Chronology - Quarter 2 1975

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1975 April 1 - 12:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92M.

Meteor 1-21 Nation: USSR. Payload: Meteor M no. 21. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: Meteor M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 853 km (530 mi). Apogee: 884 km (549 mi). Inclination: 81.20 deg. Period: 102.30 min. COSPAR: 1975-023A. USAF Sat Cat: 7714. Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. References: 2, 6.

1975 April 2 - 11:00 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC90/19. Launch Pad: LC90/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: Tsiklon-2.

Cosmos 723 Nation: USSR. Program: RORSAT. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Naval Radarsat. Spacecraft: US-A. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 899 km (558 mi). Apogee: 961 km (597 mi). Inclination: 64.70 deg. Period: 103.60 min. COSPAR: 1975-024D. USAF Sat Cat: 7797. Decay Date: 1975-07-15. Ocean surveillance; nuclear powered. References: 2, 6.

1975 April 3 - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: Meck. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Spartan. LV Configuration: Spartan ABM PFT-4.

Safeguard M2-345 Interceptor mission Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 4 - Launch Site: Salto di Quirra. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Alfa. LV Configuration: Alfa 003.

Spurious? Nation: Italy. Agency: Italia. Apogee: 50 km (31 mi). Final test flight of Italian submarine- and ship-launched ballistic missile. Dummy second stage. Project cancelled after Italy ratified Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and decided to give up pursuit of an independent nuclear deterrent. References: 2.

1975 April 5 - 11:04 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511. FAILURE: During second-third stage separation third stage failed to separate from second stage but still ignited.

Soyuz 18-1 Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut. Payload: Soyuz 7K-T s/n 39. Mass: 6,830 kg (15,050 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-T. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 192 km (119 mi). COSPAR: F750405A. Duration: 0.0149 days. Decay Date: 1975-04-05. Crew: Lazarev, Makarov. Flight: Soyuz 18-1. Carried Oleg Makarov, Vasili Lazarev for rendezvous with Salyut 4; but during second-third stage seperation third stage failed to separate from second stage but still ignited. The crew demanded that the abort procedures be implemented but ground control could not see the launch vehicle gyrations in their telemetry. Soyuz finally was separated from by ground control command at 192 km, and following a 20.6+ G reentry, the capsule landed in the Altai mountains, tumbled down a mountainside, and snagged in some bushes just short of a precipice. The crew was worried that they may have landed in China and would face internment, but after an hour sitting in the cold next to the capsule, they were discovered by locals speaking Russian. Total flight duration was 1574 km and flight time 21 minutes 27 seconds. Lazarev suffered internal injuries from the high-G reentry and tumble down the mountain side and never flew again. Both cosmonauts were denied their 3000 ruble spaceflight bonus pay and had to apeal all the way to Brezhnev before being paid. References: 42, 32, 33,60.

1975 April 7 - 11:00 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC90/19. Launch Pad: LC90/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: Tsiklon-2.

Cosmos 724 Nation: USSR. Program: RORSAT. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Naval Radarsat. Spacecraft: US-A. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 852 km (529 mi). Apogee: 943 km (585 mi). Inclination: 65.60 deg. Period: 102.90 min. COSPAR: 1975-025B. USAF Sat Cat: 7922. Decay Date: 1975-08-07. Ocean surveillance; nuclear powered. References: 2, 6.

1975 April 8 - 18:29 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC133/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 11K63.

Cosmos 725 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-P1-Yu s/n 77. Mass: 400 kg (880 lb). Class: Military. Type: Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-Yu. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 270 km (160 mi). Apogee: 481 km (298 mi). Inclination: 71.00 deg. Period: 92.10 min. COSPAR: 1975-026A. USAF Sat Cat: 7730. Completed Operations Date: 1976-01-02. Decay Date: 1976-01-06. Development of systems for air defence and the control of outer space. References: 2, 6, 99.

1975 April 9 - 23:58 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 1410. LV Configuration: Delta 1410 584/D109.

Geos 3 Nation: USA. Payload: GEOS C. Mass: 341 kg (751 lb). Class: Solar. Spacecraft: Geos. Agency: NASA Wal. Perigee: 817 km (507 mi). Apogee: 848 km (526 mi). Inclination: 115.00 deg. Period: 101.60 min. COSPAR: 1975-027A. USAF Sat Cat: 7734. Geodynamics Experimental Ocean Satellite. The mission of GEOS 3 (Geodynamics Experimental Ocean Satellite) was to provide the stepping stone between the National Geodetic Satellite Program (NGSP) and the Earth and Ocean Physics Application Program. It provided data to refine the geodetic and geophysical results of the NGSP and served as a test for new systems. A major achievment was the flight of a radar altimeter. Further mission objectives: intercomparison of tracking systems, investigation of solid-earth dynamic phenomena through precision laser tracking, refinement of orbit determination techniques, determination of interdatum ties and gravity models, and support of the calibration and position determination of NASA Spaceflight Tracking and Data Network (STDN) S-band tracking stations. References: 2, 6.

1975 April 10 - 04:40 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170A NASA 13.88GG.

Astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 176 km (109 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 10 - 09:54 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Paiute Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Paiute Tomahawk CRL A10.302-3.

AEOLUS Release, Sphere Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 216 km (134 mi). References: 2.

AEOLUS Release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 219 km (136 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 10 - 10:00 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Paiute Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Paiute Tomahawk CRL A10.403-3.

AEOLUS Mass Spectrometer Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 211 km (131 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 11 - 07:57 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 65033-203.

Cosmos 726 Nation: USSR. Mass: 810 kg (1,780 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Parus. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 952 km (591 mi). Apogee: 991 km (615 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 104.50 min. COSPAR: 1975-028A. USAF Sat Cat: 7736. Military navigation satellite. References: 2, 6.

1975 April 12 - 14:59 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.

1975 April 13 - 00:51 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 71F / Star-17A. FAILURE: First stage failure due to explosion in flame pit at lift-off.

P 72-2 Nation: USA. Class: Technology. Type: Military. Spacecraft: P 72. Agency: U.S. Air Force. COSPAR: F750413A. Decay Date: 1975-04-12. A lack of deluge water and collection in the flame bucket of a kerosene/liquid oxygen gel led to the explosion of the gel on lift-off, damaging one of the Atlas engines and leading to complete engine failure during the ascent. References: 126, 278.

1975 April 13 - 08:15 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.174GE.

Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 299 km (185 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 13 - 09:46 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Sergeant. Model: Castor. LV Configuration: Castor DNA EX531.43-1.

EXCEDE Active plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 13 - 10:38 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.173GE.

Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 299 km (185 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 14 - 17:53 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC41/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M.

Molniya 3-02 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-3 s/n 12. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-3. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 174 km (108 mi). Apogee: 39,323 km (24,434 mi). Inclination: 61.90 deg. Period: 700.50 min. COSPAR: 1975-029A. USAF Sat Cat: 7738. Decay Date: 1988-11-29. Operation of the long-range telephone and telegraph radiocommunications system in the USSR; transmission of television programmes to stations in the Orbita network. References: 2, 6.

1975 April 15 -

Test Pilot John Barron McKay dies at age of 52 -- Cancer stemming from X-15 crash injuries. Nation: USA.

1975 April 16 - 08:00 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U.

Cosmos 727 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 172 km (106 mi). Apogee: 334 km (207 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1975-030A. USAF Sat Cat: 7742. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1975-04-28. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.

1975 April 16 - 09:15 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.175GE.

Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 299 km (185 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 17 - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: Meck. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Spartan. LV Configuration: Spartan ABM PFT-5.

Safeguard M2-545 Interceptor mission Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 18 -

X-24 Flight 49 Nation: USA. Payload: X-24B flight 21. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: X-24B. Crew: Manke. Maximum Speed - 1279 kph. Maximum Altitude - 17650 m. Flight Time - 450 sec. References: 49, 97.

1975 April 18 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon.

FOT-9 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 18 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon.

FOT-9 Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 18 - Launch Site: Tonopah. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike. FAILURE: Failure.

Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.

1975 April 18 - 10:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.

Cosmos 728 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 209 km (129 mi). Apogee: 311 km (193 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 89.70 min. COSPAR: 1975-031A. USAF Sat Cat: 7745. Duration: 11.00 days. Decay Date: 1975-04-29. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; separated science capsule. References: 2, 6.

Nauka Cosmos 728 Nation: USSR. Payload: Nauka. Spacecraft: Nauka. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 199 km (123 mi). Apogee: 313 km (194 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 89.63 min. COSPAR: 1975-031G. USAF Sat Cat: 7779. Decay Date: 1975-05-16. References: 2, 279.

1975 April 18 - 16:48 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 24B. LV Configuration: Titan 24B 24B-14 (3B-48).

OPS 4883 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-8 no. 44 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-8. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 133 km (82 mi). Apogee: 398 km (247 mi). Inclination: 110.50 deg. Period: 89.80 min. COSPAR: 1975-032A. USAF Sat Cat: 7747. Decay Date: 1975-06-05. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.

1975 April 19 - 07:30 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: LC107/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53731-279.

Aryabhata Nation: India. Payload: ISS. Mass: 360 kg (790 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere. Spacecraft: Aryabhata. Agency: ISRO. Perigee: 398 km (247 mi). Apogee: 409 km (254 mi). Inclination: 50.70 deg. Period: 92.60 min. COSPAR: 1975-033A. USAF Sat Cat: 7752. Decay Date: 1992-02-11. Atmospheric research. Experimental satellite for satellite technology and some scientific experiments. Launched from a cosmodrome in the USSR. References: 2, 6.

1975 April 21 - 08:11 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure ISRO 5.26.

ISRO 5.26 CO.22 Ionosphere mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 157 km (97 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 21 - 09:07 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Paiute Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Paiute Tomahawk CRL A10.302-1.

AEOLUS Release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 213 km (132 mi). References: 2.

AEOLUS Release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 220 km (130 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 21 - 09:12 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Paiute Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Paiute Tomahawk CRL A10.403-1.

AEOLUS Mass Spectrometer Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 222 km (137 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 21 - 17:30 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure. LV Configuration: Centaure ISRO 5.27.

ISRO 5.27 CO.21 Ionosphere mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 156 km (96 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 22 - 21:10 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53731-274.

Cosmos 729 Nation: USSR. Mass: 725 kg (1,598 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Tsiklon. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 971 km (603 mi). Apogee: 1,007 km (625 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 104.90 min. COSPAR: 1975-034A. USAF Sat Cat: 7768. Military navigation satellite. References: 2, 6.

1975 April 23 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC173. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100.

Operational test launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 24 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon.

FOT-10? Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 24 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC106. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M.

Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 24 - 08:05 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.

Cosmos 730 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 210 km (130 mi). Apogee: 234 km (145 mi). Inclination: 81.30 deg. Period: 89.00 min. COSPAR: 1975-035A. USAF Sat Cat: 7770. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1975-05-06. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.

1975 April 25 - 04:13 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Paiute Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Paiute Tomahawk CRL A10.302-5.

AEOLUS TMA / Barium release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 214 km (132 mi). References: 2.

AEOLUS TMA / Barium release Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 220 km (130 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 25 - 04:18 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Paiute Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Paiute Tomahawk CRL A10.403-2.

AEOLUS Mass Spectrometer Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF CRL. Apogee: 217 km (134 mi). References: 2.

1975 April 26 - 15:10 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.

1975 April 29 - Launch Vehicle: Proton. Model: UR-500MK.

UR-500MK designed Nation: USSR. In response to the Ministry of Defence's guidelines for third generation launch vehicles, the Ministry of General Machine Building issued instructions for Chelomei to study boosters meeting the military's requirements. These included Lox/Kerosene propellants in place of the toxic N2O4/UDMH favoured previously. Chelomei's competitor in the design, Glushko, was then head of NPO Energia which included Glushko's former OKB-456 engine design bureau. Therefore Chelomei was forced to propose using Kuznetsov Lox/Kerosene engines from the cancelled N1 moon program. The use of existing Proton tankage tooling for the stages and the Kuznetsov engines would allow a high-performance vehicle to be developed at minimum cost. However Chelomei was out of favour, Kuznetsov was discredited after the N1 fiasco, and Glushko was ascendant. The proposal stood no chance. Glushko's Zenit launch vehicle became the accepted solution.

1975 April 29 - 10:24 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M.

Molniya 1-29 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-1. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-1. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 1,983 km (1,232 mi). Apogee: 38,379 km (23,847 mi). Inclination: 63.80 deg. Period: 717.90 min. COSPAR: 1975-036A. USAF Sat Cat: 7780. Uncertain if Molniya-1T model was Molniya-1 or Molniya-1T. Operation of the long-range telephone and telegraph radiocommunications system in the USSR; transmission of television programmes to stations in the Orbita network. References: 2, 6.

1975 May 2 - Launch Vehicle: Alfa.

Alfa SLBM program cancelled Nation: Italy. Under US pressure Italy had signed the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty on 2 May 1975. Work on nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles ended.

1975 May 3 - 19:00 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P164H.

Electron density Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 111 km (68 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 6 -

X-24 Flight 50 Nation: USA. Payload: X-24B flight 22. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: X-24B. Crew: Love Michael. Maximum Speed - 1541 kph. Maximum Altitude - 22370 m. Flight Time - 448 sec. References: 49, 97.

1975 May 7 - 04:20 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF26. Launch Pad: LF26?. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. LV Configuration: Minuteman 3 PVM-10.

Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 7 - 22:45 GMT - Launch Site: San Marco. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Scout F. LV Configuration: Scout F-1 S194C.

Explorer 53 Nation: USA. Program: Explorer. Payload: SAS C. Mass: 195 kg (429 lb). Class: Solar. Spacecraft: SAS. Agency: NASA GSF. Perigee: 498 km (309 mi). Apogee: 507 km (315 mi). Inclination: 3.00 deg. Period: 94.70 min. COSPAR: 1975-037A. USAF Sat Cat: 7788. Decay Date: 1979-04-09. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). References: 2, 6.

1975 May 7 - 23:35 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914-C 596/D110.

Anik A3 (Telesat 3) Nation: Canada. Program: Anik. Payload: Anik A3. Mass: 286 kg (630 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: HS 333. Agency: Telesat. Perigee: 35,845 km (22,273 mi). Apogee: 35,851 km (22,276 mi). Inclination: 9.00 deg. Period: 1,439.20 min. COSPAR: 1975-038A. USAF Sat Cat: 7790. Completed Operations Date: 1984-11-23. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Americas at 104 deg W in 1975-1976; over the Americas at 114 deg W in 1976-1984 As of 4 September 2001 located at 32.38 deg E drifting at 0.812 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 9 located at 138.81W drifting at 0.829W degrees per day. References: 2, 6.

1975 May 9 - Launch Site: Barking Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Sandhawk. Model: Terrier Sandhawk. LV Configuration: Terrier Sandhawk Sandia.

Monitoring mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 406 km (252 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 9 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF06. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B.

SFT-102 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 9 - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 HRV. Launch Vehicle: Stonechat. Model: Falstaff. LV Configuration: Falstaff F.0.

Test mission Nation: UK. Agency: RAE. Apogee: 119 km (73 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 12 - Launch Site: Barking Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Terrier. Model: Terrier Malemute. LV Configuration: Terrier Malemute Sandia 497-004.

Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 485 km (301 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 14 - Launch Site: Barking Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Terrier Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Terrier Tomahawk Sandia.

Plasma Barium release mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 360 km (220 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 15 - Launch Site: Barking Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Terrier Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Terrier Tomahawk Sandia.

Plasma Barium release mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 360 km (220 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 15 - 15:25 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee. Model: Astrobee F. LV Configuration: Astrobee F NASA 25.03GT-NP.

Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 224 km (139 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 16 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF02. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. LV Configuration: Minuteman 3 STM-9W.

PAVE PEPPER test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 17 - 10:32 GMT - Launch Site: Kourou. Launch Complex: Diamant. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Diamant. Model: Diamant BP.4. LV Configuration: Diamant BP.4 No. 2.

Pollux Nation: France. Payload: D-5A. Mass: 35 kg (77 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic. Spacecraft: D. Agency: CNES. Perigee: 299 km (185 mi). Apogee: 1,256 km (780 mi). Inclination: 30.00 deg. Period: 100.40 min. COSPAR: 1975-039A. USAF Sat Cat: 7801. Decay Date: 1975-08-05. D5A: Weight 36 kg. Testing in space of a hydrazine catalytic decomposition micropropulsion unit. Responsible organization: Societe Europeene de Propulsion. D5B: Weight 76 kg. Testing in space of the CACTUS accelerometer (ultrasensitive triaxial capacitive accelerometric sensor). Responsible organization: ONERA, Chatillon-sous-Berneux, France. References: 2, 6.

Castor Nation: France. Payload: D-5B. Mass: 77 kg (169 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic. Spacecraft: D. Agency: CNES. Perigee: 277 km (172 mi). Apogee: 1,275 km (792 mi). Inclination: 29.90 deg. Period: 100.30 min. COSPAR: 1975-039B. USAF Sat Cat: 7802. Decay Date: 1979-02-18. D5A: Weight 36 kg. Testing in space of a hydrazine catalytic decomposition micropropulsion unit. Responsible organization: Societe Europeene de Propulsion. D5B: Weight 76 kg. Testing in space of the CACTUS accelerometer (ultrasensitive triaxial capacitive accelerometric sensor). Responsible organization: ONERA, Chatillon-sous-Berneux, France. References: 2, 6.

1975 May 20 - 14:03 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC40. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3C. LV Configuration: Titan IIIC 23C-7 (3C-25). FAILURE: Transtage gyro platform lost power; attitude control lost; orbit too low.

DSCS II-05 Nation: USA. Program: DSCS. Payload: DSCS II F-5. Mass: 566 kg (1,247 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military. Spacecraft: DSCS II. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 160 km (90 mi). Apogee: 256 km (159 mi). Inclination: 28.60 deg. Period: 88.60 min. COSPAR: 1975-040A. USAF Sat Cat: 7807. Decay Date: 1975-05-26. Unusable orbit. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.

DSCS II-06 Nation: USA. Program: DSCS. Payload: DSCS II F-6. Mass: 566 kg (1,247 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military. Spacecraft: DSCS II. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 160 km (90 mi). Apogee: 256 km (159 mi). Inclination: 28.60 deg. Period: 88.60 min. COSPAR: 1975-040B. USAF Sat Cat: 7808. Decay Date: 1975-05-26. Unusable orbit. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.

1975 May 21 - 06:59 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.

Cosmos 731 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 203 km (126 mi). Apogee: 296 km (183 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.50 min. COSPAR: 1975-041A. USAF Sat Cat: 7810. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1975-06-02. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; separated science capsule. References: 2, 6.

Nauka Cosmos 731 Nation: USSR. Payload: Nauka. Spacecraft: Nauka. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 199 km (123 mi). Apogee: 286 km (177 mi). Inclination: 64.90 deg. Period: 89.35 min. COSPAR: 1975-041H. USAF Sat Cat: 7885. Decay Date: 1975-06-19. References: 2, 279.

1975 May 22 -

X-24 Flight 51 Nation: USA. Payload: X-24B flight 23. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: X-24B. Crew: Manke. Max. altitude. Maximum Speed - 1744 kph. Maximum Altitude - 22370 m. Flight Time - 461 sec. References: 49, 97.

1975 May 22 - 22:04 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC36A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3D Centaur. LV Configuration: SLV-3D Centaur AC-35 / Centaur D-1AR 5018D.

Intelsat 4 F-1 Nation: International. Program: Intelsat. Mass: 727 kg (1,602 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Intelsat 4. Agency: Intelsat. Perigee: 36,016 km (22,379 mi). Apogee: 36,128 km (22,448 mi). Inclination: 8.90 deg. Period: 1,450.70 min. COSPAR: 1975-042A. USAF Sat Cat: 7815. Completed Operations Date: 1987-10-27. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). Launch vehicle put payload into geosynchronous transfer orbit Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Indian Ocean at 63 deg E in 1976-1978; over the Atlantic Ocean 17.0 deg W in 1978; over the Atlantic Ocean 18.5 deg W in 1979-1981; over the Pacific Ocean 174 deg E in 1982; over the Atlantic Ocean 53 deg W in 1983-1984; over the Atlantic Ocean 50 deg W in 1984-1987 As of 30 August 2001 located at 111.08 deg W drifting at 3.657 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 11 located at 95.13E drifting at 3.657W degrees per day. References: 2, 6, 278.

1975 May 23 -

Enterprise wings complete. Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Wings on dock, Palmdale-less elevons, seals and main gear doors-Enterprise (OV-101) References: 15.

1975 May 23 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -.

First use of the Minuteman I booster for ABRES Nation: USA. First use of the Minuteman I booster, replacing the Atlas, for the ABRES program. References: 88.

1975 May 23 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF03. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B.

ABRES NTV-3 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 24 - 01:00 GMT - Launch Site: Chilca. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.170GE.

Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 338 km (210 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 24 - 03:22 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC10W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Burner 2A. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2A 197.

DMSP-Block-5C F2 Nation: USA. Program: DMSP. Payload: DMSP 10533. Mass: 194 kg (427 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5C. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 794 km (493 mi). Apogee: 880 km (540 mi). Inclination: 98.70 deg. Period: 101.70 min. COSPAR: 1975-043A. USAF Sat Cat: 7816. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. References: 2, 6.

1975 May 24 - 06:55 GMT - Launch Site: Chilca. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.171GE.

Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 324 km (201 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 24 - 14:58 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511.

Soyuz 18 Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut. Payload: Soyuz 7K-T s/n 40. Mass: 6,825 kg (15,046 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-T. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 186 km (115 mi). Apogee: 230 km (140 mi). Inclination: 51.70 deg. Period: 88.60 min. COSPAR: 1975-044A. USAF Sat Cat: 7818. Duration: 62.97 days. Decay Date: 1975-07-26. Crew: Klimuk, Sevastyanov. Flight: Soyuz 18. Manned two crew. Docked with Salyut 4. Joint experiments with the Salyut scientific orbital station. The crew remained aloft aboard the station during the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project joint flight. References: 2, 6, 32, 33,60.

1975 May 27 -

Enterprise vertical stabilizer complete. Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Vertical stabilizer on dock, Palmdale (main fin box only), Enterprise (OV-101) References: 15.

1975 May 27 - Launch Site: Chilca. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.531UA.

Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 127 km (78 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 27 - 08:01 GMT - Launch Site: Chilca. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.530UA.

Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 127 km (78 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 28 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC105. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M.

Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 28 - 00:25 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53731-272.

Cosmos 732 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 89. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,404 km (872 mi). Apogee: 1,470 km (910 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.60 min. COSPAR: 1975-045A. USAF Sat Cat: 7820. Eight satellites launched by a single carrier rocket. References: 2, 6.

Cosmos 733 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 90. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,470 km (910 mi). Apogee: 1,554 km (965 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 116.30 min. COSPAR: 1975-045B. USAF Sat Cat: 7822. References: 2, 6.

Cosmos 734 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 91. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,443 km (896 mi). Apogee: 1,472 km (914 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.00 min. COSPAR: 1975-045C. USAF Sat Cat: 7823. References: 2, 6.

Cosmos 735 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 92. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,462 km (908 mi). Apogee: 1,474 km (915 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.30 min. COSPAR: 1975-045D. USAF Sat Cat: 7824. References: 2, 6.

Cosmos 736 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 93. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,469 km (912 mi). Apogee: 1,487 km (923 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.50 min. COSPAR: 1975-045E. USAF Sat Cat: 7825. References: 2, 6.

Cosmos 737 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 94. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,470 km (910 mi). Apogee: 1,529 km (950 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 116.00 min. COSPAR: 1975-045F. USAF Sat Cat: 7826. References: 2, 6.

Cosmos 738 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 95. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,469 km (912 mi). Apogee: 1,509 km (937 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.70 min. COSPAR: 1975-045G. USAF Sat Cat: 7827. References: 2, 6.

Cosmos 739 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 96. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,423 km (884 mi). Apogee: 1,472 km (914 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.80 min. COSPAR: 1975-045H. USAF Sat Cat: 7828. References: 2, 6.

1975 May 28 - 07:29 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.

Cosmos 740 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 173 km (107 mi). Apogee: 327 km (203 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.50 min. COSPAR: 1975-046A. USAF Sat Cat: 7821. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1975-06-10. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.

1975 May 28 - 20:26 GMT - Launch Site: Chilca. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.532UE.

Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 191 km (118 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 28 - 23:00 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon.

DASO-34 demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 29 - 00:02 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon.

DASO-35 demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 29 - 03:55 GMT - Launch Site: Chilca. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.538UA.

Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 131 km (81 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 30 - 04:35 GMT - Launch Site: Chilca. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.524UE.

Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 187 km (116 mi). References: 2.

1975 May 30 - 06:45 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.

Cosmos 741 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 210 km (130 mi). Apogee: 231 km (143 mi). Inclination: 81.30 deg. Period: 88.90 min. COSPAR: 1975-047A. USAF Sat Cat: 7877. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1975-06-11. Zenit-2M (area survey photo reconnaissance) satellite used for earth resources studies as part of 'Gektor-Priroda' project. Investigation of the natural resources of the earth in the interests of various branches of the national economy of the USSR and international cooperation. References: 2, 6, 103.

1975 May 31 -

European Space Agency founded. Nation: Europe.

1975 May 31 - Launch Site: Kourou. Launch Complex: ALFS. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Veronique. Model: Veronique 61M.

FAUST Ultraviolet Astronomy mission Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Apogee: 172 km (106 mi). FU216 FAUST, UV astronomy / Stab mission. References: 2.

1975 June 2 - 05:11 GMT - Launch Site: Chilca. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.525UE.

Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 187 km (116 mi). References: 2.

1975 June 3 - 09:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: LC107/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53721-257. FAILURE: First stage failed 84 seconds after launch.

Intercosmos 14 Nation: USSR. Program: Intercosmos. Payload: DS-U3-IK s/n 5. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: DS-U3-IK. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: F750603A. Measurements of the sun; used for Interkosmos launches. Payload included East European experiments to study solar UV, X-ray effects on upper atmosphere. Investigation of solar radiation and its effect on the atmosphere of the earth. References: 2.

1975 June 3 - 13:21 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.

Cosmos 742 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 178 km (110 mi). Apogee: 355 km (220 mi). Inclination: 62.90 deg. Period: 89.80 min. COSPAR: 1975-048A. USAF Sat Cat: 7900. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1975-06-15. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.

1975 June 3 - 16:41 GMT - Launch Site: Chilca. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.540CA.

Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 204 km (126 mi). References: 2.

1975 June 4 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC101. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M.

SLI? Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.

1975 June 5 - Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U2.

Soyuz 11A511U2 authorised. Nation: USSR. Central Committee of the Communist Party and Council of Soviet Ministers Decree 178 'On development of the 11A511U2 launch vehicle' was issued. References: 474.

1975 June 5 - 01:38 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M.

Molniya 1-30 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-1 s/n 24. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-1. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 121 km (75 mi). Apogee: 38,307 km (23,802 mi). Inclination: 63.40 deg. Period: 679.10 min. COSPAR: 1975-049A. USAF Sat Cat: 7903. Decay Date: 1987-08-12. Uncertain if Molniya-1T model was Molniya-1 or Molniya-1T. Operation of the long-range telephone and telegraph radiocommunications system in the USSR; transmission of television programmes to stations in the Orbita network. References: 2, 6.

SRET 2 Nation: France. Payload: SRET 2 (MAS 2). Mass: 30 kg (66 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: SRET. Agency: CNES. Perigee: 513 km (318 mi). Apogee: 40,825 km (25,367 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 737.80 min. COSPAR: 1975-049B. USAF Sat Cat: 7910. Decay Date: 1988-07-10. SRET 2 technological research and study satellite. Launched from Soviet Union with a Soviet launch vehicle with the Molniya satellite. Mass 30 kg. Study of the behaviour of a passive cryogenic radiation system, study of the aging of thermal casings and pl astic films. References: 2, 6.

1975 June 6 -

X-24 Flight 52 Nation: USA. Payload: X-24B flight 24. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: X-24B. Crew: Love Michael. Maximum Speed - 1786 kph. Maximum Altitude - 21980 m. Flight Time - 474 sec. References: 49, 97.

1975 June 7 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC109. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M.

SLI? Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.

1975 June 7 - 16:07 GMT - Launch Site: Chilca. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.150GE.

Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 259 km (160 mi). References: 2.

1975 June 7 - 16:25 GMT - Launch Site: Chilca. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.541CA.

Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 197 km (122 mi). References: 2.

1975 June 8 - 02:38 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC81/24. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Proton. Model: Proton-K/D. LV Configuration: Proton-K/D 286-01.

Venera 9 Nation: USSR. Program: Venera. Payload: 4V-1 s/n 660. Mass: 4,936 kg (10,882 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Venus. Spacecraft: Venera 4V-1. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 1,510 km (930 mi). Apogee: 112,200 km (69,700 mi). Inclination: 34.15 deg. Period: 2,898.00 min. COSPAR: 1975-050A. USAF Sat Cat: 7915. Combined Venus orbiter/lander mission. After separation of the lander, the orbiter spacecraft entered Venus orbit and acted as a communications relay for the lander and explored cloud layers and atmospheric parameters. On October 20, 1975, the Descent Craft was separated from the Orbiter, and landing was made with the sun near zenith at 05:13 GMT on October 22. The Descent Craft included a system of circulating fluid to distribute the heat load. This system, plus precooling prior to entry, permitted operation of the spacecraft for 53 min after landing. The landing was about 2,200 km from the Venera 10 landing site. Preliminary results indicated: (A) clouds 30-40 km thick with bases at 30-35 km altitude, (B) atmospheric constituents including HCl, HF, Br, and I, (C) surface pressure about 90 (earth) atmospheres, (D) surface temperature 485 deg C, (E) light levels comparable to those at earth midlatitudes on a cloudy summer day, and (F) successful TV photography showing shadows, no apparent dust in the air, and a variety of 30-40 cm rocks which were not eroded. Venera 9 and 10 were the first probes to send back black and white pictures from the Venusian surface. They were supposed to make 360 degree panoramic shots, but on both landers one of two camera covers failed to come off, restricting their field of view to 180 degrees. Parameters are for Venus orbit. References: 2, 6, 67, 274, 296, 428.

1975 June 8 - 18:30 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3D. LV Configuration: Titan IIID 23D-10.

KH-9 no. 10 Nation: USA. Mass: 13,300 kg (29,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-9. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 157 km (97 mi). Apogee: 272 km (169 mi). Inclination: 96.30 deg. Period: 88.70 min. COSPAR: 1975-051A. USAF Sat Cat: 7918. Decay Date: 1975-11-05. KH-9 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.

1975 June 10 - 10:15 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC35. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 150. LV Configuration: Aerobee 150 CRL A03.103-1.

Density / Laser Backscatter Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 158 km (98 mi). References: 2.

1975 June 10 - 13:18 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Cajun. Model: Nike Cajun.

Ferdinand 42 Auroral mission Nation: Norway. Agency: NTNF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2.

1975 June 11 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF08. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3.

OT GT30GM operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.

1975 June 12 - 08:12 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 2910. LV Configuration: Delta 2910 595/D111.

Nimbus 6 Nation: USA. Payload: Nimbus F. Mass: 829 kg (1,827 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: Nimbus. Agency: NASA GSF. Perigee: 1,101 km (684 mi). Apogee: 1,114 km (692 mi). Inclination: 100.00 deg. Period: 107.40 min. COSPAR: 1975-052A. USAF Sat Cat: 7924. Environmental research. The experiments selected for Nimbus-6 were the earth radiation budget (ERB), electrically scanning microwave radiometer (ESMR), high-resolution infrared radiation sounder (HIRS), limb radiance inversion radiometer (LRIR), pressure modulated radiometer (PMR), scanning microwave spectrometer (SCAMS), temperature-humidity infrared radiometer (THIR), tracking and data relay experiment (T+DRE), and the tropical wind energy conversion and reference level experiment (TWERLE). This complement of advanced sensors was capable of mapping tropospheric temperature, water vapor abundance, and cloud water content; providing vertical profiles of temperature, ozone, and water vapor; transmitting real-time data to a geostationary spacecraft (ATS 6); and yielding data on the earth's radiation budget. References: 2, 6.

1975 June 12 - 12:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57.

Cosmos 743 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 181 km (112 mi). Apogee: 331 km (205 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1975-053A. USAF Sat Cat: 7925. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1975-06-25. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.

1975 June 13 - 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.

1975 June 14 -

Venera 10, Venus Landing Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Venera 4V-1.

1975 June 14 - 03:00 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC81/24. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Proton. Model: Proton-K/D. LV Configuration: Proton-K/D 285-02.

Venera 10 Nation: USSR. Program: Venera. Payload: 4V-1 s/n 661. Mass: 5,033 kg (11,095 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Venus. Spacecraft: Venera 4V-1. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 1,620 km (1,000 mi). Apogee: 113,900 km (70,700 mi). Inclination: 29.50 deg. Period: 2,963.00 min. COSPAR: 1975-054A. USAF Sat Cat: 7947. The orbiter spacecraft entered Venus orbit and was separated from the lander on October 23, 1975. The lander touched down with the sun near zenith, at 05:17 GMT, on October 25. A system of circulating fluid was used to distribute the heat load. This system, plus precooling prior to entry, permitted operation of the spacecraft for 65 min after landing. During descent, heat dissipation and deceleration were accomplished sequentially by protective hemispheric shells, three parachutes, a disk-shaped drag brake, and a compressible, metal, doughnut-shaped, landing cushion. The landing was about 2,200 km distant from Venera 9. Preliminary results provided: (A) profile of altitude (km)/pressure (earth atmospheres) / temperature (deg C) of 42/3.3/158, 15/37/363, and 0/92/465, (B) successful TV photography showing large pancake rocks with lava or other weathered rocks in between, and (C) surface wind speed of 3.5 m/s. Venera 9 and 10 were the first probes to send back black and white pictures from the Venusian surface. They were supposed to make 360 degree panoramic shots, but on both landers one of two camera covers failed to come off, restricting their field of view to 180 degrees. References: 2, 6, 67, 274, 296, 428.

1975 June 16 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100N. Model: UR-100N. FAILURE: Failure.

Operational missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2.