Chronology - Quarter 2 1977

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Previous Home Next 1977 April 1 - Lower forward fuselage on dock, Palmdale (STA-099) Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1977 April 5 - 02:05 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92M. Meteor 1-27 Nation: USSR. Payload: Meteor M no. 27. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: Meteor M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 844 km (524 mi). Apogee: 887 km (551 mi). Inclination: 81.30 deg. Period: 102.30 min. COSPAR: 1977-024A. USAF Sat Cat: 9903. Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. References: 2, 6. 1977 April 5 - 10:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC133/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 11K63. Cosmos 901 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-P1-I s/n 18. Mass: 400 kg (880 lb). Class: Military. Type: Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-I. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 269 km (167 mi). Apogee: 820 km (500 mi). Inclination: 71.00 deg. Period: 95.50 min. COSPAR: 1977-025A. USAF Sat Cat: 9905. Completed Operations Date: 1978-06-29. Decay Date: 1978-06-28. Operational radar target for the ABM forces. References: 2, 6, 99. 1977 April 6 - Vertical stabilizer on dock, Palmdale (STA-099) Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1977 April 6 - 01:55 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Ionosphere/Chemical release/Plasma/Fields mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 174 km (108 mi). References: 2. 1977 April 6 - 03:01 GMT - Launch Site: Kheysa. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Ionosphere mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 171 km (106 mi). References: 2. 1977 April 7 - 08:59 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 902 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 168 km (104 mi). Apogee: 279 km (173 mi). Inclination: 81.40 deg. Period: 89.00 min. COSPAR: 1977-026A. USAF Sat Cat: 9908. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1977-04-20. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1977 April 8 - 06:23 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.1013GA. Auroral extreme ultraviolet Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 157 km (97 mi). References: 2. 1977 April 11 - 01:38 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Cosmos 903 Nation: USSR. Payload: Oko #6. Mass: 1,250 kg (2,750 lb). Class: Early Warning. Spacecraft: Oko. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 4,559 km (2,832 mi). Apogee: 35,796 km (22,242 mi). Inclination: 67.40 deg. Period: 717.80 min. COSPAR: 1977-027A. USAF Sat Cat: 9911. Covered Oko constellation plane 7 - 163 degree longitude of ascending node. References: 2, 6, 100. 1977 April 11 - 05:00 GMT - Launch Site: Syowa Base. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: S-210. LV Configuration: S-210JA-26. NO / O3 / Ne Aeronomy mission Nation: Japan. Agency: NIPR. Apogee: 105 km (65 mi). References: 2. 1977 April 14 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: BLB. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: SSBS. Model: SSBS S3. LV Configuration: SSBS S3 V2. Test mission Nation: France. Agency: DMA. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1977 April 14 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC177. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100. Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1977 April 16 - 05:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC36. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC NASA 21.54UG. JHU FOT 1 Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 136 km (84 mi). References: 2. 1977 April 20 - 09:00 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 904 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 203 km (126 mi). Apogee: 328 km (203 mi). Inclination: 71.40 deg. Period: 89.80 min. COSPAR: 1977-028A. USAF Sat Cat: 9930. Duration: 14.00 days. Decay Date: 1977-05-04. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6. 1977 April 20 - 10:15 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 617/D130. ESA-Geos 1 Nation: Europe. Payload: ESA GEOS 1. Mass: 573 kg (1,263 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: ESA-Geos. Agency: ESA. Perigee: 2,939 km (1,826 mi). Apogee: 38,214 km (23,745 mi). Inclination: 26.60 deg. Period: 734.00 min. COSPAR: 1977-029A. USAF Sat Cat: 9931. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). References: 2, 6. 1977 April 21 - 17:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 GL A04.410-02. Solar ultraviolet / solar extreme ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF GL. Apogee: 237 km (147 mi). References: 2. 1977 April 26 - 14:45 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 905 Nation: USSR. Payload: Yantar-2K s/n 6. Mass: 6,600 kg (14,500 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Yantar-2K. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 170 km (100 mi). Apogee: 413 km (256 mi). Inclination: 67.10 deg. Period: 90.30 min. COSPAR: 1977-030A. USAF Sat Cat: 9937. Duration: 30.00 days. Decay Date: 1977-05-26. Sixth Yantar second generation reconnaissance test flight and first completely successful flight. Both small SpK film capsules successfully recovered during course of flight, as was the main OSA cabin with its camera, computer, and main film cannisters. First full duration Yantar flight. References: 2, 6, 69. 1977 April 27 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. Shuttle SSME Tests resumed Nation: USA. 25 tests will be run on two engines over the next year. References: 44. 1977 April 27 - 03:30 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: LC107/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53731-287. Cosmos 906 Nation: USSR. Mass: 550 kg (1,210 lb). Class: Calibration. Spacecraft: Taifun-2. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 464 km (288 mi). Apogee: 515 km (320 mi). Inclination: 50.60 deg. Period: 94.40 min. COSPAR: 1977-031A. USAF Sat Cat: 9938. Decay Date: 1980-03-23. Released 1 Romb radar calibration subsatellite. Possible partially failed spacecraft bus. References: 2, 6. 1977 April 28 - 09:10 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Molniya 3-07 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-3 s/n 19. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-3. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 2,169 km (1,347 mi). Apogee: 38,201 km (23,736 mi). Inclination: 63.50 deg. Period: 718.10 min. COSPAR: 1977-032A. USAF Sat Cat: 9941. 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. 1977 April 28 - 12:25 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 7 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 7 AC SL1115A. X-ray astronomy mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 244 km (151 mi). References: 2. 1977 April 29 - 14:09 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25C. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trident. Model: Trident C-4. LV Configuration: Trident C-4 C4X-6. Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1977 May - Council of Chief Designers reconsiders Yantar Soviet reconnsat designs Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Yantar-2K, Yantar-4K1, Yantar-4K2, Orlets-1, Orlets-2, Yantar-6K, Yantar-6KS, Yantar-4KS1. Flight trials of the Yantar-2K indicated the satellite was not capable of providing strategic warning of attack. The planned Yantar-6K series, in development since 1969, were overweight and behind schedule. A meeting of the Council of Chief Designers at TsSKB reviewed alternative approaches. It was decided that three variants of the Yantar-2K were to be developed, one of them the high resolution Yantar-4K. 1977 May 5 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. Shuttle ejection seat tests Nation: USA. Another test series is held at Holloman at speeds of zero to 725 kph in support of the impending ALT shuttle glide tests. References: 44. 1977 May 5 - 14:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 907 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 181 km (112 mi). Apogee: 364 km (226 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 89.90 min. COSPAR: 1977-033A. USAF Sat Cat: 9944. Duration: 11.00 days. Decay Date: 1977-05-16. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1977 May 12 - 14:26 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC40. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3C. LV Configuration: Titan IIIC 23C-14 (3C-32). DSCS II-07 Nation: USA. Program: DSCS. Payload: DSCS II F-7. Mass: 565 kg (1,245 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military. Spacecraft: DSCS II. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 36,759 km (22,840 mi). Apogee: 36,894 km (22,924 mi). Inclination: 15.80 deg. Period: 1,489.60 min. COSPAR: 1977-034A. USAF Sat Cat: 10000. Completed Operations Date: 1981-12-20. 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 12 deg W in 1977-1979; over the Atlantic Ocean 5 deg W in 1979; over the Pacific Ocean 140 deg E in 1980-1981 As of 28 August 2001 located at 152.07 deg W drifting at 12.959 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 10 located at 47.37W drifting at 12.959W degrees per day. References: 2, 6. DSCS II-08 Nation: USA. Program: DSCS. Payload: DSCS II F-8. Mass: 565 kg (1,245 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military. Spacecraft: DSCS II. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 37,061 km (23,028 mi). Apogee: 37,343 km (23,203 mi). Inclination: 15.50 deg. Period: 1,509.00 min. COSPAR: 1977-034B. USAF Sat Cat: 10001. Completed Operations Date: 1990-02-01. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Pacific Ocean at 175 deg E in 1977-1979 over the Atlantic Ocean 12 deg W in 1979-80 over the Pacific Ocean 175 deg E in 1980-1983 over the Pacific Ocean180 deg E in 1983-1986 over the Atlantic Ocean 1 deg W in 1986-1989 As of 3 September 2001 located at 143.55 deg W drifting at 17.451 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 9 located at 13.13E drifting at 17.445W degrees per day. References: 2, 6. 1977 May 17 - Cosmonaut Viktor Ivanovich Bukreyev dies at age of 28 -- Aircraft crash. Nation: USSR. 1977 May 17 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC109. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M. Missile accuracy test launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1977 May 17 - 10:10 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 908 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 174 km (108 mi). Apogee: 288 km (178 mi). Inclination: 51.80 deg. Period: 89.10 min. COSPAR: 1977-035A. USAF Sat Cat: 10007. Duration: 14.00 days. Decay Date: 1977-05-31. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1977 May 18 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF06. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. ABRES TDV-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1977 May 18 - 08:15 GMT - Launch Site: Kapani Tonneo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Otrag. LV Configuration: OTRAG 1 4x9m. Otrag Flight 1 Nation: Germany. Agency: OTRAG. Apogee: 15 km (9 mi). Four-module test vehicle, 6 m long. Propulsion test. Reached 20 km altitude. 100% successful. References: 2. 1977 May 18 - 13:43 GMT - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: RN. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike. Model: Nike Hydac. LV Configuration: Nike Hydac GL A11.712-1. ABRES Density / TDV-1 Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF GL. Apogee: 188 km (116 mi). References: 2. 1977 May 19 - 16:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53791-156. Cosmos 909 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: 985 km (612 mi). Apogee: 2,111 km (1,311 mi). Inclination: 65.90 deg. Period: 117.00 min. COSPAR: 1977-036A. USAF Sat Cat: 10010. Target for IS ASAT systems tests. References: 2, 6, 272. 1977 May 20 - Nose landing gear doors on dock, Palmdale(STA-099) Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1977 May 23 - 12:14 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC90/19. Launch Pad: LC90/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: Tsiklon-2. Cosmos 910 Nation: USSR. Mass: 1,400 kg (3,000 lb). Class: Military. Type: ASAT. Spacecraft: IS-A. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 149 km (92 mi). Apogee: 506 km (314 mi). Inclination: 65.10 deg. Period: 91.00 min. COSPAR: 1977-037A. USAF Sat Cat: 10014. Decay Date: 1977-05-23. ASAT interceptor. Failed to intercept Cosmos 909. Deorbited using on-board engine. References: 2, 6, 272. 1977 May 23 - 18:13 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC13. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3A Agena D. LV Configuration: SLV-3A Agena D 5507A / Agena D A 2807. Canyon 7 Nation: USA. Payload: Canyon Improved. Mass: 700 kg (1,540 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Canyon. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 35,679 km (22,169 mi). Apogee: 35,855 km (22,279 mi). Inclination: 0.20 deg. Period: 1,435.10 min. COSPAR: 1977-038A. USAF Sat Cat: 10016. References: 2, 6, 172, 278. 1977 May 25 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC173. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100. K? Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1977 May 25 - 07:25 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 200A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 200A NASA 26.61UH. X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 192 km (119 mi). References: 2. 1977 May 25 - 11:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53799-163. Cosmos 911 Nation: USSR. Mass: 700 kg (1,540 lb). Spacecraft: Sfera. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 965 km (599 mi). Apogee: 999 km (620 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 104.70 min. COSPAR: 1977-039A. USAF Sat Cat: 10019. Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. References: 2, 6. 1977 May 25 - 22:57 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-30 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1977 May 25 - 23:27 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-30 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1977 May 25 - 23:27 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-30 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1977 May 26 - Aft payload bay doors on dock, Palmdale (STA-099) Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1977 May 26 - 07:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 912 Nation: USSR. Program: Resurs. Payload: Zenit-4MKT no. 4. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKT. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 217 km (134 mi). Apogee: 225 km (139 mi). Inclination: 81.30 deg. Period: 88.90 min. COSPAR: 1977-040A. USAF Sat Cat: 10021. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1977-06-08. 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. 1977 May 26 - 21:47 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC36A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3D Centaur. LV Configuration: SLV-3D Centaur AC-39 / Centaur D-1AR 5019. Intelsat 4A F-4 Nation: International. Program: Intelsat. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Intelsat 4A. Agency: Intelsat. Perigee: 35,969 km (22,350 mi). Apogee: 36,075 km (22,415 mi). Inclination: 7.80 deg. Period: 1,448.20 min. COSPAR: 1977-041A. USAF Sat Cat: 10024. Completed Operations Date: 1989-08-10. 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 34.5 deg W in 1977-1983 over the Atlantic Ocean 21.5 deg W in 1983-1989 As of 28 August 2001 located at 153.30 deg E drifting at 2.976 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 10 located at 121.69W drifting at 3.003W degrees per day. References: 2, 6, 278. 1977 May 27 - Complete systems installation MPTA-098 Nation: USA. Program: STS. Complete systems installation/final acceptance, MPTA-098, transport from Downey to Seal Beach References: 15. 1977 May 28 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC105. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M. Missile accuracy test launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1977 May 28 - 08:10 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF26. Launch Pad: LF26?. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. FOT GT58GB Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1977 May 30 - 22:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53749-161. Cosmos 913 Nation: USSR. Mass: 550 kg (1,210 lb). Class: Calibration. Spacecraft: Taifun-2. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 474 km (294 mi). Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 94.50 min. COSPAR: 1977-042A. USAF Sat Cat: 10028. Decay Date: 1979-12-29. Released 21 Romb radar calibration subsatellites. References: 2, 6. 1977 May 31 - Body flap on dock, Palmdale (STA-099) Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1977 May 31 - SRB 1/4-scale model, burnout and maximum q config Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1977 May 31 - Body flap on dock, Palmdale (STA-099) Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1977 May 31 - 07:30 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 914 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 202 km (125 mi). Apogee: 284 km (176 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.40 min. COSPAR: 1977-043A. USAF Sat Cat: 10030. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1977-06-13. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; separated science capsule. References: 2, 6. Nauka Cosmos 914 Nation: USSR. Payload: Nauka. Spacecraft: Nauka. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 200 km (120 mi). Apogee: 291 km (180 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.41 min. COSPAR: 1977-043E. USAF Sat Cat: 10046. Decay Date: 1977-07-02. References: 2, 279. 1977 June 1 - 21:46 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-31 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1977 June 1 - 21:47 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-31 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1977 June 2 - 07:10 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF09. Launch Pad: LF09?. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. OT GT34GM-1 operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1977 June 3 - Ship MPTA-098 from Seal Beach, Calif., to NSTL Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1977 June 3 - Cosmonaut Aleksandr Ivanovich Lysenko dies at age of 32 -- Aircraft crash. Nation: USSR. 1977 June 5 - 02:59 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC10W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor DSV-2U. LV Configuration: Thor DSV-2U 183. AMS 2 Nation: USA. Program: DMSP. Payload: DMSP 5D S-2/Star 37S S/N 15003. Mass: 450 kg (990 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5D. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 788 km (489 mi). Apogee: 849 km (527 mi). Inclination: 99.00 deg. Period: 101.30 min. COSPAR: 1977-044A. USAF Sat Cat: 10033. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. References: 2, 6. 1977 June 6 - 22:34 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Javelin. LV Configuration: HJ Javelin TE720.93-1. Ballistics test Nation: USA. Agency: DNA?. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). References: 2. 1977 June 7 - Complete integrated checkout of Enterprise Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Complete integrated checkout and hot-fire ground test, Edwards, Enterprise (OV-101) References: 15. 1977 June 8 - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 3 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 3 AC SL1298. Ionosphere mission? Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 210 km (130 mi). References: 2. 1977 June 8 - 14:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 915 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 173 km (107 mi). Apogee: 289 km (179 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 89.10 min. COSPAR: 1977-045A. USAF Sat Cat: 10038. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1977-06-21. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1977 June 9 - 05:40 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 8C. LV Configuration: Black Brant 8C NASA 27.08UH. SAO XR X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 205 km (127 mi). References: 2. 1977 June 10 - 03:06 GMT - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC DLR H-BBV-84. Heatpipe 2 Technology mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DFVLR. Apogee: 322 km (200 mi). References: 2. 1977 June 10 - 08:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 916 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MT. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 255 km (158 mi). Apogee: 304 km (188 mi). Inclination: 62.70 deg. Period: 90.10 min. COSPAR: 1977-046A. USAF Sat Cat: 10040. Duration: 11.00 days. Decay Date: 1977-06-21. Military topography satellite; returned film capsule; also performed mapping, geodesy, earth resources; deployed capsule. References: 2, 6. 1977 June 15 - Wernher von Braun dies in Alexandria, Virginia, of cancer. Nation: USA. 1977 June 15 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. Shuttle SRB Drop test Nation: USA. An unloaded shuttle solid rocket motor is dropped from an NB-52 in a test of the parachute recovery system. References: 44. 1977 June 16 - 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. 1977 June 16 - 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. 1977 June 16 - 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. 1977 June 16 - 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. 1977 June 16 - 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. 1977 June 16 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF21. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. LV Configuration: Minuteman 3 STM-14W. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1977 June 16 - 01:58 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Cosmos 917 Nation: USSR. Payload: Oko #7. Mass: 1,250 kg (2,750 lb). Class: Early Warning. Spacecraft: Oko. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 4,196 km (2,607 mi). Apogee: 36,143 km (22,458 mi). Inclination: 67.60 deg. Period: 717.50 min. COSPAR: 1977-047A. USAF Sat Cat: 10059. Covered Oko constellation plane 9 - 245 degree longitude of ascending node. References: 2, 6, 100. 1977 June 16 - 10:51 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 616/D131. GOES 2 Nation: USA. Payload: GOES B. Mass: 627 kg (1,382 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: GOES. Agency: NOAA. Perigee: 35,985 km (22,360 mi). Apogee: 36,080 km (22,410 mi). Inclination: 14.10 deg. Period: 1,448.70 min. COSPAR: 1977-048A. USAF Sat Cat: 10061. 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 75 deg W in 1977-1978 over the Americas at 100-110 deg W in 1979-1984 over the Americas at 112-114 deg W in 1984-1990 over the Atlantic Ocean 60 deg W in 1990-1992 over the Pacific Ocean 135 deg W in 1992-1995; over the Pacific Ocean 177 deg W in 1995-on. As of 4 September 2001 located at 147.59 deg W drifting at 3.154 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 8 located at 1.58W drifting at 3.141W degrees per day. References: 2, 6. 1977 June 17 - 03:30 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: LC107/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 47182-422. Signe 3 Nation: France. Program: Intercosmos. Mass: 102 kg (224 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: Signe. Agency: CNES. Perigee: 449 km (278 mi). Apogee: 522 km (324 mi). Inclination: 50.70 deg. Period: 94.30 min. COSPAR: 1977-049A. USAF Sat Cat: 10064. Decay Date: 1979-06-20. This marked the first time the Kapustin Yar cosmodrome was opened to capitalist countries. 20 French specialists worked on the satellite. References: 2, 6. 1977 June 17 - 07:23 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC90/19. Launch Pad: LC90/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: Tsiklon-2. Cosmos 918 Nation: USSR. Mass: 1,400 kg (3,000 lb). Class: Military. Type: ASAT. Spacecraft: IS-A. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 125 km (77 mi). Apogee: 197 km (122 mi). Inclination: 65.10 deg. Period: 87.70 min. COSPAR: 1977-050A. USAF Sat Cat: 10065. Decay Date: 1977-06-18. ASAT interceptor. Failed to intercept Cosmos 909. Deorbited using on-board engine. References: 2, 6, 272. 1977 June 18 - Launch Site: Edwards. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. Enterprise flight 1 Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Crew: Fullerton, Haise. First manned captive active flight. Enterprise (OV-101)/shuttle carrier aircraft, Edwards (55 minutes, 46 seconds) References: 15. 1977 June 18 - 10:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC133/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 2. Model: Kosmos 11K63. Cosmos 919 Nation: USSR. Program: DS. Payload: DS-P1-I s/n 19. Mass: 400 kg (880 lb). Class: Military. Type: Target. Spacecraft: DS-P1-I. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 269 km (167 mi). Apogee: 822 km (510 mi). Inclination: 71.00 deg. Period: 95.60 min. COSPAR: 1977-051A. USAF Sat Cat: 10070. Completed Operations Date: 1978-05-16. Decay Date: 1978-08-28. Operational radar target for the ABM forces. References: 2, 6, 99. 1977 June 21 - 16:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC36. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC NASA 21.45NP. SPAR 4 Microgravity mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 179 km (111 mi). References: 2. 1977 June 22 - 08:00 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 920 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MK. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 173 km (107 mi). Apogee: 342 km (212 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.70 min. COSPAR: 1977-052A. USAF Sat Cat: 10086. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1977-07-05. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1977 June 23 - Deliver first SSME to NSTL (MPTA-098) Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1977 June 23 - 09:16 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 65F / SGS-1. NTS 2 Nation: USA. Program: Navstar. Mass: 431 kg (950 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Navigation. Spacecraft: NTS. Agency: USAF/USN. Perigee: 20,115 km (12,498 mi). Apogee: 20,256 km (12,586 mi). Inclination: 63.90 deg. Period: 718.10 min. COSPAR: 1977-053A. USAF Sat Cat: 10091. Navigation Technical Satellite; GPS precursor. Operated 50% satisfactorily -- still operating 25 years later. References: 2, 6, 278. 1977 June 24 - Deliver MPTA-098 to NSTL Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1977 June 24 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. Shuttle MPTA shipped to National Space Technology Laboratories Nation: USA. The test article of the shuttle orbiter's aft structure is mated to External Tank MPTA-ET (ET number one) and three prototype SSME engines. References: 44. 1977 June 24 - 05:41 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Molniya 1-37 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-1T. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-1T. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 106 km (65 mi). Apogee: 4,564 km (2,835 mi). Inclination: 62.60 deg. Period: 134.90 min. COSPAR: 1977-054A. USAF Sat Cat: 10092. Decay Date: 1993-05-20. Operation of a system of long range telephone-telegraph radiocommunication, and transmission of USSR Central Television programmes to the stations of the Orbita network. References: 2, 6. 1977 June 24 - 10:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC32/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: Tsiklon-3. LV Configuration: Tsiklon-3 No. 2L. Cosmos 921 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Payload: Tselina-D Mass model. Mass: 5,000 kg (11,000 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-D. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 587 km (364 mi). Apogee: 651 km (404 mi). Inclination: 75.80 deg. Period: 97.10 min. COSPAR: 1977-055A. USAF Sat Cat: 10095. Launch vehicle test. Dummy payload. Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. References: 2, 6. 1977 June 26 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Final launch of an Atlas/Agena booster/upper stage Nation: USA. Final launch of an Atlas/Agena booster/upper stage combination from Vandenberg AFB (first launch on 11 October 1 960). References: 88. 1977 June 27 - 11:00 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25C. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trident. Model: Trident C-4. LV Configuration: Trident C-4 C4X-8. Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1977 June 27 - 11:48 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P196H. Atomic oxygen Atmospheric mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 129 km (80 mi). References: 2. 1977 June 27 - 12:06 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P190H. O2 / ne Atmospheric mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 124 km (77 mi). References: 2. 1977 June 27 - 18:30 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3D. LV Configuration: Titan IIID 23D-17. KH-9 no. 13 Nation: USA. Mass: 13,300 kg (29,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-9. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 155 km (96 mi). Apogee: 239 km (148 mi). Inclination: 97.00 deg. Period: 88.50 min. COSPAR: 1977-056A. USAF Sat Cat: 10111. Decay Date: 1977-12-23. KH-9 type satellite. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 2, 6. 1977 June 28 - Launch Site: Edwards. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. Enterprise flight 2 Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Crew: Engle, Truly. Second manned captive active flight. Enterprise (OV-101)/shuttle carrier aircraft, Edwards (1 hour, 2 minutes) References: 15. 1977 June 28 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF04. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2. FOT GT134M Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1977 June 29 - 18:34 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC31. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92M. Meteor 1-28 Nation: USSR. Payload: Meteor-Priroda s/n 2-2. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: Meteor-Priroda. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 332 km (206 mi). Apogee: 338 km (210 mi). Inclination: 97.40 deg. Period: 91.20 min. COSPAR: 1977-057A. USAF Sat Cat: 10113. Decay Date: 1993-08-28. Continuation of experimental work in studying the natural resources of the earth. Acquisition of meteorological information required for use in the operational weather service. References: 2, 6. 1977 June 30 - Originally planned full up Spiral flight Nation: USSR. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: MiG 105-11. Original planned date for flight test of Spiral with airbreathing hypersonic first stage. References: 83. 1977 June 30 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: BLB. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: SSBS. Model: SSBS S3. LV Configuration: SSBS S3 V3. Test mission Nation: France. Agency: DMA. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1977 June 30 - 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. 1977 June 30 - 14:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 922 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 221 km (137 mi). Apogee: 283 km (175 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 89.50 min. COSPAR: 1977-058A. USAF Sat Cat: 10115. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1977-07-13. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film 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.