Chronology - Quarter 2 1978

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Previous Home Next 1978 April 4 - 15:00 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1001 Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut 6. Payload: Soyuz T s/n 4L. Mass: 6,850 kg (15,100 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz T. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 199 km (123 mi). Apogee: 228 km (141 mi). Inclination: 51.60 deg. Period: 88.70 min. COSPAR: 1978-036A. USAF Sat Cat: 10783. Duration: 10.87 days. Decay Date: 1978-04-15. Manned precursor. Recovered April 15, 1978 12:02 GMT. Unsuccessful mission. Soyuz T test -failure. Maneuver Summary: 202 km X 231 km orbit to 195 km X 291 km orbit. Delta V: 19 m/s 195 km X 291 km orbit to 306 km X 322 km orbit. Delta V: 40 m/s 306 km X 322 km orbit to 308 km X 318 km orbit. Delta V: 1 m/s Total Delta V: 60 m/s. Officially: Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. References: 2, 6. 1978 April 5 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: BLB. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: SSBS. Model: SSBS S3. LV Configuration: SSBS S3 V5. Test mission Nation: France. Agency: DMA. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 5 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF06. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. ABRES TREP-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 5 - 12:26 GMT - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Nike. Model: Nike Hydac. LV Configuration: Nike Hydac GL A11.712-4. DENSITY sphere Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 6 - 09:10 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1002 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 205 km (127 mi). Apogee: 283 km (175 mi). Inclination: 65.10 deg. Period: 89.40 min. COSPAR: 1978-037A. USAF Sat Cat: 10785. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-04-19. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6. 1978 April 7 - 00:45 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC13. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3A Agena D. LV Configuration: SLV-3A Agena D 5505A / Agena D A 1554. Rhyolite 4 Nation: USA. Payload: AQUACADE 4. Mass: 700 kg (1,540 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Rhyolite. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 35,679 km (22,169 mi). Apogee: 35,855 km (22,279 mi). Inclination: 0.20 deg. Period: 1,435.10 min. COSPAR: 1978-038A. USAF Sat Cat: 10787. Fourth and final launch of Rhyolite geostationary ELINT satellite. Code name changed to Aquacade after Rhyolite name came out in trial of spy Boyce. References: 2, 6, 172, 278. 1978 April 7 - 10:45 GMT - Launch Site: Atlantic Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 38.0 N x 75.0 W. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Ionosphere mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 178 km (110 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 7 - 22:01 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 626/D140. Yuri 1 Nation: Japan. Program: BS. Payload: BSE-1. Mass: 678 kg (1,494 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Comsat. Spacecraft: Yuri. Agency: NASDA. Perigee: 35,736 km (22,205 mi). Apogee: 35,868 km (22,287 mi). Inclination: 11.70 deg. Period: 1,436.90 min. COSPAR: 1978-039A. USAF Sat Cat: 10792. Completed Operations Date: 1982-01-28. Experimental comsat. Medium-scale broadcasting satellite for experimental purposes (BSE). Launch vehicle Delta 2914-140. Launch time 2201 GMT. Location 110 deg E. Characteristics of satellite: Weight approx 355 kg in an early stage in orbit. Configuration - box shaped satelli te with 2 solar array panels with overall span of 8.95m. Height 3.09m, width 1.32m, length 1.19m. 3-axis stabilized attitude control. Expected life 3 years. Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Indian Ocean at 110 deg E in 1978-1982 As of 4 September 2001 located at 44.59 deg E drifting at 0.116 deg E per day. As of 2007 Mar 11 located at 108.19E drifting at 0.031E degrees per day. References: 2, 6. 1978 April 9 - 04:50 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 8B. LV Configuration: Black Brant 8B NASA 27.10AE. E / / B Aurora active mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 247 km (153 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 11 - 04:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 8C. LV Configuration: Black Brant 8C NASA 27.26UH. X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 303 km (188 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 11 - 21:59 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-32 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 11 - 21:59 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-32 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 11 - 22:00 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-32 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 11 - 22:00 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-32 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 12 - 01:43 GMT - Launch Site: Fort Churchill. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5A. LV Configuration: Black Brant VA ADD-VA-49. O / Ozone profile Aurora mission Nation: Canada. Agency: NRCC. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 12 - 15:31 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25C. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trident. Model: Trident C-4. LV Configuration: Trident C-4 C4X-15. FAILURE: Failure. Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 13 - 19:22 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Hawk. Model: Nike Orion. LV Configuration: Nike Orion NASA 31.06UE. SSC S27 TWILIGHT Test / aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 153 km (95 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 14 - Complete ground vibration test modification Nation: USA. Program: STS. Complete ground vibration test modification at MSFC References: 15. 1978 April 15 - 16:39 GMT - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: FB-1. LV Configuration: Feng Bao 1 701(II)-02. DDDS test Nation: China. Agency: PRC. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 18 - Launch Site: Thumba. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: RH. AST 1 Technology mission Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Apogee: 130 km (80 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 19 - 10:35 GMT - Launch Site: Atlantic Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 38.0 N x 75.0 W. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Ionosphere mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 161 km (100 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 19 - 15:37 GMT - Launch Site: Atlantic Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 38.0 N x 75.0 W. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Ionosphere mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 20 - 15:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1003 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKM. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 178 km (110 mi). Apogee: 328 km (203 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 89.50 min. COSPAR: 1978-040A. USAF Sat Cat: 10811. Duration: 14.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-05-04. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1978 April 21 - First static firing, MPTA-098 Nation: USA. Program: STS. First static firing, MPTA-098, NSTL (2.5 seconds; stub nozzles) References: 15. 1978 April 21 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. Shuttle MPTA First test Nation: USA. For the first time three SSME engines are run on the MPTA test article mated to an external tank - for 2.5 seconds. References: 44. 1978 April 21 - 05:29 GMT - Launch Site: Atlantic Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 38.0 N x 75.0 W. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Plasma/Solar mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 21 - 06:26 GMT - Launch Site: Atlantic Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 38.0 N x 75.0 W. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Plasma/Solar mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 21 - 07:52 GMT - Launch Site: Atlantic Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 38.0 N x 75.0 W. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Plasma/Solar mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 21 - 17:40 GMT - Launch Site: Atlantic Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 38.0 N x 75.0 W. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Plasma/Solar mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 21 - 18:30 GMT - Launch Site: Atlantic Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 38.0 N x 75.0 W. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Plasma/Solar mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 23 - Columbia ready for power-on. Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Columbia. Complete final assembly and closeout system installation, ready for power-on, Columbia (OV-102) References: 15. 1978 April 24 - Start precombined systems test, Columbia (OV-102) Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Columbia. References: 15. 1978 April 24 - 09:35 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-33 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 24 - 09:35 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-33 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 24 - 09:36 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-33 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 24 - 09:36 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-33 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 26 - Launch Site: Natal. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Sonda. Model: Sonda 3. LV Configuration: Sonda 3 XV-05. Ionosphere mission Nation: Brazil. Agency: IAE. Apogee: 615 km (382 mi). References: 2. 1978 April 26 - 10:20 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC5. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Model: Scout D-1. LV Configuration: Scout D-1 S201C. HCMM Nation: USA. Payload: AEM 1. Mass: 134 kg (295 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere. Spacecraft: AEM. Agency: NASA GSF. Perigee: 560 km (340 mi). Apogee: 641 km (398 mi). Inclination: 97.60 deg. Period: 96.70 min. COSPAR: 1978-041A. USAF Sat Cat: 10818. Decay Date: 1981-12-22. Heat Capacity Mapping Mission; prodeuced thermal maps of atmosphere. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 2, 6. 1978 April 27 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC170. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100U 15A16. FAILURE: Failure. Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. 1978 April 28 - Forward payload bay doors on dock, Columbia. Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Columbia. Forward payload bay doors on dock, Palmdale, Columbia (OV-102) References: 15. 1978 May - Pentagon issues ASAT target list Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Conventional ASAT. The US Joint Chiefs of Staff issued a priority list of potential Soviet target satellites for the MHV hit-to-kill ASAT. The Chiefs also directed that work on begin on a 'conventional ASAT', a low-risk alternative system using off-the-shelf technology. 1978 May - Launch Vehicle: Energia. Buran technical project completed Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Buran. The technical project was completed in May 1978. The flight test plan at the beginning of the project foresaw first launch of the booster in 1983, with the payload being an unmanned OK-ML-1 mock-up of the orbiter. The first flight Buran was to fly unpiloted in 1984. Manned flights were to be routine by the 1987 seventieth anniversary of the Soviet Union. 1978 May - Yantar-2K accepted into military service Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: Yantar-2K. An acceptance test flight in October 1977 led to the Yantar-2K being accepted into Red Army service in May 1978. 1978 May 1 - 03:05 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC10W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Thor DSV-2U. LV Configuration: Thor DSV-2U 143. AMS 3 Nation: USA. Program: DMSP. Payload: DMSP 5D S-3. Mass: 513 kg (1,130 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5D. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 786 km (488 mi). Apogee: 799 km (496 mi). Inclination: 98.70 deg. Period: 100.70 min. COSPAR: 1978-042A. USAF Sat Cat: 10820. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. References: 2, 6. 1978 May 4 - 06:14 GMT - Launch Site: Atlantic Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 38.0 N x 75.0 W. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Plasma/Solar mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 168 km (104 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 4 - 07:05 GMT - Launch Site: Atlantic Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 38.0 N x 75.0 W. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Plasma/Solar mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 165 km (102 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 4 - 18:29 GMT - Launch Site: Atlantic Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 38.0 N x 75.0 W. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Plasma/Solar Ultraviolet/Solar mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 168 km (104 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 5 - 06:30 GMT - Launch Site: Atlantic Ocean. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: 38.0 N x 75.0 W. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Plasma mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 160 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 5 - 15:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1004 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 205 km (127 mi). Apogee: 290 km (180 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 89.40 min. COSPAR: 1978-043A. USAF Sat Cat: 10846. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-05-18. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; separated science capsule. References: 2, 6. Nauka Cosmos 1004 Nation: USSR. Payload: Nauka. Spacecraft: Nauka. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 202 km (125 mi). Apogee: 414 km (257 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 90.68 min. COSPAR: 1978-043G. USAF Sat Cat: 10852. Decay Date: 1978-06-16. References: 2, 279. 1978 May 6 - 07:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170A. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170A NASA 13.137UH. X-ray astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 10 - 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. 1978 May 11 - 22:59 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 3914. LV Configuration: Delta 3914 627/D141. OTS 2 Nation: Europe. Payload: OTS 2. Mass: 865 kg (1,906 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: ECS/OTS. Agency: ESA. Perigee: 36,085 km (22,422 mi). Apogee: 36,128 km (22,448 mi). Inclination: 13.10 deg. Period: 1,452.50 min. COSPAR: 1978-044A. USAF Sat Cat: 10855. Completed Operations Date: 1991-01-02. Orbital Test Satellite; replacement for OTS-A; communications experiments. European Space Agency satellite. Launch time 2259 GMT. Reached definitive position, 10 deg east longitude, on May 24 at 0800 GMT. Launch by US Delta rocket. Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Atlantic Ocean at 10 deg E in 1978-1982 over the Atlantic Ocean 5 deg E in 1982-1990 As of 30 August 2001 located at 18.51 deg W drifting at 4.070 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 9 located at 39.02E drifting at 4.083W degrees per day. References: 2, 6. 1978 May 12 - 04:07 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92M. Cosmos 1005 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Payload: Tselina-D no. 15. Mass: 4,000 kg (8,800 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-D. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 485 km (301 mi). Apogee: 494 km (306 mi). Inclination: 81.20 deg. Period: 94.40 min. COSPAR: 1978-045A. USAF Sat Cat: 10860. Decay Date: 2000-06-15. References: 2, 6. 1978 May 12 - 05:01 GMT - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 SL. Launch Vehicle: Skylark. Model: Skylark 7 AC. LV Configuration: Skylark 7 AC SL1305. Ultraviolet spectrometer Solar ultraviolet mission Nation: UK. Agency: BAC. Apogee: 283 km (175 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 12 - 11:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53746-318. Cosmos 1006 Nation: USSR. Mass: 1,120 kg (2,460 lb). Class: Calibration. Spacecraft: Taifun-1. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 384 km (238 mi). Apogee: 407 km (252 mi). Inclination: 65.80 deg. Period: 92.40 min. COSPAR: 1978-046A. USAF Sat Cat: 10862. Decay Date: 1979-03-14. Radar calibration mission. References: 2, 6. 1978 May 12 - 23:11 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-34 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 12 - 23:12 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-34 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 12 - 23:12 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-34 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 12 - 23:13 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-34 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 13 - 10:34 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F/SVS. LV Configuration: Atlas F/SVS 49F. Navstar 2 Nation: USA. Program: Navstar. Payload: GPS SVN 2. Mass: 759 kg (1,673 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: GPS Block 1. Manufacturer: Boeing North American, Seal Beach (formerly Rockwell). Agency: USAF. Perigee: 19,523 km (12,131 mi). Apogee: 20,653 km (12,833 mi). Inclination: 63.60 deg. Period: 714.20 min. COSPAR: 1978-047A. USAF Sat Cat: 10893. Also known as Navigational Development Satellite 2. Technology prototype of Navstar satellite. References: 2, 6, 278. 1978 May 15 - Launch Vehicle: Energia. Buran technical project completed. Nation: USSR. Program: Buran. Spacecraft: Buran. Buran engineering details were definitised and drawing release began to the production shops. 1978 May 15 - 09:05 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee. Model: Astrobee F. LV Configuration: Astrobee F NASA 25.26DG. NRL Mk II ultraviolet Camera Ultraviolet astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 211 km (131 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 15 - 21:00 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. 1978 May 16 - 10:40 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1007 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKM. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 168 km (104 mi). Apogee: 350 km (210 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 89.70 min. COSPAR: 1978-048A. USAF Sat Cat: 10895. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-05-29. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable; also performed earth resources tasks. References: 2, 6. 1978 May 16 - 20:30 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 GL A04.606-1. Extreme ultraviolet Aeronomy / ionosphere / solar extreme ultraviolet mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 191 km (118 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 17 - 14:39 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53798-316. Cosmos 1008 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Mass: 1,080 kg (2,380 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-O. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 499 km (310 mi). Apogee: 549 km (341 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 95.10 min. COSPAR: 1978-049A. USAF Sat Cat: 10898. Decay Date: 1981-01-08. Replaced Cosmos 845. Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. References: 2, 6. 1978 May 19 - Start forward RCS thermal tests Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1978 May 19 - 00:21 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC90/19. Launch Pad: LC90/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: Tsiklon-2. Cosmos 1009 Nation: USSR. Mass: 1,400 kg (3,000 lb). Class: Military. Type: ASAT. Spacecraft: IS-A. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 966 km (600 mi). Apogee: 1,364 km (847 mi). Inclination: 65.90 deg. Period: 108.60 min. COSPAR: 1978-050A. USAF Sat Cat: 10904. Decay Date: 1978-05-19. ASAT interceptor. Succeeded in intercept of Cosmos 970. Deorbited using on-board engine. References: 2, 6, 272. 1978 May 19 - 22:01 GMT - Launch Site: Kapani Tonneo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Otrag. LV Configuration: OTRAG 2 4x9m. Otrag Flight 2 Nation: Germany. Agency: OTRAG. Apogee: 30 km (18 mi). Four-module test vehicle, 6 m long. High altitude night test. Reached 150 km altitude. References: 2. 1978 May 20 - 13:13 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC36A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3D Centaur. LV Configuration: SLV-3D Centaur AC-50 / Centaur D-1AR 5030. Pioneer Venus Orbiter Nation: USA. Program: Pioneer. Payload: Pioneer-Venus 1. Mass: 582 kg (1,283 lb). Class: Planetary. Type: Venus. Spacecraft: Pioneer 12. Agency: NASA ARC. COSPAR: 1978-051A. USAF Sat Cat: 10911. Decay Date: 1992-10-22. The Pioneer Venus Orbiter was inserted into an elliptical orbit around Venus on December 4, 1978. After entering orbit around Venus in 1978, the spacecraft returned global maps of the planet's clouds, atmosphere and ionosphere, measurements of the atmosphere-solar wind interaction, and radar maps of 93 percent of the planet's surface. Additionally, the vehicle made use of several opportunities to make systematic UV observations of several comets. From Venus orbit insertion to July 1980, periapsis was held between 142 and 253 km (at 17 degrees north latitude) to facilitate radar and ionospheric measurements. The spacecraft was in a 24 hour orbit with an apoapsis of 66,900 km. Thereafter, the periapsis was allowed to rise (to 2290 km at maximum) and then fall, to conserve fuel. In 1991 the Radar Mapper was reactivated to investigate previously inaccessible southern portions of the planet. In May 1992 Pioneer Venus began the final phase of its mission, in which the periapsis was held between 150 and 250 km until the fuel ran out and atmospheric entry destroyed the spacecraft. With a planned primary mission duration of only eight months, the spacecraft remained in operation until October 8, 1992 when it finally burned up in Venus' atmosphere after running out of propellant. References: 2, 6, 278, 296. 1978 May 21 - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-35 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 21 - 12:22 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-35 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 21 - 12:23 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-35 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 21 - 12:55 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Poseidon. OT-35 Operational test Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 23 - Soviet Air Force Cosmonaut Training Group 7 selected. Nation: USSR. 1978 May 23 - Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: LA2. Launch Pad: LA2 HRV. Launch Vehicle: Stonechat. Model: Falstaff. LV Configuration: Falstaff F.1. FAILURE: Failure. Chevaline warhead test launch Nation: UK. Agency: RAE. Apogee: 2.00 km (1.20 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 23 - 07:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1010 Nation: USSR. Program: Resurs. Payload: Zenit-4MKT no. 6. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKT. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 217 km (134 mi). Apogee: 230 km (140 mi). Inclination: 81.40 deg. Period: 89.00 min. COSPAR: 1978-052A. USAF Sat Cat: 10915. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-06-05. 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. 1978 May 23 - 16:57 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: LC132/1?. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53768-310. Cosmos 1011 Nation: USSR. Mass: 810 kg (1,780 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: Parus. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 956 km (594 mi). Apogee: 1,008 km (626 mi). Inclination: 82.90 deg. Period: 104.70 min. COSPAR: 1978-053A. USAF Sat Cat: 10917. Military navigation satellite. References: 2, 6. 1978 May 25 - 14:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1012 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 202 km (125 mi). Apogee: 265 km (164 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 89.20 min. COSPAR: 1978-054A. USAF Sat Cat: 10919. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-06-07. Area survey photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6. 1978 May 26 - Upper forward fuselage mate, Columbia (OV-102) Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Columbia. References: 15. 1978 May 26 - Complete forward RCS structure, Columbia (OV-102) Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Columbia. References: 15. 1978 May 27 - 01:25 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC200/40. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Proton. Model: Proton-K/DM. LV Configuration: Proton-K/DM 294-02. FAILURE: Stage 1 - vehicle failed at launch. Ekran s/n 13L Nation: USSR. Payload: Ekran s/n 13L. Mass: 1,970 kg (4,340 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Ekran. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: F780527A. Failed launch of communications satellite. References: 67, 274. 1978 May 30 - Start Enterprise (OV-101)/ ET mated vibe test Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Start Enterprise (OV-101)/ ET mated vertical ground vibration test, MSFC References: 15. 1978 May 30 - 20:35 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Ionosphere/Plasma/Fields mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2. 1978 May 31 - Loaded SRBs (2) arrive for mated vibe test Nation: USA. Program: STS. Loaded SRBs (2) arrive at MSFC for mated vertical ground vibration test References: 15. 1978 June 2 - 12:12 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Molniya 1-40 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-1T. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-1T. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 1,627 km (1,010 mi). Apogee: 38,729 km (24,065 mi). Inclination: 63.90 deg. Period: 717.80 min. COSPAR: 1978-055A. USAF Sat Cat: 10925. Uncertain if Molniya-1T model was Molniya-1 or Molniya-1T. Operation of a system of long range telephone-telegraph radiocommunication, and transmission of USSR Central Television programmes to the stations of the Orbita network. References: 2, 6. 1978 June 3 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF04. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2. FOT GT136M Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 5 - 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 June 5 - 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 June 5 - 11:40 GMT - Launch Site: Kapani Tonneo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Otrag. LV Configuration: OTRAG 3a. FAILURE: Failure. Heeled over and crashed after a few seconds. Otrag Flight 3 Nation: Germany. Agency: OTRAG. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). Four module test vehicle, 12 m long. Pitch and yaw control test. Attempt to reach 100 km, but veered off course on launch due to a valve on one unit being stuck at 50% thrust. References: 2. 1978 June 6 - 17:41 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Ionosphere mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 180 km (110 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 6 - 20:35 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Ionosphere mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 176 km (109 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 6 - 23:21 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 176 km (109 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 7 - 22:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53716-321. Cosmos 1013 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 145. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,478 km (918 mi). Apogee: 1,554 km (965 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 116.30 min. COSPAR: 1978-056A. USAF Sat Cat: 10930. Eight satellites launched by a single carrier rocket. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 1014 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 146. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,479 km (919 mi). Apogee: 1,531 km (951 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 116.10 min. COSPAR: 1978-056B. USAF Sat Cat: 10931. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 1015 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 147. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,474 km (915 mi). Apogee: 1,516 km (941 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.90 min. COSPAR: 1978-056C. USAF Sat Cat: 10932. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 1016 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 148. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,471 km (914 mi). Apogee: 1,498 km (930 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.60 min. COSPAR: 1978-056D. USAF Sat Cat: 10933. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 1017 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 149. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,458 km (905 mi). Apogee: 1,492 km (927 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.40 min. COSPAR: 1978-056E. USAF Sat Cat: 10934. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 1018 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 150. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,442 km (896 mi). Apogee: 1,488 km (924 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.20 min. COSPAR: 1978-056F. USAF Sat Cat: 10935. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 1019 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 151. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,424 km (884 mi). Apogee: 1,488 km (924 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.00 min. COSPAR: 1978-056G. USAF Sat Cat: 10936. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 1020 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 152. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,408 km (874 mi). Apogee: 1,484 km (922 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.80 min. COSPAR: 1978-056H. USAF Sat Cat: 10937. References: 2, 6. 1978 June 8 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF26. Launch Pad: LF26?. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. FOT GT63GB Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 10 - 08:35 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1021 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKM. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 173 km (107 mi). Apogee: 313 km (194 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.40 min. COSPAR: 1978-057A. USAF Sat Cat: 10939. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-06-23. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1978 June 10 - 19:12 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC40. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3C. LV Configuration: Titan IIIC 23C-15 (3C-33). Chalet 1 Nation: USA. Payload: Chalet 1 (Vortex 1). Mass: 820 kg (1,800 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Chalet. Agency: NRO/USAF. Perigee: 29,929 km (18,596 mi). Apogee: 42,039 km (26,121 mi). Inclination: 12.00 deg. Period: 1,446.30 min. COSPAR: 1978-058A. USAF Sat Cat: 10941. First launch of the heavier, mored advanced CHALET ELINT satellites. (the project was renamed VORTEX when the code name CHALET appeared in the New York Times). References: 2, 6. 1978 June 11 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.539UE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 220 km (130 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 11 - 01:27 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. LV Configuration: MR-12 D-75MG. JASPIC Nation: USSR. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 12 - 08:45 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC36. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aries. LV Configuration: Aries Astro 8-2. Astro 8-2 X-ray astronomy / microgravity mission Nation: Germany. Agency: DFVLR. Apogee: 355 km (220 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 12 - 10:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1022 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKM. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 171 km (106 mi). Apogee: 344 km (213 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 89.70 min. COSPAR: 1978-059A. USAF Sat Cat: 10944. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-06-25. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1978 June 14 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC109. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M. Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 14 - 18:28 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC4E. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Titan. Model: Titan 3D. LV Configuration: Titan IIID 23D-18. KH-11 no. 2 Nation: USA. Payload: KH-11 no. 2. Mass: 13,000 kg (28,000 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: KH-11. Agency: NRO/CIA. Perigee: 223 km (138 mi). Apogee: 509 km (316 mi). Inclination: 97.00 deg. Period: 91.90 min. COSPAR: 1978-060A. USAF Sat Cat: 10947. Decay Date: 1981-08-23. KH-11 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 2, 6. 1978 June 15 - Third static firing, MPTA-098 Nation: USA. Program: STS. Third static firing, MPTA-098, NSTL (50 seconds, 90% thrust) References: 15. 1978 June 15 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.1023UE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 265 km (164 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 15 - 20:16 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Soyuz 29 Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut 6. Payload: Soyuz 7K-T s/n 46. Mass: 6,800 kg (14,900 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-T. Location of Spacecraft: Militärhistorisches Museum, Dresden, Germany. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 193 km (119 mi). Apogee: 248 km (154 mi). Inclination: 51.60 deg. Period: 88.90 min. COSPAR: 1978-061A. USAF Sat Cat: 10952. Duration: 79.64 days. Decay Date: 1978-09-03. Crew: Ivanchenkov, Kovalyonok. Flight: Salyut 6 EO-2. Manned two crew. Docked with Salyut 6. Placed on board the Salyut-6 station a crew consisting of V.V. Kovalenko and A.S. Ivanchenkov to conduct scientific and technological investigations and experiments. References: 2, 6, 32, 33. 1978 June 16 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF03. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. ABRES ANT-3 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 16 - 10:49 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 625/D142. GOES 3 Nation: USA. Payload: GOES C. Mass: 627 kg (1,382 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: GOES. Agency: NOAA. Perigee: 35,767 km (22,224 mi). Apogee: 35,812 km (22,252 mi). Inclination: 9.80 deg. Period: 1,436.30 min. COSPAR: 1978-062A. USAF Sat Cat: 10953. 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 135 deg W in 1978-1981 over the Americas at 90 deg W in 1982-1984 over the Pacific Ocean 135 deg W in 1985-1987 over the Americas at129 deg W in 1987-1990 over the Pacific Ocean 175 deg W in 1990-1995 over the Americas at 102-110 deg W in 1996-on. As of 5 September 2001 located at 101.78 deg W drifting at 0.017 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 9 located at 105.91W drifting at 0.030W degrees per day. References: 2, 6. 1978 June 19 - 23:10 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. LV Configuration: MR-12 D-75MG. JASPIC Nation: USSR. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 20 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: BLB. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: SSBS. Model: SSBS S3. LV Configuration: SSBS S3 V6. Test mission Nation: France. Agency: DMA. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 20 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Apache. Model: Nike Apache. LV Configuration: Nike Apache NASA 14.543UE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 184 km (114 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 21 - 09:27 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53716-317. Cosmos 1023 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Mass: 750 kg (1,650 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-2M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 766 km (475 mi). Apogee: 786 km (488 mi). Inclination: 74.10 deg. Period: 100.40 min. COSPAR: 1978-063A. USAF Sat Cat: 10961. References: 2, 6. 1978 June 22 - Jim Christy's Discovery of Pluto Moon Charon Nation: USA. 1978 June 22 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF21. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. LV Configuration: Minuteman 3 STM-16W. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 22 - 11:49 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC25C. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trident. Model: Trident C-4. LV Configuration: Trident C-4 C4X-17. FAILURE: Failure. Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 24 - 21:13 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. LV Configuration: MR-12 D-75MG. JASPIC Nation: USSR. Apogee: 168 km (104 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 26 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.1019CE. Plasma mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 315 km (195 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 26 - 20:31 GMT - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. LV Configuration: MR-12 D-75MG. JASPIC Nation: USSR. Apogee: 165 km (102 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 27 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF08. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. FOT GT64GM Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 27 - 01:12 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3W. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: Atlas F/Agena D. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Agena D 23F. Seasat 1 Nation: USA. Payload: Seasat A. Mass: 2,300 kg (5,000 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Radarsat. Spacecraft: Seasat. Agency: NASA/JPL. Perigee: 761 km (472 mi). Apogee: 765 km (475 mi). Inclination: 108.00 deg. Period: 100.10 min. COSPAR: 1978-064A. USAF Sat Cat: 10967. Oceanographic. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 2, 6, 278. 1978 June 27 - 15:27 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Soyuz 30 Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut 6. Payload: Soyuz 7K-T(A9) s/n 67. Mass: 6,800 kg (14,900 lb). Class: Manned. Type: Spacecraft. Spacecraft: Soyuz 7K-T/A9. Location of Spacecraft: Military History Museum, Warsaw, Poland. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 194 km (120 mi). Apogee: 244 km (151 mi). Inclination: 51.60 deg. Period: 88.80 min. COSPAR: 1978-065A. USAF Sat Cat: 10968. Duration: 7.92 days. Decay Date: 1978-07-05. Crew: Hermaszewski, Klimuk. Flight: Salyut 6 EP-3, Salyut 6 EO-2. Manned two crew. Docked with Salyut 6. Placed on board the Salyut-6 station, under the Intercosmos programme, a second, international, crew consisting of P.I. Klimuk (USSR) and M. Hermaszewski (Poland) to conduct scientific investigations and experiments. References: 2, 6, 32, 33. 1978 June 28 - Launch Site: El Arenosillo. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: INTA. Model: INTA-300. FAILURE: Failure. Aeronomy mission Nation: Spain. Agency: INTA. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. 1978 June 28 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC170. 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 June 28 - 02:59 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Cosmos 1024 Nation: USSR. Payload: Oko #9. Mass: 2,030 kg (4,470 lb). Class: Early Warning. Spacecraft: Oko. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 4,984 km (3,096 mi). Apogee: 35,365 km (21,974 mi). Inclination: 67.30 deg. Period: 717.70 min. COSPAR: 1978-066A. USAF Sat Cat: 10970. Replaced Cosmos 931. Covered Oko constellation plane 2 - 323 degree longitude of ascending node. References: 2, 6, 100. 1978 June 28 - 17:35 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC32/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon. Model: Tsiklon-3. Cosmos 1025 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Payload: Tselina-D Mass model no. 16. Mass: 4,375 kg (9,645 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-D. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 551 km (342 mi). Apogee: 567 km (352 mi). Inclination: 82.50 deg. Period: 95.80 min. COSPAR: 1978-067A. USAF Sat Cat: 10973. References: 2, 6. 1978 June 28 - 21:00 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3TA. Demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: RN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 29 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC102. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M. Missile accuracy test launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1978 June 29 - 22:24 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC36B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3D Centaur. LV Configuration: SLV-3D Centaur AC-41 / Centaur D-1AR 5021. Comstar 3 Nation: USA. Program: Comstar. Payload: Comstar 1C. Mass: 1,520 kg (3,350 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Intelsat 4A. Agency: Comsat. Perigee: 36,007 km (22,373 mi). Apogee: 36,172 km (22,476 mi). Inclination: 11.50 deg. Period: 1,451.60 min. COSPAR: 1978-068A. USAF Sat Cat: 10975. Completed Operations Date: 1986-05-21. US domestic telephone service. 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 87 deg W in 1978-1984 over the Americas at 76 deg W in 1984-1986 As of 1 September 2001 located at 101.79 deg W drifting at 3.884 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 4 located at 39.19E drifting at 3.878W degrees per day. References: 2, 6, 278. 1978 June 30 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-36M. Model: R-36MU 15A18. FAILURE: Failure. Joint flight trials launch Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). References: 2. 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