Chronology - Quarter 4 1973 home
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1973 October 1 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100N. Model: UR-100N.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1973 Q4 - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Lorikeet.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 2 - 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 October 2 - 01:52 GMT - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 2 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 2 AC S93.
  • DLR H-GR-57 Test/Ultraviolet Astronomy/Astrophysics mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DFVLR. Apogee: 186 km (115 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 2 - 21:46 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53724-115.
  • Cosmos 588 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 49. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,448 km (899 mi). Apogee: 1,493 km (927 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.30 min. COSPAR: 1973-069A. USAF Sat Cat: 6845. Eight satellites launched by a single carrier rocket. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 589 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 50. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,415 km (879 mi). Apogee: 1,488 km (924 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.90 min. COSPAR: 1973-069B. USAF Sat Cat: 6846. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 590 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 51. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,434 km (891 mi). Apogee: 1,487 km (923 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.10 min. COSPAR: 1973-069C. USAF Sat Cat: 6847. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 591 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 52. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,346 km (836 mi). Apogee: 1,486 km (923 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.10 min. COSPAR: 1973-069D. USAF Sat Cat: 6848. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 592 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 53. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,330 km (820 mi). Apogee: 1,484 km (922 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 113.90 min. COSPAR: 1973-069E. USAF Sat Cat: 6849. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 593 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 54. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,364 km (847 mi). Apogee: 1,486 km (923 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.30 min. COSPAR: 1973-069F. USAF Sat Cat: 6850. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 594 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 55. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,380 km (850 mi). Apogee: 1,486 km (923 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.50 min. COSPAR: 1973-069G. USAF Sat Cat: 6851. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 595 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 56. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,398 km (868 mi). Apogee: 1,486 km (923 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.70 min. COSPAR: 1973-069H. USAF Sat Cat: 6852. References: 2, 6.
1973 October 3 - 02:27 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee. Model: Astrobee D. LV Configuration: Astrobee D CRL A30.311-2.
  • Infrared Radiometer Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 3 - 06:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee. Model: Astrobee D. LV Configuration: Astrobee D CRL A30.311-3.
  • Infrared Radiometer Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 102 km (63 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 3 - 06:30 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF07. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2.
  • FOT GT116M Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 3 - 13:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 596 Nation: USSR. Payload: FEU-170 s/n 1L. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Apogee: 287 km (178 mi). Inclination: 65.40 deg. Period: 89.40 min. COSPAR: 1973-070A. USAF Sat Cat: 6856. Duration: 6.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-10-09. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule. First test of small film return capsules planned for Yantar spacecraft. SpK capsule FEU-170 No. 1L experienced an electrical short circuit, which led to failure to separate the shell of the capsule after reentry, preventing parachute deployment. The capsule crashed into the ground. References: 2, 6, 69.
  • Cosmos 596 Nauka Nation: USSR. Payload: FEU-170 s/n 1L. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: Nauka. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: 1973-070xx. USAF Sat Cat: 6856. Decay Date: 1973-10-09. References: 2, 279.
1973 October 4 -
  • X-24 Flight 33 Nation: USA. Payload: X-24B flight 5. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: X-24B. Crew: Love Michael. Maximum Speed - 732 kph. Maximum Altitude - 13720 m. Flight Time - 279 sec. References: 49, 97.
1973 October 4 - 03:40 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170A NASA 13.10GG.
  • GSFC XRPC X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 152 km (94 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 6 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 395-C. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II B-69.
  • Operational Test M2-27 Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). SSTTP M2-27 Target mission References: 2.
1973 October 6 - 03:31 GMT - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 4 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 4 AC S92.
  • DLR H-GR-56 Optical astronomy / ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DFVLR. Apogee: 260 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 6 - 12:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 597 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Apogee: 290 km (180 mi). Inclination: 65.40 deg. Period: 89.50 min. COSPAR: 1973-071A. USAF Sat Cat: 6858. Duration: 6.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-10-12. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1973 October 8 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC161/35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: R-36 8K67PM. FAILURE: Failure.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1973 October 10 - 10:45 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 598 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 208 km (129 mi). Apogee: 334 km (207 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 89.90 min. COSPAR: 1973-072A. USAF Sat Cat: 6862. Duration: 6.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-10-16. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1973 October 12 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC101. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.
1973 October 13 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100. Model: UR-100K.
  • Operational missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 14 - 00:01 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P100A.
  • High Latitude / Sodium release Atmospheric mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 166 km (103 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 15 - 08:45 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 599 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 202 km (125 mi). Apogee: 280 km (170 mi). Inclination: 64.90 deg. Period: 89.30 min. COSPAR: 1973-073A. USAF Sat Cat: 6867. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-10-28. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6.
1973 October 16 - 12:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 600 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 205 km (127 mi). Apogee: 340 km (210 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 90.00 min. COSPAR: 1973-074A. USAF Sat Cat: 6873. Duration: 7.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-10-23. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1973 October 16 - 14:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC133/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 601 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-P1-Yu s/n 60. Mass: 400 kg (880 lb). Class: Military. Type: Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-Yu. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 195 km (121 mi). Apogee: 1,135 km (705 mi). Inclination: 81.80 deg. Period: 98.00 min. COSPAR: 1973-075A. USAF Sat Cat: 6875. Completed Operations Date: 1974-08-15. Decay Date: 1974-08-15. Development of systems for air defence and the control of outer space. References: 2, 6, 99.
1973 October 16 - 19:41 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P141A.
  • High Latitude / Particles Aurora mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 148 km (91 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 16 - 19:43 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 6. LV Configuration: Skylark 6 SL1121.
  • UK High Latitude Rocket Ionosphere / aurora mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 267 km (165 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 17 - 17:28 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P101A.
  • High Latitude / Sodium release Atmospheric mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 136 km (84 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 17 - 18:07 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Ionosphere/Chemical release/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 186 km (115 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 17 - 21:03 GMT - Launch Site: San Nicolas. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aries. LV Configuration: Aries NRL NB24.265.
  • Dummy payload test Nation: USA. Agency: NRL. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 18 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100. Model: UR-100K.
  • Operational missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 18 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC177. 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 October 18 - 23:45 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike. Model: Nike Iroquois. LV Configuration: Nike Iroquois CRL A07.105-1.
  • Release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 167 km (103 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 19 - 00:00 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk CRL A08.105-11.
  • Release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 206 km (128 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 19 - 00:20 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Ute Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Ute Tomahawk CRL A09.301-3.
  • Release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 228 km (141 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 19 - 00:50 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike. Model: Nike Iroquois. LV Configuration: Nike Iroquois CRL A07.105-2.
  • Release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 173 km (107 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 19 - 10:26 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M.
  • Molniya 2-07 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-2. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-2. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 555 km (344 mi). Apogee: 40,055 km (24,888 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 722.90 min. COSPAR: 1973-076A. USAF Sat Cat: 6877. Decay Date: 1983-07-08. Continued operation of the long-range telephone and telegraph radio-communication system within the Soviet Union and transmission of USSR central television programmes to stations in the Orbita and participating international networks (international cooperation scheme). References: 2, 6.
1973 October 19 - 11:25 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk CRL A08.005-2.
  • Release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 146 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 19 - 23:42 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Ute Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Ute Tomahawk CRL A09.106-3.
  • Release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 176 km (109 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 19 - 23:53 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk CRL A08.105-12.
  • Release YVONNE Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 160 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 20 - 10:14 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 602 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 169 km (105 mi). Apogee: 309 km (192 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 89.20 min. COSPAR: 1973-077A. USAF Sat Cat: 6885. Duration: 9.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-10-29. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1973 October 20 - 23:43 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike. Model: Nike Iroquois. LV Configuration: Nike Iroquois CRL A07.105-3.
  • Release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 184 km (114 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 22 - 09:38 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cockatoo. LV Configuration: Cockatoo 4002.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE. Apogee: 138 km (85 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 23 - 12:34 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Ionosphere/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 154 km (95 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 24 - 03:05 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 4A. LV Configuration: Black Brant IVA CRL A16.313-01.
  • VLF Propagation Ionosphere VLF mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 609 km (378 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 24 - 08:15 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 200A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 200A NASA 26.06UG.
  • JHU UVT F7 Astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 183 km (113 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 25 - 03:07 GMT - Launch Site: Eglin. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 4A. LV Configuration: Black Brant IVA CRL A16.313-02.
  • VLF Propagation Ionosphere VLF mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 600 km (370 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 26 - 02:26 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 1604. LV Configuration: Delta 1604 582/D97.
  • Explorer 50 Nation: USA. Program: Explorer. Payload: IMP J. Mass: 371 kg (817 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: IMP. Agency: NASA GSF. Perigee: 190,749 km (118,525 mi). Apogee: 244,361 km (151,838 mi). Inclination: 31.60 deg. Period: 17,576.70 min. COSPAR: 1973-078A. USAF Sat Cat: 6893. Solar flare and radiation monitor. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). References: 2, 6.
1973 October 27 - 11:09 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 603 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 205 km (127 mi). Apogee: 357 km (221 mi). Inclination: 72.90 deg. Period: 90.10 min. COSPAR: 1973-079A. USAF Sat Cat: 6900. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-11-09. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1973 October 29 - 14:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Cosmos 604 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Payload: Tselina-D no. 5. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-D. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 413 km (256 mi). Apogee: 424 km (263 mi). Inclination: 81.20 deg. Period: 92.90 min. COSPAR: 1973-080A. USAF Sat Cat: 6907. Decay Date: 1992-01-19. References: 2, 6.
1973 October 30 - 00:37 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC5. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Scout A-1. LV Configuration: Scout A-1 S178C.
  • Transit O-20 Nation: USA. Program: Transit. Mass: 58 kg (127 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Transit. Agency: USN. Perigee: 885 km (549 mi). Apogee: 1,120 km (690 mi). Inclination: 89.80 deg. Period: 105.20 min. COSPAR: 1973-081A. USAF Sat Cat: 6909. Operational life over 20 years. References: 2, 6.
1973 October 30 - 08:08 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 30 - 18:50 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 6. LV Configuration: Skylark 6 SL1122.
  • UK High Latitude Rocket Ionosphere / aurora mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 229 km (142 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 30 - 19:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53749-158.
  • Intercosmos 10 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-U2-IK s/n 3. Mass: 550 kg (1,210 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere. Spacecraft: DS-U2-IK. Agency: IK. Perigee: 257 km (159 mi). Apogee: 1,453 km (902 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 102.00 min. COSPAR: 1973-082A. USAF Sat Cat: 6911. Completed Operations Date: 1974-06-07. Decay Date: 1977-07-01. Geophysical research at high latitudes to study the electromagnetic coupling of the earth's magnetosphere and ionosphere. References: 2, 6, 99, 116.
1973 October 30 - 19:15 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P142A.
  • High Latitude / e, p Aurora mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 133 km (82 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 30 - 20:04 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P143A.
  • High Latitude / e, p Aurora mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 135 km (83 mi). References: 2.
1973 October 31 - 18:24 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 605 Nation: USSR. Payload: Bion no. 1. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Biology. Spacecraft: Bion. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 213 km (132 mi). Apogee: 403 km (250 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 90.70 min. COSPAR: 1973-083A. USAF Sat Cat: 6913. Duration: 21.50 days. Decay Date: 1973-11-22. Investigation of the influence of space flight on living organisms and testing of life-support systems for biological entities. Capsule recovered 53 deg 29 min N, 65 deg 27 min E. References: 2, 6, 104, 297.
1973 November 1 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100N. Model: UR-100N.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 1 - 15:30 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA8. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.103UG.
  • Astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 185 km (114 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 1 - 17:30 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA8. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.65UG.
  • Astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 165 km (102 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 2 - 13:01 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC41/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M.
  • Cosmos 606 Nation: USSR. Payload: Oko #2. Mass: 1,250 kg (2,750 lb). Class: Early Warning. Spacecraft: Oko. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 4,964 km (3,084 mi). Apogee: 35,385 km (21,987 mi). Inclination: 69.50 deg. Period: 717.70 min. COSPAR: 1973-084A. USAF Sat Cat: 6916. Replaced Cosmos 520. Covered Oko constellation plane 3 - 359 degree longitude of ascending node. References: 2, 6, 100.
1973 November 2 - 16:30 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 CRL A04.104-2.
  • Extreme ultraviolet Solar extreme ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 233 km (144 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 3 -
  • Mariner 10 first flyby of Venus Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Mariner 10. The vehicle's first planetary encounter was with Venus on November 3, 1973. Mariner 10 took some 4,000 photos of Venus, which revealed a nearly round planet enveloped in smooth cloud layers.
1973 November 3 - 00:30 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF06. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B.
  • SSTTP M2-38 operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 3 - 05:45 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC36B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3D Centaur. LV Configuration: SLV-3D Centaur AC-34 / Centaur D-1AR 5014D.
  • Mariner 10 Nation: USA. Program: Mariner. Payload: Mariner 73J. Mass: 526 kg (1,159 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Mercury. Spacecraft: Mariner 10. Agency: NASA/JPL. COSPAR: 1973-085A. USAF Sat Cat: 6919. Mariner 10 was the first spacecraft to reach Mercury. Mariner 10 was placed in a parking orbit for 25 minutes after launch, then accelerated to a trans-Venus escape trajectory. The television and ultraviolet experiments were trained on the comet Kohoutek while the spacecraft was en route to its destination. The vehicle's first planetary encounter was with Venus on February 5, 1974, at a distance of 4200 km. Mariner 10 took 4,000 photos of Venus, which revealed a nearly round planet enveloped in smooth cloud layers. The gravity of Venus bent the orbit of the spacecraft and sent it towards Mercury. It crossed the orbit of Mercury on March 29, 1974, at 20:46 GMT, at a distance of 704 km from the surface. Photographs taken during the pass revealed an intensely cratered, Moon-like surface and a faint atmosphere of mostly helium. After the first flyby, Mariner 10 entered solar orbit, which permitted two more rendezvous with Mercury. On September 21, 1974, the second Mercury rendezvous, at an altitude of about 47,000 km, provided another opportunity to photograph the sunlit side of the planet and the south polar region. The third and final Mercury encounter on March 16, 1975, at an altitude of 327 km, yielded 300 photographs and magnetic field measurements. The vehicle was turned off March 24, 1975 when the supply of attitude-control gas was depleted. References: 2, 6, 278, 296.
1973 November 4 - 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 November 5 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC103. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M.
  • Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 6 - 15:40 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA8. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.104UG.
  • Astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 167 km (103 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 6 - 17:02 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 0300. LV Configuration: Delta 0300 576/D98.
  • NOAA 3 Nation: USA. Program: Tiros. Payload: ITOS F. Mass: 345 kg (760 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: ITOS. Agency: NOAA. Perigee: 1,501 km (932 mi). Apogee: 1,510 km (930 mi). Inclination: 102.10 deg. Period: 116.10 min. COSPAR: 1973-086A. USAF Sat Cat: 6920. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 2, 6.
1973 November 9 - 17:15 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA8. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.106UG.
  • Astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 169 km (105 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 9 - 18:00 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA8. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.105UG.
  • Astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 10 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3D. LV Configuration: Titan IIID 23D-8.
  • Titan 23D no. 8 stage Nation: USA. Payload: SSF 32. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-9. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 486 km (301 mi). Apogee: 508 km (315 mi). Inclination: 96.30 deg. Period: 94.50 min. COSPAR: 1973-088C. USAF Sat Cat: 6929. Decay Date: 1973-11-13. ABM monitoring. References: 2, 6.
1973 November 10 - 12:38 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 607 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 203 km (126 mi). Apogee: 341 km (211 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 89.90 min. COSPAR: 1973-087A. USAF Sat Cat: 6926. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-11-22. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable (?). References: 2, 6.
1973 November 10 - 20:09 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3D. LV Configuration: Titan IIID 23D-8.
  • KH-9 no. 07 Nation: USA. Mass: 13,300 kg (29,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-9. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 158 km (98 mi). Apogee: 275 km (170 mi). Inclination: 96.90 deg. Period: 88.80 min. COSPAR: 1973-088A. USAF Sat Cat: 6928. Decay Date: 1974-03-13. KH-9 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
  • OPS 7705 Nation: USA. Payload: SSF-B No. 24. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: SSF. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 488 km (303 mi). Apogee: 505 km (313 mi). Inclination: 96.30 deg. Period: 94.50 min. COSPAR: 1973-088B. USAF Sat Cat: 6931. Decay Date: 1978-12-26. Radar monitoring. References: 2, 6, 172.
  • OPS 6630 P/L 2 Nation: USA. Payload: SSF-C No. 4. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: SSF. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 1,414 km (878 mi). Apogee: 1,457 km (905 mi). Inclination: 97.00 deg. Period: 114.60 min. COSPAR: 1973-088D. USAF Sat Cat: 6938. References: 2, 6, 172.
1973 November 12 - 14:00 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA8. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.102UG.
  • Astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 172 km (106 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 12 - 14:50 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA8. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.100DS.
  • Solar mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 154 km (95 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 14 - 20:40 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M.
  • Molniya 1-25 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-1. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-1. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 461 km (286 mi). Apogee: 39,607 km (24,610 mi). Inclination: 64.00 deg. Period: 712.00 min. COSPAR: 1973-089A. USAF Sat Cat: 6932. Decay Date: 1979-05-26. 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 November 15 -
  • X-24 Flight 34 Nation: USA. Payload: X-24B flight 6. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: X-24B. Crew: Manke. First power flight. Maximum Speed - 961 kph. Maximum Altitude - 16080 m. Flight Time - 404 sec. References: 49, 97.
1973 November 16 - 14:01 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC39B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Saturn I. Model: Saturn IB. LV Configuration: Saturn IB SA-208.
  • Skylab 4 Nation: USA. Program: Skylab. Payload: Apollo CSM 118. Mass: 20,847 kg (45,959 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Lunar spacecraft. Spacecraft: Apollo CSM. Location of Spacecraft: National Air and Space Museum (Smithsonian Institution), Washington, DC. Agency: NASA MSC. Perigee: 422 km (262 mi). Apogee: 437 km (271 mi). Inclination: 50.00 deg. Period: 93.10 min. COSPAR: 1973-090A. USAF Sat Cat: 6936. Duration: 84.05 days. Decay Date: 1974-02-08. Crew: Carr, Gibson Edward, Pogue. Flight: Skylab 4. Final Skylab mission; included observation and photography of Comet Kohoutek among numerous experiments. Completed 1,214 Earth orbits and four EVAs totalling 22 hours, 13 minutes. Increased manned space flight time record by 50%. Rebellion by crew against NASA Ground Control overtasking led to none of the crew ever flying again. Biological experiments included two Mummichog fish (Fundulus heteroclitus).

    The space vehicle consisted of a modified Apollo CSM and a Saturn IB launch vehicle. All launch phase events were normal, and the CSM was inserted into a 150.1- by 227.08-km orbit. The rendezvous sequence was performed according to the anticipated timeline. Stationkeeping was initiated about seven and one-half hours after liftoff, and hard docking was achieved about 30 minutes later following two unsuccessful docking attempts. Planned duration of the mission was 56 days, with the option of extending it to a maximum of 84 days. References: 2, 6, 33,60.

1973 November 16 - 22:45 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 6. LV Configuration: Skylark 6 SL1123.
  • UK High Latitude Rocket Ionosphere / aurora mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 216 km (134 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 16 - 23:04 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P150A.
  • High Latitude / Electric field Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 16 - 23:42 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P145A.
  • High Latitude / Sodium release Atmospheric mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 17 - 00:23 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P149A.
  • High Latitude / Substorm Aurora mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 143 km (88 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 17 - 01:01 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P146A.
  • High Latitude / Sodium release Atmospheric mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 17 - 01:22 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P148A.
  • High Latitude / Substorm Aurora mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 132 km (82 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 18 - 21:22 GMT - Launch Site: Natal. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Javelin. LV Configuration: Javelin NASA 8.63UI-II.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 650 km (400 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 18 - 23:34 GMT - Launch Site: CELPA. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Canopus. Model: Rigel.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: Argentina. Agency: IIAE. Apogee: 250 km (150 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 19 - 23:35 GMT - Launch Site: CELPA. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Canopus. Model: Rigel.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: Argentina. Agency: IIAE. Apogee: 260 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 20 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC104. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M.
  • Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 20 - 12:29 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC133/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 608 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-P1-Yu s/n 69. Mass: 400 kg (880 lb). Class: Military. Type: Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-Yu. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 269 km (167 mi). Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). Inclination: 70.90 deg. Period: 92.20 min. COSPAR: 1973-091A. USAF Sat Cat: 6941. Completed Operations Date: 1974-07-13. Decay Date: 1974-07-10. Development of systems for air defence and the control of outer space. References: 2, 6, 99.
1973 November 21 - 10:00 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 609 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 175 km (108 mi). Apogee: 335 km (208 mi). Inclination: 69.90 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1973-092A. USAF Sat Cat: 6943. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-12-04. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1973 November 22 - 09:00 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF04. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3.
  • FOT GT42GM-1 Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 22 - 21:29 GMT - Launch Site: Natal. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 4B.
  • Ionosphere / plasma mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DFVLR. Apogee: 650 km (400 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 22 - 21:29 GMT - Launch Site: Natal. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Javelin. LV Configuration: Javelin NASA 8.64UI-II.
  • Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 650 km (400 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 22 - 23:39 GMT - Launch Site: CELPA. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Canopus. Model: Castor (A).
  • Ion beam Ionosphere mission Nation: Germany. Agency: MPE. Apogee: 406 km (252 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 23 - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 200A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 200A NASA 26.09US.
  • Solar mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 250 km (150 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 23 - 17:42 GMT -
  • EVA Skylab 4-1 Nation: USA. Program: Skylab. Class: Manned. Type: Space station. Spacecraft: Skylab. Crew: Gibson Edward, Pogue. Flight: Skylab 4. EVA Duration: 0.27 days. Repaired antenna. Replaced solar camera film cartridges. References: 66.
1973 November 25 - 22:47 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5A. LV Configuration: Black Brant VA AMF-VA-40. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Auroral mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 103 km (64 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 26 - 05:35 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 6 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 6 AC SL1206.
  • Solar corona Solar x-ray mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 238 km (147 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 27 - 00:08 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53724-114.
  • Cosmos 610 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Mass: 750 kg (1,650 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-O. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 515 km (320 mi). Apogee: 545 km (338 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 95.20 min. COSPAR: 1973-093A. USAF Sat Cat: 6950. Decay Date: 1980-09-15. Possible ELINT satellite. References: 2, 6.
1973 November 27 - 01:51 GMT - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 4 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 4 AC S74.
  • DLR H-GR-55 Optical astronomy / ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DFVLR. Apogee: 246 km (152 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 27 - 15:06 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 4A. LV Configuration: Black Brant IVA NASA 19.08UA.
  • Skylab Ba+ Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 552 km (342 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 28 - 09:29 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC133/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 611 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-P1-Yu s/n 64. Mass: 400 kg (880 lb). Class: Military. Type: Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-Yu. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 269 km (167 mi). Apogee: 480 km (290 mi). Inclination: 70.10 deg. Period: 92.00 min. COSPAR: 1973-094A. USAF Sat Cat: 6952. Completed Operations Date: 1974-06-20. Decay Date: 1974-06-19. Development of systems for air defence and the control of outer space. References: 2, 6, 99.
1973 November 28 - 11:43 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 612 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 188 km (116 mi). Apogee: 339 km (210 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 89.80 min. COSPAR: 1973-095A. USAF Sat Cat: 6953. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-12-11. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1973 November 28 - 22:13 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • D-75MG Nation: USSR. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 29 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF06. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B.
  • SSTTP M2-25 Target mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1973 November 30 - 05:20 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511.
  • Cosmos 613 Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut. Payload: Soyuz 7K-T s/n 34L. Mass: 6,675 kg (14,715 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-T. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 199 km (123 mi). Apogee: 276 km (171 mi). Inclination: 51.60 deg. Period: 89.30 min. COSPAR: 1973-096A. USAF Sat Cat: 6957. Duration: 60.00 days. Decay Date: 1974-01-29. Unmanned Soyuz test flight. Recovered January 29, 1974 5:29 GMT. Soyuz 7K-T duration test. References: 2, 6.
1973 November 30 - 13:08 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M.
  • Molniya 1-26 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-1. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-1. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 619 km (384 mi). Apogee: 40,829 km (25,369 mi). Inclination: 62.90 deg. Period: 740.00 min. COSPAR: 1973-097A. USAF Sat Cat: 6958. Decay Date: 1985-06-09. 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 December 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.
1973 December 1 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100N. Model: UR-100N.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 2 - 14:10 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P181A.
  • High Latitude / Barium release Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 3 - 1973 December 4 - 13:45 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skua. Model: Skua 2. LV Configuration: Skua 2 AMM-S2-10.
  • Oxygen profile Aeronomy mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 124 km (77 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 4 - 15:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53753-211.
  • Cosmos 614 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Mass: 750 kg (1,650 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-2M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 751 km (466 mi). Apogee: 787 km (489 mi). Inclination: 74.10 deg. Period: 100.20 min. COSPAR: 1973-098A. USAF Sat Cat: 6965. References: 2, 6.
1973 December 4 - 15:20 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 4A. LV Configuration: Black Brant IVA NASA 19.09UA.
  • Skylab Ba+ Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 570 km (350 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 4 - 18:00 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skua. Model: Skua 2. LV Configuration: Skua 2 AMM-S2-11.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 108 km (67 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 4 - 22:34 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skua. Model: Skua 2. LV Configuration: Skua 2 AMM-S2-12.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 108 km (67 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 5 - 06:52 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skua. Model: Skua 2. LV Configuration: Skua 2 AMM-S2-13.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 110 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 5 - 14:05 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skua. Model: Skua 2. LV Configuration: Skua 2 AMM-S2-14.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 110 km (60 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 5 - 23:23 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 4. LV Configuration: Skylark 4 SL1124.
  • UK High Latitude Rocket Aurora / ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 222 km (137 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 6 - 07:11 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P96A.
  • High Latitude / Barium release Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 6 - 09:18 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P71A.
  • High Latitude / ELF-VLF Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 6 - 17:59 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trailblazer. Model: Trailblazer 2. LV Configuration: Trailblazer 2 CRL A21.220-1.
  • AFCRL TB2-5 Re-entry vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 303 km (188 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 7 - 11:32 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Ionosphere/Chemical release/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 189 km (117 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 7 - 11:56 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Ionosphere mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 10 - 19:10 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC36. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC NASA 21.23NP-US.
  • CALROC 3 Solar extreme ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 269 km (167 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 10 - 19:30 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Ute Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Ute Tomahawk CRL A09.107-4.
  • Composition Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 101 km (62 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 11 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF03. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B.
  • HK-4? Target mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 12 -
  • X-24 Flight 35 Nation: USA. Payload: X-24B flight 7. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: X-24B. Crew: Manke. Maximum Speed - 1038 kph. Maximum Altitude - 19080 m. Flight Time - 434 sec. References: 49, 97.
1973 December 12 -
  • Kamanin makes his first diary entry in two years. Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut. Since Soyuz 11 and his subsequent 'retirement', the Soviet Union has launched two space stations that failed in orbit, and made only one two-day Soyuz flight. Meanwhile the Americans had run successfully their entire Skylab program. The fourth N1 exploded on 23 November 1972. Ustinov has thrown away tens of billions of roubles on that useless project. Soyuz 13 landed yesterday - the first Soviet manned spaceflight not under Kamanin's command. Khrushchev made many mistakes, but Brezhnev continues to make even more. Kamanin feels his country is however not fit for democracy, that it needs discipline - otherwise there will be anarchy. References: 376.
1973 December 12 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV.
  • Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 13 - 11:10 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC133/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 615 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-P1-I s/n 13. Mass: 400 kg (880 lb). Class: Military. Type: Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-I. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 270 km (160 mi). Apogee: 834 km (518 mi). Inclination: 71.00 deg. Period: 95.70 min. COSPAR: 1973-099A. USAF Sat Cat: 6971. Completed Operations Date: 1975-06-16. Decay Date: 1975-12-17. Operational radar target for the ABM forces. References: 2, 6, 99.
1973 December 13 - 23:57 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC40. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3C. LV Configuration: Titan IIIC 23C-8 (3C-26).
  • DSCS II-03 Nation: USA. Program: DSCS. Payload: DSCS II F-3. Mass: 566 kg (1,247 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military. Spacecraft: DSCS II. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 36,413 km (22,625 mi). Apogee: 36,661 km (22,780 mi). Inclination: 13.90 deg. Period: 1,474.60 min. COSPAR: 1973-100A. USAF Sat Cat: 6973. Completed Operations Date: 1982-08-01. Defense Satellite Communications System; 13 deg W. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Atlantic Ocean at 13 deg W in 1974-1977; over the Atlantic Ocean 57-66 deg W in 1977-1979 As of 3 September 2001 located at 104.01 deg E drifting at 9.429 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 9 located at 148.24W drifting at 9.427W degrees per day. References: 2, 6.
  • DSCS II-04 Nation: USA. Program: DSCS. Payload: DSCS II F-4. Mass: 566 kg (1,247 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military. Spacecraft: DSCS II. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 36,300 km (22,500 mi). Apogee: 36,837 km (22,889 mi). Inclination: 13.50 deg. Period: 1,476.30 min. COSPAR: 1973-100B. USAF Sat Cat: 6974. Completed Operations Date: 1993-12-20. Defense Satellite Communications System; 175 deg E. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Pacific Ocean at 175 deg E in 1974-1977; over the Indian Ocean 65 deg E in 1977-1980; over the Indian Ocean 60-61 deg E in 1980-1984; over the Indian Ocean 66 deg E in 1984-1987; over the Americas at 56-62 deg W in 1989-1993 As of 5 September 2001 located at 138.02 deg W drifting at 9.919 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 3 located at 146.85E drifting at 9.914W degrees per day. References: 2, 6.
1973 December 14 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF06. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B.
  • SSTTP M2-20A Target mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 16 - 06:18 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 1900. LV Configuration: Delta 1900 585/D99.
  • Explorer 51 Nation: USA. Program: Explorer. Payload: AE C. Mass: 658 kg (1,450 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere. Spacecraft: AE. Agency: NASA GSF. Perigee: 155 km (96 mi). Apogee: 4,306 km (2,675 mi). Inclination: 68.10 deg. Period: 132.50 min. COSPAR: 1973-101A. USAF Sat Cat: 6977. Decay Date: 1978-12-12. Atmospheric Explorer; upper atmospheric research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). References: 2, 6.
1973 December 17 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC140/18. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M.
  • Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 17 - 12:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511M.
  • Cosmos 616 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MT. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Apogee: 332 km (206 mi). Inclination: 72.90 deg. Period: 89.90 min. COSPAR: 1973-102A. USAF Sat Cat: 6979. Duration: 11.00 days. Decay Date: 1973-12-28. Military topography satellite; returned film capsule; separated science capsule. References: 2, 6.
1973 December 18 - 11:55 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511.
  • Soyuz 13 Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut. Payload: Soyuz 7K-T s/n 33A. Mass: 6,560 kg (14,460 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-T. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 188 km (116 mi). Apogee: 247 km (153 mi). Inclination: 51.60 deg. Period: 88.80 min. COSPAR: 1973-103A. USAF Sat Cat: 6982. Duration: 7.87 days. Decay Date: 1973-12-26. Crew: Klimuk, Lebedev. Flight: Soyuz 13. A unique flight of the 7K-T/AF modification of the Soyuz spacecraft. The orbital module was dominated by the large Orion 2 astrophysical camera. The crew conducted astrophysical observations of stars in the ultraviolet range. Additional experiments included spectrozonal photography of specific areas of the earth's surface, and continued testing of space craft's on-board systems. References: 2, 6, 32, 33,60.
1973 December 19 - 09:43 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53724-112.
  • Cosmos 617 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 57. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,334 km (828 mi). Apogee: 1,484 km (922 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.00 min. COSPAR: 1973-104A. USAF Sat Cat: 6985. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 618 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 58. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,444 km (897 mi). Apogee: 1,487 km (923 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.20 min. COSPAR: 1973-104B. USAF Sat Cat: 6986. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 619 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 59. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,424 km (884 mi). Apogee: 1,488 km (924 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.00 min. COSPAR: 1973-104C. USAF Sat Cat: 6987. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 620 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 60. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,459 km (906 mi). Apogee: 1,493 km (927 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.50 min. COSPAR: 1973-104D. USAF Sat Cat: 6988. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 621 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 61. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,406 km (873 mi). Apogee: 1,485 km (922 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.80 min. COSPAR: 1973-104E. USAF Sat Cat: 6989. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 622 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 62. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,370 km (850 mi). Apogee: 1,485 km (922 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.40 min. COSPAR: 1973-104F. USAF Sat Cat: 6990. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 623 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 63. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,387 km (861 mi). Apogee: 1,485 km (922 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.60 min. COSPAR: 1973-104G. USAF Sat Cat: 6991. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 624 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 64. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,351 km (839 mi). Apogee: 1,485 km (922 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.20 min. COSPAR: 1973-104H. USAF Sat Cat: 6992. References: 2, 6.
1973 December 19 - 22:05 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 200A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 200A NASA 26.03CS.
  • Solar mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 220 km (130 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 21 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC162/36. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: R-36 8K67PM.
  • State trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 21 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC177. 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 December 21 - 12:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 625 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 204 km (126 mi). Apogee: 321 km (199 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 89.80 min. COSPAR: 1973-105A. USAF Sat Cat: 6995. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1974-01-03. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1973 December 22 - 08:05 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF08. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. LV Configuration: Minuteman 3 STM-8W.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 25 - 08:08 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • Aeronomy/Ionosphere/Chemical release/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 190 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 25 - 11:17 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M.
  • Molniya 2-08 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-2. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-2. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 434 km (269 mi). Apogee: 39,934 km (24,813 mi). Inclination: 62.90 deg. Period: 718.00 min. COSPAR: 1973-106A. USAF Sat Cat: 7000. Decay Date: 1984-11-24. Continued operation of the long-range telephone and telegraph radio-communication system within the Soviet Union and transmission of USSR central television programmes to stations in the Orbita and participating international networks (international cooperation scheme). References: 2, 6.
1973 December 25 - 16:00 GMT -
  • EVA Skylab 4-2 Nation: USA. Program: Skylab. Class: Manned. Type: Space station. Spacecraft: Skylab. Crew: Carr, Pogue. Flight: Skylab 4. EVA Duration: 0.29 days. Photographed Comet Kohoutek and replaced solar camera film cartridges. References: 66.
1973 December 26 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC101. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M.
  • Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 26 - 16:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 65024-111.
  • Oreol 2 Nation: France. Program: Aureole. Payload: DS-U2-GKA s/n 2. Mass: 550 kg (1,210 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: DS-U2-GKA. Agency: MO SSSR/. Perigee: 387 km (240 mi). Apogee: 1,441 km (895 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 103.30 min. COSPAR: 1973-107A. USAF Sat Cat: 7003. Completed Operations Date: 1974-04-30. Continued investigations in the earth's upper atmosphere at high latitudes and study of the nature of polar aurorae begun on board the Oreol satellite in 1971. References: 2, 6, 99.
1973 December 26 -
  • Landing of Soyuz 13 Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut. Flight: Soyuz 13. Soyuz 13 landed at 08:50 GMT in a snowstorm, 200 km SW of Karaganda.
1973 December 27 - 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 December 27 - 20:19 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC90/19. Launch Pad: LC90/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: Tsiklon-2.
  • Cosmos 626 Nation: USSR. Program: RORSAT. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Naval Radarsat. Spacecraft: US-A. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 907 km (563 mi). Apogee: 982 km (610 mi). Inclination: 65.40 deg. Period: 103.90 min. COSPAR: 1973-108D. USAF Sat Cat: 7115. Decay Date: 1974-03-22. Ocean surveillance; nuclear powered. First test of modernised design by KB Arsenal. References: 2, 6.
1973 December 28 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100N. Model: UR-100N.
  • Mod 1 state trials missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1973 December 29 - 04:12 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 65033-204.
  • Cosmos 627 Nation: USSR. Mass: 550 kg (1,210 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Tsiklon. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 967 km (600 mi). Apogee: 1,014 km (630 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 104.90 min. COSPAR: 1973-109A. USAF Sat Cat: 7008. Military navigation satellite. References: 2, 6.
1973 December 29 - 17:00 GMT -
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