray astronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE/RAE. Apogee: 176 km (109 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 12 - 02:58 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache Ferdinand 6. -
Ferdinand 6 Aurora / plasma / solar mission Nation: Norway. Agency: NDRE. Apogee: 146 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 13 - -
Voskhod spacecraft approved. Nation: USSR. Program: Voskhod, Vostok. Spacecraft: Voskhod. Flight: Voskhod 1, Voskhod 2, Vostok 7, Vostok 8, Vostok 9, Vostok 10. Military-Industrial Commission (VPK) Decree 59 'On approval of work to convert Vostok to Voskhod and use it for three-person space missions' is issued. The resolution instructs GKOT to complete four Vostok spacecraft to the multi-passenger Voskhod configuration. The first is to be completed by 15 June 1964; the second by 30 June; the third and fourth, in July. The crew for the first mission will consist of a pilot-cosmonaut, a scientist, and a physician. Launch is set for the first half of August 1965.
References: 376, 474.
1964 March 13 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 395-C. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-30. -
Research and development test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 13 - 11:40 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Blue Scout Jr. LV Configuration: Blue Scout Jr 22-2/AD-623. FAILURE: Failure. -
OAR 22-2 / AFCRL-9 Magnetosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 600 km (370 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 13 - 17:05 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC32B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 440. -
Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 13 - 17:46 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 3-27-44. -
X-15A SUV,Boundary Layer test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA/USAF. Apogee: 23 km (14 mi). Maximum Speed - 5458 kph. Maximum Altitude - 23165 m. References: 2.
1964 March 14 - -
Voskhod plans Nation: USSR. Program: Voskhod. Spacecraft: Voskhod. Flight: Voskhod 1. VVS officers meet to plan training for the Voskhod 1 crew. It is agreed that a passenger-cosmonaut can be trained within three months. That means, in order to be ready for an August mission, the candidates for the scientist- and physician-cosmonaut seats will have to be identified, screened, and selected by 30 April. It is estimated that 30 physician and 30 scientist candidates will have to be submitted to the medical commission in order for the necessary six finalists to get through the screening. Kamanin privately believes this is all an insanely dangerous adventure. Smirnov, Keldysh, and Korolev have gone off the rails in their desire to make sure that the Americans do not seize and space 'firsts' once the Gemini flights begin.
References: 376.
1964 March 14 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LC-A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Nike Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike Nike HAD-3. -
LRL HAD-3 Solar x-ray mission Nation: USA. Agency: AEC/LRL. Apogee: 143 km (88 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 15 - 02:44 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache Ferdinand 7. -
Ferdinand 7 Ionosphere / plasma mission Nation: Norway. Agency: NDRE. Apogee: 134 km (83 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 16 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A2. LV Configuration: Polaris A2P-288. -
Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 16-April 15 - -
First prototype of the Apollo CM reentry battery was delivered Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. The first prototype of the CM battery for use during reentry was delivered to North American by Eagle-Picher Industries, Inc. References: 16.
1964 March 16 - 19:29 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 HITAB. -
BIRA-1 Infrared / ultraviolet background mission Nation: USA. Agency: NOTS. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 18 - Launch Site: Barking Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk-9 Sandia 152-45. -
Ballistic Test / aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 315 km (195 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 18 - 06:11 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.151UE. -
Auroral photometry Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 151 km (93 mi). References: 2.
1964 March 18 - 14:36 GMT - Launch Site: Sonmiani. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Loki. Model: Judi-Dart. -
SUPARCO Aeronomy mission Nation: Pakistan. Agency: SUPARCO. <
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