Chronology - Quarter 1 1978 home
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1978 January 1 -
  • Kovunenko succeds Babkin as OKB head Nation: USSR. Class: Manned. VM Kovunenko succeds Babkin as head of former Lavochkin design bureau. References: 70.
1978 January 1 - Launch Vehicle: Energia, RLA.
  • Vulkan Lunar Base rejected Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: LZhM, LZM, Lunokhod LEK, LEK. An expert commission led by Keldysh examines the plan for a lunar base launched by the Vulkan booster. The plan is completely rejected. NPO Energia was told to quit dreaming and devote itself only to projects with national economic importance, like Buran. This put a definitive end to Glushko's lunar base projects studied in 1976-1978. But he just waited and started design work again on a lunar base using the Energia launch vehicle after the first Buran launch in 1988. References: 367.
1978 January 1 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100N. Model: UR-100N.
  • Operational missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1978 January 1 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: UR-100N. Model: UR-100N.
  • Operational missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1978 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M. Model: R-36MU 15A18.
  • SLI Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1978 - During the year -
  • Manned Almaz program terminated Nation: USSR. Program: Almaz. Class: Manned. Type: Space station. Spacecraft: Almaz OPS-2, TKS. Almaz station portion of the project already severely cut back after Marshal Grechko's heart attack in early 1976. Chelomei lost his most active patron and was unable to withstand the slow strangulation of his projects by Ustinov and Glushko. Almaz finally completely scrapped in 1980, but Chelomei hid the completed space stations in a corner of his complex, labelling them as 'radioactive material'. Chelomei finally forced to retire in October 1983. TKS shuttle craft used to dock with Salyut stations but never in manned mode. Following Ustinov's death, Almaz stations finally flown as unmanned radarsats, but Chelomei did not live to see this. References: 76.
1978 - During the year - Launch Vehicle: Energia.
  • Work begins on conversion of 3M bomber to 3M-T Energia/Buran transport. Nation: USSR. Program: Buran. Spacecraft: Buran. 3M bomber was selected to carry piggy-back Energia core stage components and Buran orbiters.
1978 January -
  • Landsat 1 removed from service. Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Landsat 1-2-3. Landsat 1 was finally removed from service in January 1978 due to tape recorder faults. It had returned over 300,000 images.
1978 January 5 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.533UE.
  • Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 197 km (122 mi). References: 2.
1978 January 6 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF21. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. LV Configuration: Minuteman 3 STM-15W.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1978 January 6 - 15:50 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 974 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKM. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 178 km (110 mi). Apogee: 334 km (207 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1978-001A. USAF Sat Cat: 10554. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-01-19. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1978 January 7 - 00:15 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC36B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3D Centaur. LV Configuration: SLV-3D Centaur AC-46 / Centaur-D1AR AC-46.
  • Intelsat 4A F-3 Nation: International. Program: Intelsat. Mass: 1,511 kg (3,331 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Intelsat 4A. Agency: Intelsat. Perigee: 35,874 km (22,291 mi). Apogee: 35,909 km (22,312 mi). Inclination: 7.20 deg. Period: 1,441.50 min. COSPAR: 1978-002A. USAF Sat Cat: 10557. Completed Operations Date: 1988-11-16. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). Launch vehicle put payload into geosynchronous transfer orbit Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Indian Ocean at 60 deg E in 1978-1982 over the Pacific Ocean 179 deg E in 1982-1986 over the Pacific Ocean 177 deg E in 1986-1988 As of 2 September 2001 located at 156.51 deg W drifting at 1.304 deg W per day. As of 2007 Feb 27 located at 107.90E drifting at 1.326W degrees per day. References: 2, 6, 278.
1978 January 9 - 20:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee. Model: Astrobee F. LV Configuration: Astrobee F NASA 25.29GA.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 262 km (162 mi). References: 2.
1978 January 10 -
  • Vertical stabilizer on dock, Palmdale, Columbia Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Columbia. References: 15.
1978 January 10 - 06:15 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee. Model: Astrobee F. LV Configuration: Astrobee F NASA 25.12UH.
  • X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 196 km (121 mi). References: 2.
1978 January 10 - 12:26 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Soyuz 27 Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut 6. Payload: Soyuz 7K-T s/n 44. Mass: 6,800 kg (14,900 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-T. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 190 km (110 mi). Apogee: 237 km (147 mi). Inclination: 51.70 deg. Period: 88.70 min. COSPAR: 1978-003A. USAF Sat Cat: 10560. Duration: 64.95 days. Decay Date: 1978-03-16. Crew: Dzhanibekov, Makarov. Flight: Salyut 6 EP-1, Salyut 6 EO-1. Manned two crew. Carried Oleg Makarov, Vladimir Dzhanibekov to Salyut 6; returned crew of Soyuz 26 to Earth. Docked with Salyut 6. References: 2, 6, 32, 33.
1978 January 10 - 13:23 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Cosmos 975 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Payload: Tselina-D no. 14. Mass: 4,000 kg (8,800 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-D. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 513 km (318 mi). Apogee: 522 km (324 mi). Inclination: 81.20 deg. Period: 95.00 min. COSPAR: 1978-004A. USAF Sat Cat: 10561. Decay Date: 2001-09-19. References: 2, 6.
1978 January 10 - 20:51 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53716-319.
  • Cosmos 976 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 137. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,455 km (904 mi). Apogee: 1,464 km (909 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.10 min. COSPAR: 1978-005A. USAF Sat Cat: 10581. Eight satellites launched by a single carrier rocket. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 977 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 138. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,400 km (800 mi). Apogee: 1,464 km (909 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.50 min. COSPAR: 1978-005B. USAF Sat Cat: 10584. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 978 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 139. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,419 km (881 mi). Apogee: 1,464 km (909 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.70 min. COSPAR: 1978-005C. USAF Sat Cat: 10585. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 979 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 140. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,437 km (892 mi). Apogee: 1,464 km (909 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.90 min. COSPAR: 1978-005D. USAF Sat Cat: 10586. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 980 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 141. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,462 km (908 mi). Apogee: 1,477 km (917 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.30 min. COSPAR: 1978-005E. USAF Sat Cat: 10587. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 981 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 142. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,463 km (909 mi). Apogee: 1,496 km (929 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.50 min. COSPAR: 1978-005F. USAF Sat Cat: 10588. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 982 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 143. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,463 km (909 mi). Apogee: 1,516 km (941 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.80 min. COSPAR: 1978-005G. USAF Sat Cat: 10589. References: 2, 6.
  • Cosmos 983 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 144. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,464 km (909 mi). Apogee: 1,538 km (955 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 116.00 min. COSPAR: 1978-005H. USAF Sat Cat: 10590. References: 2, 6.
1978 January 11 - 23:55 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12.
  • STERETOP Active Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2.
1978 January 13 - 15:15 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 984 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Apogee: 291 km (180 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 89.50 min. COSPAR: 1978-006A. USAF Sat Cat: 10592. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-01-26. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6.
1978 January 16 -
  • NASA Astronaut Training Group 8 selected. Nation: USA. The group was selected to provide pilot, engineer, and scientist astronauts for space shuttle flights. Recruit women and minorities to introduce diversity into the astronaut corps. Qualifications: Pilots: Bachelor's degree in engineering, biological science, physical science or mathematics. Advanced degree desirable. At least 1,000 flight-hours of pilot-in-command time. Flight test experience desirable. Excellent health. Vision minimum 20/50 uncorrected, correctable to 20/20 vision; maximum sitting blood pressure 140/90. Height between 163 and 193 cm.

    Mission Specialists: Bachelor's degree in engineering, biological science, physical science or mathematics and minimum three years of related experience or an advanced degree. Vision minimum 20/150 uncorrected, correctable to 20/20. Maximum sitting blood pressure of 140/90. Height between 150 and 193 cm.. 8,079 applicants, of which half met the basic qualifications. 208 invited for physical tests and interviews. Of the 35 selected, six were women, three were male African-Americans, and one was a male Asian-American.

1978 January 16 - 01:30 GMT - Launch Site: Tanegashima. Launch Complex: T. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: TT-500. LV Configuration: TT-500 TT-500-3F.
  • Test mission Nation: Japan. Agency: NASDA. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). References: 2.
1978 January 16 - 1978 January 17 - 03:26 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53716-327.
  • Cosmos 985 Nation: USSR. Mass: 810 kg (1,780 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Parus. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 938 km (582 mi). Apogee: 1,015 km (630 mi). Inclination: 82.90 deg. Period: 104.60 min. COSPAR: 1978-007A. USAF Sat Cat: 10599. Military navigation satellite. References: 2, 6.
1978 January 17 - 20:21 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25C. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trident. Model: Trident C-4. LV Configuration: Trident C-4 C4X-13.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1978 January 18 -
  • Second SRB firing, Thiokol Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15.
1978 January 18 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle.
  • DM-2 Shuttle SRB development static firing Nation: USA. The second firing of a shuttle Solid Rocket Booster motor. References: 44.
1978 January 20 - 08:24 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC31. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Progress 1 Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut 6. Payload: Progress s/n 102. Mass: 7,020 kg (15,470 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Logistics. Spacecraft: Progress. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 173 km (107 mi). Apogee: 256 km (159 mi). Inclination: 51.60 deg. Period: 88.70 min. COSPAR: 1978-008A. USAF Sat Cat: 10603. Duration: 18.73 days. Completed Operations Date: 1978-02-08 02:00:20 PM. Decay Date: 1978-02-08 02:00:20 PM. Flight: Salyut 6 EO-1. Unmanned supply vessel to Salyut 6. Delivery of fuel, consumable materials and equipment to the Salyut 6 station. Docked with Salyut 6 on 22 Jan 1978 10:12:14 GMT. Undocked on 6 Feb 1978 05:54:00 GMT. Destroyed in reentry on 8 Feb 1978 02:00:00 GMT. Total free-flight time 3.91 days. Total docked time 14.82 days. References: 2, 6, 275.
1978 January 21 - 09:01 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee. Model: Astrobee F. LV Configuration: Astrobee F GL A31.603.
  • CHARGING Technology mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF GL. Apogee: 258 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1978 January 22 - 02:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 9M. LV Configuration: Kappa 9M K-9M-62.
  • Ionosphere / fields / solar mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 369 km (229 mi). References: 2.
1978 January 24 - 06:51 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M.
  • Molniya 3-09 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-3 s/n 20. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-3. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 85 km (52 mi). Apogee: 36,195 km (22,490 mi). Inclination: 63.30 deg. Period: 636.80 min. COSPAR: 1978-009A. USAF Sat Cat: 10605. Decay Date: 1990-04-24. Continued operation of the long-range telephone and telegraph radio-communication system within the Soviet Union and transmission of USSR central television programmes to stations in the Orbita and participating international networks (international cooperation scheme). References: 2, 6.
1978 January 24 - 09:50 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 986 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKM. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 172 km (106 mi). Apogee: 318 km (197 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.40 min. COSPAR: 1978-010A. USAF Sat Cat: 10607. Duration: 14.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-02-07. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1978 January 26 - 04:58 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2C. LV Configuration: Chang Zheng 2C CZ2C-3 (6).
  • FSW-0 No. 3 Nation: China. Payload: FSW-0 No. 03. Mass: 2,500 kg (5,500 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: FSW. Agency: MAI. Perigee: 186 km (115 mi). Apogee: 507 km (315 mi). Inclination: 57.00 deg. Period: 91.40 min. COSPAR: 1978-011A. USAF Sat Cat: 10611. Duration: 5.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-02-07. Photo surveillance; film capsule; capsule returned January 30. Second fully successful FSW mission. References: 2, 6.
1978 January 26 - 17:36 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 628/D138.
  • IUE 1 Nation: USA. Payload: IUE. Mass: 672 kg (1,481 lb). Class: Astronomy. Spacecraft: IUE. Agency: NASA/ESA. Perigee: 30,285 km (18,818 mi). Apogee: 41,296 km (25,660 mi). Inclination: 34.30 deg. Period: 1,436.30 min. COSPAR: 1978-012A. USAF Sat Cat: 10637. Completed Operations Date: 1996-09-30. International Ultraviolet Explorer. 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 30 deg W in-60 deg W in 1978-1996 As of 3 September 2001 located at 35.66 deg E drifting at 0.773 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 8 located at 14.14W drifting at 0.700W degrees per day. References: 2, 6.
1978 January 27 - 11:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 9M. LV Configuration: Kappa 9M K-9M-61.
  • Aeronomy / ionosphere / plasma mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 292 km (181 mi). References: 2.
1978 January 28 - 20:20 GMT - Launch Site: Syowa Base. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: S-210. LV Configuration: S-210JA-30.
  • Aurora mission Nation: Japan. Agency: NIPR. Apogee: 125 km (77 mi). References: 2.
1978 January 30 - 20:52 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.211IE/UE.
  • Auroral mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 220 km (130 mi). References: 2.
1978 January 30 - 21:37 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 12. LV Configuration: Skylark 12 DLR A-GRC-86.
  • T / NL 4C Gitti Aurora mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DFVLR. Apogee: 540 km (330 mi). References: 2.
1978 January 30 - 22:10 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 12. LV Configuration: Skylark 12 DLR A-GRC-88.
  • T / NL 2D Susanne Aurora mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DFVLR. Apogee: 541 km (336 mi). References: 2.
1978 January 31 - 14:50 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 987 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKM. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 189 km (117 mi). Apogee: 322 km (200 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1978-013A. USAF Sat Cat: 10639. Duration: 14.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-02-14. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1978 January 31 - 18:35 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 8C. LV Configuration: Black Brant 8C NASA 27.29CS.
  • Solar mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 273 km (169 mi). References: 2.
1978 February - Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: CZ-2 Spaceplane Launcher.
  • First public announcement of a Chinese manned program Nation: China. Spacecraft: Chinese Manned Capsule 1978. First public announcement of a Chinese manned program came in February, 1978. By November the head of the Chinese Space Agency, Jen Hsin-Min, confirmed that China was working on a manned space capsule and a 'Skylab' space station.
1978 February 2 - 08:54 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Terrier. Model: Terrier Malemute. LV Configuration: Terrier Malemute NASA 29.08UE.
  • Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 616 km (382 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 2 - 13:04 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P199H.
  • Atomic oxygen Atmospheric mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 2 - 13:33 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P203H.
  • Ion composition Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 112 km (69 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 2 - 13:56 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P112H.
  • Solar La Ionosphere / solar ultraviolet mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 135 km (83 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 4 - 07:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: M. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Mu. Model: Mu-3H. LV Configuration: Mu-3H M-3H-2.
  • SS-05 Kyokko Nation: Japan. Payload: Exos A. Mass: 103 kg (227 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere. Spacecraft: EXOS. Agency: ISAS. Perigee: 639 km (397 mi). Apogee: 3,952 km (2,455 mi). Inclination: 65.40 deg. Period: 134.00 min. COSPAR: 1978-014A. USAF Sat Cat: 10664. Auroral studies. Active life - two years. Function: 1) Observation of wide angle global auroral pictures using UV television camera. 2) Spectrophotometry of ultraviolet air glow. 3) Observation of the energy spectrum of photoelectrons and auroral electrons. 4) Mass spect rometry of the ionized atmospheric species in the thermosphere. 5) Measurements of density and temperature of ambient electrons in the thermosphere. 6) Observation of electromagnetic and plasma waves and the emission associated with auroral phenomena. References: 2, 6.
1978 February 6 - 00:20 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P200H.
  • Ultraviolet airglow Atmospheric mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 136 km (84 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 6 - 01:00 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P202H.
  • La / ne Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 125 km (77 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 6 - 18:55 GMT - Launch Site: Syowa Base. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: S-210. LV Configuration: S-210JA-31.
  • Aurora mission Nation: Japan. Agency: NIPR. Apogee: 116 km (72 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 7 - 00:30 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P204H.
  • Ion composition Ionosphere mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 108 km (67 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 7 - 01:01 GMT - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P198H.
  • Atomic oxygen Atmospheric mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 139 km (86 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 8 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF26. Launch Pad: LF26?. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3.
  • FOT GT62GB Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 8 - 12:15 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 988 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MT. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 201 km (124 mi). Apogee: 335 km (208 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 89.90 min. COSPAR: 1978-015A. USAF Sat Cat: 10666. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-02-20. Military topography satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable; also performed mapping, geodesy, earth resources tasks. References: 2, 6.
1978 February 9 - 21:17 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC36A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3D Centaur. LV Configuration: SLV-3D Centaur AC-44 / Centaur D-1AR 5024.
  • Fltsatcom 1 Nation: USA. Mass: 1,884 kg (4,153 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Fltsatcom. Agency: USN. Perigee: 36,119 km (22,443 mi). Apogee: 36,170 km (22,470 mi). Inclination: 14.60 deg. Period: 1,454.40 min. COSPAR: 1978-016A. USAF Sat Cat: 10669. Fleet Satellite Communications. 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 Americas at 100 deg W in 1978-1987; over the Pacific Ocean 177 deg W in 1987-1992; over the Atlantic Ocean 15 deg W in 1992-1996;over the Indian Ocean 72 deg E in 1996-2001. Last known longitude (26 July 1999) 71.17 deg E drifting at 0.004 deg W per day. References: 2, 6, 278.
1978 February 10 -
  • Complete final assembly, STA-099, Palmdale Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Challenger. References: 15.
1978 February 10 - 05:30 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC36. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5B. LV Configuration: Black Brant VB NASA 21.56UG.
  • JHU FOT 2 Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 238 km (147 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 11 - 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.
1978 February 13 - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel MOP4.
  • Ozone Atmospheric mission Nation: UK. Agency: UK MO. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 13 - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel MOP2.
  • Ozone Atmospheric mission Nation: UK. Agency: UK MO. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 13 - 17:15 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC36. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC NASA 21.42DS.
  • HRTS 2 Solar ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 210 km (130 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 14 -
  • STA-099 on dock, Lockheed facility, Palmdale Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Challenger. References: 15.
1978 February 14 - 09:30 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 989 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKM. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 169 km (105 mi). Apogee: 318 km (197 mi). Inclination: 65.10 deg. Period: 89.40 min. COSPAR: 1978-017A. USAF Sat Cat: 10672. Duration: 14.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-02-28. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1978 February 15 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF08. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3.
  • FOT GT61GM Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 15 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC140/18. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M.
  • Missile accuracy test launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 16 - 04:00 GMT - Launch Site: Tanegashima. Launch Complex: N. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: N-1. LV Configuration: N-1 N-4(F).
  • ISS 2 Nation: Japan. Payload: ISS b. Mass: 140 kg (300 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere. Spacecraft: JISS. Agency: NASDA. Perigee: 973 km (604 mi). Apogee: 1,216 km (755 mi). Inclination: 69.40 deg. Period: 107.20 min. COSPAR: 1978-018A. USAF Sat Cat: 10674. Ionospheric sounding. Ionosphere Sounding Satellite-b . Launch time 0400 UT. Launch vehicle: N number 4. Spin-stabilized; Ionospheric Sounder, Radio Noise Receiver, Plasma Measuring Equipment, Ion Mass Spectrometer, and so on. The satellite is intended for regular observation of global distribution of critical frequencies of the ionosphere by means of radio waves. Weight about 141 kg. Shape: cylindrical, 3.9m diameter and 0.8m height. Expected life: probability of survival in 1.5 years is more than 70 percent. References: 2, 6.
1978 February 17 -
  • Crew module on dock, Palmdale, Columbia (OV-102) Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Columbia. References: 15.
1978 February 17 - 16:33 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53746-312.
  • Cosmos 990 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Mass: 750 kg (1,650 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-2M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 764 km (474 mi). Apogee: 791 km (491 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 100.40 min. COSPAR: 1978-019A. USAF Sat Cat: 10676. References: 2, 6.
1978 February 17 - 21:30 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25C. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trident. Model: Trident C-4. LV Configuration: Trident C-4 C4X-14.
  • Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 22 - 23:44 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F/SVS. LV Configuration: Atlas F/SVS 64F.
  • Navstar 1 Nation: USA. Program: Navstar. Payload: GPS SVN 1. Mass: 759 kg (1,673 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: GPS Block 1. Manufacturer: Boeing North American, Seal Beach (formerly Rockwell). Agency: USAF. Perigee: 20,249 km (12,582 mi). Apogee: 20,560 km (12,770 mi). Inclination: 64.50 deg. Period: 727.00 min. COSPAR: 1978-020A. USAF Sat Cat: 10684. Also known as Navigational Development Satellite 1. Technology prototype of Navstar satellite. References: 2, 6, 278.
1978 February 24 -
  • Body flap on dock, Palmdale, Columbia (OV-102) Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Columbia. References: 15.
1978 February 25 - 05:00 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 34B. LV Configuration: Titan 34B 34B-2 (3B-49) / Ascent Agena D.
  • Jumpseat 5 Nation: USA. Mass: 700 kg (1,540 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Jumpseat. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 311 km (193 mi). Apogee: 39,377 km (24,467 mi). Inclination: 63.20 deg. Period: 703.70 min. COSPAR: 1978-021A. USAF Sat Cat: 10688. References: 2, 6.
1978 February 26 - 11:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 9M. LV Configuration: Kappa 9M K-9M-60.
  • Ultraviolet astronomy / extreme ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 340 km (210 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 27 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC177. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100.
  • Operational missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 27 - 05:30 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 4B. LV Configuration: Black Brant IVB AAF-4B-35.
  • Aurora / ionosphere mission Aurora / ionosphere mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 785 km (487 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 27 - 05:43 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.1017UE.
  • Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 28 - 04:17 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.1015UE.
  • Aeronomy / Barium release mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 28 - 06:43 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53716-323.
  • Cosmos 991 Nation: USSR. Mass: 810 kg (1,780 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Parus. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 952 km (591 mi). Apogee: 1,004 km (623 mi). Inclination: 83.00 deg. Period: 104.70 min. COSPAR: 1978-022A. USAF Sat Cat: 10692. Military navigation satellite. References: 2, 6.
1978 February 28 - 08:10 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Sergeant. Model: Sergeant Hydac. LV Configuration: Sergeant Hydac DNA IC819.08-1.
  • MULTI-WIDEBAND Infrared technology mission Nation: USA. Agency: DNA. Apogee: 458 km (284 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 28 - 11:44 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Super Chief. Model: Talos Sergeant Hydac. LV Configuration: Talos Sergeant Hydac DNA WS834.55-1.
  • Ballistics test Nation: USA. Agency: DNA. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2.
1978 February 28 - 17:52 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 NASA 13.136DA.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 223 km (138 mi). References: 2.
1978 March 1 -
  • Intercosmos Cosmonaut Training Group selected. Nation: USSR. Training group of potential 'guest cosmonauts' for propaganda flights to the Salyut space station. The 'guests', from states allied to the Soviet Union, would be flown on Soyuz lifeboat changeout missions to the station.
1978 March 1 - 01:13 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache Ferdinand 47.
  • Ferdinand 47 / Bugatti 1 Ionosphere mission Nation: Norway. Agency: NTNF. Apogee: 128 km (79 mi). References: 2.
1978 March 1 - 01:13 GMT - Launch Site: Andoya. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache Ferdinand 48.
  • Ferdinand 48 / Trinom 1 Ionosphere mission Nation: Norway. Agency: NTNF. Apogee: 109 km (67 mi). References: 2.
1978 March 1 - 19:06 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: HJ Hydac. LV Configuration: HJ Hydac ARPA WS810.51-2.
  • WIDEBAND Ionosphere mission Nation: USA. Agency: ARPA. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2.
1978 March 2 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF09. Launch Pad: LF09?. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3.
  • OT GT37GM operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2.
1978 March 2 - 04:23 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.1016UE.
  • Aeronomy / Barium release mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1978 March 2 - 15:28 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Soyuz 28 Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut 6. Payload: Soyuz 7K-T s/n 45. Mass: 6,800 kg (14,900 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-T. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 192 km (119 mi). Apogee: 246 km (152 mi). Inclination: 51.60 deg. Period: 88.80 min. COSPAR: 1978-023A. USAF Sat Cat: 10694. Duration: 7.93 days. Decay Date: 1978-03-10. Crew: Gubarev, Remek. Flight: Salyut 6 EP-2, Salyut 6 EO-1. Manned two crew. Docked with Salyut 6. Delivery to the Salyut-6 station of the first international 'Intercosmos' team consisting of A.A. Gubarev (USSR) and V. Remek (Czechoslovak Socialist Republic) to carry out scientific research and experiments jointly developed by Soviet a nd Czechoslovak specialists. References: 2, 6, 32, 33.
1978 March 2 - 22:07 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M.
  • Molniya 1-39 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-1T. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-1T. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 401 km (249 mi). Apogee: 39,957 km (24,828 mi). Inclination: 62.00 deg. Period: 717.90 min. COSPAR: 1978-024A. USAF Sat Cat: 10696. Decay Date: 1992-03-09. 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.
1978 March 3 -
  • Complete modification for mated vibe tests. Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Complete modification for mated vertical ground vibration test, Edwards, Enterprise (OV-101) References: 15.
1978 March 4 - 07:40 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 992 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 203 km (126 mi). Apogee: 323 km (200 mi). Inclination: 71.30 deg. Period: 89.80 min. COSPAR: 1978-025A. USAF Sat Cat: 10699. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-03-17. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6.
1978 March 5 - 17:54 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC2W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 2910. LV Configuration: Delta 2910 621/D139.
  • Landsat 3 Nation: USA. Program: Landsat. Payload: Landsat C. Mass: 960 kg (2,110 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Landsat. Spacecraft: Landsat 1-2-3. Agency: NASA GSF. Perigee: 895 km (556 mi). Apogee: 915 km (568 mi). Inclination: 98.90 deg. Period: 103.10 min. COSPAR: 1978-026A. USAF Sat Cat: 10702. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 2, 6.
  • Oscar 8 Nation: USA. Program: Oscar. Payload: Amsat-Oscar-8. Mass: 27 kg (59 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Amateur Radio. Spacecraft: Oscar. Agency: AMSAT-NA. Perigee: 894 km (555 mi). Apogee: 903 km (561 mi). Inclination: 99.20 deg. Period: 103.00 min. COSPAR: 1978-026B. USAF Sat Cat: 10703. AMSAT-OSCAR 8 was launched piggyback with LandSat 3 (ERTS 3) and PIX. The third phase 2 satellite (Phase II-D). Weight 27.2 kg. Box shaped, 33 cm high, 38 x 38 cm. Circularly polarized VHF canted turnstile, UHF quarter wave monopole, and HF half-wave dipole antenna system. Another cooperative international effort (United States, Canada, Germany and Japan). AO-8 had a similar store-and-forward service as AO-7 and carried Mode A (145.850-900 MHz uplink and 29.400-500 MHz downlink) and Mode J (145.900-146.000 MHz uplink and 435.100 MHz downlink (inverted)) linear transponders and telemetry beacons on 435.095 MHz and 29.402 MHz. AO-8's primary mission was for educational applications and amateur communications. It was in operation for six years until the battery failed on June 24, 1983. References: 2, 6.
  • PIX Nation: USA. Payload: PIX 1 / Delta 139. Mass: 350 kg (770 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: PIX. Agency: NASA GSF. Perigee: 903 km (561 mi). Apogee: 920 km (570 mi). Inclination: 99.10 deg. Period: 103.20 min. COSPAR: 1978-026C. USAF Sat Cat: 10704. Decay Date: 1981-01-27. Plasma Interaction Experiment. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
1978 March 6 -
  • Upper forward fuselage on dock, Palmdale, Columbia Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Columbia. References: 15.
1978 March 8 - 04:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee. Model: Astrobee F. LV Configuration: Astrobee F NASA 25.23UH.
  • Wolter I X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 190 km (110 mi). References: 2.
1978 March 9 - 08:13 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Terrier. Model: Terrier Malemute. LV Configuration: Terrier Malemute NASA 29.07UE.
  • Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 336 km (208 mi). References: 2.
1978 March 10 - Launch Site: Edwards. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -.
  • Ferry Enterprise from Edwards to Texas. Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Ferry Enterprise (OV-101) atop shuttle carrier aircraft from Edwards to Ellington Air Force Base, Texas (approximately 3 hours, 38 min) References: 15.
1978 March 10 - 10:42 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 993 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKM. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 190 km (110 mi). Apogee: 325 km (201 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 89.60 min. COSPAR: 1978-027A. USAF Sat Cat: 10725. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-03-23. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1978 March 10 - 13:15 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.1018UE.
  • Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2.
1978 March 10 - 1978 March 12 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle.
  • Shuttle Enterprise delivered. Nation: USA. References: 44.
1978 March 13 -
  • Ferry Enterprise from Texas to Huntsville Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Ferry Enterprise (OV-101) atop shuttle carrier aircraft from Ellington AFB to Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Ala. References: 15.
1978 March 13 - 04:40 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: Taurus Orion. LV Configuration: Taurus Orion NASA 33.01UA.
  • Extreme ultraviolet airglow Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 204 km (126 mi). References: 2.
1978 March 13 - 07:50 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Honest John. Model: Taurus Orion. LV Configuration: Taurus Orion NASA 33.02GA.
  • Auroral UV Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 186 km (115 mi). References: 2.
1978 March 13 - 07:50 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee. Model: Astrobee F. LV Configuration: Astrobee F NASA 25.31UE.
  • Auroral NO Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 198 km (123 mi). References: 2.
1978 March 15 - 15:57 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53746-315.
  • Cosmos 994 Nation: USSR. Mass: 920 kg (2,020 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Tsiklon. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 971 km (603 mi). Apogee: 1,007 km (625 mi). Inclination: 82.90 deg. Period: 104.90 min. COSPAR: 1978-028A. USAF Sat Cat: 10731. Military navigation satellite. References: 2, 6.
1978 March 16 - 18:43 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3D. LV Configuration: Titan IIID 23D-20.
  • KH-9 no. 14 Nation: USA. Mass: 13,300 kg (29,300 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-9. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 160 km (90 mi). Apogee: 240 km (140 mi). Inclination: 96.40 deg. Period: 88.50 min. COSPAR: 1978-029A. USAF Sat Cat: 10733. Decay Date: 1978-09-11. KH-9 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6.
  • OPS 7858 Nation: USA. Payload: SSF-D No. 2. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: SSF. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 639 km (397 mi). Apogee: 645 km (400 mi). Inclination: 95.80 deg. Period: 97.60 min. COSPAR: 1978-029B. USAF Sat Cat: 10734. Radar monitoring. References: 2, 6, 172.
1978 March 16 -
  • Landing of Soyuz 27 Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut 6. Flight: Salyut 6 EO-1. Soyuz 27 landed at 11:19 GMT with the crew of Grechko and Romanenko aboard.
1978 March 17 - 10:50 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 995 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 209 km (129 mi). Apogee: 227 km (141 mi). Inclination: 81.30 deg. Period: 88.80 min. COSPAR: 1978-030A. USAF Sat Cat: 10735. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-03-30. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6.
1978 March 19 -
  • Aft payload bay doors on dock, Palmdale, Columbia Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Columbia. References: 15.
1978 March 25 - 18:09 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC40. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3C. LV Configuration: Titan IIIC 23C-17 (3C-35). FAILURE: Second stage hydraulic pump failure.
  • DSCS II-09 Nation: USA. Program: DSCS. Payload: DSCS II F-9. Mass: 550 kg (1,210 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military. Spacecraft: DSCS II. Agency: U.S. Air Force. COSPAR: F780325A. Decay Date: 1978-03-25. Launched with DSCS F10. References: 126.
  • DSCS II F-10 Nation: USA. Program: DSCS. Payload: DSCS II F-10. Spacecraft: DSCS II. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: F780325B. References: 279.
1978 March 26 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC173. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100.
  • Operational missile test Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1978 March 27 - 10:27 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.215GM.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 219 km (136 mi). References: 2.
1978 March 28 - 01:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53746-314.
  • Cosmos 996 Nation: USSR. Mass: 810 kg (1,780 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Parus. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 949 km (589 mi). Apogee: 1,006 km (625 mi). Inclination: 82.90 deg. Period: 104.60 min. COSPAR: 1978-031A. USAF Sat Cat: 10744. Military navigation satellite. References: 2, 6.
1978 March 29 - 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.
1978 March 29 - 16:50 GMT - Launch Site: Poker Flat. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.214GM.
  • Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 231 km (143 mi). References: 2.
1978 March 30 - 00:00 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC81/24. Launch Pad: LC81/24?. Launch Vehicle: Proton. Model: Proton-K. LV Configuration: Proton-K 292-01.
  • Cosmos 997 Nation: USSR. Program: Almaz. Payload: TKS VA s/n 102L. Mass: 4,250 kg (9,360 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: TKS VA . Agency: MOM. Perigee: 200 km (120 mi). Apogee: 230 km (140 mi). Inclination: 51.60 deg. Period: 88.70 min. COSPAR: 1978-032A. USAF Sat Cat: 10770. Decay Date: 1978-03-30. Flight: Cosmos 997. Given the on-pad explosion of the LVI-2 launch attempt, plans to crew the upper VA re-entry capsule in the next test was abandoned. LVI-3 (VA's 102P and 102L / Cosmos 997 and Cosmos 998) was launched unmanned four months behind the original schedule. Both capsules were recovered after one orbit. One source indicates that one of the capsules was 009P, on its third launch and second flight to orbit. This was said to have demonstrated the multiple re-entry capability of the heat shield and the first planned reuse of a spacecraft (Gemini 2 was refurbished and reflown as MOL-1 in the 1960's, but was not designed for that purpose). References: 2, 6, 67, 274, 439.
  • Cosmos 998 Nation: USSR. Program: Almaz. Payload: TKS VA s/n 102P. Mass: 4,250 kg (9,360 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: TKS VA. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 200 km (120 mi). Apogee: 230 km (140 mi). Inclination: 51.60 deg. Period: 88.70 min. COSPAR: 1978-032B. USAF Sat Cat: 10771. Decay Date: 1978-03-30. Dual reentry test of two TKS-VA capsules. Recovered March 30, 1978 after one orbit. References: 2, 6, 67, 274, 439.
1978 March 30 - 07:50 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 999 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKM. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 174 km (108 mi). Apogee: 352 km (218 mi). Inclination: 71.40 deg. Period: 89.80 min. COSPAR: 1978-033A. USAF Sat Cat: 10773. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-04-12. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6.
1978 March 31 -
  • Operational readiness date, SRB refurbishment. Nation: USA. Program: STS. Operational readiness date, solid rocket booster refurbishment and subassembly, Kennedy Space Center. Fla. References: 15.
1978 March 31 -
  • ET for vibe tests delivered. Nation: USA. Program: STS. External tank for mated vertical ground vibration test delivered. References: 15.
1978 March 31 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC177. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100U 15A16.
  • Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2.
1978 March 31 - 14:01 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53768-307.
  • Cosmos 1000 Nation: USSR. Mass: 810 kg (1,780 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Tsikada. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 955 km (593 mi). Apogee: 1,008 km (626 mi). Inclination: 82.90 deg. Period: 104.70 min. COSPAR: 1978-034A. USAF Sat Cat: 10776. Civilian naval navigation satellite. Completion of work on a space navigation system designed to permit determination of the position of Soviet naval and fishing vessels. References: 2, 6.
1978 March 31 - 23:36 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC36B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3D Centaur. LV Configuration: SLV-3D Centaur AC-48 / Centaur D-1AR 5028.
  • Intelsat 4A F-6 Nation: International. Program: Intelsat. Mass: 826 kg (1,821 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Intelsat 4A. Agency: Intelsat. Perigee: 35,758 km (22,218 mi). Apogee: 35,823 km (22,259 mi). Inclination: 11.60 deg. Period: 1,436.30 min. COSPAR: 1978-035A. USAF Sat Cat: 10778. Completed Operations Date: 1986-12-29. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). Launch vehicle put payload into geosynchronous transfer orbit Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Indian Ocean at 63 deg E in 1978-1982; over the Pacific Ocean 174 deg E in 1982-1986; over the Pacific Ocean 170 deg E in 1986 As of 26 August 2001 located at 92.43 deg E drifting at 0.407 deg E per day. As of 2007 Mar 11 located at 75.50E drifting at 0.437W degrees per day. References: 2, 6, 278.
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© Mark Wade, 1997 - 2008 except where otherwise noted.