Chronology - Quarter 1 1973

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Previous Home Next 1973 January 1 - Launch Vehicle: N1. Model: N1F-L3M. N1-L3M Nation: USSR. Program: Lunar L3. Spacecraft: L3M-1972. The first lunar expedition project, the N1-L3M, was studied in 1973. References: 367. 1973 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MSBS. Model: MSBS M2. Operational test Nation: France. Agency: DMA. Apogee: 600 km (370 mi). References: 2. 1973 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100. Model: UR-100U. SLI missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 8 - 06:55 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC81/23. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Proton. Model: Proton-K/D. LV Configuration: Proton-K/D 259-01. Luna 21 Nation: USSR. Program: Luna. Payload: Ye-8 s/n 204. Mass: 5,567 kg (12,273 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Lunar. Spacecraft: Luna Ye-8. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 90 km (55 mi). Apogee: 110 km (60 mi). Inclination: 60.00 deg. Period: 118.00 min. COSPAR: 1973-001A. USAF Sat Cat: 6333. Decay Date: 1973-01-15. The Proton / Block D launcher put the spacecraft into Earth parking orbit followed by translunar injection. On 12 January 1973, Luna 21 braked into a 90 x 100 km orbit about the Moon. On 13 and 14 January, the perilune was lowered to 16 km altitude. On 15 January after 40 orbits, the braking rocket was fired at 16 km altitude, and the craft went into free fall. At an altitude of 750 meters the main thrusters began firing, slowing the fall until a height of 22 meters was reached. At this point the main thrusters shut down and the secondary thrusters ignited, slowing the fall until the lander was 1.5 meters above the surface, where the engine was cut off. Landing occurred at 23:35 GMT in LeMonnier crater at 25.85 degrees N, 30.45 degrees E. The lander carried a bas relief of Lenin and the Soviet coat-of-arms. After landing, Lunokhod 2 took TV images of the surrounding area, then rolled down a ramp to the surface at 01:14 GMT on 16 January and took pictures of the Luna 21 lander and landing site. It stopped and charged batteries until 18 January, took more images of the lander and landing site, and then set out over the Moon. The rover would run during the lunar day, stopping occasionally to recharge its batteries via the solar panels. At night the rover would hibernate until the next sunrise, heated by the radioactive source. Lunokhod 2 operated for about 4 months, covered 37 km of terrain including hilly upland areas and rilles, and sent back 86 panoramic images and over 80,000 TV pictures. Many mechanical tests of the surface, laser ranging measurements, and other experiments were completed during this time. On June 4 it was announced that the program was completed, leading to speculation that the vehicle probably failed in mid-May or could not be revived after the lunar night of May-June. The Lunokhod was not left in a position such that the laser retroreflector could be used, indicating that the failure may have happened suddenly. References: 2, 6, 67, 274, 296. 1973 January 11 - 10:00 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 543 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 191 km (118 mi). Apogee: 274 km (170 mi). Inclination: 64.90 deg. Period: 89.20 min. COSPAR: 1973-002A. USAF Sat Cat: 6339. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-01-24. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1973 January 12 - 08:05 GMT - Launch Site: Green River. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. Model: Athena H. LV Configuration: Athena H H005. RANT Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 12 - 10:05 GMT - Launch Site: Green River. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. Model: Athena H. LV Configuration: Athena H H009. ABC-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 12 - 11:46 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 KP3.42. X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: KPNO. Apogee: 229 km (142 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 13 - 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. 1973 January 15 - 23:40 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: S-210. LV Configuration: S-210-8. Ionosphere mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 122 km (75 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 16 - 17:30 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.510UI. Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 157 km (97 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 16 - 20:58 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.57IE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 278 km (172 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 18 - 17:55 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 200A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 200A NASA 26.01CS. LPARL X-ray spectrometer Solar x-ray mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 245 km (152 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 19 - Launch Vehicle: Saturn V. Plan for storage of unassigned Saturn hardware and phaseout of Saturn V. Nation: USA. Program: Skylab. MSFC began implementation of a plan for preparation and storage of unassigned Saturn hardware, phaseout of the Saturn V production capability, and amendment of the facility operations contract at the Michoud Assembly Facility for minimum surveillance of stored hardware. 1973 January 19 - 09:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 9M. LV Configuration: Kappa 9M K-9M-41. VLF Ionosphere / active plasma mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 330 km (200 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 20 - 03:36 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M Yu149-44. Cosmos 544 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Mass: 750 kg (1,650 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-O. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 528 km (328 mi). Apogee: 535 km (332 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 95.20 min. COSPAR: 1973-003A. USAF Sat Cat: 6343. Decay Date: 1980-06-15. Replaced Cosmos 460. Possible ELINT satellite. References: 2, 6. 1973 January 21 - 09:40 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure 2A. LV Configuration: Centaure 2A ISRO 5.15. ISRO 5.15 Fields mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 165 km (102 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 22 - 23:10 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC36. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC NASA 21.09GT-US. Aeronomy / solar extreme ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 277 km (172 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 23 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-5 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 23 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-5 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 23 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-5 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 23 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-5 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 24 - 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. 1973 January 24 - 11:44 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC133/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 11K63. Cosmos 545 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-P1-Yu s/n 62. Mass: 400 kg (880 lb). Class: Military. Type: Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-Yu. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 268 km (166 mi). Apogee: 495 km (307 mi). Inclination: 71.00 deg. Period: 92.20 min. COSPAR: 1973-004A. USAF Sat Cat: 6348. Completed Operations Date: 1973-08-01. Decay Date: 1973-07-31. Development of systems for air defence and the control of outer space. References: 2, 6, 99. 1973 January 25 - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: Meck. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Spartan. LV Configuration: Spartan ABM 800039. Safeguard M2-26 Interceptor mission Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 25 - 01:15 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cockatoo. Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE. Apogee: 122 km (75 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 26 - Ames requested six R4D rocket engines surplus to the Apollo program for Pioneer-Venus Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Pioneer 12. Ames Research Center requested that six R4D rocket engines designed for use in the Apollo program be transferred from MSC to Ames. Possibly the engines would be suitable for the retro-injection function in the Pioneer Venus series of atmospheric probe and orbiter missions. First launch was planned for early 1977. References: 16. 1973 January 26 - Rocco A. Petrone became the new NASA MSFC Director. Nation: USA. MSFC Director Eberhard F. M. Rees retired. He had served as Director since 1 March 1970. Rocco A. Petrone, NASA Apollo Program Director, became the new MSFC Director. 1973 January 26 - 11:44 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: LC107/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M Yu149-37. Cosmos 546 Nation: USSR. Payload: Tsiklon Mass Model. Mass: 750 kg (1,650 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Tsiklon. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 537 km (333 mi). Apogee: 564 km (350 mi). Inclination: 50.70 deg. Period: 95.70 min. COSPAR: 1973-005A. USAF Sat Cat: 6350. Military navigation satellite. References: 2, 6. 1973 January 27 - 18:31 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.138IE. Ferdinand 32 / Proton 2 Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 222 km (137 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 28 - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: L. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Lambda. Model: Lambda 4SC. LV Configuration: Lambda 4SC L-4SC-2. TVC test Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 29 - 05:02 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 4B. LV Configuration: Black Brant IVB AAF-4B-27. Aurora mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 760 km (470 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 30 - 06:35 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 3 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 3 AC SL1205. GX2+5 Lunar Occultation X-ray astronomy mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 234 km (145 mi). References: 2. 1973 January 31 - 01:30 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF08. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. LV Configuration: Minuteman 3 PVM-2. Research and development / operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 1 - Launch Site: Salto di Quirra. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Alfa. LV Configuration: Alfa 001. Spurious? Nation: Italy. Agency: Italia. Apogee: 50 km (31 mi). First test flight of Italian submarine- and ship-launched ballistic missile. Dummy second stage. Successful 57 second flight. References: 2. 1973 February 1 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100. Model: UR-100K. State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 1 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100. Model: UR-100K. State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 1 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100. Model: UR-100K. State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 1 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100. Model: UR-100K. State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 1 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100. Model: UR-100K. State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 1 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100. Model: UR-100K. State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 1 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100. Model: UR-100K. State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 1 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100. Model: UR-100K. State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 1 - 08:30 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 547 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: 64.00 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1973-006A. USAF Sat Cat: 6353. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-02-13. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6. 1973 February 1 - 14:33 GMT - Launch Site: Natal. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. DLR N-BBVC-52 Aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DFVLR. Apogee: 308 km (191 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 2 - 06:15 GMT - Launch Site: Gillam. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 3B. LV Configuration: Black Brant IIIB AAF-3B-67. Auroral mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 2 - 06:20 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5B. LV Configuration: Black Brant VB AAF-VB-36. Auroral substorm Aurora / aeronomy / plasma mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 335 km (208 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 2 - 19:05 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure 2A. LV Configuration: Centaure 2A ISRO 5.18. ISRO 5.18 CO.07 Ionosphere mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 147 km (91 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 3 - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: Meck. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Spartan. LV Configuration: Spartan ABM 800035. Safeguard M2-43 Interceptor mission Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 3 - 05:48 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Molniya 1-23 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-1. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-1. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 476 km (295 mi). Apogee: 39,602 km (24,607 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 712.20 min. COSPAR: 1973-007A. USAF Sat Cat: 6356. Decay Date: 1977-10-23. Uncertain if Molniya-1T model was Molniya-1 or Molniya-1T. Operation of a system of long range telephone-telegraph radiocommunication, and transmission of USSR Central Television programmes to the stations of the Orbita network. References: 2, 6. 1973 February 5 - 04:48 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Sandhawk Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Sandhawk Tomahawk Sandia 152-201. FAILURE: Failure. Barium release ZURITA Aeronomy / Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 6 - 10:35 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk Sandia 152-199. Caribou VII Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 6 - 19:59 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.136IE. Ferdinand 30 / Electra-2 Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 255 km (158 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 7 - 01:50 GMT - Launch Site: Tanegashima. Launch Complex: T. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: JCR. LV Configuration: JCR-8. Test mission Nation: Japan. Agency: NASDA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 7 - 14:09 GMT - Launch Site: Natal. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. DLR N-BBVC-54 Aeronomy mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DFVLR. Apogee: 211 km (131 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 8 - 13:15 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 548 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 205 km (127 mi). Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). Inclination: 65.40 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1973-008A. USAF Sat Cat: 6359. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-02-21. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1973 February 9 - 00:54 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.132IA. SSC S7-2 (SNT 7 / 2) Aurora mission Nation: Sweden. Agency: NASA/SSC. Apogee: 182 km (113 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 9 - 02:53 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 4B. LV Configuration: Black Brant IVB AAF-4B-28. Aeronomy / plasma / aurora mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 760 km (470 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 9 - 04:08 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC36. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC NASA 21.16UG. Astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 216 km (134 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 13 - 16:29 GMT - 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. 1973 February 14 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: BLB. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: SSBS. Model: SSBS S02. LV Configuration: SSBS S02 2601. S02C 2601 test Nation: France. Agency: DMA. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 14 - 20:45 GMT - Launch Site: Syowa Base. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: S-210. LV Configuration: S-210JA-16. Auroral mission Nation: Japan. Agency: NIPR. Apogee: 103 km (64 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 15 - 01:11 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC31. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78M-SOL. Prognoz 3 Nation: USSR. Payload: SO-M no. 3. Mass: 845 kg (1,862 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: Prognoz. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 896 km (556 mi). Apogee: 199,442 km (123,927 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 5,768.60 min. COSPAR: 1973-009A. USAF Sat Cat: 6364. Decay Date: 1976-12-31. Solar flare monitor. Study of the processes of solar activity and of their influence on interplanetary space and the Earth's magnetosphere. References: 2, 6. 1973 February 15 - 02:16 GMT - Launch Site: Natal. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. DLR N-BBVC-53 Aeronomy mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DFVLR. Apogee: 315 km (195 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 17 - The Manned Spacecraft Center renamed the Lyndon B Johnson Space Center. Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. The Manned Spacecraft Center was renamed the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center by Public Law 93-8. The late President's interest and support of the space program began while he was Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aeronautical and Space Sciences and continued during his tenure as Vice President and President. References: 16. 1973 February 17 - 23:57 GMT - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Dragon 3. FU-211 EIDI-3 Ionosphere mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 460 km (280 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 19 - 00:22 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 10. LV Configuration: Kappa 10 K-10-9. Aeronomy / ionosphere / solar ultraviolet mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 236 km (146 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 19 - 13:17 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P116H. Composition Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 124 km (77 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 21 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC101. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M. Phase 1 state trials flight Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 22 - 03:49 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 3B. LV Configuration: Black Brant IIIB AAD-3B-64. Auroral plasma Aeronomy mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 207 km (128 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 22 - 13:04 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P114H. Electrons / La Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 126 km (78 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 23 - 09:38 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 9M. LV Configuration: Kappa 9M K-9M-42. Cesium Release Ionosphere mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 306 km (190 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 23 - 13:48 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P113H. Electrons / La Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 24 - 07:20 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 3B. LV Configuration: Black Brant IIIB AAD-3B-65. Auroral plasma Aeronomy mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 190 km (110 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 26 - 03:23 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 2. LV Configuration: Black Brant II ADD-2-127. Auroral VUV Aurora / aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 132 km (82 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 28 - 04:37 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M Yu149-45. Cosmos 549 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Mass: 750 kg (1,650 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-O. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 513 km (318 mi). Apogee: 545 km (338 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 95.20 min. COSPAR: 1973-010A. USAF Sat Cat: 6373. Decay Date: 1980-06-29. Possible ELINT satellite. References: 2, 6. 1973 February 28 - 05:35 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 NASA 04.330UA. Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 180 km (110 mi). References: 2. 1973 February 28 - 20:00 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 6 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 6 AC SL1010. X-ray parabolic telescope X-ray astronomy mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 199 km (123 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 1 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-6 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 1 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-6 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 1 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-6 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 1 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-6 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1973 March - Tselina-2 ELINT satellite authorised Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Tselina-2. The improved model had an increased frequency range and on-board method of determining the position of fixed transmitters. The Tselina-2 prime contractors were TsNIRTI Minradioprom (M E Zaslovskiy) for the ELINT equipment and KB Yuzhnoye (KB-3, B S Khimrov) for the spacecraft bus. The launch vehicle was by OKB MEI Minvuza (A F Bogomolov) and the encrypted communications system by 0-TsNII KS MO. 1973 March 1 - 06:57 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.503UA. Auroral zone NO Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 135 km (83 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 1 - 12:40 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 550 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Apogee: 317 km (196 mi). Inclination: 65.40 deg. Period: 89.70 min. COSPAR: 1973-011A. USAF Sat Cat: 6376. Duration: 10.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-03-11. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1973 March 3 - 06:05 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure 2A. LV Configuration: Centaure 2A ISRO 5.19. ISRO 5.19 Fields mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO/CNES. Apogee: 125 km (77 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 3 - 06:50 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache ISRO 10.45. ISRO 10.45 Ionosphere mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 158 km (98 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 5 - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.444UI. Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 5 - 17:25 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.32US. Solar mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 241 km (149 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 6 - Apollo Spacecraft Program Office reorganized Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. The Apollo Spacecraft Program Office, with Glynn S. Lunney as Manager, was reorganized. Lunney was also Manager for ASTP (Apollo/Soyuz Test Project), an assignment to which he had been appointed in June of 1972. References: 16. 1973 March 6 - 09:20 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 551 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Apogee: 296 km (183 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.50 min. COSPAR: 1973-012A. USAF Sat Cat: 6378. Duration: 14.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-03-20. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1973 March 6 - 09:30 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC13. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3A Agena D. LV Configuration: SLV-3A Agena D 5202A / Agena D A 1552. Rhyolite 2 Nation: USA. Payload: AFP-720. Mass: 700 kg (1,540 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Rhyolite. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 35,679 km (22,169 mi). Apogee: 35,855 km (22,279 mi). Inclination: 0.20 deg. Period: 1,435.10 min. COSPAR: 1973-013A. USAF Sat Cat: 6380. Second launch of Rhyolite geostationary ELINT satellite. References: 2, 6, 172, 278. 1973 March 8 - 18:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.29CS. Solar mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 9 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF06. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. ABRES NTV-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 9 - 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. 1973 March 9 - 21:00 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3D. LV Configuration: Titan IIID 23D-6. KH-9 no. 05 Nation: USA. Mass: 13,300 kg (29,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-9. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 150 km (90 mi). Apogee: 262 km (162 mi). Inclination: 95.70 deg. Period: 88.70 min. COSPAR: 1973-014A. USAF Sat Cat: 6382. Decay Date: 1973-05-17. KH-9 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6. 1973 March 12 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC173. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100. State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 14 - 03:15 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 6 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 6 AC SL1004. Imaging spectrograph Solar x-ray mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 226 km (140 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 15 - Post-Apollo Lunar Programs Office established Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Spacecraft: Apollo ALSEP. Flight: Apollo 15. A Lunar Programs Office, under which the Lunar Data Analysis and Synthesis Program would be conducted, was established in the Office of Space Science, NASA Hq. The office was responsible for continued operation and collection of data from the Apollo lunar surface experiment packages and the Apollo 15 subsatellite; Apollo surface and orbital science data analysis by principal investigators; development of selenodetic, cartographic, and photographic products; continued lunar laser ranging experiment; continued lunar sample analysis; lunar supporting research and technology; and advanced program studies. References: 16. 1973 March 15 - San Juan Capistrano Meteorite Fall Nation: USA. 1973 March 15 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: BLB. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: SSBS. Model: SSBS S02. LV Configuration: SSBS S02 2602. S02C 2602 test Nation: France. Agency: DMA. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 16 - 10:40 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.152UE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 249 km (154 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 19 - Second Skylab-B program between considered to fill late 1970's gap between the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project and the Space Shuttle. Nation: USA. Program: Skylab. Flight: Skylab B. Consideration was being given to the feasibility of a second set of Skylab missions (designated Skylab-B) during the interval between the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project in 1975 and the start of Space Shuttle operations late in 1979. The inherent worth of a Skylab-B was recognized, but officials were reluctant to recommend it, on the premise that it would be unwise to allow it to delay or displace the development of the Space Shuttle and other programs already included in the FY 1974 budget. 1973 March 20 - 03:41 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P43H. Dawn chorus Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 129 km (80 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 20 - 04:52 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 6 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 6 AC SL1102. Echelle spectrograph Solar ultraviolet mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 242 km (150 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 20 - 11:20 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92M. Meteor 1-14 Nation: USSR. Payload: Meteor M no. 14. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: Meteor M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 860 km (530 mi). Apogee: 878 km (545 mi). Inclination: 81.20 deg. Period: 102.30 min. COSPAR: 1973-015A. USAF Sat Cat: 6392. Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. References: 2, 6. 1973 March 21 - 06:00 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.144GE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 225 km (139 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 22 - 06:02 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.145GE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 240 km (140 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 22 - 10:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 552 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 202 km (125 mi). Apogee: 308 km (191 mi). Inclination: 72.00 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1973-016A. USAF Sat Cat: 6394. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-04-03. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; separated Nauka autonomous subsatellite 16KS No 162 / 2L which tested Kondor control system for Yantar satellite. References: 2, 6, 69. Nauka Cosmos 552 Nation: USSR. Payload: Nauka 16KS No. 2L. Spacecraft: Nauka. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 192 km (119 mi). Apogee: 283 km (175 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 89.25 min. COSPAR: 1973-016C. USAF Sat Cat: 6397. Decay Date: 1973-04-09. References: 2, 279. 1973 March 22 - 12:12 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC CRL A18.006-2. Auroral mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 183 km (113 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 22 - 17:43 GMT - Launch Site: Villa Reynolds. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 6 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 6 AC SL1182. UK SL1182 Earth imaging mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 240 km (140 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 24 - 03:35 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170A NASA 13.64UG. Astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 24 - 10:31 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Paiute Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Paiute Tomahawk CRL A10.205-2. ICECAP 73A Auroral mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 213 km (132 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 25 - 17:47 GMT - Launch Site: Syowa Base. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: S-210. LV Configuration: S-210JA-14. Auroral mission Nation: Japan. Agency: NIPR. Apogee: 114 km (70 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 27 - Energia Engineer Cosmonaut Training Group 4 selected. Nation: USSR. 1973 March 27 - Almaz Engineer Cosmonaut Training Group 2 selected. Nation: USSR. The group was selected to provide flight engineers for planned Almaz military space station missions. 1973 March 27 - 09:37 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC CRL A18.205-1. Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 181 km (112 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 27 - 09:38 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Paiute Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Paiute Tomahawk CRL A10.216-3. ICECAP 73B Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 235 km (146 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 27 - 12:58 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.146GE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 233 km (144 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 28 - 17:51 GMT - Launch Site: Villa Reynolds. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 6 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 6 AC SL1181. Earth imaging mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 240 km (140 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 29 - 15:38 GMT - Launch Site: Green River. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. Model: Athena H. LV Configuration: Athena H H006. RVTO-3B-3 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 29 - 17:23 GMT - Launch Site: Green River. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. Model: Athena H. LV Configuration: Athena H H008. RVTO-3B-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 30 - 10:43 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170A NASA 13.40UG. Astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 184 km (114 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 30 - 12:34 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.147GE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 243 km (150 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 31 - 03:17 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P44H. Dawn chorus Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 126 km (78 mi). References: 2. 1973 March 31 - 12:27 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.148GE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 232 km (144 mi). References: 2. 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.