Chronology - Quarter 3 1979

home topic index

Previous Home Next 1979 July 1 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MSBS. Model: MSBS M20. Operational test Nation: France. Agency: DMA. Apogee: 600 km (370 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 2 - Sixth static firing, MPTA-098, flight nozzles. Nation: USA. Program: STS. Sixth static firing, MPTA-098, NSTL, flight nozzles (19 seconds, early cutoff-main fuel valve rupture) References: 15. 1979 July 2 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. Major Shuttle SSME failure Nation: USA. Engine 2002 explodes violently during a test run due to a hydrogen leak. The MPTA test article sustains major structural damage due to overpressure of the heat shield support. References: 44. 1979 July 3 - 16:30 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 8C. LV Configuration: Black Brant 8C NASA 27.32CS. Solar Corona Solar x-ray telescope mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 5 - 23:19 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC200/40. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Proton. Model: Proton-K/DM. LV Configuration: Proton-K/DM 299-01. Gorizont 2 Nation: USSR. Payload: Gorizont s/n 12L. Mass: 2,100 kg (4,600 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Gorizont . Agency: MOM. Perigee: 35,777 km (22,230 mi). Apogee: 35,782 km (22,233 mi). Inclination: 11.50 deg. Period: 1,435.80 min. COSPAR: 1979-062A. USAF Sat Cat: 11440. Completed Operations Date: 1983-12-06. Stationed at 14 deg W. Statsionar 4. Positioned in geosynchronous orbit at 14 deg W in 1979-1981; 90 deg E in 1981-1983 As of 26 August 2001 located at 59.72 deg E drifting at 0.012 deg E per day. As of 2007 Mar 8 located at 84.05E drifting at 0.107W degrees per day. References: 2, 6, 67, 111, 274. 1979 July 6 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF03. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. ABRES LBRV-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 6 - 01:20 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC29A. Launch Pad: LC29/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3TK C9E. Chevaline warhead test launch Nation: USA. Agency: RN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 6 - 08:20 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: LC107/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 65075-124. Cosmos 1112 Nation: USSR. Mass: 1,190 kg (2,620 lb). Class: Calibration. Spacecraft: Taifun-2. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 357 km (221 mi). Apogee: 541 km (336 mi). Inclination: 50.60 deg. Period: 93.50 min. COSPAR: 1979-063A. USAF Sat Cat: 11443. Decay Date: 1980-01-21. Radar calibration. Released 25 Romb radar calibration subsatellites. References: 2, 6. 1979 July 9 - Voyager 2, Jupiter Flyby Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Voyager. 1979 July 10 - 09:00 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1113 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKM. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 173 km (107 mi). Apogee: 330 km (200 mi). Inclination: 65.00 deg. Period: 89.50 min. COSPAR: 1979-064A. USAF Sat Cat: 11447. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1979-07-23. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1979 July 10 - 17:39 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF09. Launch Pad: LF09?. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. OT GT40GM operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 10 - 17:39 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF08. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. FOT GT68GM Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 11 - Skylab Re-Enters Into Earth's Atmosphere Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Skylab. 1979 July 11 - Skylab re-enters the atmosphere Nation: USA. Program: Skylab. Spacecraft: Skylab. NASA had planned to use Skylab with the space shuttle. Plans for an additional Apollo mission to boost Skylab into a higher orbit for later use by the shuttle were not acted on, since NASA was confident that Skylab would stay in orbit until shuttle flights began in 1978 - 1979. But the shuttle was delayed, and faster atmospheric decay than expected resulted in Skylab crashing to earth before the first shuttle mission was flown. The media went into a frenzy over the event, and debris rained over a large swath of Australia. There was no damage and no injuries, but the publicity made NASA hyper-sensitive in ensuring that future heavy spacecraft were deorbited in a controlled manner. 1979 July 11 - 15:41 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 47155-104. Cosmos 1114 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Mass: 1,080 kg (2,380 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-O. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 506 km (314 mi). Apogee: 552 km (342 mi). Inclination: 74.10 deg. Period: 95.20 min. COSPAR: 1979-065A. USAF Sat Cat: 11449. Decay Date: 1981-12-26. Replaced Cosmos 924. Possible ELINT satellite. References: 2, 6. 1979 July 13 - 08:25 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1115 Nation: USSR. Program: Resurs. Payload: Zenit-4MKT no. 11. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKT. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 217 km (134 mi). Apogee: 235 km (146 mi). Inclination: 81.40 deg. Period: 89.00 min. COSPAR: 1979-066A. USAF Sat Cat: 11451. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1979-07-26. 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. 1979 July 14 - 18:00 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trident. Model: Trident C-4. LV Configuration: Trident C-4 C4T-5. PEM-4 test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 15 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: LA2B?. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: DF-5. Nation: China. Agency: PRC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Other sources say launch was from Taiyuan. References: 2. 1979 July 16 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF04. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2. ERCS GIANT MOON 9 operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 16 - Launch Site: Biscarosse. Launch Complex: BLB. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: SSBS. Model: SSBS S3. LV Configuration: SSBS S3 TS-2601. Qualification test Nation: France. Agency: DMA. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 16 - 12:31 GMT - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Terrier. Model: Terrier Malemute. LV Configuration: Terrier Malemute Sandia 497-011. PLUMEX I Aeronomy / Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 590 km (360 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 20 - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk NASA 18.1026GU. Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 20 - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P211H. Atomic oxygen Aeronomy mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 145 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 20 - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P209H. Atomic oxygen Aeronomy mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 149 km (92 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 20 - Launch Site: South Uist. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Petrel. Model: Petrel 1. LV Configuration: Petrel P210H. Atomic oxygen Aeronomy mission Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Apogee: 149 km (92 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 20 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC172. 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. 1979 July 20 - 11:58 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Vostok 8A92M. Cosmos 1116 Nation: USSR. Program: Tselina. Payload: Tselina-D no. 21. Mass: 4,000 kg (8,800 lb). Class: Sigint. Spacecraft: Tselina-D. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 396 km (246 mi). Apogee: 408 km (253 mi). Inclination: 81.20 deg. Period: 92.60 min. COSPAR: 1979-067A. USAF Sat Cat: 11457. Decay Date: 1993-03-11. References: 2, 6. 1979 July 22 - 18:00 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trident. Model: Trident C-4. LV Configuration: Trident C-4 C4TE-4. PEM-5 test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 23 - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC39A. Launch Pad: -. First test STS stack move from VAB to LC39A Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Enterprise (OV-101), ET, SRBs transported on mobile launcher platform from Launch Complex 39-A to Vehicle Assembly Building at KSC References: 15. 1979 July 23 - 09:57 GMT - Launch Site: Kwajalein. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Terrier. Model: Terrier Malemute. LV Configuration: Terrier Malemute Sandia 497-012. PLUMEX II Aeronomy / Chemical release mission Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 580 km (360 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 25 - 15:20 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1117 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKM. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 177 km (109 mi). Apogee: 325 km (201 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 89.50 min. COSPAR: 1979-068A. USAF Sat Cat: 11463. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1979-08-07. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1979 July 26 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF26. Launch Pad: LF26?. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. FOT GT69GB Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 27 - 07:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1118 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 210 km (130 mi). Apogee: 237 km (147 mi). Inclination: 81.30 deg. Period: 88.90 min. COSPAR: 1979-069A. USAF Sat Cat: 11465. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1979-08-09. Zenit-2M area survey photo reconnaissance satellite used for earth resources studies as part of 'Gektor-Priroda' project. Investigation of the natural resources of the earth in the interests of various branches of the national economy of the USSR and international cooperation. References: 2, 6, 103. 1979 July 28 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: FB-1. LV Configuration: Feng Bao 1 XCZ-1-02. FAILURE: Second stage failure. SJ-1 Nation: China. Payload: Shi Jian 1. Mass: 221 kg (487 lb). Spacecraft: SJ. Agency: PRC. COSPAR: F790728A. The SJ-1 was similar in appearance to the American Telstar and conducted communications technology tests. References: 279. 1979 July 31 - 02:15 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trident. Model: Trident C-4. LV Configuration: Trident C-4 C4T-6. PEM-6 test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1979 July 31 - 03:56 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Molniya 1-44 Nation: USSR. Program: Molniya. Payload: Molniya-1T. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: Molniya-1T. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 550 km (340 mi). Apogee: 39,806 km (24,734 mi). Inclination: 63.30 deg. Period: 717.80 min. COSPAR: 1979-070A. USAF Sat Cat: 11474. Operation of the long-range telephone and telegraph radiocommunications system in the USSR; transmission of television programmes to stations in the Orbita network. References: 2, 6. 1979 July 31 - 04:33 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trident. Model: Trident C-4. LV Configuration: Trident C-4 C4T-7. PEM-7 Demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 1 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. Start long-lead fabrication crew module, Discovery Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Discovery. References: 15. 1979 August 1 - DoD Astronaut Training Group 1 selected. Nation: USA. The group was selected to provide shuttle manned spaceflight engineers to operate military payloads.. Qualifications: USAF, Navy, or Army officers with bachelor's degree in science or engineering; four years experience in flying or space-related activities. Vision minimum 20/150 uncorrected, correctable to 20/20. Maximum sitting blood pressure of 140/90. Height between 150 and 193 cm.. 13 were selected from 222 candidates. The existence of the group was secret until 1985. 1979 August 1 - Launch Site: Sea-launched. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: UNKPL. Launch Vehicle: R-31. Test mission Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 2 - 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. 1979 August 3 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF06. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. ABRES STREP-2 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 3 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC181. 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. 1979 August 3 - 09:20 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee. Model: Astrobee F. LV Configuration: Astrobee F GL A31.702. FWIR III Aeronomy / infrared astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF GL. Apogee: 172 km (106 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 3 - 10:45 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1119 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MT. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 213 km (132 mi). Apogee: 245 km (152 mi). Inclination: 81.40 deg. Period: 89.00 min. COSPAR: 1979-071A. USAF Sat Cat: 11478. Duration: 12.00 days. Decay Date: 1979-08-15. Military topography satellite; returned film capsule; separated capsule. References: 2, 6. 1979 August 6 - Complete limit test (STA-099) Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Challenger. Complete limit test (STA-099), Lockheed facility, Palmdale References: 15. 1979 August 7 - 17:14 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 160 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 7 - 19:50 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC36. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC GL A18.805. POSTBO ABM technology mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF GL. Apogee: 219 km (136 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 10 - Ferry flight, KSC to Atlanta Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Ferry flight, shuttle carrier aircraft/Enterprise (OV-101), KSC to Atlanta (1 hour, 55 minutes) References: 15. 1979 August 10 - Launch Site: Sriharikota. Launch Complex: SLV. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: SLV. Model: SLV-3. LV Configuration: SLV-3 SLV-3-E1. FAILURE: Thrust vectoring of second stage failed. Rohini 1A Nation: India. Payload: Rohini RS-1. Class: Technology. Spacecraft: Rohini 1A. Agency: ISRO. COSPAR: F790810A. Decay Date: 1979-08-19. References: 5. 1979 August 10 - 00:20 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC17A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Delta. Model: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 638/D149. Westar 3 Nation: USA. Program: Westar. Mass: 572 kg (1,261 lb). Class: Communications. Spacecraft: HS 333. Agency: WUTC. Perigee: 35,868 km (22,287 mi). Apogee: 35,883 km (22,296 mi). Inclination: 10.20 deg. Period: 1,440.60 min. COSPAR: 1979-072A. USAF Sat Cat: 11484. Completed Operations Date: 1990-01-24. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). Positioned in geosynchronous orbit at 91 deg W in 1979-1990 As of 2 September 2001 located at 7.26 deg W drifting at 1.139 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 9 located at 158.25E drifting at 1.129W degrees per day. References: 2, 6. 1979 August 10 - 17:12 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Ionosphere mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 160 km (90 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 11 - Ferry flight, Atlanta to St. Louis Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Ferry flight, shuttle carrier aircraft/Enterprise (OV-101), Atlanta to St. Louis (1 hour, 50 minutes) References: 15. 1979 August 11 - 09:15 GMT - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1120 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKM. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 170 km (100 mi). Apogee: 362 km (224 mi). Inclination: 70.60 deg. Period: 89.80 min. COSPAR: 1979-073A. USAF Sat Cat: 11485. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1979-08-24. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1979 August 12 - Ferry flight, St. Louis to Tulsa Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Ferry flight, shuttle carrier aircraft/Enterprise (OV-101), St. Louis to Tulsa (1 hour, 35 minutes) References: 15. 1979 August 13 - Ferry flight, Tulsa to Denver Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Ferry flight, shuttle carrier aircraft/Enterprise (OV-101), Tulsa to Denver (2 hours) References: 15. 1979 August 14 - Ferry flight, Denver to Hill AFB, Ogden, Utah Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Ferry flight, shuttle carrier aircraft/Enterprise (OV-101), Denver to Hill AFB, Ogden, Utah (1 hour, 30 minutes) References: 15. 1979 August 14 - 15:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/3. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1121 Nation: USSR. Payload: Yantar-2K s/n 929. Mass: 6,600 kg (14,500 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Yantar-2K. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 171 km (106 mi). Apogee: 348 km (216 mi). Inclination: 67.20 deg. Period: 89.70 min. COSPAR: 1979-074A. USAF Sat Cat: 11487. Duration: 30.00 days. Decay Date: 1979-09-13. Area survey photo reconnaissance; returned film in two small SpK capsules during the mission and with the main capsule at completion of the mission. References: 2, 6, 69. 1979 August 14 - 16:50 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Tomahawk Sandia. Model: Nike Tomahawk. LV Configuration: Nike Tomahawk GL A08.705-2. DMSP MS Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF GL. Apogee: 190 km (110 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 14 - 18:10 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Hawk. Model: Nike Orion. LV Configuration: Nike Orion SSC T3 Test. Dummy Orion test Nation: Sweden. Agency: SSC. Apogee: 11 km (6 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 14 - 20:20 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Aerobee. Model: Aerobee 170. LV Configuration: Aerobee 170 GL A04.703. DMSP UV Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF GL. Apogee: 178 km (110 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 15 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Ferry flight, Ogden to Vandenberg AFB Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Ferry flight, shuttle carrier aircraft/Enterprise (OV-101), Ogden to Vandenberg AFB (2 hours, 20 minutes) References: 15. 1979 August 15 - 14:16 GMT - EVA Salyut 6 EO-3-1 Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut 6. Class: Manned. Type: Space station. Spacecraft: Salyut 6. Crew: Lyakhov, Ryumin. Flight: Salyut 6 EO-3. EVA Duration: 0.0576 days. Jettisoned KRT-10 antenna from rear docking port. References: 66. 1979 August 16 - Launch Site: Edwards. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Ferry flight, Vandenberg AFB to Edwards Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Ferry flight, shuttle carrier aircraft/Enterprise (OV-101), Vandenberg AFB to Edwards (1 hour, 10 minutes) References: 15. 1979 August 17 - 07:45 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1122 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-2M. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 208 km (129 mi). Apogee: 227 km (141 mi). Inclination: 81.30 deg. Period: 88.90 min. COSPAR: 1979-075A. USAF Sat Cat: 11491. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1979-08-30. Zenit-2M area survey photo reconnaissance satellite used for earth resources studies as part of 'Gektor-Priroda' project. Nauka subsatellite 31KS jettisoned into independent orbit in the course of the mission. 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. Cosmos 1122 Nauka Nation: USSR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: Nauka. Agency: RVSN. COSPAR: 1979-075xx. References: 2, 279. 1979 August 17 - 21:15 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee. Model: Astrobee F. LV Configuration: Astrobee F NASA 25.11AS. Solar mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 225 km (139 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 18 - 07:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 9M. LV Configuration: Kappa 9M K-9M-67. TED / TPI / NEL / PWN Ionosphere mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 365 km (226 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 19 - Landing of Soyuz 34 Nation: USSR. Program: Salyut 6. Flight: Salyut 6 EO-3. Soyuz 34 landed at 12:30 GMT with the crew of Lyakhov and Ryumin aboard. 1979 August 21 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: LA2B?. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: DF-5. Nation: China. Agency: PRC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Other sources say launch was from Taiyuan on 2 August. References: 2. 1979 August 21 - 01:14 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Hawk. Model: Nike Orion. LV Configuration: Nike Orion NASA 31.16UE. SSC S27 / 2 Twilight B Aeronomy mission Nation: Sweden. Agency: NASA/SSC. Apogee: 149 km (92 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 21 - 11:10 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC41/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1123 Nation: USSR. Program: Resurs. Payload: Zenit-4MKT no. 12. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKT. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 211 km (131 mi). Apogee: 236 km (146 mi). Inclination: 81.30 deg. Period: 88.90 min. COSPAR: 1979-076A. USAF Sat Cat: 11496. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1979-09-03. 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. 1979 August 22 - 16:42 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-12. Aeronomy/Ionosphere mission Nation: USSR. Apogee: 155 km (96 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 23 - Launch Site: Edwards. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Enterprise / shuttle carrier demate, Edwards Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Enterprise. Enterprise (OV-101)/ shuttle carrier demate, Edwards References: 15. 1979 August 23 - Launch Site: Natal. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Sonda. Model: Sonda 3. LV Configuration: Sonda 3-M2 XV-07. Ionosphere mission Nation: Brazil. Agency: IAE. Apogee: 248 km (154 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 25 - 01:40 GMT - Launch Site: Tanegashima. Launch Complex: T. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: TT-500. LV Configuration: TT-500 TT-500-6F. Test mission Nation: Japan. Agency: NASDA. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 27 - Start long-lead fabrication crew module, Discovery Nation: USA. Program: STS. Class: Manned. Type: Spaceplane. Spacecraft: Discovery. References: 15. 1979 August 28 - 00:17 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC43/4. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Molniya 8K78M. Cosmos 1124 Nation: USSR. Payload: Oko #12. Mass: 2,030 kg (4,470 lb). Class: Early Warning. Spacecraft: Oko. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 4,913 km (3,052 mi). Apogee: 35,403 km (21,998 mi). Inclination: 67.30 deg. Period: 717.00 min. COSPAR: 1979-077A. USAF Sat Cat: 11509. Replaced Cosmos 1030. Covered Oko constellation plane 4 - 36 degree longitude of ascending node. References: 2, 6, 100. 1979 August 28 - 00:55 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 47182-419. Cosmos 1125 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Mass: 750 kg (1,650 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-2M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 779 km (484 mi). Apogee: 795 km (493 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 100.60 min. COSPAR: 1979-078A. USAF Sat Cat: 11510. References: 2, 6. 1979 August 29 - 00:30 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trident. Model: Trident C-4. DASO-1? demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 30 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF21. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. LV Configuration: Minuteman 3 STM-18W. Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 30 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: LC170. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100U 15A16. SLI? Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1979 August 31 - Complete OMS Phase II qualification tests Nation: USA. Program: STS. References: 15. 1979 August 31 - 11:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1126 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-6U. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 194 km (120 mi). Apogee: 391 km (242 mi). Inclination: 72.80 deg. Period: 90.40 min. COSPAR: 1979-079A. USAF Sat Cat: 11515. Duration: 14.00 days. Decay Date: 1979-09-14. Photo surveillance; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6. 1979 September 1 - Pioneer 11, Saturn Flyby Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Pioneer 10-11. 1979 September 1 - 04:16 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC29A. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Polaris. Model: Polaris A3. LV Configuration: Polaris A3TK P-5. Chevaline warhead test launch Nation: USA. Agency: RN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1979 September 4 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. Shuttle SSME Failure Nation: USA. In a test run, a liquid oxygen turbopump fails 9.7 seconds into the burn. References: 44. 1979 September 4 - Launch Site: Jiuquan. Launch Complex: LA2B. Launch Pad: LA2B?. Launch Vehicle: CZ. Model: DF-5. Nation: China. Agency: PRC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Other sources say launch was from Taiyuan. References: 2. 1979 September 5 - 10:20 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC41/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1127 Nation: USSR. Program: Resurs. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Landsat. Spacecraft: Resurs F1-17F41. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 210 km (130 mi). Apogee: 268 km (166 mi). Inclination: 81.30 deg. Period: 89.30 min. COSPAR: 1979-080A. USAF Sat Cat: 11520. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1979-09-18. High resolution photo surveillance; film capsule; maneuverable; also performed earth resources tasks. 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. 1979 September 11 - Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Hawk. Model: Nike Orion. LV Configuration: Nike Orion NASA 31.04IU. Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). References: 2. 1979 September 11 - 01:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kappa. Model: Kappa 9M. LV Configuration: Kappa 9M K-9M-68. SUV / AUV / NEL / EPA Ionosphere / solar ultraviolet mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 353 km (219 mi). References: 2. 1979 September 14 - Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: MR-UR-100. Model: MR-UR-100U 15A16. SLI? Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1979 September 14 - 15:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1128 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-4MKM. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 173 km (107 mi). Apogee: 328 km (203 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 89.50 min. COSPAR: 1979-081A. USAF Sat Cat: 11529. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1979-09-27. High resolution photo reconnaissance satellite; returned film capsule; maneuverable. References: 2, 6. 1979 September 15 - 11:00 GMT - Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: S. Model: S-310. LV Configuration: S-310-7. Aeronomy mission Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Apogee: 166 km (103 mi). References: 2. 1979 September 17 - 37K space station module authorised Nation: USSR. Spacecraft: 37KB, 37KS, NPG, 37K-Mir, LO, Kvant. The basic 37K design consisted of a 4.2 m diameter pressurised cylinder with a docking port at the forward end. It was not equipped with its own propulsion system. The original authorisation was for a total of eight 37K's of various configurations. Of these, only the 37K-E (Kvant module of Mir) and the 37KS (instrumentation module in Buran) would fly. 1979 September 20 - 05:28 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC36B. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Atlas. Model: SLV-3D Centaur. LV Configuration: SLV-3D Centaur AC-53 / Centaur D-1AR 5033. HEAO 3 Nation: USA. Payload: HEAO C. Mass: 3,150 kg (6,940 lb). Class: Astronomy. Spacecraft: HEAO. Agency: NASA. Perigee: 487 km (302 mi). Apogee: 503 km (312 mi). Inclination: 43.60 deg. Period: 94.50 min. COSPAR: 1979-082A. USAF Sat Cat: 11532. Decay Date: 1981-12-07. High Energy Astronomy Observatory; cosmic, gamma ray measurements. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 2, 6, 278. 1979 September 20 - 21:00 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC36. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC NASA 21.57UL. Aeronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 278 km (172 mi). References: 2. 1979 September 22 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF06. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1. Model: Minuteman 1B. ABRES ABRV-2 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1979 September 24 - 11:15 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee. Model: Astrobee F. LV Configuration: Astrobee F NASA 25.39UG. JHU UVS Astronomy mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 246 km (152 mi). References: 2. 1979 September 24 - 20:20 GMT - Launch Site: Kiruna. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 8C. LV Configuration: Black Brant 8C NASA 27.39UE. SSC S29 Barium-GEOS Aurora / chemical release mission Nation: Sweden. Agency: NASA/SSC. Apogee: 397 km (246 mi). References: 2. 1979 September 25 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF04. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 2. FOT GT138M Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1979 September 25 - Launch Site: Barking Sands. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Sergeant. Model: Sergeant Hydac. HAVE LENT IV ABRES test Nation: USA. Agency: ABRES. Apogee: 400 km (240 mi). References: 2. 1979 September 25 - 15:30 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC41/1. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1129 Nation: USSR. Payload: Bion no. 5. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Class: Biology. Spacecraft: Bion. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 213 km (132 mi). Apogee: 376 km (233 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 90.40 min. COSPAR: 1979-083A. USAF Sat Cat: 11536. Duration: 18.50 days. Decay Date: 1979-10-14. Biological experiments; embryo development, radiation medicine. Biosatellite for the continued investigation of the effects of space flight on living organisms. Capsule recovered 52 deg 17 min N, 65 deg 30 min E. Cosmos 1129 satellite carried biological and radiation physics experiment packages from Czechoslovakia, France, Hungary, Poland, Romania, the German Democratic Republic, the U.S. and the U.S.S.R. Additional Details: Cosmos 1129. References: 2, 6, 104, 297. 1979 September 25 - 21:00 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: LC132/2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 3. Model: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 47147-243. Cosmos 1130 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 177. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,398 km (868 mi). Apogee: 1,480 km (910 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.60 min. COSPAR: 1979-084A. USAF Sat Cat: 11538. Eight satellites launched by a single carrier rocket. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 1131 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 178. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,411 km (876 mi). Apogee: 1,483 km (921 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 114.80 min. COSPAR: 1979-084B. USAF Sat Cat: 11539. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 1132 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 179. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,426 km (886 mi). Apogee: 1,482 km (920 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.00 min. COSPAR: 1979-084C. USAF Sat Cat: 11540. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 1133 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 180. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,439 km (894 mi). Apogee: 1,483 km (921 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.10 min. COSPAR: 1979-084D. USAF Sat Cat: 11541. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 1134 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 181. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,454 km (903 mi). Apogee: 1,484 km (922 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.30 min. COSPAR: 1979-084E. USAF Sat Cat: 11542. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 1135 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 182. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,462 km (908 mi). Apogee: 1,492 km (927 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.50 min. COSPAR: 1979-084F. USAF Sat Cat: 11543. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 1136 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 183. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,473 km (915 mi). Apogee: 1,497 km (930 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.60 min. COSPAR: 1979-084G. USAF Sat Cat: 11544. References: 2, 6. Cosmos 1137 Nation: USSR. Program: Strela. Payload: Strela-1M no. 184. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Class: Communications. Type: Military Store-dump. Spacecraft: Strela-1M. Agency: MO SSSR. Perigee: 1,473 km (915 mi). Apogee: 1,514 km (940 mi). Inclination: 74.00 deg. Period: 115.80 min. COSPAR: 1979-084H. USAF Sat Cat: 11545. References: 2, 6. 1979 September 26 - 03:20 GMT - Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: V-2. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: R-5. Model: R-5V. Vertikal-8 Solar Ultraviolet/Solar X-ray mission Nation: USSR. Agency: AN SSSR. Apogee: 505 km (313 mi). References: 2. 1979 September 26 - 23:44 GMT - Launch Site: ETR Launch Area. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Trident. Model: Trident C-4. DASO-2? demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 2. 1979 September 27 - Launch Vehicle: Shuttle. QM-2 Shuttle SRB qualification static firing Nation: USA. The sixth firing of a shuttle Solid Rocket Booster motor. References: 44. 1979 September 27 - 11:30 GMT - Launch Site: White Sands. Launch Complex: LC36. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant. Model: Black Brant 5C. LV Configuration: Black Brant VC NASA 21.62GS. Solar mission Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 247 km (153 mi). References: 2. 1979 September 28 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: LF08. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 3. FOT GT70GM Follow-on Test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). References: 2. 1979 September 28 - 12:20 GMT - Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: -. Launch Pad: -. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz. Model: Soyuz 11A511U. Cosmos 1138 Nation: USSR. Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Class: Surveillance. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Zenit-6U. Agency: MOM. Perigee: 199 km (123 mi). Apogee: 373 km (231 mi). Inclination: 72.90 deg. Period: 90.20 min. COSPAR: 1979-085A. USAF Sat Cat: 11548. Duration: 14.00 days. Decay Date: 1979-10-12. Photo surveillance; returned film capsule. References: 2, 6. Previous Home Next Contact us with any corrections, additions, or comments. Conditions for use of drawings, pictures, or other materials from this site.. To contact astronauts or cosmonauts. © Mark Wade, 1997 - 2008 except where otherwise noted.