Chronology - Quarter 1 1972 home
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1972 January 1 - Launch Vehicle: N1, RT-2.
  • TsKBEM reorganised Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L3, Soyuz, Almaz. Spacecraft: LK, Soyuz 7K-LOK, Soyuz 7K-TM, Soyuz 7K-T, Soyuz 7K-S, Soyuz 7K-OK, MKBS, Mars 5NM. TsKBEM was given a completely new structure as a result of the findings of the expert commissions on the disasters for the previous year, Mishin remained as the Chief Designer for the organisation, but each programme now had its own chief designer:

    • N1: Boris Dorofeyev
    • 8K98P solid propellant ICBM: Igor Sadovskiy
    • N1 payloads: Vladimir Brorov [check]
    • Soyuz 7K-TM, or Soyuz M, for Soyuz-Apollo: Konstantin Bushuyev
    • Soyuz 7K-T: Yuri Semenov
    • Soyuz 7K-S or Soyuz VI: Yevgeni Shabarov
    Additional Details: TsKBEM reorganised. References: 367.
1972 January 1 - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: RT-2. Model: RT-2P.
  • Test mission Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1972 During the Year - Launch Vehicle: UR-700M.
  • Soviet Mars expedition work ends Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: MK-700. Chelomei's preliminary draft project for the UR-700M launch vehicle and LK-700 spacecraft was reviewed by a government expert commission. Based on the decades worth of development and tens of billions or roubles required to realise the project, the state commission recommended that further work on manned Mars expeditions be deferred indefinitely.
1972 January 1 - 07:05 GMT - Launch Site: Atlantic Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 24.0 N x 53.0 W. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 180 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 1 - 08:02 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 180 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 4 - 13:14 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P78T/C.
  • ISRO 18.01 Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 167 km (103 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 5 - 11:41 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 186 km (115 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 6 - 13:14 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P95T/C.
  • ISRO 18.02 Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 126 km (78 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 7 - 13:11 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P77T/C.
  • ISRO 18.03 Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 166 km (103 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 12 - 09:59 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 471 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 201 km (124 mi). Apogee: 316 km (196 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.70 min. COSPAR: 1972-001A. USAF Sat Cat: 5764. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1972-01-25. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1972 January 12 - 21:16 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.383AE.
  • Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 197 km (122 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 13 - 20:04 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.135IE.
  • Ferdinand 29 / Electra Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 192 km (119 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 14 -
  • Gilruth appointed NASA Director of Key Personnel Development Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Manned Spacecraft Center Robert R. Gilruth was appointed to the newly created position of NASA Director of Key Personnel Development. He would integrate NASA planning to fill key positions, identify actual and potential candidates, and guide them through appropriate work experience.

    Christopher C. Kraft, Jr., MSC Deputy Director, was named Director of MSC. Both Kraft and Gilruth were original members of the NASA Space Task Group established in 1958 to manage Project Mercury. References: 16.

1972 January 14 - 18:13 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P89T/C.
  • ISRO 18.04 Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 128 km (79 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 15 - 05:37 GMT - Launch Site: Gillam. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 3B. LV Configuration: Black Brant IIIB AAF-3B-53.
  • Auroral mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 190 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 15 - 06:01 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5B. LV Configuration: Black Brant VB AAF-VB-33.
  • Not in FC Aeronomy / plasma mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 15 - 06:04 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 4B. LV Configuration: Black Brant IVB AAF-4B-25.
  • Not in FC Ionosphere mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 800 km (490 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 15 - 13:37 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P85H.
  • Solar La / X / ne Ionosphere / solar x-rays mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 147 km (91 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 18 -
  • Sigurd A Sjoberg named Deputy Director of Manned Spacecraft Center. Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Sigurd A. Sjoberg was named Deputy Director of Manned Spacecraft Center. Sjoberg succeeded Christopher C. Kraft, Jr., who was named Director of MSC January 14. References: 16.
1972 January 18 - 02:07 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 CRL A04.004-6.
  • HISTAR 4 Infrared astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 161 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 20 - 18:36 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3D. LV Configuration: Titan IIID 23D-2.
  • KH-9 no. 02 Nation: USA. Mass: 13,300 kg (29,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-9. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 153 km (95 mi). Apogee: 330 km (200 mi). Inclination: 97.00 deg. Period: 89.30 min. COSPAR: 1972-002A. USAF Sat Cat: 5769. Decay Date: 1972-02-29. KH-9 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
  • OPS 7719 Nation: USA. Payload: SSF-B No. 22. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: SSF. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 474 km (294 mi). Apogee: 545 km (338 mi). Inclination: 96.00 deg. Period: 94.80 min. COSPAR: 1972-002D. USAF Sat Cat: 5772. Decay Date: 1979-04-17. Radar monitoring. References: 2, 6, 172.
1972 January 21 - 02:24 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: S-210. LV Configuration: S-210-6.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 112 km (69 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 21 - 19:02 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: C. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C76/1.
  • ESRO C76/1 Particles/Auroral mission Nation: Europe. Agency: ESRO. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 21 - 21:45 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 22 - 00:58 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: C. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure C76/2.
  • ESRO C76/2 Particles/Auroral mission Nation: Europe. Agency: ESRO. Apogee: 131 km (81 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 22 - 12:44 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P107H.
  • Solar La / X / ne Ionosphere / solar x-rays mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 142 km (88 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 23 - 00:12 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC36B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3C Centaur. LV Configuration: SLV-3C Centaur AC-28 / Centaur D-1A 5008C.
  • Intelsat 4 F-4 Nation: International. Program: Intelsat. Mass: 1,410 kg (3,100 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Intelsat 4. Agency: Intelsat. Perigee: 35,905 km (22,310 mi). Apogee: 35,917 km (22,317 mi). Inclination: 10.50 deg. Period: 1,442.50 min. COSPAR: 1972-003A. USAF Sat Cat: 5775. Completed Operations Date: 1983-05-10. Over Pacific. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). Launch vehicle put payload into geosynchronous transfer orbit Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Pacific Ocean at 174 deg E in 1972-1974; over the Pacific Ocean 179 deg E in 1975-1982; over the Atlantic Ocean 1 deg W in 1982-1983 As of 28 August 2001 located at 178.00 deg E drifting at 1.569 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 7 located at 155.84W drifting at 1.593W degrees per day. References: 2, 6, 278.
1972 January 23 - 11:22 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 9M. LV Configuration: Kappa 9M K-9M-37.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 340 km (210 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 25 - 11:15 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC133/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 472 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-P1-Yu s/n 52. Mass: 250 kg (550 lb). Class: Military. Type: Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-Yu. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 193 km (119 mi). Apogee: 1,536 km (954 mi). Inclination: 82.00 deg. Period: 102.20 min. COSPAR: 1972-004A. USAF Sat Cat: 5804. Completed Operations Date: 1972-08-16. Decay Date: 1972-08-18. Development of systems for air defence and the control of outer space. References: 2, 6, 99.
1972 January 26 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF02. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3.
  • OT GT11GM operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 27 - 18:16 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC NASA 21.06GT.
  • MSFC RR-1 Microgravity mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 232 km (144 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 28 - 21:08 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee. Model: Astrobee D. LV Configuration: Astrobee D CRL A30.116-1.
  • Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 117 km (72 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 29 - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: S-210. LV Configuration: S-210 DT-210-1.
  • Structural Dynamics test Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 29 - 05:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee. Model: Astrobee D. LV Configuration: Astrobee D CRL A30.116-2.
  • Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 122 km (75 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 31 - 17:20 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta L. LV Configuration: Thor Delta L 564/D87.
  • HEOS 2 Nation: Europe. Payload: HEOS A2. Mass: 123 kg (271 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: HEOS. Agency: ESRO. Perigee: 405 km (251 mi). Apogee: 240,164 km (149,230 mi). Inclination: 89.90 deg. Period: 7,477.10 min. COSPAR: 1972-005A. USAF Sat Cat: 5814. Decay Date: 1974-08-02. Highly Eccentric Orbiting Satellite; particles and fields data. Fifth satellite of ESRO. Also registered as US object 1972-05A in A/AC.105/INF.248 with orbit 7835.4 min, 439 x 248160 km x 90.2 deg, category B. References: 2, 6.
1972 January 31 - 17:30 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.440UI.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 31 - 17:45 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike. Model: Nike Iroquois. LV Configuration: Nike Iroquois CRL A07.217-1.
  • Sphere Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 220 km (130 mi). References: 2.
1972 January 31 - 21:50 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike. Model: Nike Iroquois. LV Configuration: Nike Iroquois CRL AT07.897.
  • Mass spectrometer Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 117 km (72 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 2 - 05:30 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P110T/C.
  • ISRO 18.06 Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 134 km (83 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 2 - 11:25 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.111UE.
  • Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 173 km (107 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 3 - 08:40 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 473 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 203 km (126 mi). Apogee: 309 km (192 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1972-006A. USAF Sat Cat: 5821. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1972-02-15. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6.
1972 February 3 - 10:27 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cockatoo. LV Configuration: Cockatoo 1023.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 3 - 13:55 GMT - Launch Site: Natal. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC N-BB/V-42.
  • DLR N-BBV-42 Aurora / ionosphere mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DLR. Apogee: 250 km (150 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 4 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3T.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 4 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF05. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3.
  • OT GT12GM operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 5 - 06:00 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P59T/C.
  • ISRO 18.07 Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 139 km (86 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 6 - 06:35 GMT - Launch Site: Tanegashima. Launch Complex: T. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: JCR. LV Configuration: JCR-7.
  • Test mission Nation: Japan. Agency: NASDA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 7 - 23:33 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.131IA.
  • RTG SNT 7 / 1 (S7-1) Aeronomy mission Nation: Sweden. Agency: NASA/RTG. Apogee: 180 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 8 - 09:45 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 3. LV Configuration: Black Brant III ADD-3A-54.
  • Infrared airglow profile Aeronomy / ionosphere / infrared astronomy mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 121 km (75 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 9 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF04. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3.
  • OT GT13GM operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 10 - 17:02 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Javelin. LV Configuration: Javelin NASA 8.60AE.
  • Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 851 km (528 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 11 - 03:20 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Ionosphere/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 177 km (109 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 11 - 12:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 173 km (107 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 11 - 12:00 GMT - Launch Site: Syowa Base. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: S-210. LV Configuration: S-210JA-12.
  • Mass spectrometer Ionosphere mission Nation: Japan. Agency: NIPR. Apogee: 108 km (67 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 13 - 12:55 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P60T/C.
  • ISRO 18.08 Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 137 km (85 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 13 - 23:20 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.137IE.
  • Ferdinand 31 / Proton 1 Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 222 km (137 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 14 - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5B.
  • Not in FC Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 309 km (192 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 14 - 03:27 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC81/24. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Proton. Model: Proton-K/D. LV Configuration: Proton-K/D 258-01.
  • Luna 20 Nation: USSR. Program: Luna. Payload: Ye-8-5 s/n 408. Mass: 5,600 kg (12,300 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Lunar. Spacecraft: Luna Ye-8-5. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 100 km (60 mi). Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 118.00 min. COSPAR: 1972-007A. USAF Sat Cat: 5835. Decay Date: 1972-02-25. Soft landed on Moon; returned soil samples to Earth. Landed on Moon 21 February 1972 at 19:19:00 GMT, Latitude 3.57 N, Longitude 56.50 E - Mare Fecunditatis. Luna 20 was placed in an intermediate earth parking orbit and from this orbit was sent towards the Moon. It entered lunar orbit on February 18, 1972. On 21 February 1972, Luna 20 soft landed on the Moon in a mountainous area known as the Apollonius highlands, 120 km from where Luna 18 had crashed. While on the lunar surface, the panoramic television system was operated. Lunar samples were obtained by means of an extendable drilling apparatus. The ascent stage of Luna 20 was launched from the lunar surface on 22 February 1972 carrying 30 grams of collected lunar samples in a sealed capsule. It landed in the Soviet Union on 25 February 1972. The lunar samples were recovered the following day. References: 2, 6, 67, 274, 296.
1972 February 15 - 03:48 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 2. LV Configuration: Black Brant II ADD-2-114.
  • Auroral VUV Aurora / ionosphere mission Aurora / ionosphere mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 133 km (82 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 15 - 04:21 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.486UA.
  • Auroral NO Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 141 km (87 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 16 - Launch Vehicle: N1. Model: N1F.
  • N1-L3M moon landing draft project work authorised. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: L3M-1972. Military-Industrial Commission (VPK) Decree 'On approval of work on the draft project for the N1-L3M two-launch lunar landing proposal' was issued. References: 474.
1972 February 16 - 09:30 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 474 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 177 km (109 mi). Apogee: 325 km (201 mi). Inclination: 64.90 deg. Period: 89.50 min. COSPAR: 1972-008A. USAF Sat Cat: 5839. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1972-02-29. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1972 February 16 - 09:59 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 33B. LV Configuration: Titan 33B 33B-2 (3B-37). FAILURE: Failure.
  • Jumpseat 2 Nation: USA. Payload: OPS 1844. Mass: 700 kg (1,540 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Jumpseat. Agency: USAF. COSPAR: F720216A. References: 279.
1972 February 17 - 08:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: S-210. LV Configuration: S-210-7.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 118 km (73 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 17 - 13:48 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P111H.
  • Faraday rotation Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 134 km (83 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 18 - 02:33 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Ionosphere/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 168 km (104 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 18 - 09:28 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 9M. LV Configuration: Kappa 9M K-9M-39.
  • Cesium Release Ionosphere mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 310 km (190 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 19 - 05:12 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.82UG.
  • Astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 21 - 12:55 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 165 km (102 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 21 - 13:35 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 187 km (116 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 22 - 06:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 9M. LV Configuration: Kappa 9M K-9M-38.
  • Aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 352 km (218 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 23 - Launch Vehicle: N1. Model: N1F.
  • MOK technical proposal authorised. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: MKBS. Decree 'On work on the technical proposal for the creation of the MOK' was issued. References: 474.
1972 February 23 - 10:06 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cockatoo. LV Configuration: Cockatoo 1024.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 25 - 07:23 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.112UE.
  • Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 25 - 07:52 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53727-113.
  • Cosmos 475 Nation: USSR. Mass: 680 kg (1,490 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Tsiklon. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 962 km (597 mi). Apogee: 996 km (618 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 104.70 min. COSPAR: 1972-009A. USAF Sat Cat: 5846. Military navigation satellite. References: 2, 6.
1972 February 28 - 05:54 GMT - Launch Site: Salto di Quirra. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 3 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 3 AC S84.
  • ESRO S84 Solar ultraviolet mission Nation: Europe. Agency: ESRO. Apogee: 242 km (150 mi). References: 2.
1972 February 28 - 09:47 GMT - Launch Site: Salto di Quirra. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 3 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 3 AC S90.
  • ESRO S90 Solar ultraviolet mission Nation: Europe. Agency: ESRO. Apogee: 251 km (155 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 1 - 09:39 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC40. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3C. LV Configuration: Titan IIIC 23C-4 (3C-22).
  • IMEWS 3 Nation: USA. Payload: DSP Phase 1 s/n 3. Mass: 900 kg (1,980 lb). Class: Early Warning. Spacecraft: DSP. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 35,416 km (22,006 mi). Apogee: 35,962 km (22,345 mi). Inclination: 0.20 deg. Period: 1,429.90 min. COSPAR: 1972-010A. USAF Sat Cat: 5851. Completed Operations Date: 1981-08-03. First generation geosynchronous ballistic missile launch detection satellite, remained in service for over nine years. Positioned over the Pacific Ocean at 165 deg E in 1979-1980. As of 2003 Mar 5 located at 74.63E drifting at 0.712W degrees per day. References: 2, 6, 127.
1972 March 1 - 11:15 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Cosmos 476 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Payload: Tselina-D no. 3. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-D. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 379 km (235 mi). Apogee: 388 km (241 mi). Inclination: 81.20 deg. Period: 92.20 min. COSPAR: 1972-011A. USAF Sat Cat: 5852. Decay Date: 1991-10-25. References: 2, 6.
1972 March 2 - 01:17 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 2 - 18:27 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NRL NA3.218.
  • Solar x-ray mission Nation: USA. Agency: NRL. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 2 - 22:26 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: S. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 4. LV Configuration: Skylark 4 S77/1.
  • ESRO S77 / 1 Aurora mission Nation: Europe. Agency: ESRO. Apogee: 229 km (142 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 3 - 01:49 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC36A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3C Centaur. LV Configuration: SLV-3C Centaur AC-27 / Centaur D-1A 5007C.
  • Pioneer 10 Nation: USA. Program: Pioneer. Payload: Pioneer F. Mass: 259 kg (570 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Outer Planets. Spacecraft: Pioneer 10-11. Agency: NASA ARC. COSPAR: 1972-012A. USAF Sat Cat: 5860. Jupiter flyby December 1973; first man-made object to leave solar system. The spacecraft achieved its closest approach to Jupiter on December 3, 1973, when it reached approximately 2.8 Jovian radii (about 200,000 km). As of Jan. 1, 1997 Pioneer 10 was at about 67 AU from the Sun near the ecliptic plane and heading outward from the Sun at 2.6 AU/year and downstream through the heliomagnetosphere towards the tail region and interstellar space. Additional Details: Pioneer 10. References: 2, 6, 278, 296.
1972 March 4 - 10:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 477 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 202 km (125 mi). Apogee: 306 km (190 mi). Inclination: 72.90 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1972-013A. USAF Sat Cat: 5862. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1972-03-16. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; separated particle flux and radiation experiment capsule. References: 2, 6.
  • Nauka Cosmos 477 Nation: USSR. Payload: Nauka. Spacecraft: Nauka. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 197 km (122 mi). Apogee: 291 km (180 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 89.38 min. COSPAR: 1972-013E. USAF Sat Cat: 5882. Decay Date: 1972-03-23. References: 2, 279.
1972 March 4 - 11:52 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 174 km (108 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 4 - 16:48 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Ionosphere/Chemical release mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 184 km (114 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 4 - 18:22 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Chemical release mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 173 km (107 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 6 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC67/21. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M.
  • BI-3 Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 6 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3T.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 7 -
  • Skylab rescue mission a definite NASA commitment. Nation: USA. Program: Skylab. Spacecraft: Apollo Rescue CSM. The Skylab rescue mission was a definite NASA commitment. The hardware, procedures, documentation, and training would need to be available immediately after the launch of Skylab 2 for a potential rescue mission. To accomplish this requirement, the rescue mission would be treated as a separate mission in the Skylab Program. The rescue mission would be established as a standing agenda item for major boards and panels, and its status would be reviewed on a regular basis with other missions.
1972 March 7 - 05:16 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.141GE.
  • Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 7 - 06:52 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Sandhawk Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Sandhawk Tomahawk Sandia 152-188.
  • Ba OOSIK Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 7 - 14:26 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.142GE.
  • Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 8 - 10:32 GMT - Launch Site: Natal. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC N-BB/V-41.
  • DLR N-BBV-41 Aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DLR. Apogee: 223 km (138 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 8 - 21:10 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Chemical release mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 169 km (105 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 9 - 12:00 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.73UE.
  • Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 243 km (150 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 9 - 14:08 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.143GE.
  • Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 12 - 01:55 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Delta N. LV Configuration: Thor Delta N 573/D88.
  • TD-1A; Thor Delta 1A Nation: Europe. Payload: TD 1A. Mass: 472 kg (1,040 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: TD-1A. Agency: ESRO. Perigee: 523 km (324 mi). Apogee: 550 km (340 mi). Inclination: 97.60 deg. Period: 95.40 min. COSPAR: 1972-014A. USAF Sat Cat: 5879. Decay Date: 1980-01-09. Sixth satellite of ESRO. Also registered as US object 1972-14A in A/AC.105/INF.255 with orbit 95.3 min, 525 x 548 km x 97.5 deg, category B. References: 2, 6.
1972 March 13 - 16:00 GMT - Launch Site: San Marco. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache.
  • ISRC-PO-4 Aeronomy mission Nation: Italy. Agency: ISRC. Apogee: 185 km (114 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 14 - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC157. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Temp-2S.
  • Mobile launcher test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 14 - 15:58 GMT - Launch Site: San Marco. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache.
  • ISRC-PO-5 Aeronomy mission Nation: Italy. Agency: ISRC. Apogee: 185 km (114 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 15 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle.
  • Shuttle booster decision Nation: USA. NASA decided that the shuttle booster will be 2 x 156 inch solid rocket motors. This would reduce the total development cost by $700 million, from $ 5.85 billion to $ 5.15 billion. It was also decided to delete the requirement for the shuttle to be equipped with air-breathing engines for final approach and ferry, and to add Abort Solid Rocket Motors that would pull the shuttle away from the external tank in case of a failure of the solid rocket boosters or external tank during the first portion of the ascent to orbit. References: 44.
1972 March 15 - 13:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 478 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 176 km (109 mi). Apogee: 282 km (175 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.00 min. COSPAR: 1972-015A. USAF Sat Cat: 5885. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1972-03-28. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1972 March 15 - 16:00 GMT - Launch Site: San Marco. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache.
  • ISRC-PO-6 Aeronomy mission Nation: Italy. Agency: ISRC. Apogee: 185 km (114 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 16 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF06. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B.
  • SSTTP M2-7 Target mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 16 - 02:30 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 6. LV Configuration: Skylark 6 SL1023.
  • UK SL1023 Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 260 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 16 - 09:54 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Sandhawk. Model: Terrier Sandhawk. LV Configuration: Terrier Sandhawk Sandia 281-24.
  • CARIBOU VI Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 16 - 10:16 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5A. LV Configuration: Black Brant VA CRL A17.110-3.
  • ICECAP 72 Plasma / infrared aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 145 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 16 - 15:43 GMT - Launch Site: San Marco. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache.
  • ISRC-PO-7 Aeronomy mission Nation: Italy. Agency: ISRC. Apogee: 185 km (114 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 17 - 05:10 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 6 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 6 AC SL1009.
  • Echelle spectra Solar ultraviolet mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 237 km (147 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 17 - 07:47 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.320UA.
  • JHU Aurora 9 Aurora ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 162 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 17 - 09:39 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Sandhawk. Model: Terrier Sandhawk. LV Configuration: Terrier Sandhawk Sandia 281-25.
  • Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). Solar eclipse observations. References: 2.
1972 March 17 - 15:31 GMT - Launch Site: Green River. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. Model: Athena H. LV Configuration: Athena H H003.
  • SAMAST 1B re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 281 km (174 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 17 - 16:56 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 168 km (104 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 17 - 17:00 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 24B. LV Configuration: Titan 24B 24B-3 (3B-34).
  • OPS 1678 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-8 no. 34 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-8. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 131 km (81 mi). Apogee: 409 km (254 mi). Inclination: 111.00 deg. Period: 89.90 min. COSPAR: 1972-016A. USAF Sat Cat: 5888. Decay Date: 1972-04-11. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
1972 March 17 - 17:40 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 189 km (117 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 17 - 19:01 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 173 km (107 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 17 - 20:03 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 176 km (109 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 18 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Berenice. Model: Tibere.
  • ELECTRE Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: France. Agency: ONERA. Apogee: 159 km (98 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 18 - 09:03 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Ute. Model: Ute Apache.
  • Aurora / airglow mission Nation: USA. Agency: NSF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 20 - 09:45 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. LV Configuration: MR-12 M-180 (Mar 21?).
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 192 km (119 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 21 - 08:37 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 3. LV Configuration: Black Brant III AMF-3A-52.
  • Oxygen recombination Aeronomy mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 119 km (73 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 21 - 13:35 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 KP3.38.
  • X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: KPNO. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 22 -
  • IMBP Cosmonaut Training Group 1 selected. Nation: USSR. Physicians and biomedical specialist cosmonauts for planned missions to the Salyut space station.
1972 March 22 -
  • Energia Engineer Cosmonaut Training Group 3 selected. Nation: USSR.
1972 March 22 -
  • Almaz Engineer Cosmonaut Training Group 1 selected. Nation: USSR. The group was selected to provide flight engineers for planned Almaz military space station missions.
1972 March 22 - 03:00 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF05. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2.
  • ERCS GT200L Communications mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 22 - 08:22 GMT - Launch Site: San Marco. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache.
  • ISRC-PO-9 Ionosphere mission Nation: Italy. Agency: ISRC. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 22 - 09:33 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cockatoo. LV Configuration: Cockatoo 1026.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 22 - 20:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 47127-122.
  • Cosmos 479 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Mass: 875 kg (1,929 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-O. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 517 km (321 mi). Apogee: 537 km (333 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 95.20 min. COSPAR: 1972-017A. USAF Sat Cat: 5894. Decay Date: 1980-04-13. Possible ELINT satellite. References: 2, 6.
1972 March 24 - 08:46 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC10W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Burner 2A. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2A 153.
  • DMSP-Block-5B F2 Nation: USA. Program: DMSP. Payload: DMSP 5528. Mass: 195 kg (429 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5B. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 781 km (485 mi). Apogee: 858 km (533 mi). Inclination: 98.90 deg. Period: 101.30 min. COSPAR: 1972-018A. USAF Sat Cat: 5903. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. References: 2, 6.
1972 March 24 - 09:44 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5B. LV Configuration: Black Brant VB AED-VB-28.
  • Nightglow Aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 193 km (119 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 24 - 23:31 GMT - Launch Site: Salto di Quirra. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 2. LV Configuration: Skylark 2 S75/1.
  • ESRO S75 / 1 Ionosphere mission Nation: Europe. Agency: ESRO. Apogee: 136 km (84 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 25 - 02:20 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: LC132/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M.
  • Cosmos 480 Nation: USSR. Mass: 600 kg (1,320 lb). Spacecraft: Sfera. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,173 km (728 mi). Apogee: 1,199 km (745 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 109.10 min. COSPAR: 1972-019A. USAF Sat Cat: 5905. Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. References: 2, 6.
1972 March 25 - 10:15 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Javelin. Model: Nike Javelin.
  • Cs cloud Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA WFF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 25 - 10:39 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC133/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 481 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-P1-Yu s/n 46. Mass: 375 kg (826 lb). Class: Military. Type: Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-Yu. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 277 km (172 mi). Apogee: 496 km (308 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 92.30 min. COSPAR: 1972-020A. USAF Sat Cat: 5906. Completed Operations Date: 1972-09-03. Decay Date: 1972-09-02. Development of systems for air defence and the control of outer space. References: 2, 6, 99.
1972 March 26 -
  • Tselina-O accepted into military service. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Tselina-O. Central Committee of the Communist Party and Council of Soviet Ministers Decree 'On adoption of Tselina-O into armaments' was issued. References: 474.
1972 March 26 - 23:30 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 6 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 6 AC SL1081.
  • ER1 Test / remote sensing mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 279 km (173 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 27 - 04:15 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC31. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M.
  • Venera 8 Nation: USSR. Program: Venera. Payload: 3V (V-72) s/n 670. Mass: 1,180 kg (2,600 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Venus. Spacecraft: Venera 3V (V-72). Agency: MOM. Perigee: 194 km (120 mi). Apogee: 246 km (152 mi). Inclination: 51.70 deg. Period: 88.90 min. COSPAR: 1972-021A. USAF Sat Cat: 5912. Decay Date: 1972-07-22. Venus atmospheric probe. The spacecraft took 117 days to reach Venus, entering the atmosphere on 22 July 1972. Descent speed was reduced from 41,696 km/hr to about 900 km/hr by aerobraking. The 2.5 meter diameter parachute opened at an altitude of 60 km, and a refrigeration system was used to cool the interior components. Venera 8 transmitted data during the descent and continued to send back data for 50 minutes after landing. The probe confirmed the earlier data on the high Venus surface temperature and pressure returned by Venera 7, and also measured the light level as being suitable for surface photography, finding it to be similar to the amount of light on Earth on an overcast day. References: 2, 6, 64, 296.
1972 March 27 - 10:08 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Javelin. Model: Nike Javelin.
  • Cs cloud Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA WFF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 28 - 12:12 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Ute. Model: Paiute Apache. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: NSF. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1972 March 29 - 10:07 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Javelin. Model: Nike Javelin.
  • Cs cloud Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA WFF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 29 - 20:24 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Bullpup Apache.
  • Particles mission Nation: USA. Agency: NSF. Apogee: 50 km (31 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 30 - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: Meck. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Spartan. LV Configuration: Spartan ABM 800033.
  • Safeguard M2-9 Interceptor mission Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 30 - 01:25 GMT - Launch Site: Salto di Quirra. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 4. LV Configuration: Skylark 4 S75/2.
  • ESRO S75 / 2 Ionosphere mission Nation: Europe. Agency: ESRO. Apogee: 133 km (82 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 30 - 14:05 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-11 Nation: USSR. Payload: Meteor M no. 11. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: Meteor M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 855 km (531 mi). Apogee: 877 km (544 mi). Inclination: 81.20 deg. Period: 102.30 min. COSPAR: 1972-022A. USAF Sat Cat: 5917. Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. References: 2, 6.
1972 March 31 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle.
  • Shuttle SSME Judgement Nation: USA. Pratt and Whitney's protest against the award of the shuttle engine development contract was rejected. Contract award to Rocketdyne could now proceed. References: 44.
1972 March 31 - 03:10 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.329UA.
  • UM Aeronomy Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 181 km (112 mi). References: 2.
1972 March 31 - 04:02 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC31. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. FAILURE: The escape stage Block L's engine cut off 125 seconds after ignition due to timer failure.
  • Cosmos 482 Nation: USSR. Program: Venera. Payload: 3V (V-72) s/n 671. Mass: 1,180 kg (2,600 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Venus. Spacecraft: Venera 3V (V-72). Agency: MOM. Perigee: 204 km (126 mi). Apogee: 9,806 km (6,093 mi). Inclination: 52.00 deg. Period: 201.40 min. COSPAR: 1972-023A. USAF Sat Cat: 5919. Decay Date: 1981-05-05. References: 2, 6, 64, 65.
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