Chronology - Quarter 3 1972

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Previous Home Next 1972 July 3 - 08:10 GMT - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.483GI-II. Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 122 km (75 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 5 - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 6 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 6 AC SL1191. UK SL1191 Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 5 - 09:29 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC133/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 11K63. Cosmos 498 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-P1-Yu s/n 56. Mass: 325 kg (716 lb). Class: Military. Type: Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-Yu. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 266 km (165 mi). Apogee: 490 km (300 mi). Inclination: 70.00 deg. Period: 92.10 min. COSPAR: 1972-050A. USAF Sat Cat: 6086. Completed Operations Date: 1972-11-25. Decay Date: 1972-11-25. Development of systems for air defence and the control of outer space. References: 2, 6, 99. 1972 July 5 - 23:15 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 July 6 - 10:40 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 499 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 204 km (126 mi). Apogee: 283 km (175 mi). Inclination: 51.80 deg. Period: 89.30 min. COSPAR: 1972-051A. USAF Sat Cat: 6090. Duration: 11.00 days. Decay Date: 1972-07-17. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1972 July 7 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. Shuttle orbiter contract Nation: USA. North American Rockwell received NASA contract NAS9-14000, valued at $2.6 billion, for development of the space shuttle orbiter. Included are two flight articles, the STA Structural Test Article, and the MPTA Main Propulsion Test Article. Later production of two additional orbiters will be added, bringing the final contract value to $ 5.815 billion by 1996. References: 44. 1972 July 7 - 17:46 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3D. LV Configuration: Titan IIID 23D-5. KH-9 no. 03 Nation: USA. Mass: 13,300 kg (29,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-9. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 176 km (109 mi). Apogee: 254 km (157 mi). Inclination: 96.00 deg. Period: 88.70 min. COSPAR: 1972-052A. USAF Sat Cat: 6094. Decay Date: 1972-09-13. KH-9 type satellite. Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. References: 2, 6. OPS 7803 Nation: USA. Payload: SSF-B No. 23. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: SSF. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 498 km (309 mi). Apogee: 504 km (313 mi). Inclination: 96.20 deg. Period: 94.70 min. COSPAR: 1972-052C. USAF Sat Cat: 6096. Decay Date: 1978-05-06. Radar monitoring. References: 2, 6, 172. 1972 July 10 - 11:00 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 3. LV Configuration: Black Brant III ADD-3A-55. Aeronomy / Solar Eclipse mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 106 km (65 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 10 - 16:15 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. Cosmos 500 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Mass: 875 kg (1,929 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-O. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 505 km (313 mi). Apogee: 548 km (340 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 95.20 min. COSPAR: 1972-053A. USAF Sat Cat: 6097. Decay Date: 1980-03-29. Possible navigation satellite. Replaced Cosmos 425. References: 2, 6. 1972 July 10 - 18:51 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Sandhawk. Model: Terrier Sandhawk. LV Configuration: Terrier Sandhawk Sandia 281-28. Solar eclipse mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 10 - 19:50 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 3. LV Configuration: Black Brant III ADD-3A-57. Aeronomy / Solar Eclipse mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 166 km (103 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 10 - 20:26 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 3. LV Configuration: Black Brant III ADD-3A-58. Aeronomy / Solar Eclipse mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 103 km (64 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 10 - 20:29 GMT - Launch Site: East Quoddy. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 3. LV Configuration: Black Brant III ADD-3A-59. Solar ultraviolet and x-ray mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 143 km (88 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 10 - 21:32 GMT - Launch Site: East Quoddy. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 3. LV Configuration: Black Brant III ADD-3A-60. Solar ultraviolet and x-ray mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 148 km (91 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 10 - 21:39 GMT - Launch Site: East Quoddy. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 3. LV Configuration: Black Brant III ADD-3A-61. Solar ultraviolet and x-ray mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 144 km (89 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 10 - 21:41 GMT - Launch Site: East Quoddy. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 3. LV Configuration: Black Brant III ADD-3A-62. Solar ultraviolet and x-ray mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 152 km (94 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 10 - 22:01 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.80DS. NRL NE4.246 Solar mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 10 - 22:05 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170A NASA 13.28CS. Solar mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 12 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. Safety in Earth Orbit Nation: USA. North American Rockwell issues a study on safety concepts for the space shuttle. These include putting an Apollo command module in the shuttle payload bay as an emergency re-entry capsule in case of inability of the shuttle to re-enter due to heat shield damage or a propulsion system failure. The study finds that all solutions have unacceptable weight penalties, and that any upper stages carried in the payload bay had to be man-rated in order to ensure crew safety. Liquid propellant upper stages (such as Centaur and the planned Space Tug) were probably too dangerous to be taken to orbit by the shuttle. References: 44. 1972 July 12 - 05:59 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: LC86/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 11K63. Cosmos 501 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-P1-Yu s/n 50. Mass: 250 kg (550 lb). Class: Military. Type: Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-Yu. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 221 km (137 mi). Apogee: 2,167 km (1,346 mi). Inclination: 48.00 deg. Period: 109.30 min. COSPAR: 1972-054A. USAF Sat Cat: 6099. Completed Operations Date: 1972-12-20. Decay Date: 1974-05-09. Development of systems for air defence and the control of outer space. References: 2, 6, 99. 1972 July 13 - 14:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511M. Cosmos 502 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MT. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 203 km (126 mi). Apogee: 262 km (162 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.10 min. COSPAR: 1972-055A. USAF Sat Cat: 6105. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1972-07-25. Military topography satellite; returned film capsule; carried science package. References: 2, 6. 1972 July 14 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC142/34. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: R-36 8K67MA. State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 14 - 06:01 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.04UG. Astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 15 - Lunar Science Institute's summer study on post-Apollo lunar science Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo ALSEP. Flight: Apollo 17. The Lunar Science Institute's summer study on post-Apollo lunar science arrived at a number of conclusions and recommendations. Some conclusions were: Lunar science would evolve through three rather distinct phases. For two years immediately following Apollo 17, high priority would be given to collection, organization, and preliminary analysis of the wealth of information acquired from the exploration of the moon. In the next two years (1975 and 1976), emphasis would shift to a careful first look at all the data. In the next years, investigations would be concentrated on key problems. Additional Details: Lunar Science Institute's summer study on post-Apollo lunar science. References: 16. 1972 July 15 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF06. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. SSTTP M2-15 Target mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 17 - Skylab Orbital Workshop all-systems test begun. Nation: USA. Program: Skylab. Spacecraft: Skylab. An Orbital Workshop all-systems test began on 17 July 1972 and was completed on 7 August 1972 at McDonnell Douglas' Huntington Beach Vehicle Checkout Laboratory. Following the test, which lasted 309 hours, a meeting was held to verify that the OWS all-systems test had been successfully completed. At the conclusion of the meeting, it was agreed that pending closeout of the test anomalies, all test requirements had been satisfied. 1972 July 18 - 08:20 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 KP3.40. Infrared astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: KPNO. Apogee: 222 km (137 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 19 - 13:45 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 503 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 202 km (125 mi). Apogee: 288 km (178 mi). Inclination: 65.40 deg. Period: 89.40 min. COSPAR: 1972-056A. USAF Sat Cat: 6114. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1972-08-01. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1972 July 20 - 18:10 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. Cosmos 504 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 25. Mass: 50 kg (110 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,321 km (820 mi). Apogee: 1,496 km (929 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.00 min. COSPAR: 1972-057A. USAF Sat Cat: 6117. Eight satellites launched by a single carrier rocket. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 505 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 26. Mass: 50 kg (110 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,352 km (840 mi). Apogee: 1,497 km (930 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.30 min. COSPAR: 1972-057B. USAF Sat Cat: 6118. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 506 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 27. Mass: 50 kg (110 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,382 km (858 mi). Apogee: 1,496 km (929 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.60 min. COSPAR: 1972-057C. USAF Sat Cat: 6119. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 507 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 28. Mass: 50 kg (110 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,412 km (877 mi). Apogee: 1,496 km (929 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.00 min. COSPAR: 1972-057D. USAF Sat Cat: 6120. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 508 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 29. Mass: 50 kg (110 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,443 km (896 mi). Apogee: 1,497 km (930 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.30 min. COSPAR: 1972-057E. USAF Sat Cat: 6121. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 509 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 30. Mass: 50 kg (110 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,474 km (915 mi). Apogee: 1,498 km (930 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.70 min. COSPAR: 1972-057F. USAF Sat Cat: 6122. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 510 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 31. Mass: 50 kg (110 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,495 km (928 mi). Apogee: 1,510 km (930 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 116.00 min. COSPAR: 1972-057G. USAF Sat Cat: 6123. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 511 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 32. Mass: 50 kg (110 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,495 km (928 mi). Apogee: 1,545 km (960 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 116.40 min. COSPAR: 1972-057H. USAF Sat Cat: 6124. References: 2, 6. 1972 July 22 - Venera 8 Venus Landing Nation: USSR. 1972 July 23 - 18:06 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 0900. LV Configuration: Delta 0900 574/D89. Landsat 1 Nation: USA. Program: Landsat. Payload: ERTS A. Mass: 816 kg (1,798 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Landsat. Spacecraft: Landsat 1-2-3. Agency: NASA GSF. Perigee: 898 km (557 mi). Apogee: 909 km (564 mi). Inclination: 99.10 deg. Period: 103.10 min. COSPAR: 1972-058A. USAF Sat Cat: 6126. Earth Resources Technology Satellite. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 2, 6. 1972 July 25 - M2 Flight 30 Nation: USA. Program: NASA Lifting Body. Payload: M2-F3 flight 14. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: M2-F3. Crew: Dana. Maximum Speed - 1049 kph. Maximum Altitude - 18562 m. Flight Time - 420 sec. References: 49, 97. 1972 July 26 - Contract awarded for shuttle OV-102. Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Columbia. 1972 July 26 - 05:10 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF07. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2. LV Configuration: Minuteman 2 Destruct test. OBL/GIANT PATRIOT 2 test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 21 km (13 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 27 - 18:10 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.31US. Solar mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 28 - 10:19 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 512 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 202 km (125 mi). Apogee: 273 km (169 mi). Inclination: 65.30 deg. Period: 89.20 min. COSPAR: 1972-059A. USAF Sat Cat: 6130. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1972-08-09. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6. 1972 July 28 - 18:59 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trailblazer. Model: Trailblazer 2. LV Configuration: Trailblazer 2 CRL A21.011-1. AFCRL TB2-4 Re-entry vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 314 km (195 mi). References: 2. 1972 July 29 - 03:20 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC81/23. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Proton. Model: Proton-K. LV Configuration: Proton-K 260-01. FAILURE: Second stage malfunction at T+ 162 sec. Zarya s/n 122 Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut. Payload: Zarya s/n 122. Mass: 18,000 kg (39,000 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Space station. Spacecraft: Salyut 1. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: F720729A. Decay Date: 1972-07-29. Second Salyut space station (DOS 2), failed to reach orbit. References: 67, 274. 1972 August 1 - Launch Site: White Sea Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 65.5 N x 38.0 E. Launch Vehicle: R-29. Model: Vysota. Test mission Nation: USSR. Agency: VMF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Launched from White Sea Launch Area, Beloye More, Archangel'sk Oblast' - Latitude: 65.50 N - Longitude: 38.00 E. References: 2. 1972 August 2 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF21. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. LV Configuration: Minuteman 3 STM-7W. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 2 - 08:15 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 513 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 172 km (106 mi). Apogee: 307 km (190 mi). Inclination: 64.90 deg. Period: 89.30 min. COSPAR: 1972-060A. USAF Sat Cat: 6135. Duration: 14.00 days. Decay Date: 1972-08-15. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1972 August 3 - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: Meck. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Spartan. LV Configuration: Spartan ABM 800029. Safeguard M2-34 Interceptor mission Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 4 - 19:16 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.489GE. Solar cosmic rays Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 159 km (98 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 5 - 05:52 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.30CG. X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 7 - 01:45 GMT - Launch Site: Syowa Base. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: S-210. LV Configuration: S-210JA-11. Aurora / ionosphere / fields mission Nation: Japan. Agency: NIPR. Apogee: 126 km (78 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 9 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. Shuttle go-ahead. Nation: USA. Program: STS. Rockwell receives authority to proceed, space shuttle orbiter References: 15. 1972 August 10 - 00:32 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: FB-1. LV Configuration: Feng Bao 1 701-02. Shiyan Peizhong Nation: China. Agency: PRC. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). Research and Development Suborbital Flight References: 2. 1972 August 10 - 05:45 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.38UG. X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 10 - 06:59 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.23UG. Astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 11 - M2 Flight 31 Nation: USA. Program: NASA Lifting Body. Payload: M2-F3 flight 15. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: M2-F3. Crew: Dana. Maximum Speed - 1168 kph. Maximum Altitude - 20480 m. Flight Time - 375 sec. References: 49, 97. 1972 August 11 - Soyuz 7K-S designs completed Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-S, Soyuz OB-VI. The Soyuz 7K-S had two parallel designs - the base variant, which was for special-purpose military solo missions; and a space station transport variant 7K-ST. The Soyuz 7K-S program was to consist of four unmanned, followed by two manned test flights, then two operational launches. 1972 August 11 - 01:01 GMT - Launch Site: Syowa Base. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: S-210. LV Configuration: S-210JA-8. Ionosphere / fields mission Nation: Japan. Agency: NIPR. Apogee: 127 km (78 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 12 - 02:15 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure ISRO 5.14. ISRO 5.14 Ionosphere mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 12 - 09:25 GMT - Launch Site: Green River. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. Model: Athena H. LV Configuration: Athena H H004. RVTO-3B-2 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 13 - 06:59 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache ISRO 10.44. ISRO 10.44 Ionosphere mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 148 km (91 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 13 - 15:10 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: LA3A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Scout D-1. LV Configuration: Scout D-1-F S184C. Explorer 46 Nation: USA. Program: Explorer. Payload: Meteoroid Technology Satellite. Mass: 136 kg (299 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Micrometeoroid. Spacecraft: MTS. Agency: NASA LaR. Perigee: 492 km (305 mi). Apogee: 811 km (503 mi). Inclination: 37.70 deg. Period: 97.70 min. COSPAR: 1972-061A. USAF Sat Cat: 6142. Decay Date: 1979-11-02. Micrometeoroid tests. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). References: 2, 6. 1972 August 15 - Launch Vehicle: N1. N1 7L launch readiness review Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L3. Mishin held a Soviet of N1 chief designers to confirm launch readiness. References: 367. 1972 August 16 - 13:40 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M Yu149-38. Cosmos 514 Nation: USSR. Payload: Tsiklon Mass Model. Mass: 680 kg (1,490 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Tsiklon. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 952 km (591 mi). Apogee: 967 km (600 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 104.30 min. COSPAR: 1972-062A. USAF Sat Cat: 6148. Military navigation satellite. References: 2, 6. 1972 August 17 - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: Meck. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Sprint. LV Configuration: Sprint ABM FLA-70. FAILURE: Failure. Safeguard M2-42 Interceptor mission Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. 1972 August 17 - 10:02 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure ISRO 5.16. ISRO 5.16 Ionosphere mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 151 km (93 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 18 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-1 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 18 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-1 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 18 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-1 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 18 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-1 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 18 - 10:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 515 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 203 km (126 mi). Apogee: 309 km (192 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1972-063A. USAF Sat Cat: 6150. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1972-08-31. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1972 August 18 - 10:21 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 CRL A04.004-8. HISTAR 6 Infrared astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 171 km (106 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 19 - 02:40 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: M. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Mu. Model: Mu-4S. LV Configuration: Mu-4S M-4S-4. SS-02 Denpa Nation: Japan. Payload: REXS. Mass: 75 kg (165 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: SS. Agency: ISAS. Perigee: 238 km (147 mi). Apogee: 6,322 km (3,928 mi). Inclination: 31.00 deg. Period: 157.40 min. COSPAR: 1972-064A. USAF Sat Cat: 6152. Decay Date: 1980-05-19. Ionospheric experiments. Scientific observations in the ionosphere and magnetosphere. Interjection point 31 deg 15' N 11 deg 05' E. References: 2, 6. 1972 August 21 - Launch Vehicle: N1. N1 7L State Commission Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L3. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-LOK. The State Commission was held to verify readiness of N1 7L for launch. Mishin was 'sick' the whole week of the hearings and had to be represented by his deputies. However neither Mishin or his first deputy Okhapkin were available - both were in the hospital. The commission nearly ruled that until Mishin was available, no launch could be approved. However the review continued. Additional Details: N1 7L State Commission. References: 367. 1972 August 21 - 10:28 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC36B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3C Centaur. LV Configuration: SLV-3C Centaur AC-22 / Centaur D-1A 5004C. OAO 3 Nation: USA. Payload: OAO-C. Mass: 2,204 kg (4,858 lb). Class: Astronomy. Spacecraft: OAO. Agency: NASA GSF. Perigee: 713 km (443 mi). Apogee: 724 km (449 mi). Inclination: 35.00 deg. Period: 99.20 min. COSPAR: 1972-065A. USAF Sat Cat: 6153. UV observations of stellar objects. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). Launch vehicle put payload into geosynchronous transfer orbit References: 2, 6, 278. 1972 August 21 - 10:36 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC90/19. Launch Pad: LC90/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: Tsiklon-2. Cosmos 516 Nation: USSR. Program: RORSAT. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Naval Radarsat. Spacecraft: US-A. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 906 km (562 mi). Apogee: 1,038 km (644 mi). Inclination: 64.80 deg. Period: 104.50 min. COSPAR: 1972-066C. USAF Sat Cat: 6199. Decay Date: 1972-10-20. Ocean surveillance; nuclear powered. References: 2, 6, 290. 1972 August 23 - 21:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 CRL A04.104-1. RM-57 Solar x-ray / ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 268 km (166 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 24 - M2 Flight 32 Nation: USA. Program: NASA Lifting Body. Payload: M2-F3 flight 16. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: M2-F3. Crew: Dana. Maximum Speed - 1344 kph. Maximum Altitude - 20330 m. Flight Time - 376 sec. References: 49, 97. 1972 August 24 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC161/35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: R-36 8K67MA. State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 29 - 11:12 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P118H. E-region multiprobe Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 29 - 13:12 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P130H. Solar La / X Solar ultraviolet and x-ray mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 135 km (83 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 30 - 08:19 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 517 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 203 km (126 mi). Apogee: 285 km (177 mi). Inclination: 64.90 deg. Period: 89.30 min. COSPAR: 1972-067A. USAF Sat Cat: 6168. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1972-09-11. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6. 1972 August 30 - 22:02 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P75H. Scattered La Ionosphere / aeronomy mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 118 km (73 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 31 - 00:02 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P108H. Scattered La Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 146 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1972 August 31 - 02:16 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P76H. Scattered La Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 126 km (78 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 1 - L3 terminated. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: LK, Soyuz 7K-LOK. Decree 'On termination of production work on the L3' was issued. References: 474. 1972 September 1 - Launch Site: White Sea Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 65.5 N x 38.0 E. Launch Vehicle: R-29. Model: Vysota. Test mission Nation: USSR. Agency: VMF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Launched from White Sea Launch Area, Beloye More, Archangel'sk Oblast' - Latitude: 65.50 N - Longitude: 38.00 E. References: 2. 1972 September 1 - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Temp-2S. Test mission Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 1 - 04:10 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170A NASA 13.47UL. JHU UVT F7 Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 159 km (98 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 1 - 17:44 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 24B. LV Configuration: Titan 24B 24B-5 (3B-39). OPS 8888 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-8 no. 36 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-8. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 142 km (88 mi). Apogee: 381 km (236 mi). Inclination: 110.40 deg. Period: 89.70 min. COSPAR: 1972-068A. USAF Sat Cat: 6172. Decay Date: 1972-09-30. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6. 1972 September 2 - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/3. Launch Pad: LC43/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. FAILURE: Failure. Zenit-4M Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Zenit-4M. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: F720902A. High resolution photo reconnaissance mission. References: 279. 1972 September 2 - 17:50 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC5. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Scout B-1. LV Configuration: Scout B-1-F S182C. Triad 1 Nation: USA. Program: Transit. Payload: TIP 1. Mass: 94 kg (207 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: TIP. Agency: USN. Perigee: 709 km (440 mi). Apogee: 792 km (492 mi). Inclination: 90.00 deg. Period: 99.80 min. COSPAR: 1972-069A. USAF Sat Cat: 6173. Prototype of improved Transit satellite. References: 2, 6. 1972 September 6-7 - Skylab 1 Orbital Workshop completed. Nation: USA. Program: Skylab. Spacecraft: Skylab. A special ceremony at McDonnell Douglas, Huntington Beach, marked completion of the OWS, the main section of the Skylab space station. The OWS, with a volume equivalent to that of a five-room house, was being readied for shipment to Cape Kennedy aboard the USNS Point Barrow. The trip would take 13 days. 1972 September 12 - M2 Flight 33 Nation: USA. Program: NASA Lifting Body. Payload: M2-F3 flight 17. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: M2-F3. Crew: Dana. Maximum Speed - 935 kph. Maximum Altitude - 14020 m. Flight Time - 387 sec. References: 49, 97. 1972 September 12 - 05:31 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Javelin. LV Configuration: Javelin NASA 8.62GE. Auroral substorm Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 718 km (446 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 12 - 11:10 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 10. LV Configuration: Kappa 10 K-10-8. Fiberglass Casing Infrared astronomy / x-ray astronomy mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 259 km (160 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 15 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC173. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100. BI-4 Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 15 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC142/34. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: R-36 8K67MA. State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 15 - 09:40 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 518 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 203 km (126 mi). Apogee: 306 km (190 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 89.50 min. COSPAR: 1972-070A. USAF Sat Cat: 6186. Duration: 9.00 days. Decay Date: 1972-09-24. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; separated science capsule. References: 2, 6. Nauka Cosmos 518 Nation: USSR. Payload: Nauka. Spacecraft: Nauka. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 196 km (121 mi). Apogee: 271 km (168 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 89.17 min. COSPAR: 1972-070C. USAF Sat Cat: 6198. Decay Date: 1972-09-27. References: 2, 279. 1972 September 16 - 04:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.39UG. X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 16 - 08:20 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 519 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 207 km (128 mi). Apogee: 360 km (220 mi). Inclination: 71.30 deg. Period: 90.20 min. COSPAR: 1972-071A. USAF Sat Cat: 6188. Duration: 10.00 days. Decay Date: 1972-09-26. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1972 September 19 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF22. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. OT GT16GB operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 19 - 19:19 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC41/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Cosmos 520 Nation: USSR. Payload: Oko #1. Mass: 1,250 kg (2,750 lb). Class: Early Warning. Spacecraft: Oko. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 6,841 km (4,250 mi). Apogee: 33,393 km (20,749 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 715.30 min. COSPAR: 1972-072A. USAF Sat Cat: 6192. Covered Oko constellation plane 3 - 355 degree longitude of ascending node. References: 2, 6, 100. 1972 September 20 - Launch Vehicle: N1. Final N1 components arrive at Baikonur Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L3. The replacement transformers for the VP53 digital to analogue converters were delivered to Baikonur. References: 367. 1972 September 20 - 05:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 9M. LV Configuration: Kappa 9M K-9M-40. Ionosphere mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 326 km (202 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 23 - Skylab 1 Orbital Workshop delivered. Nation: USA. Program: Skylab. Spacecraft: Skylab. The Skylab 1 Orbital Workshop was offloaded from a NASA barge and moved into the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) at KSC. The OWS had arrived the preceding day (22 September) aboard the Point Barrow at Port Canaveral, where it was transferred to a smaller barge for the journey through the locks, up the Banana River, and through the access canal to the barge unloading area at the VAB. Following preliminary checkout, the OWS, with its 361.4 cu m of living and working area, was scheduled to be mated to the twostage Saturn V launch vehicle on 28 September. 1972 September 23 - 01:20 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 1604. LV Configuration: Delta 1604 579/D90. Explorer 47 Nation: USA. Program: Explorer. Payload: IMP H. Mass: 376 kg (828 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: IMP. Agency: NASA GSF. Perigee: 201,100 km (124,900 mi). Apogee: 235,600 km (146,300 mi). Inclination: 17.20 deg. Period: 17,670.00 min. COSPAR: 1972-073A. USAF Sat Cat: 6197. Investigated cislunar radiation, Earth's magnetosphere, interplantary magnetic field. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 2, 6. 1972 September 24 - 14:05 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5A. LV Configuration: Black Brant VA CRL A17.110-2. Auroral D / E region Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 127 km (78 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 24 - 21:50 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: S. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 4. LV Configuration: Skylark 4 S77/2. ESRO S77 / 2 Aurora mission Nation: Europe. Agency: ESRO. Apogee: 227 km (141 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 25 - TsNII-50 created. Nation: USSR. Decree 'On formation of TsNII-50 on the basis of NII-4's Space Branch' was issued. References: 474. 1972 September 25 - 02:40 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC NASA 21.05UE. ECHO II Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 256 km (159 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 25 - 06:05 GMT - Launch Site: Tanegashima. Launch Complex: T. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Lambda. Model: LS-C. LV Configuration: LS-C-6. Test mission Nation: Japan. Agency: NASDA. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 25 - 19:24 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5A. LV Configuration: Black Brant VA CRL A17.110-1. Auroral D / E region Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 126 km (78 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 25 - 22:45 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 September 25 - 23:30 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF05. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2. FOT GT108M Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 26 - 18:13 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: LA1. Launch Pad: LA1?. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee. Model: Astrobee F. LV Configuration: Astrobee F NASA 12.20GT. Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 199 km (123 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 27 - M2 Flight 34 Nation: USA. Program: NASA Lifting Body. Payload: M2-F3 flight 18. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: M2-F3. Crew: Dana. Maximum Speed - 1424 kph. Maximum Altitude - 20330 m. Flight Time - 366.5 sec. References: 49, 97. 1972 September 28 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-2 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 28 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-2 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 28 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-2 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 28 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-2 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1972 September 29 - 20:18 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M Yu47121-11. Cosmos 521 Nation: USSR. Payload: DS-P1-M s/n 4. Mass: 650 kg (1,430 lb). Class: Military. Type: ASAT Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 987 km (613 mi). Apogee: 992 km (616 mi). Inclination: 65.80 deg. Period: 104.90 min. COSPAR: 1972-074A. USAF Sat Cat: 6206. Completed Operations Date: 1973-01-20. ASAT target launched to test modifications to ASAT interceptor. Interceptor launch cancelled due to technical failure in target telemetry system. Signature of SALT treaty in May 1972 resulted in military being ordered to discontinue further ASAT tests. References: 2, 6, 99, 272. 1972 September 30 - 20:19 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Molniya 2-03 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-2. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-2. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 470 km (290 mi). Apogee: 39,170 km (24,330 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 703.30 min. COSPAR: 1972-075A. USAF Sat Cat: 6208. Decay Date: 1978-01-12. Continued operation of the long-range telephone and telegraph radio-communication system; transmission of USSR central television programmes to stations in the Orbita network and international cooperation. References: 2, 6. Previous Home Next Contact us with any corrections, additions, or comments. Conditions for use of drawings, pictures, or other materials from this site.. To contact astronauts or cosmonauts. © Mark Wade, 1997 - 2008 except where otherwise noted.