Chronology - Quarter 1 1976

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Previous Home Next 1976 - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: LC107/1. Launch Pad: LC107/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: K65M-R. Vertikal-4 Ionosphere/Solar mission? Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 675 km (419 mi). References: 2. 1976 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100N. Model: UR-100N. Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1976 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100N. Model: UR-100N. Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 4 - 14:30 GMT - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache DLR H-NA-70. Winter Anomaly B-IV-1 Aeronomy / ionosphere / solar ultraviolet mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DLR. Apogee: 129 km (80 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 4 - 15:30 GMT - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 3 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 3 AC DLR H-CR-69. Winter Anomaly B-II-1 Aeronomy / ionosphere / solar ultraviolet / x-ray mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DFVLR. Apogee: 116 km (72 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 4 - 15:47 GMT - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skua. Model: Skua 3. LV Configuration: Skua 3 INTA MS3CLO-76002. Winter Anomaly? Aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: INTA/DLR. Apogee: 103 km (64 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 4 - 16:00 GMT - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel INTA UCLP-76001. Winter Anomaly B-VI-1 Aeronomy mission Nation: Spain. Agency: INTA. Apogee: 135 km (83 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 6 - 04:52 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53731-269. Cosmos 787 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Mass: 900 kg (1,980 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-O. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 509 km (316 mi). Apogee: 565 km (351 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 95.30 min. COSPAR: 1976-001A. USAF Sat Cat: 8530. Decay Date: 1980-12-12. Replaced Cosmos 655. Possible ELINT satellite. References: 2, 6. 1976 January 7 - 15:35 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 788 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 183 km (113 mi). Apogee: 321 km (199 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 89.50 min. COSPAR: 1976-002A. USAF Sat Cat: 8551. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1976-01-20. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1976 January 8 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF26. Launch Pad: LF26?. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. LV Configuration: Minuteman 3 PVM-12. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 9 - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Pioner. Test mission Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 10 - 14:16 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: LA5. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC NASA 12.29GT-IT. SSC S19A Technology mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 290 km (180 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 15 - 05:34 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC41. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3E. LV Configuration: Titan IIIE 23E-5 / Centaur D-1T E-5. Helios 2 Nation: Germany. Mass: 376 kg (828 lb). Class: Solar. Spacecraft: Helios. Agency: DFVLR. COSPAR: 1976-003A. USAF Sat Cat: 8582. Solar probe. Solar Orbit (Heliocentric). Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 2, 6. 1976 January 16 - Crew module on dock, Palmdale, Enterprise (OV-101) Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. References: 15. 1976 January 16 - 21:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 9M. LV Configuration: Kappa 9M K-9M-54. Magnetospheric mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 367 km (228 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 17 - 23:27 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 606/D119. CTS 1 Nation: Canada. Payload: Hermes. Mass: 500 kg (1,100 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: CTS. Agency: CRC. Perigee: 35,704 km (22,185 mi). Apogee: 35,840 km (22,260 mi). Inclination: 12.80 deg. Period: 1,435.40 min. COSPAR: 1976-004A. USAF Sat Cat: 8585. Completed Operations Date: 1979-12-08. 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 116 deg W in 1976-79; over the Pacific Ocean 142 deg W in 1979 As of 5 September 2001 located at 135.36 deg W drifting at 0.161 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 10 located at 131.55W drifting at 0.190W degrees per day. References: 2, 6. 1976 January 18 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.1007UE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 18 - 05:20 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 10. LV Configuration: Kappa 10 K-10-12. Ionosphere mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 350 km (210 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 19 - Almaz / TKS flight tests approved. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Almaz OPS, Almaz OPS-2, TKS. Central Committee of the Communist Party and Council of Soviet Ministers Decree 46-13 'On course of work on Almaz and the TKS' was issued. References: 474. 1976 January 20 - Launch Site: WTR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3T. Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 20 - Launch Site: WTR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3T. Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 20 - 01:42 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 4B. LV Configuration: Black Brant IVB GL A16.501-01. VLF Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF GL. Apogee: 632 km (392 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 20 - 17:08 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53749-164. Cosmos 789 Nation: USSR. Mass: 810 kg (1,780 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Parus. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 966 km (600 mi). Apogee: 1,013 km (629 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 104.90 min. COSPAR: 1976-005A. USAF Sat Cat: 8591. Military navigation satellite. References: 2, 6. 1976 January 21 - 14:32 GMT - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache DLR H-NA-72/Ferd 43. INTA MNAE-7602 / BIV-2 Aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DLR/NTNF. Apogee: 120 km (70 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 21 - 15:31 GMT - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 3 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 3 AC DLR H-CR-71. Winter Anomaly B-II-2 Aeronomy / ionosphere / solar ultraviolet / x-ray mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DFVLR. Apogee: 116 km (72 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 21 - 15:55 GMT - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel INTA UCLP-76002. Winter Anomaly B-VI-2 Aeronomy mission Nation: Spain. Agency: INTA/SRC. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 21 - 18:17 GMT - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel INTA UCLP-76003. Winter Anomaly B-VI-3 Aeronomy mission Nation: Spain. Agency: INTA/SRC. Apogee: 135 km (83 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 22 - 11:38 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Molniya 1-32 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-1T. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-1T. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 2,247 km (1,396 mi). Apogee: 38,210 km (23,740 mi). Inclination: 63.60 deg. Period: 719.80 min. COSPAR: 1976-006A. USAF Sat Cat: 8601. 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. 1976 January 22 - 18:58 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk SSC S17-1 (EF8). SSC S17 / 1 M / Dtr Ionosphere mission Nation: Sweden. Agency: SSC. Apogee: 208 km (129 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 22 - 22:26 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53731-285. Cosmos 790 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Mass: 900 kg (1,980 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-O. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 511 km (317 mi). Apogee: 548 km (340 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 95.20 min. COSPAR: 1976-007A. USAF Sat Cat: 8604. Decay Date: 1980-11-12. Replaced Cosmos 631. Possible ELINT satellite. References: 2, 6. 1976 January 23 - MPTA-098 truss on dock, Downey Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1976 January 23 - Cosmonaut Dr Aleksey Vasilyevich Sorokin dies at age of 44 -- Natural causes. Nation: USSR. 1976 January 23 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF06. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. SFT-105 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 23 - 22:34 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Ute Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Ute Tomahawk GL A09.402-2. Winter Anomaly Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF GL. Apogee: 124 km (77 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 23 - 22:45 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk GL A08.608-1. Winter Anomaly Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 117 km (72 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 24 - Launch Site: WTR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3T. Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 24 - Launch Site: WTR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3T. Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 25 - 23:20 GMT - Launch Site: Syowa Base. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: S-210. LV Configuration: S-210JA-22. NO / Ne Aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: Japan. Agency: NIPR. Apogee: 127 km (78 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 26 - Launch Site: Tonopah. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Recruit. Model: Pedro Recruit. LV Configuration: Pedro Recruit FLAME 8. FLAME test Nation: USA. Apogee: 17 km (10 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 27 - 06:00 GMT - Launch Site: Tanegashima. Launch Complex: T. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: TT-210. LV Configuration: TT-210 TT-210-2F. Test mission Nation: Japan. Agency: NASDA. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 28 - 10:39 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53731-281. Cosmos 791 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 105. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,401 km (870 mi). Apogee: 1,486 km (923 mi). Inclination: 74.10 deg. Period: 114.80 min. COSPAR: 1976-008A. USAF Sat Cat: 8607. Eight satellites launched by a single carrier rocket. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 792 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 106. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,436 km (892 mi). Apogee: 1,490 km (920 mi). Inclination: 74.10 deg. Period: 115.20 min. COSPAR: 1976-008B. USAF Sat Cat: 8608. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 793 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 107. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,418 km (881 mi). Apogee: 1,490 km (920 mi). Inclination: 74.10 deg. Period: 115.00 min. COSPAR: 1976-008C. USAF Sat Cat: 8609. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 794 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 108. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,452 km (902 mi). Apogee: 1,493 km (927 mi). Inclination: 74.10 deg. Period: 115.40 min. COSPAR: 1976-008D. USAF Sat Cat: 8610. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 795 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 109. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,467 km (911 mi). Apogee: 1,498 km (930 mi). Inclination: 74.10 deg. Period: 115.60 min. COSPAR: 1976-008E. USAF Sat Cat: 8611. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 796 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 110. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,472 km (914 mi). Apogee: 1,516 km (941 mi). Inclination: 74.10 deg. Period: 115.80 min. COSPAR: 1976-008F. USAF Sat Cat: 8612. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 797 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 111. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,478 km (918 mi). Apogee: 1,530 km (950 mi). Inclination: 74.10 deg. Period: 116.10 min. COSPAR: 1976-008G. USAF Sat Cat: 8613. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 798 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 112. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,479 km (919 mi). Apogee: 1,554 km (965 mi). Inclination: 74.10 deg. Period: 116.40 min. COSPAR: 1976-008H. USAF Sat Cat: 8614. References: 2, 6. 1976 January 29 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF07. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2. FOT GT125M Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 29 - 08:30 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 799 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 205 km (127 mi). Apogee: 306 km (190 mi). Inclination: 71.40 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1976-009A. USAF Sat Cat: 8616. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1976-02-10. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6. 1976 January 29 - 23:56 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC36B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3D Centaur. LV Configuration: SLV-3D Centaur AC-37 / Centaur D-1AR 501. Intelsat 4A F-2 Nation: International. Program: Intelsat. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Intelsat 4A. Agency: Intelsat. Perigee: 35,924 km (22,322 mi). Apogee: 35,981 km (22,357 mi). Inclination: 9.00 deg. Period: 1,444.60 min. COSPAR: 1976-010A. USAF Sat Cat: 8620. Completed Operations Date: 1985-12-19. 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 Atlantic Ocean at 29.5 deg W in 1976-79; over the Atlantic Ocean 27.5 deg W in 1979-1980; over the Atlantic Ocean 21.5 deg W in 1980-1983; over the Indian Ocean 57 deg E in 1983-1984; over the Atlantic Ocean 2-4 deg W in 1984-1985 As of 3 September 2001 located at 151.88 deg E drifting at 2.088 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 10 located at 130.98W drifting at 2.123W degrees per day. References: 2, 6, 278. 1976 January 30 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC103. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M. Operational missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 30 - 01:07 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 7 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 7 AC SL1302. Quiet Coronal Structure Solar x-ray mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 278 km (172 mi). References: 2. 1976 January 31 - 06:44 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC NASA 21.27UE. ECHO IV Auroral mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 225 km (139 mi). References: 2. 1976 February - Development of Mir, Aelita authorised Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Aelita. The Soviet space program was completely reformulated in a resolution of February 1976, which included authorisation to develop the free flyer in conjunction with the DOS-7/DOS-8 space station (which would eventually evolve into Mir). 1976 February 1 - 19:28 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.208UE. Ferdinand 45 / Polar 5 Aurora / active mission Nation: Norway. Agency: NASA/NTNF. Apogee: 221 km (137 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 3 - Franco-Soviet space cooperation approved. Nation: USSR. TsK and SM Decree 'On USSR-France co-operation in space' was issued. References: 474. 1976 February 3 - 08:16 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53721-282. Cosmos 800 Nation: USSR. Mass: 650 kg (1,430 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Tsiklon. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 978 km (607 mi). Apogee: 1,009 km (626 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 105.00 min. COSPAR: 1976-011A. USAF Sat Cat: 8645. Military navigation satellite. References: 2, 6. 1976 February 3 - 21:15 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-17? Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 3 - 21:16 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-17? Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 3 - 21:47 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. FOT-17? Follow-on operational missile test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 4 - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: M. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Mu. Model: Mu-3C. LV Configuration: Mu-3C M-3C-3. FAILURE: Stage 2 thrust vector control failure. Corsa A Nation: Japan. Mass: 92 kg (202 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: Corsa A. Agency: ISAS. COSPAR: F760204A. Decay Date: 1976-02-04. References: 126. 1976 February 5 - 05:22 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 4B. LV Configuration: Black Brant IVB AAF-4B-33. Test / aurora / ionosphere mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 730 km (450 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 5 - 14:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC133/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 11K63. Cosmos 801 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-P1-I s/n 16. Mass: 400 kg (880 lb). Class: Military. Type: Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-I. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 268 km (166 mi). Apogee: 796 km (494 mi). Inclination: 71.00 deg. Period: 95.30 min. COSPAR: 1976-012A. USAF Sat Cat: 8658. Completed Operations Date: 1976-12-14. Decay Date: 1978-01-05. Operational radar target for the ABM forces. References: 2, 6, 99. 1976 February 5 - 15:51 GMT - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skua. Model: Skua 2. LV Configuration: Skua 2 INTA MSCL-76006. Aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: INTA/DLR. Apogee: 102 km (63 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 5 - 22:30 GMT - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skua. Model: Skua 4. LV Configuration: Skua 4 INTA MS4CLO-76003. Aurora / aeronomy / ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: INTA/DLR. Apogee: 101 km (62 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 6 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF09. Launch Pad: LF09?. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. FAILURE: Failure. OT GT26GM-4 operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 8 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Final launch of a Thor/Burner IIA from Vandenberg Nation: USA. Final launch of a Thor/Burner IIA from Vandenberg AFB (first launch on 14 October 1971). References: 88. 1976 February 10 - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 HRV. Launch Vehicle: Stonechat. Model: Falstaff. LV Configuration: Falstaff F.01. Test mission Nation: UK. Agency: RAE. Apogee: 117 km (72 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 10 - 07:00 GMT - Launch Site: Sea-launched. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: UNKO. Launch Vehicle: MMR-06. Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Agency: GMS?. Apogee: 57 km (35 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 11 - 08:50 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 802 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: 1976-013A. USAF Sat Cat: 8681. Duration: 14.00 days. Decay Date: 1976-02-25. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1976 February 12 - Launch Vehicle: Energia. Development of Energia-Buran system authorised Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Buran. The government decree 132-51 authorising development of the Energia-Buran system was titled 'On development of an MKS (reusable space system) consisting of rocket stages, orbiter aircraft, inter-orbital tug, guidance systems, launch and landing facilities, assembly and repair facilities, and other associated facilities, with the objective of placing in a 200 km Northeast orbit a payload of 30 tonnes and returning a payload of 20 tonnes'. The Ministry of Defence was named the Program Manager, with NPO Energia as the prime contractor. The official military specification (TTZ) was issued at the same time with the code name Buran. 1976 February 12 - 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. 1976 February 12 - 13:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53731-286. Cosmos 803 Nation: USSR. Payload: DS-P1-M. Mass: 650 kg (1,430 lb). Class: Military. Type: ASAT Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 505 km (313 mi). Apogee: 555 km (344 mi). Inclination: 65.90 deg. Period: 95.20 min. COSPAR: 1976-014A. USAF Sat Cat: 8688. ASAT target. Beginning of test of 'second generation' ASAT interceptor. Objective was to complete test series by 1978 ABM treaty date. References: 2, 6, 272. 1976 February 13 - 09:45 GMT - Launch Site: Syowa Base. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: S-310. LV Configuration: S-310JA-1. VLF / HF Ionosphere mission Nation: Japan. Agency: NIPR. Apogee: 216 km (134 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 14 - 22:00 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. Demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 16 - Start fabrication forward fuselage (STA-099) Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1976 February 16 - 08:29 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC90/19. Launch Pad: LC90/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: Tsiklon-2. Cosmos 804 Nation: USSR. Mass: 1,400 kg (3,000 lb). Class: Military. Type: ASAT. Spacecraft: IS-A. Agency: PKO. Perigee: 160 km (90 mi). Apogee: 702 km (436 mi). Inclination: 65.10 deg. Period: 93.10 min. COSPAR: 1976-015A. USAF Sat Cat: 8694. Decay Date: 1976-02-16. ASAT interceptor. After intercept with target deorbited using on-board engine. References: 2, 6, 272. 1976 February 17 - Launch Vehicle: Energia, N1. Energia; Buran; Mir; Luch; Potok approved; N1 formally cancelled. Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Buran, Mir, Mir-2, Gamma, Potok, Luch. Central Committee of the Communist Party and Council of Soviet Ministers Decree 'On work on Energia-Buran, DOS-7K nos. 7 and 8, Gamma. Geyzer (Potok), and Altair (Luch) and cancellation of the N1' was issued. The design of an improved model of the Salyut DOS-17K space station was authorised as part of the third generation of Soviet space systems in a decree. At that time it was planned that the two stations (DOS-7 and DOS-8) would be equipped with two docking ports at either end of the station and an additional two ports at the sides of the forward small diameter compartment. Luch and Potok were elements of the second generation global command and control system (GKKRS) deployed in the first half of the 1980's. Luch satellites, analogous to the US TDRS, provided communications service to the Mir space station, Buran space shuttle, Soyuz-TM spacecraft, military satellites, and the TsUPK ground control center. They also served to provide mobile fleet communications for the Soviet Navy. Additional Details: Energia; Buran; Mir; Luch; Potok approved; N1 formally cancelled.. References: 474. 1976 February 18 - 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. 1976 February 18 - 07:05 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.1001UE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 237 km (147 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 18 - 17:40 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC36. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC NASA 21.30US-IS. OSO-I Cal Solar ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 282 km (175 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 19 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF05. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2. FOT GT126M Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 19 - 07:52 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC10W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor Burner 2A. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2A 182. FAILURE: Early booster cut-off due to incorrect calculation of the Thor fuel load. DMSP-Block-5C F3 Nation: USA. Program: DMSP. Payload: DMSP 11534/Star 26B S/N 009. Mass: 175 kg (385 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5C. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 89 km (55 mi). Apogee: 361 km (224 mi). Inclination: 98.90 deg. Period: 88.90 min. COSPAR: 1976-016A. USAF Sat Cat: 8696. Decay Date: 1976-02-19. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program; unusable orbit. Last of the Thor Burner missions. References: 2, 6. 1976 February 19 - 22:32 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 603/D120. Marisat 1 Nation: USA. Payload: Marisat 101. Mass: 655 kg (1,444 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Marisat. Agency: Comsat. Perigee: 36,033 km (22,389 mi). Apogee: 36,143 km (22,458 mi). Inclination: 13.90 deg. Period: 1,451.50 min. COSPAR: 1976-017A. USAF Sat Cat: 8697. Completed Operations Date: 1997-04-02. Maritime communications. 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 15 deg W in 1976-1990; over the Americas at 106 deg W in 1990-1997 As of 2 September 2001 located at 168.03 deg W drifting at 3.834 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 10 located at 20.39E drifting at 3.837W degrees per day. References: 2, 6. 1976 February 20 - 14:01 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 805 Nation: USSR. Payload: Yantar-2K s/n 4. Mass: 6,600 kg (14,500 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Yantar-2K. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 171 km (106 mi). Apogee: 351 km (218 mi). Inclination: 67.10 deg. Period: 89.70 min. COSPAR: 1976-018A. USAF Sat Cat: 8699. Duration: 20.00 days. Decay Date: 1976-03-11. Fourth Yantar-2K second generation reconnaissance flight and the first with two SpK small film recovery capsules. First flight of the completely equipped satellite. The main reentry capsule and its film cargo were returned successfully. Both SpK capsules successfully separated from the Yantar in the course of the flight, but neither was recovered. The parachutes of the first did not deploy and the capsule crashed into the ground. The solid motor of the second capsule did not fire as programmed and the capsule did not deorbit at the expected time. References: 2, 6, 69. 1976 February 21 - 19:42 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache SSC S18-2. SSC S18 / 2 D-Layer Ionosphere mission Nation: Sweden. Agency: SSC. Apogee: 105 km (65 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 22 - 01:18 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Paiute Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Paiute Tomahawk GL A10.504-1. ICECAP 76 Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF GL/DNA. Apogee: 248 km (154 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 24 - 19:20 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 GL A04.305-1. XUV Solar x-ray / ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 221 km (137 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 24 - 21:30 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Lorikeet. LV Configuration: Lorikeet 2013. Aeronomy mission Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 25 - 04:15 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF04. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2. FOT GT124M Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 26 - Launch Site: Natal. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Sonda. Model: Sonda 3. LV Configuration: Sonda 3 XV-01. FAILURE: Failure. Serido test Nation: Brazil. Agency: IAE. Apogee: 47 km (29 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 27 - Military space plan through 1990 approved. Nation: USSR. Central Committee of the Communist Party and Council of Soviet Ministers Decree 'On long-range military use of space up to 1990' was issued. References: 474. 1976 February 27 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF03. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. ABRES ANT-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 28 - 00:55 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Ionosphere/Chemical release/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 185 km (114 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 28 - 05:46 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Sergeant. Model: Sounding Rocket. LV Configuration: Sergeant EX630.42-1. EXCEDE SWIR Active plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: DNA/AFCRL. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 28 - 12:12 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.164UE. FERRET / 18.1003UE Aurora / ionosphere mission Aurora / ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 281 km (174 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 28 - 14:22 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Chemical release/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 176 km (109 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 28 - 23:01 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Auroral mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 190 km (110 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 29 - 01:15 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Ionosphere/Chemical release/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 180 km (110 mi). References: 2. 1976 February 29 - 03:30 GMT - Launch Site: Tanegashima. Launch Complex: N. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: N-1. LV Configuration: N-1 N-2(F). ISS 1 Nation: Japan. Payload: ISS a. Mass: 139 kg (306 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere. Spacecraft: JISS. Agency: NASDA. Perigee: 988 km (613 mi). Apogee: 1,003 km (623 mi). Inclination: 69.70 deg. Period: 105.00 min. COSPAR: 1976-019A. USAF Sat Cat: 8709. Ionospheric sounding. Japanese Ionospheric Sounding Satellite (JISS - national name 'Ume') is intended for regular observations by means of radio waves of the global distribution of the critical frequencies of the ionosphere, and for utilization of the results of the observati on for radio wave forecasts and warning necessary for effective operation of short-wave radio-communication. Time of launch 0330UT. References: 2, 6. 1976 March 1 - Test Pilot Michael V Love dies at age of 37 -- Fatally injured during a routine chase flight in an F-4 due to a malfunction of the ejection seat. Nation: USA. 1976 March 1 - 10:45 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.1002UE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 246 km (152 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 2 - 03:24 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.461UE. FAILURE: Failure. Auroral NO Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. 1976 March 2 - 23:49 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache SSC S21-1. SSC S21 / 1 TRIGGER Ionosphere mission Nation: Sweden. Agency: SSC. Apogee: 160 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 3 - Payload bay doors on dock, Palmdale, Enterprise Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Payload bay doors on dock, Palmdale, Enterprise (OV-101) References: 15. 1976 March 3 - 00:10 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Ionosphere/Chemical release/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 164 km (101 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 3 - 17:44 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Paiute Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Paiute Tomahawk GL A10.507-1. ICECAP 76 Sphere / Physics Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF GL. Apogee: 210 km (130 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 4 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF25. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. FOT GT52GB Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 4 - 03:01 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Ionosphere/Chemical release/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 5 - 11:36 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.128UC. Comet West Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 215 km (133 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 5 - 11:40 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 200A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 200A NASA 26.50UC. JHU UVS Comet West Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 209 km (129 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 6 - 18:48 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Auroral mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 180 km (110 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 6 - 21:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk SSC S17-2. SSC S17 / 2 M / Dtr Ionosphere mission Nation: Sweden. Agency: SSC. Apogee: 210 km (130 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 6 - 23:45 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Ionosphere/Chemical release/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 176 km (109 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 7 - 23:30 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Ionosphere/Chemical release/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 142 km (88 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 8 - 22:56 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Ionosphere/Chemical release/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 9 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. LV Configuration: Athena SAMSO-37. ABRES Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF/Sandia. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 10 - 08:00 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 806 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 188 km (116 mi). Apogee: 328 km (203 mi). Inclination: 71.40 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1976-020A. USAF Sat Cat: 8737. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1976-03-23. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1976 March 10 - 09:10 GMT - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 4A. LV Configuration: Black Brant IVA Astro 6-1. FAILURE: Failure. DLR H-BB4-74 Extreme ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DLR. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. 1976 March 10 - 10:58 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.129GC. Comet West Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 189 km (117 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 11 - 19:45 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Molniya 1-33 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-1T. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-1T. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 151 km (93 mi). Apogee: 37,773 km (23,471 mi). Inclination: 62.60 deg. Period: 669.10 min. COSPAR: 1976-021A. USAF Sat Cat: 8741. Decay Date: 1990-10-10. 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). Uncertain if Molniya-1T model was Molniya-1 or Molniya-1T. References: 2, 6. 1976 March 12 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. Enterprise final assembly complete. Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Complete final assembly and closeout system installation. References: 15. 1976 March 12 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. Shuttle SSME Test Nation: USA. The full engine is run at 65% power for 42.5 seconds before a fuel turbopump failure curtails the test (50 second duration planned). References: 44. 1976 March 12 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC173. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100. State trials flight Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 12 - 13:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53746-310. Cosmos 807 Nation: USSR. Mass: 400 kg (880 lb). Class: Calibration. Spacecraft: Taifun-1. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 384 km (238 mi). Apogee: 1,568 km (974 mi). Inclination: 82.90 deg. Period: 104.60 min. COSPAR: 1976-022A. USAF Sat Cat: 8744. Radar calibration mission. References: 2, 6. 1976 March 14 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF26. Launch Pad: LF26?. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. LV Configuration: Minuteman 3 PVM-13. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 15 - Start functional checkout, Enterprise Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Start functional checkout, Enterprise (OV-101). References: 15. 1976 March 15 - 01:25 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC40. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3C. LV Configuration: Titan IIIC 23C-12 (3C-30). LES 8 Nation: USA. Mass: 454 kg (1,000 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Comsat. Spacecraft: LES. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 35,728 km (22,200 mi). Apogee: 35,835 km (22,266 mi). Inclination: 11.40 deg. Period: 1,435.80 min. COSPAR: 1976-023A. USAF Sat Cat: 8746. Completed Operations Date: 1992-01-01. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication. Also tested pulsed plasma engines. Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Atlantic Ocean at 1976-77; over the Americas at 106-110 deg W in 1978-1986; over the Atlantic Ocean 60-70 deg W in 1987-1991;over the Americas at 94-106 deg W in 1991-1992. As of 6 September 2001 located at 105.16 deg W drifting at 0.010 deg E per day. As of 2007 Mar 9 located at 107.51W drifting at 0.001E degrees per day. References: 2, 6. LES 9 Nation: USA. Mass: 454 kg (1,000 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Comsat. Spacecraft: LES. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 35,745 km (22,210 mi). Apogee: 35,825 km (22,260 mi). Inclination: 17.00 deg. Period: 1,436.00 min. COSPAR: 1976-023B. USAF Sat Cat: 8747. Completed Operations Date: 1992-01-01. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication. Also tested pulsed plasma engines. Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Atlantic Ocean at 30-40 deg W in 1976-78; over the Americas at 90-100 deg W in 1980-81; over the Americas at 100-106 deg W in 1981-1990; over the Atlantic Ocean 10 deg W in 1991; over the Americas at 105 deg W in 1992-on. As of 1 September 2001 located at 103.85 deg W drifting at 0.023 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 11 located at 107.07W drifting at 0.018W degrees per day. References: 2, 6. Solrad 11A Nation: USA. Mass: 181 kg (399 lb). Class: Solar. Spacecraft: Solrad. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 118,383 km (73,559 mi). Apogee: 119,180 km (74,050 mi). Inclination: 25.70 deg. Period: 7,344.30 min. COSPAR: 1976-023C. USAF Sat Cat: 8748. Solar radiation data. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 2, 6. Solrad 11B Nation: USA. Mass: 181 kg (399 lb). Class: Solar. Spacecraft: Solrad. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 115,720 km (71,900 mi). Apogee: 116,645 km (72,479 mi). Inclination: 25.60 deg. Period: 7,116.70 min. COSPAR: 1976-023D. USAF Sat Cat: 8749. Solar radiation data. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 2, 6. 1976 March 16 - Launch Vehicle: Zenit. Model: Zenit-2. Zenit launch vehicle authorised. Nation: USSR. Central Committee of the Communist Party and Council of Soviet Ministers Decree 'On the Creation of a Universal Space Missile Complex 11K77 'Zenit'--approval of work on the Zenit launcher' was issued. References: 474. 1976 March 16 - 17:22 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92M. Cosmos 808 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Payload: Tselina-D no. 9. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-D. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 363 km (225 mi). Apogee: 370 km (220 mi). Inclination: 81.20 deg. Period: 91.90 min. COSPAR: 1976-024A. USAF Sat Cat: 8754. Decay Date: 1993-11-20. References: 2, 6. 1976 March 17 - Complete premate MPTA test structure. Nation: USA. Program: STS. Complete premate MPTA test structure, Downey, and deliver to Palmdale References: 15. 1976 March 17 - 20:35 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Chemical release/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 18 - 00:28 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Chemical release/Plasma/Fields mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 18 - 08:08 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Chemical release/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 18 - 09:15 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 809 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 205 km (127 mi). Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1976-025A. USAF Sat Cat: 8758. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1976-03-30. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6. 1976 March 19 - 19:31 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Molniya 1-34 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-1T. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-1T. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 617 km (383 mi). Apogee: 39,722 km (24,682 mi). Inclination: 62.70 deg. Period: 717.40 min. COSPAR: 1976-026A. USAF Sat Cat: 8762. Decay Date: 1985-05-14. 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. 1976 March 22 - 06:43 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170A NASA 13.116UE. Auroral UV / particles Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 182 km (113 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 22 - 18:14 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 24B. LV Configuration: Titan 24B 24B-18 (3B-52). OPS 7600 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-8 no. 46 / Agena D. Mass: 3,000 kg (6,600 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-8. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 125 km (77 mi). Apogee: 347 km (215 mi). Inclination: 96.40 deg. Period: 89.30 min. COSPAR: 1976-027A. USAF Sat Cat: 8770. Decay Date: 1976-05-18. KH-8 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6. 1976 March 23 - 06:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 200A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 200A NASA 26.55GG. GSFC NGC 4151 Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 216 km (134 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 24 - 00:40 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure 2B. LV Configuration: Centaure 2B ISRO 5.30. ISRO 5.30 Ionosphere / fields mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 142 km (88 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 26 - 01:25 GMT - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Belier. Model: Centaure 2B. LV Configuration: Centaure 2B ISRO 5.31. ISRO 5.31 Ionosphere / fields mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 139 km (86 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 26 - 02:58 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.77UA. JHU Aurora 11 Aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 26 - 13:40 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike. Model: Nike Hydac. LV Configuration: Nike Hydac DNA IC607.11-2C. Auroral mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF/DNA. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 26 - 15:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Voskhod 11A57. Cosmos 810 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 181 km (112 mi). Apogee: 338 km (210 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 89.70 min. COSPAR: 1976-028A. USAF Sat Cat: 8772. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1976-04-08. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1976 March 26 - 21:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 200A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 200A NASA 26.17AS. Solar x-ray / ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 203 km (126 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 26 - 22:47 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 3914. LV Configuration: Delta 3914 610/D121. RCA Satcom 2 Nation: USA. Program: Satcom. Payload: Satcom 2. Mass: 463 kg (1,020 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: AS 1000. Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin. Agency: RCA Amer. Perigee: 36,016 km (22,379 mi). Apogee: 36,494 km (22,676 mi). Inclination: 8.60 deg. Period: 1,460.10 min. COSPAR: 1976-029A. USAF Sat Cat: 8774. Completed Operations Date: 1985-01-17. Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Americas at 119 deg W in 1976-1984 over the Pacific Ocean 139 deg W in 1984-1985 As of 5 September 2001 located at 72.03 deg W drifting at 5.939 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 9 located at 127.82W drifting at 5.942W degrees per day. References: 2, 6. 1976 March 27 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Athena RTV. LV Configuration: Athena SAMSO-38. ABRES Re-entry Vehicle test Nation: USA. Agency: USAF/Sandia. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 27 - 06:43 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.176GE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 230 km (140 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 27 - 12:50 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.194GE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 230 km (140 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 28 - 13:00 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.195GE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 230 km (140 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 29 - 16:00 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. 1976 March 30 - 12:30 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.177GE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 230 km (140 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 30 - 12:56 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike. Model: Nike Hydac. LV Configuration: Nike Hydac NSF. Barium release Aeronomy / Fields mission Nation: USA. Agency: NSF. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 30 - 16:50 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee. Model: Astrobee F. LV Configuration: Astrobee F NASA 25.13CS-NT. LPARL Solar Corona Solar x-ray / test Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 230 km (140 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 30 - 20:27 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aries. LV Configuration: Aries NASA 24.01IE. FAILURE: Failure. DLR K-AR-75 Porc. F1 Magnetospheric mission Nation: Germany. Agency: NASA/DLR. Apogee: 360 km (220 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 31 - 06:39 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC NASA 21.03UI. Ionosphere / aurora mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 231 km (143 mi). References: 2. 1976 March 31 - 12:50 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511M. Cosmos 811 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MT. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Apogee: 338 km (210 mi). Inclination: 72.90 deg. Period: 90.00 min. COSPAR: 1976-030A. USAF Sat Cat: 8781. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1976-04-12. Military topography satellite; returned film capsule; also performed mapping, geodesy, earth resources; deployed capsule. References: 2, 6. Previous Home Next Contact us with any corrections, additions, or comments. Conditions for use of drawings, pictures, or other materials from this site.. To contact astronauts or cosmonauts. © Mark Wade, 1997 - 2008 except where otherwise noted.