Encyclopedia Astronautica
Earth

Category of spacecraft.

More... - Chronology...
Associated Spacecraft
  • Meteor-M New-generation Russian weather satellite, successor to the Meteor-3M, with new electronics and designed for launch by the Soyuz ST launch vehicle rather than the discontinued Tsiklon-3 and non-Russian Zenit-2. First launched in 2009. More...
  • Explorer A American earth magnetosphere satellite. 3 launches, 1958.02.01 (Explorer 1) to 1958.03.26 (Explorer 3). Discovered Van Allen radiation belts. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space. More...
  • Sputnik 3 Russian earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1958.04.27 (Sputnik failure) to 1958.05.15 (Sputnik 3). In July 1956 OKB-1 completed the draft project for the first earth satellite, designated ISZ (Artificial Earth Satellite). More...
  • Vanguard 2 American earth magnetosphere satellite. 4 launches, 1958.05.28 (Vanguard 2B) to 1959.02.17 (Vanguard 2). The actual operational satellite that was to be launched by the Vanguard launcher. More...
  • Explorer B American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1958.07.26, Explorer 4. Mapped project Argus radiation. More...
  • Explorer C American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1958.08.24, Explorer 5. More...
  • Vanguard 3 American earth magnetosphere satellite. 4 launches, 1959.04.14 (30-inch Sphere) to 1959.09.18 (Vanguard 3). Radiation, micrometeoroid data. More...
  • S-1 American earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1959.07.16 (Explorer) to 1959.10.13 (Explorer 7). Magnetic field, solar flare data. More...
  • S-2 American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1959.08.07, Explorer 6. First Earth photo; radiation data. More...
  • S-46 American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1960.03.23, Explorer. More...
  • TIROS American earth weather satellite. 12 launches, 1960.04.01 (Tiros 1) to 1966.02.28 (ESSA 2). TIROS spacecraft were the beginning of a long series of polar-orbiting meteorological satellites. More...
  • S-30 American earth ionosphere satellite. One launch, 1960.11.03, Explorer 8. Ionospheric research. More...
  • S-56 American earth atmosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1960.12.04 (Explorer (9) S 56) to 1961.02.16 (Explorer 9). 12 foot diameter. balloon; atmospheric density studies. More...
  • HARP 5-1 Canadian earth atmosphere probe. Launched from 1960. The HARP 5-1 gun probe was a dart-shaped, sub-caliber vehicle with a major diameter of 66 mm, a length of 116 cm and a flight weight of 10.4 kg. More...
  • HARP 5-3 Canadian earth atmosphere satellite. Study 1960. The HARP 5-3 probe was developed during HARP to reduce the complexity of the 5 inch vehicles and in particular the nose eject system used by the HARP 5-1 probe. More...
  • Injun American earth magnetosphere satellite. 5 launches, 1961.06.29 (Injun 1) to 1968.08.08 (Explorer 40). Radiation decay data satellite. May also have been a cover for some NRL ELINT satellites. More...
  • S-55 American earth micrometeoroid satellite. 4 launches, 1961.06.30 (Explorer (13) S 55) to 1964.11.06 (Explorer 23). Micrometeoroid research. More...
  • HARP 7-1 Canadian earth atmosphere suborbital probe. Flights from 1961. The original HARP 7-1 gun probe was fundamentally a scaled up version of the 5-1 gun probe and was used for similar payloads. More...
  • HARP 7-2 Canadian earth atmosphere probe. Study 1961. The Harp 7-2 vehicle was an optimized version of the 7-1 vehicle. The 7-2 had a body diameter of 76 mm a length of 1410 mm a flight weight of 18.2 kg and a payload volume of 2048 cc. More...
  • SECOR American earth geodetic satellite. 13 launches, 1962.01.24 (Secor) to 1969.04.14 (SECOR 13). More...
  • Lofti 2 American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1962.01.24. Carried 5 satellites. More...
  • Highwater American earth atmosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1962.04.25 (Highwater 1) and 1962.11.16 (Highwater 2). Release of large quantities of chemicals at high altitudes during suborbital tests of Saturn I. More...
  • Ariel American earth magnetosphere satellite. 6 launches, 1962.04.26 (Ariel 1) to 1979.06.02 (Ariel 6). Ionospheric studies; returned X-ray, ionospheric, cosmic ray data. More...
  • Anna American earth geodetic satellite. 2 launches, 1962.05.10 (Anna 1A) and 1962.10.31 (Anna 1B). More...
  • Program 35 American earth weather satellite. 5 launches, 1962.05.24 (P 35-1) to 1963.09.27 (P 35-1). First US weather satellite, classified for many years. Predecessor to the DMSP series of military satellites. More...
  • DS-K-8 Ukrainian earth micrometeoroid satellite. One launch, 1962.08.18, Cosmos 8. Detected meteoroid flux in near-earth space and carried unspecified military research equipment. More...
  • ERS American earth magnetosphere satellite. 7 launches, 1962.09.17 (TRS) to 1967.04.28. Environmental Research Satellites were especially designed for piggyback launching from large primary mission vehicles. More...
  • Alouette Canadian earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1962.09.29 (Alouette 1) and 1965.11.29 (Alouette 2). Ionospheric research. More...
  • Starfish American earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1962.10.26 (Starfish Radiation 1) and 1965.09.02 (Starfish Radiation 2). Satellite collected artificial radiation data (resulting from atmospheric and exoatmospheric nuclear explosions). More...
  • AE American earth atmosphere satellite. 5 launches, 1963.04.03 (Explorer 17) to 1975.11.20 (Explorer 55). Atmospheric research. More...
  • RADOSE American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1963.06.15. Radiation dosimeter measurements. More...
  • GRS American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1963.06.28. Space gas data. More...
  • APL American earth magnetosphere satellite. 3 launches, 1963.09.28 (APL SN 39) to 1964.12.13 (APL SN 43). Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory built several satellites for the Air Force in the 1960's. More...
  • IMP American earth magnetosphere satellite. 10 launches, 1963.11.27 (Explorer 18) to 1973.10.26 (Explorer 50). More...
  • ADE American earth atmosphere satellite. 3 launches, 1963.12.19 (Explorer 19) to 1968.08.08 (Explorer 39). 12 foot diameter. balloon; identical to Explorer 9; atmospheric density studies. More...
  • Elektron-A Russian earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1964.01.30 (Elektron 1) to 1964.07.11 (Elektron 3). The Elektron mission was one of the earliest Soviet satellites to be authorized following the initial Sputnik series. More...
  • Elektron-B Russian earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1964.01.30 (Elektron 2) to 1964.07.11 (Elektron 4). The Elektron mission was one of the earliest Soviet satellites to be authorized following the initial Sputnik series. More...
  • BE American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1964.03.19, Explorer (20). Also known as Explorer S-66. More...
  • Starflash American earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1964.06.13 (Starflash 1A) and 1964.08.21 (Starflash 1B). Sub-satellite of unknown purpose, released from KH-5 photo reconnaisance satellites on two missions. More...
  • ESRS American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1964.06.25. Environmental Sciences Research Satellite. More...
  • IE American earth ionosphere satellite. One launch, 1964.08.25, Explorer 20. Ionospheric research. More...
  • Nimbus American earth weather satellite. 8 launches, 1964.08.28 (Nimbus 1) to 1978.10.13 (Nimbus 7). More...
  • Meteor Russian earth weather satellite. 11 launches, 1964.08.28 (Cosmos 44) to 1969.02.01 (Meteor). The first Soviet weather satellite. Development began with a decree of 30 October 1960. More...
  • OGO American earth magnetosphere satellite. 6 launches, 1964.09.05 (OGO 1) to 1969.06.05 (OGO 6). More...
  • Beacon American earth ionosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1964.10.10 (Explorer 22) to 1965.04.29 (Explorer 27). Early technology satellite. None reached orbit. More...
  • San Marco Italian earth atmosphere satellite. 5 launches, 1964.12.15 (San Marco 1) to 1988.03.25 (San Marco D/L). Atmospheric density studies. More...
  • DMSP Block 4A American earth weather satellite. 13 launches, 1965.01.19 (DMSP-Block-4A F1) to 1969.07.23 (DMSP-Block-4A F13). Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. More...
  • OV1 American earth magnetosphere satellite. 27 launches, 1965.01.21 (OV1-1) to 1971.08.07 (OV1-21P). More...
  • Pegasus American earth micrometeoroid satellite. 3 launches, 1965.02.16 (Pegasus 1) to 1965.07.30 (Pegasus 3). Pegasus satellites consisted of vast detector panels deployed from Saturn IV stages on Saturn I test flights. More...
  • OV2 American earth magnetosphere satellite. 6 launches, 1965.10.15 (OV2-01) to 1968.09.26 (OV2-05). OV2 satellites were built for the USAF Office of Aerospace Research, and flew as secondary payloads on Titan IIIC test flights. More...
  • DME American earth ionosphere satellite. One launch, 1965.11.29, Explorer 31. Explorer 31, the Direct Measurement Explorer, was launched with a Canadian Alouette II on November 28, 1965, on a Thor-Agena rocket from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California. More...
  • FRANCE French earth ionosphere satellite. One launch, 1965.12.06. Investigated the properties of the ionized layers of the atmosphere by observation of the propagation of very low frequency waves in the ionosphere. More...
  • DS-U1-G Ukrainian earth ionosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1966.02.11 (Cosmos 108) to 1967.12.19 (Cosmos 196). Studied the relationship between variations in the upper atmosphere and solar activity. More...
  • D French earth geodetic satellite. 8 launches, 1966.02.17 (Diapason) to 1975.09.27 (Aura). Small French science and technology satellites used on early Diamant launch vehicle tests. More...
  • OV3 American earth magnetosphere satellite. 6 launches, 1966.04.22 (OV3-01) to 1967.12.05 (OV3-06). The OV3 GUS General Utility Satellite were built for the Air Force as part of the OV3 satellite series. More...
  • DS-U2-I Ukrainian earth ionosphere satellite. 3 launches, 1966.05.24 (Cosmos 119) to 1968.12.14 (Cosmos 259). Studied the influence of the ionosphere on passing VLF radio waves. More...
  • Pageos American earth geodetic satellite. 3 launches, 1966.06.24 (Pageos 1) to (Pageos canister half). 100 foot diameter. balloon. More...
  • TOS American earth weather satellite. 7 launches, 1966.10.02 (ESSA 3) to 1969.02.26 (ESSA 9). TOS spacecraft marked the first operational system of US polar-orbiting meteorological satellites. More...
  • DS-U2-MP Ukrainian earth micrometeoroid satellite. 2 launches, 1966.12.12 (Cosmos 135) to 1967.06.05 (Cosmos 163). Studied cosmic dust particles in near-Earth space. More...
  • DS-U2-D Ukrainian earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1966.12.21 (Cosmos 137) to 1968.04.26 (Cosmos 219). Studied charged particle flows. More...
  • Diadem French earth geodetic satellite. 2 launches, 1967.02.08 (Diademe 1) and 1967.02.15 (Diademe 2). French geodetic satellites. More...
  • OV5 American earth magnetosphere satellite. 8 launches, 1967.04.28 (OV5-03) to 1969.05.23 (OV5-09). OV5 was a version of the USAF Environmental Research Satellites dedicated to radiation research and VLF plasma wave detection. More...
  • Owl American earth ionosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1967.05.18 (Transit 16) to 1967.09.25 (Transit 17). More...
  • Aurora American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1967.06.29. Investigated aurora borealis. More...
  • Wresat Australian earth atmosphere satellite. One launch, 1967.11.29. Australian Weapons Research Establishment Satellite, launched using surplus US Army Redstone missile, that obtained solar radiation, upper atmosphere data. More...
  • Sfera Russian earth geodetic satellite. 18 launches, 1968.02.20 (Cosmos 203) to 1978.12.26 (Cosmos 1067). The Sfera geodetic system covered a broad development for solving problems in geodetics, continental drift, and precise location of cartographic points. More...
  • DS-U1-Ya Ukrainian earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1968.03.06 (DS-U1-Ya s/n 1) and 1968.06.12 (Cosmos 225). Studied charged particle flows and cosmic rays. More...
  • Nauka Russian earth magnetosphere satellite. 45 launches, 1968.03.21 (Nauka) to 1979.08.17 (Cosmos 1122 Nauka). The Nauka containers were flown as piggy-back payloads aboard Zenit reconnaissance satellites. They served a dual purpose. More...
  • DS-U1-A Ukrainian earth ionosphere satellite. One launch, 1968.04.19, Cosmos 215. Studied the optical characteristics of the atmosphere. Radiation observatory; 8 telescopes. More...
  • Orbiscal American earth ionosphere satellite. 7 launches, 1968.08.16 (AVL-802 Grid Sphere 7-1) to (AVL-802 Grid Sphere 7-1). Investigate effects of ionosphere on radio signals. More...
  • RM American earth micrometeoroid satellite. 2 launches, 1968.08.16 (RM-18) and 1970.11.09 (RM-1; RMS). Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space. More...
  • HEOS European earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1968.12.05 (HEOS 1) and 1972.01.31 (HEOS 2). Highly Eccentric Orbiting Satellite; examined magnetic fields outside of Earth's magnetosphere. More...
  • DS-U2-GK Ukrainian earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1968.12.20 (Cosmos 261) to 1970.06.13 (Cosmos 348). Conducted complex geophysical studies of the upper atmosphere. Air density, auroral investigations. More...
  • Isis Canadian earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1969.01.30 (Isis 1) and 1971.04.01 (Isis 2). Ionospheric measurements; data correlated with measurements from Alouette 1. More...
  • Meteor M 11F614 Russian earth weather satellite. 25 launches, 1969.03.26 (Meteor 1-01) to 1977.04.05 (Meteor 1-27). Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. More...
  • Meteor M 11F614 Russian earth weather satellite. 25 launches, 1969.03.26 (Meteor 1-01) to 1977.04.05 (Meteor 1-27). Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. More...
  • DS-U3-IK Ukrainian earth magnetosphere satellite. 6 launches, 1969.10.14 (Intercosmos 1) to 1976.07.26 (Intercosmos 16). Measurements of the sun; used for Interkosmos launches. More...
  • AZUR German earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1969.11.08. German Research Satellite A; examined Van Allen belts, solar particles, aurora. More...
  • DS-U1-IK Ukrainian earth ionosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1969.12.25 (Intercosmos 2) to 1972.12.01 (Intercosmos 8). Studies ionosphere of the earth; version used for Intercosmos international launches. More...
  • Ionosfernaya Russian earth ionosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1969.12.27 (Ionosfernaya?) and 1970.12.02 (Cosmos 381). Ionospheric studies. Used the basic KAUR-1 bus, consisting of a 2. More...
  • Altitude Sounder Russian earth atmosphere satellite. Study 1969. Used the KAUR-1 bus, which consisted of a 2.035 m diameter cylindrical spacecraft body, with solar cells and radiators of the thermostatic temperature regulating system mounted on the exterior. More...
  • DS-U2-MG Ukrainian earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1970.01.20 (Cosmos 321) to 1970.08.10 (Cosmos 356). Studied the Earth's magnetic poles. More...
  • ITOS American earth weather satellite. 8 launches, 1970.01.23 (ITOS 1) to 1976.07.29 (NOAA 5). ITOS was the follow-on to the TIROS series of polar-orbiting US weather satellites, and marked the beginning of the use of the NOAA designator. More...
  • DMSP Block 5A American earth weather satellite. 3 launches, 1970.02.11 (DMSP-Block-5A F1) to 1971.02.17 (DMSP Block 5A F3). Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. More...
  • TOPO American earth geodetic satellite. One launch, 1970.04.08. US Army topographic / geodesic satellite launched in 1970. More...
  • DS-U1-R Ukrainian earth atmosphere satellite. One launch, 1970.04.24, Cosmos 335. Studied spectral range of the UF. More...
  • DS-U2-IK Ukrainian earth ionosphere satellite. 7 launches, 1970.08.07 (Intercosmos 3) to 1975.12.11 (Intercosmos 14). Studied charged particle flows and the ionosphere; version used for Intercosmos international launches. More...
  • Prospero British earth micrometeoroid satellite. 2 launches, 1970.09.02 (R-2) to 1971.10.28 (Prospero). Tested space equipment for future satellites and conducted a scientific experiment to measure the incidence of micro-meteoroids. More...
  • SS Japanese earth magnetosphere satellite. 6 launches, 1970.09.25 (SS) to 1985.08.18 (SS-11 Suisei). Scientific observations in outer space. More...
  • DS-U2-IP Ukrainian earth ionosphere satellite. One launch, 1970.11.17, Cosmos 378. Studied the ionosphere and charged particle flows. More...
  • DS-U2-K Ukrainian earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1971.06.05, Cosmos 426. Studied charged particle flows and cosmic radiation. More...
  • Eole French earth weather satellite. One launch, 1971.08.12. Experimental weather satellite; received meteorological data from balloon network. More...
  • DMSP Block 5B American earth weather satellite. 5 launches, 1971.10.14 (DMSP-Block-5B F1) to 1974.03.16 (DMSP-Block-5B F5). Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. More...
  • SSS American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1971.11.15, Explorer 45. Studies magnetosphere, energetic particles. More...
  • DS-U2-GKA Soviet-French earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1971.12.27 (Oreol) to 1973.12.26 (Oreol 2). Upper atmosphere, auroral studies. Investigation of physical phenomena in the Earth's upper atmosphere at high latitudes and study of the nature of auroras. More...
  • Energia Russian earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1972.04.07 (Intercosmos 6) to 1978.07.02 (Cosmos 1026). Adaptation of recoverable Vostok spacecraft for investigation of primary cosmic radiation and meteoritic particles in near-earth outer space. More...
  • Prognoz Russian earth magnetosphere satellite. 10 launches, 1972.04.14 (Prognoz 1) to 1985.04.26 (Intercosmos 23). This spacecraft, built by Lavochkin, was launched from 1972 for study of geomagnetic fields, radiation, and solar physics. More...
  • Landsat 1-2-3 American earth land resources satellite. 3 launches, 1972.07.23 (Landsat 1) to 1978.03.05 (Landsat 3). The first 3 Landsat missions were also known as the Earth Resources Technology Satellite (ERTS) series. More...
  • MTS American earth micrometeoroid satellite. One launch, 1972.08.13, Explorer 46. Micrometeoroid tests. More...
  • AEROS German earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1972.12.16 (Aeros 1) and 1974.07.16 (Aeros 2). Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space. More...
  • SMS American earth weather satellite. 2 launches, 1974.05.17 (SMS 1) and 1975.02.06 (SMS 2). Synchronous Meteorological Satellite. More...
  • Meteor-Priroda Russian earth land resources satellite. 5 launches, 1974.07.09 (Meteor 1-18) to 1981.07.10 (Meteor 1-31). More...
  • DMSP Block 5C American earth weather satellite. 3 launches, 1974.08.09 (DMSP-Block-5C F1) to 1976.02.19 (DMSP-Block-5C F3). Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. More...
  • Starlette French earth geodetic satellite. One launch, 1975.02.06. Geodesic satellite. More...
  • Aryabhata Indian earth atmosphere satellite. One launch, 1975.04.19. The Soviet Union assisted India in development of Aryabhata, its first satellite, named for the Indian astronomer. The satellite conducted scientific experiments on atmospheric research. More...
  • Meteor-2 Russian earth weather satellite. 22 launches, 1975.07.11 (Meteor 2-01) to 1993.08.31 (Meteor 2-21). Successor to the Meteor-1 weather satellite. The Meteor-2 had a longer design operational life (one year vs. More...
  • GOES American earth weather satellite. 8 launches, 1975.10.16 (GOES 1) to 1987.02.26 (GOES 7). Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite. More...
  • DAD American earth atmosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1975.12.06 (DAD-B) and (DAD-B). Dual Air Density; air density experiments. More...
  • JISS Japanese earth ionosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1976.02.29 (ISS 1) to 1978.02.16 (ISS 2). JISS - national name "Ume". Spin-stabilized; Ionospheric Sounder, Radio Noise Receiver, Plasma Measuring Equipment, Ion Mass Spectrometer, and other instruments. More...
  • LAGEOS American earth geodetic satellite. 2 launches, 1976.05.04 (Lageos) and 1992.10.22 (Lageos 2). The LAGEOS satellites were passive vehicles covered with retroreflectors designed to reflect laser beams transmitted from ground stations. More...
  • DMSP Block 5D American earth weather satellite. 5 launches, 1976.09.11 (AMS 1) to 1980.07.15 (AMS 5). Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. More...
  • GVM DS-U2-IK Ukrainian earth ionosphere satellite. One launch, 1977.02.15, Cosmos 893. Designation indicates a mass model of the DS-U2-IK (which studied charged particle flows and the ionosphere). However flown after the functional spacecraft's flights were completed. More...
  • ESA-Geos European earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1977.04.20 (ESA-Geos 1) and 1978.07.14 (ESA-Geos 2). Magnetospheric research. European Space Agency satellite. More...
  • GMS Japanese earth weather satellite. 5 launches, 1977.07.14 (Himawari 1) to 1995.03.18 (Himawari 5). The Geostationary Meteorological Satellite series were spin-stabilized satellites. More...
  • ISEE American earth magnetosphere satellite. 3 launches, 1977.10.22 (ISEE 1) to 1978.08.12 (ISEE 3). These Explorer-class heliocentric spacecraft were part of the mother/daughter/heliocentric mission (ISEE 1, 2, and 3). More...
  • Meteosat European earth weather satellite. 7 launches, 1977.11.23 (Meteosat 1) to 1997.09.02 (Meteosat 7). More...
  • EXOS Japanese earth ionosphere satellite. 4 launches, 1978.02.04 (SS-05 Kyokko) to 1989.02.21 (Akebono). Optical investigations of ionosphere. EXOS-C (OHZORA). More...
  • AEM American earth atmosphere satellite. One launch, 1978.04.26, HCMM. Heat Capacity Mapping Mission; produced thermal maps of atmosphere. Studied dust, liquid droplets in upper atmosphere. More...
  • Seasat American earth resources radar satellite. One launch, 1978.06.27. Seasat was the first satellite designed for remote sensing of the Earth's oceans with synthetic aperture radar (SAR). More...
  • Tiros N American earth weather satellite. 6 launches, 1978.10.13 (Tiros N) to 2002.06.24 (NOAA 17). Tiros N was part of the ongoing US series of polar-orbiting weather satellites. These were preceded by the TIROS series and the ITOS (Improved TIROS) series. More...
  • CAMEO American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1978.10.13. Released barium cloud. More...
  • Magion Czech earth magnetosphere satellite. 5 launches, 1978.10.24 (Magion 1) to 1996.08.29 (Magion 5). The Czechoslovak satellite MAGION researched the magnetosphere and ionosphere of the earth. More...
  • Okean-E Ukrainian earth resources radar satellite. 2 launches, 1979.02.12 (Cosmos 1076) to 1980.01.23 (Cosmos 1151). First prototype of Okean series. Development of methods for obtaining operational information on the Pacific Ocean. More...
  • SAGE American earth atmosphere satellite. One launch, 1979.02.18. Studied dust, liquid droplets in upper atmosphere. More...
  • Solwind American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1979.02.24. Ionosphere and magnetosphere studies; destroyed 9/13/85 (while still functioning) as part of ASAT test. More...
  • Bhaskara Indian earth land resources satellite. 2 launches, 1979.06.07 (Bhaskara 1) and 1981.11.20 (Bhaskara 2). Experimental satellite for conducting earth resources survey over India. More...
  • Resurs F1-17F41 Russian earth land resources satellite. 29 launches, 1979.09.05 (Cosmos 1127) to 1986.05.28 (Cosmos 1746). The 17F41 was the first of 4 models of the Resurs-F to fly. More...
  • Magsat American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1979.10.30. Measured near-Earth magnetic field and crustal anomalies. More...
  • Resurs-OE Russian earth land resources satellite. 2 launches, 1980.06.18 (Meteor 1-30) to 1983.07.24 (Cosmos 1484). Modified Meteor; prototype for Resurs-O1. More...
  • Rohini Indian earth land resources satellite. 2 launches, 1980.07.18 (Rohini RS-1) and 1983.04.17 (Rohini 3). Experimental-technology mission. More...
  • Geo-IK Russian earth geodetic satellite. 14 launches, 1981.01.23 (Geo-IK no. 1) to 1994.11.29 (Geo-IK). Development of a second generation geodetic satellite system began in 1977. More...
  • Dynamics Explorer American earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1981.08.03 (Dynamics Explorer 1) and (Dynamics Explorer 2). Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space. More...
  • IK-B-1300 Ukrainian earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1981.08.07, Intercosmos 22. Intercosmos-Bulgaria 1300. Comprehensive investigation of physical processes in the earth's ionosphere and magnetosphere. More...
  • Landsat 4-5 American earth land resources satellite. 2 launches, 1982.07.16 (Landsat 4) to 1984.03.01 (Landsat 5). More...
  • Astrozond Soviet earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1982.09.18. More...
  • DMSP Block 5D-2 American earth weather satellite. 9 launches, 1982.12.21 (AMS 5) to 1997.04.04 (USA 131). DMSP 5D-2 was the military's sixth generation of weather satellites. More...
  • Okean-OE Ukrainian earth resources radar satellite. 2 launches, 1983.09.28 (Cosmos 1500) to 1984.09.28 (Cosmos 1602). More...
  • Multipurpose Satellite Gals Russian earth resources radar satellite. Study 1983. Heavy radar satellite based on the DOS 17K space station bus and using a KRT-30, a 30 m diameter radiotelescope. More...
  • Efir Russian earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1984.03.10 (Cosmos 1543) to 1985.12.27 (Cosmos 1713). Science. Adaptation of the Vostok spacecraft. More...
  • LDEF American earth micrometeoroid satellite. One launch, 1984.04.06. More...
  • AMPTE American earth magnetosphere satellite. 4 launches, 1984.08.16 (CCE-1) to (Solar Cell Experiment). Charge Composition Explorer; detected tracer ions released into magnetosphere by IRM. More...
  • ERBS American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1984.10.05. ERBS was part of the NASA's three-satellite Earth Radiation Budget Experiment (ERBE), designed to investigate how energy from the Sun is absorbed and re-emitted by the Earth. More...
  • Meteor-3 Russian earth weather satellite. 7 launches, 1984.11.27 (Cosmos 1612) to 1994.01.25 (Meteor 3-06). Meteor-3 began in 1972 as an improved replacement for the Meteor-2 weather satellite. More...
  • Energia Ozone Replenishment Satellite Russian earth environment satellite. Study 1984. The eroding ozone layer of the earth would be replenished using a constellation of space-based lasers that would bombard the stratosphere at 30 km altitude for 30 years. More...
  • Energia Orbital Debris Remover Russian earth environment satellite. Study 1984. A 15 metric ton maneuverable satellite, consisting of an engine unit and a satellite collection mechanism, would maneuver at geosynchronous altitude in orbits with inclinations of between 0 and 14 degrees. More...
  • Energia Polar City Illuminator Russian earth environment satellite. Study 1984. The Energia launch vehicle could be used to launch 100 orbital reflectors to provide light to cities located in the polar regions. More...
  • Geosat American earth resources radar satellite. One launch, 1985.03.13. Geosat was a US Navy satellite designed to measure sea surface heights to within 5 cm. More...
  • PDP American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1985.07.29. Plasma Diagnostics Package; released by STS 51F 8/1/85, retrieved 8/2/85. More...
  • Resurs-O1 Russian earth land resources satellite. 4 launches, 1985.10.03 (Cosmos 1689) to 1998.07.10 (Resurs-O1 No. 4). A decree of 5 May 1977 authorized development of three earth resource satellites. More...
  • SPOT-1-2-3 French earth land resources satellite. 3 launches, 1986.02.22 (SPOT 1) to 1993.09.26 (SPOT 3). SPOT was the French government-sponsored civil earth observation program, with support from Belgium and Sweden. More...
  • Viking (Sweden) Swedish earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1986.02.22, Viking. Sweden's first satellite, Viking, was originally initiated as a means of providing experience in satellite system development and management. More...
  • Resurs F1-14F40 Russian earth land resources satellite. 7 launches, 1986.07.16 (Cosmos 1762) to 1988.02.18 (Cosmos 1920). The Resurs-F earth resource satellite was based on the recoverable Zenit-4 spy satellite. More...
  • Okean-O1 Ukrainian earth resources radar satellite. 9 launches, 1986.07.28 (Cosmos 1766) to 2004.12.24 (Sich-1M). Third generation Soviet oceanographic research satellite, equipped with a side-looking radar, radiometer, and multi-spectral scanner. More...
  • EGS Japanese earth geodetic satellite. One launch, 1986.08.12. Experimental Geophysical Payload; new launch vehicle test flight. EGS (Ajisai). Improvement of the accuracy of domestic geodetic triangulation network. More...
  • Polar Bear American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1986.11.14. also known as STP P87-1, a military mission designed to study communications interference caused by solar flares and increased auroral activity. More...
  • Marine Observation Satellite Japanese earth sea satellite. 2 launches, 1987.02.19 (MOS-1) to 1990.02.07 (MOS-1b). The MOS 1A and 1B satellites, also known as Momo 1A and 1B, were Japan's first Earth resources satellites. More...
  • SROSS Indian earth magnetosphere satellite. 4 launches, 1987.03.24 (SROSS A) to 1994.05.04 (SROSS-C2). More...
  • Resurs F2 Russian earth land resources satellite. 11 launches, 1987.12.26 (Cosmos 1906) to 1995.09.26 (Resurs F2 N.10). Adaptation of recoverable Vostok spacecraft for remote sensing. More...
  • IRS Indian Remote Sensing Satellite. Operational, first launch 1988.03.17. Remote sensing of the Earth for natural resources management applications. More...
  • Resurs F1-14F43 Russian earth land resources satellite. 18 launches, 1988.05.31 (Cosmos 1951) to 1993.08.24 (Resurs F-19). A decree of 5 May 1977 authorized development of three earth resource satellites. More...
  • FY-1 Chinese earth weather satellite. 4 launches, 1988.09.06 (FY-1A) to 2002.05.15 (SJ-6A). The Feng Yun 1 meteorological satellites were launched into sun-synchronous 900 km, 99 deg inclination orbits by CZ-4 boosters from Taiyuan. More...
  • Etalon Russian earth geodetic satellite. 2 launches, 1989.01.10 (Cosmos 1989) to 1989.05.31 (Cosmos 2024). Passive geodetic satellites, 1415 kg, 1.294 m in diameter, covered with 306 antenna arrays, each with 14 corner cubes for laser reflection. More...
  • Pion Russian earth atmosphere satellite. 6 launches, 1989.05.25 (Pion) to 1992.08.19 (Pion 2). Deployed from Resurs F1, which carried two passive separable "Pion" probes to investigate upper atmospheric density. More...
  • Pegsat American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1990.04.05. Chemical release experiment. More...
  • CRRES American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1990.07.25. Combined Release and Radiation Effects Satellite. Chemical release experiment. More...
  • Greensat South African earth land resources satellite. Cancelled 1990. The South African RSA-3 launch vehicle was designed to place a small surveillance satellite of 330 kg mass into a 41 degree, 212 x 460 km orbit around the earth. More...
  • Tellura Russian earth land resources satellite. Study 1990. In 1990 KB Salyut proposed an unmanned derivative of the TKS manned ferry to conduct earth resources experiments. More...
  • Mak Russian earth atmosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1991.06.17 (Mak 1) and 1992.10.27 (Mak 2). Launched from Mir airlock. Investigation of features at the Earth's atmosphere. More...
  • REX American earth ionosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1991.06.29 (REX) and 1996.03.09 (REX-II). The REX satellites were designed to study scintillation effects of the Earth's atmosphere on RF transmissions. More...
  • ERS 1-2 European earth resources radar satellite. 2 launches, 1991.07.17 (ERS 1) to 1995.04.21 (ERS 2). The primary mission of Europe's ERS-1 and -2 was to perform remote sensing of the Earth's oceans, ice caps, and coastal regions. More...
  • UARS American earth ionosphere satellite. One launch, 1991.09.12. The Upper Atmospheric Research Satellite was designed to study the physical and chemical processes occurring in the Earth's upper atmosphere (between 15 and 100 km). More...
  • JERS Japanese earth land resources satellite. One launch, 1992.02.11. JERS-1 (Japanese Research Satellite-1; FUYO-1) was Japan's second Earth observation satellite. More...
  • SAMPEX American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1992.07.03. More...
  • Geotail Japanese earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1992.07.24. Measured magnetosphere and Earth's geomagnetic tail; Diffuse Ultraviolet Explorer package bolted to Delta 2 second stage. More...
  • DUVE Japanese earth atmosphere satellite. One launch, 1992.07.24. Diffuse Ultraviolet Explorer package bolted to Delta 2 2nd stage. More...
  • Topex/Poseidon American earth sea satellite. One launch, 1992.08.10. TOPEX/Poseidon was a co-operative mission between the United States and France designed to provide high-accuracy global sea level measurements. More...
  • Freja Swedish earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1992.10.06 (Freja) and (Freja). Freja was designed to image the aurora and measure particles and fields in the upper ionosphere and lower magnetosphere. More...
  • Ekol Russian earth atmosphere satellite. Study 1992. The Lavochkin NPO designed a variety of remote sensing spacecraft based on a new 3-axis controlled satellite bus. More...
  • Obzor Russian earth resources radar satellite. Study 1992. The Arsenal Design Bureau proposed converting its military ocean reconnaissance spacecraft bus (EORSAT) into a civil remote sensing platform. More...
  • STELLA French earth geodetic satellite. One launch, 1993.09.26. Laser reflectors. More...
  • Landsat 6 American earth land resources satellite. One launch, 1993.10.05. Landsat 6 was designed to continue the Landsat program and carried an improved suite of instruments. More...
  • GOES-Next American earth weather satellite. 3 launches, 1994.04.13 (GOES 8) to 1997.04.25 (GOES 10). Geostationary Environmental Satellite. More...
  • Clark American earth atmosphere satellite. Cancelled in 1998 when overruns had reached 20% of original price and no end to development was in sight. More...
  • Elektro Russian earth weather satellite. One launch, 1994.10.31. Elektro was to be the geostationary component of a third generation Soviet meteorological system. Following extended development, it flew only once, in 1994. More...
  • Wind American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1994.11.01. Wind was designed to provide continuous measurement of the solar wind, particularly charged particles and magnetic field data. More...
  • Astrid Swedish earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1995.01.24. Sweden's third scientific satellite and first microsatellite, ASTRID carries an Energetic Neutral Atom analyzer, an Electron Spectrometer and two UV imagers for imaging the Earth's aurora. More...
  • GFZ-1 German earth geodetic satellite. 2 launches, 1995.04.19 (GFZ-1) and 1998.07.10 (WESTPAC). GFZ-1 was a geodetic satellite designed to improve the current knowledge of the Earth's gravity field. More...
  • Prognoz-M Russian earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1995.08.02 (Interbol 1) to 1996.08.29 (Interbol 2). Interbol was originally an Intercosmos project with a launch planned for the late 1980's. More...
  • Meteor (USA) American earth weather satellite. One launch, 1995.10.23, Meteor RV. Meteor commercial microgravity recoverable spacecraft built by EER Systems. Destroyed in failure of first test flight of Conestoga commercial launch vehicle. More...
  • Radarsat Canadian earth resources radar satellite. Two launches, 1995.11.04 (Radarsat) and 2007.12.14 (Radarsat). Canada's Radarsat was a radar satellite featuring variable resolution, and different view angles at a number of preset positions. More...
  • Polar American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1996.02.24. Polar was designed to measure the entry, energization, and transport of plasma into the magnetosphere as part of the International Solar Terrestrial Program (ISTP). More...
  • Cluster European earth magnetosphere satellite. 4 launches, 1996.06.04 (Cluster F4) to (Cluster F4). The Cluster satellites were a series of sophisticated earth-observation platforms that were to be launched aboard the first Ariane 5. More...
  • TOMS-EP American earth atmosphere satellite. One launch, 1996.07.02. More...
  • ADEOS Japanese earth atmosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1996.08.17 (ADEOS) and 2002.12.14 (Adeos 2). The polar orbiting ADEOS spacecraft was to perform Earth, atmospheric, and oceanographic remote sensing. More...
  • FAST American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1996.08.21. FAST was designed to observe and measure rapidly varying electric and magnetic fields and the flow of electrons and ions above the aurora. More...
  • MuSat Argentinan earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1996.08.29, Microsat. MuSat-1 Victor was the first Argentine-built satellite. More...
  • Zeya Russian earth geodetic satellite. One launch, 1997.03.04. The Zeya satellite was used for navigation and geodesy tests from a sun-synchronous orbit. More...
  • FY-2 Chinese earth weather satellite. 5 launches, 1997.06.10 (FY-2A) to 2008.12.23 (FY-2C). The Feng Yun 2 spin-stabilized geosynchronous meteorological spacecraft was slightly more massive than China's DFH-2 communications satellite. More...
  • Lewis American earth land resources satellite. One launch, 1997.08.23. Lewis was selected in the NASA SSTI (Small Spacecraft Technology Initiative) program, along with Clark, to demonstrate advanced spacecraft technologies. More...
  • FORTE American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1997.08.29. FORTE - 'Fast On-orbit Recording of Transient Events' - was a US Los Alamos National Laboratory satellite designed to study natural and artificial radio emissions from the ionosphere. More...
  • Resurs F1M Russian earth land resources satellite. 2 launches, 1997.11.17 (Resurs F-1M) to 1999.09.28 (Resurs F-1M). Variant of the Resurs-F recoverable earth resources satellite. See Resurs F1-17F40 for a full technical description. More...
  • TRMM American earth atmosphere satellite. One launch, 1997.11.27. TRMM was an international mission dedicated to measuring tropical and subtropical rainfall. More...
  • Equator-S German earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1997.12.02. German geophysics satellite. More...
  • GFO American earth resources radar satellite. One launch, 1998.02.10. GFO was a follow-on to the successful GEOSAT program which flew between 1985 and 1990. GFO was to provide real-time ocean topography data to 65 Navy users at sea and on shore. More...
  • SPOT-4 French earth land resources satellite. One launch, 1998.03.24, SPOT 4. SPOT was the French government-sponsored civil earth observation program. A single SPOT satellite provides complete coverage of the Earth every 26 days. More...
  • Astrid-2 Swedish earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1998.12.10. Swedish Space Corporation's second microsatellite (based on Astrid-1) was slated to perform high resolution E-field and B-filed measurements in the Earth's auroral regions. More...
  • Earthquake Monitoring Satellite Chinese earth seismology satellite. Study 1998. Chinese scientists announced on 18 May 1998 that they were designing an earthquake early warning satellite system, including a constellation of 10 small satellites in low earth orbit. More...
  • Kolibor Russian earth seismology satellite. Study 1998. The Kolibor microsatellite platform of KB Arsenal was a universal development of that designed for the Predvestnik earthquake monitoring system. More...
  • ROCSAT Taiwanese earth sea satellite. 3 launches, 1999.01.27 (ROCSAT-1) to 2008.10.01 (ROCSAT 2). Taiwan's ROCSAT (Republic of China Satellites) were built for Taiwan's National Space Program Office. More...
  • Orsted Danish earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1999.02.23. More...
  • Landsat 7 American earth land resources satellite. One launch, 1999.04.15. More...
  • TERRIERS American earth ionosphere satellite. One launch, 1999.05.18. More...
  • QuikScat American earth sea satellite. One launch, 1999.06.20. Built under a NASA rapid delivery contract. Carried the SeaWinds scatterometer for remote sensing of ocean winds. More...
  • Okean-O Ukrainian earth resources radar satellite. One launch, 1999.07.17. More...
  • ZY Chinese earth land resources satellite. 6 launches, 1999.10.14 (ZY-1) to 2007.09.19 (ZY-2C). From 1985 China and Brazil jointly developed a sun synchronous imaging satellite bus, the Zi Yuan-1 (Resouce-1) based on the Shi Jian 3 design. More...
  • DMSP Block 5D-3 American earth weather satellite. 4 launches, 1999.12.12 (USA 147) to 2009-10-18. Military spacecraft similar in design to the civilian NOAA weather satellites. More...
  • Terra American earth land resources satellite. One launch, 1999.12.18. NASA's Terra satellite (originally known as Earth Observing System EOS AM-1) was the first spacecraft in the EOS program. More...
  • CHAMP German earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 2000.07.15. CHAMP was a geophysics research satellite operated by GFZ, Potsdam, to study the earth's magnetic and gravitational field. More...
  • Cluster 2 European earth magnetosphere satellite. 4 launches, 2000.07.16 (Samba) to 2000.08.09 (Tango). More...
  • SAC-C Argentinan earth land resources satellite. One launch, 2000.11.21. The SAC-C Satelite de Aplicaciones Cientificas C was developed by the Argentine space agency CONAE and built by the Argentine company INVAP. More...
  • EO-1 American earth land resources satellite. One launch, 2000.11.21. The Earth Orbiter 1 satellite was part of NASA's New Millennium Program. More...
  • LRE Japanese earth geodetic satellite. One launch, 2001.08.29. The 87 kg Laser Ranging Experiment was a passive mirror ball of diameter 51 cm and carried 24 glass sheets and 126 prisms on its surface. More...
  • BIRD German earth land resources satellite. One launch, 2001.10.22. More...
  • PROBA European earth land resources satellite. One launch, 2001.10.22. Proba (PRoject for On-Board Autonomy, 1) was a European Space Agency technology development minisatellite with a mass of 94 kg. More...
  • Jason French earth sea satellite. 2 launches, 2001.12.07 (Jason 1) and 2008.06.20 (Jason 2). Jason was a joint mission between CNES (the French space agency) and NASA/JPL, carrying the same type of sea surface altimeter used on NASA's Topex satellite. More...
  • Meteor-3M Russian earth weather satellite. One launch, 2001.12.10. The Meteor-3 weather satellite was to be followed in 1996 by the first of the Meteor-3M class, which was finally put into orbit in 2001. No further launches, and succeeded by the Meteor-M in 2010. More...
  • Kompas Russian earth seismology satellite. 2 launches, 2001.12.10 (Kompas) and 2006.05.26 (Kompas). More...
  • Envisat European earth resources radar satellite. One launch, 2002.03.01. The European Space Agency's Envisat polar platform was originally envisaged as an automated polar orbiting segment of the Space Station. More...
  • GRACE American earth geodetic satellite. 2 launched, 2002.03.17 (GRACE 1 ) and (GRACE 2 ). The GRACE mission was to accurately map variations in the Earth's gravity field over its 5-year lifetime. More...
  • Aqua American earth sea satellite. One launch, 2002.05.04. Aqua was also designated the EOS-PM Earth Observing System satellite, joining EOS-AM/Terra. The CERES and MODIS instruments aboard Aqua were also carried on the Terra satellite. More...
  • SPOT-5A-5B French earth land resources satellite. Two launches, 2002.05.04, 2009.12.18. SPOT was the French government sponsored civil Earth observation program. A single SPOT satellite provided complete coverage of the Earth every 26 days. More...
  • HY-1 Chinese earth land resources satellite. 2 launches, 2002.05.15 (Hai Yang 1) to 2007.04.11 (Haiyang 1B). More...
  • MSG European earth weather satellite. 2 launches, 2002.08.28 (MSG 1) and 2005.12.21 (MSG 2). MSG (Meteosat Second Generation 1) was a European (EUMETSAT consortium) geostationary weather satellite. More...
  • METSAT Indian earth weather satellite. One launch, 2002.09.12. METSAT was an Indian (ISRO) meteorological, geostationary satellite designed to simultaneously obtain atmospheric cloud cover, water vapor, and temperature data. More...
  • WEOS Kanta-Kun Japanese earth land resources satellite. One launch, 2002.12.14. Ecology satellite. More...
  • ICESat American earth land resources satellite. One launch, 2003.01.13. More...
  • Mimosa Czech earth atmosphere satellite. One launch, 2003.06.30. Satellite by the Czech Astronomical Institute for study of the density of the upper atmosphere using the sensitive Macek accelerometer. More...
  • Monitor Russian earth land resources satellite. 2 launches, 2003.06.30 (Monitor-E/SL) and 2005.08.26 (Monitor-E). More...
  • SCISAT Canadian earth atmosphere satellite. One launch, 2003.08.13. More...
  • Double Star Chinese earth magnetosphere satellite. 2 launches, 2003.12.29 (Tan Ce 1) to 2004.07.25 (Tan Ce 2). Double Star was a joint ESA - China project to supplement ESA's Cluster satellites in characterizing the earth's magnetosphere. More...
  • Gravity Probe-B American earth geodetic satellite. One launch, 2004.04.20, Gravity Probe B. Gravity Probe B was an experiment developed by NASA and Stanford University to test two unverified predictions of Albert Einstein's general theory of relativity. More...
  • Demeter French earth seismology satellite. One launch, 2004.06.29. Demeter studied disturbances of the ionosphere due to seismo electromagnetic effects and human activities (power lines, VLF transmitters, HF broadcasting stations). More...
  • Aura American earth atmosphere satellite. One launch, 2004.07.15. Earth Observing System (EOS) Aura was a NASA mission to study the Earth's ozone, air quality and climate. More...
  • Myriade Micro-satellite product line developed jointly by EADS Astrium and the French Space Agency CNES beginning in 1998. Operational, first launch 2004.12.18. More...
  • MS-1 Ukrainian earth land resources satellite. 2 launches, 2004.12.24 (Mikron) to 2007.04.17 (MisrSat 1). Ukrainian microsatellite bus that could be equipped with imaging or other scientific or technical equipment. More...
  • USA 185 American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 2005.09.23. Classified research satellite, said to carry instruments to characterise the space environment in a sun-synchronous orbit. More...
  • Cryosat European earth resources radar satellite. CryoSat carried a radar altimeter to acquire accurate measurements of the thickness of floating sea ice so that annual variations could be detected. More...
  • Cloudsat American earth weather satellite. One launch, 2006.04.28. More...
  • Calipso American earth weather satellite. One launch, 2006.04.28. More...
  • Metop European earth weather satellite. One launch, 2006.10.19. MetOp was Europe's first polar-orbiting satellite dedicated to operational meteorology. More...
  • Themis American earth magnetosphere satellite. 5 launched, 2007.02.17. More...
  • C/NOFS American earth seismology satellite. One launch, 2008.04.16. The C/NOFS (Communication/Navigation Outage Forecasting System) satellite flew the US Defence Department's Space Test Program P00-3 space weather forecasting mission. More...
  • FY-3 Chinese new generation polar orbit weather satellite. Operational, first launched 2008.05.27. The FY-3 was equipped with new global, all-weather, multi-spectral, three-dimensional sensors. More...
  • SpriteSat Japanese science. One launch, 2009.01.23. Microsatellite stabilized by a gravity gradient boom to study atmospheric sprites, built by by Tohoku University, Sendai. More...
  • Ibuki Japanese earth atmosphere satellite. One launch, 2009.01.23. Greenhouse Gas Observing Satellite, renamed Ibuki after launch. More...
  • Gaia American earth resources satellite. need summary - see links More...

Earth Chronology
1954 August 15 - . LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C.
  • Von Braun proposes launch of US satellite. - . Payload: Explorer A. Nation: USA. Related Persons: von Braun. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Explorer A. Summary: Von Braun report 'A Minimum Satellite Vehicle Based on Components Available from Developments of the Army Ordnance Corps' in response to June Pentagon meeting proposes $ 100,000 to launch satellite by Redstone..
1955 August 24 - . LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C.
  • Redstone recommended as satellite launcher. - . Payload: Explorer A. Nation: USA. Related Persons: von Braun. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Explorer A. Research and development Policy Council (DOD) unanimously recommended that the time-risk factor in the scientific satellite program be brought to the attention of the Secretary of the Defense for determination as to whether a Redstone backup program was indicated.
1957 October 5 - . LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C.
  • Von Braun promises first US satellite in 60 days. - . Payload: Explorer A. Nation: USA. Related Persons: von Braun; McElroy; Medaris. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Explorer A. Summary: Von Braun briefs Secretary of Defence McElroy on Jupiter-C/Redstone for immediate US satellite launch. Promises launch in 60 days. Medaris says 90..
1958 February 1 - . 03:47 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26A. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C. LV Configuration: Jupiter C/Juno I RS-29.
  • Explorer 1 - . Payload: Explorer A. Mass: 5.00 kg (11.00 lb). Nation: USA. Related Persons: von Braun. Agency: USA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Explorer A. Decay Date: 1970-03-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 4 . COSPAR: 1958-Alpha-1. Apogee: 1,859 km (1,155 mi). Perigee: 347 km (215 mi). Inclination: 33.2000 deg. Period: 107.20 min. Explorer I, the first U.S. earth satellite, was launched by a modified Army Ballistic Missile Agency Jupiter-C. Explorer I, developed by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, carried the U.S.-IGY (International Geophysical Year) experiment of James A. Van Allen and resulted in the discovery of the radiation belt around the earth.
1958 March 5 - . 18:27 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26A. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C. LV Configuration: Jupiter C/Juno I RS/CC-26. FAILURE: Fourth Stage failed to ignite.. Failed Stage: 4.
  • Explorer 2 - . Payload: Explorer A. Mass: 5.00 kg (11.00 lb). Nation: USA. Related Persons: von Braun. Agency: USA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Explorer A. Decay Date: 1958-03-05 . COSPAR: F580305A.
1958 March 26 - . 17:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C. LV Configuration: Jupiter C/Juno I RS-24.
  • Explorer 3 - . Payload: Explorer A. Mass: 5.00 kg (11.00 lb). Nation: USA. Related Persons: von Braun. Agency: USA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Explorer A. Decay Date: 1958-06-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 6 . COSPAR: 1958-Gamma-1. Apogee: 2,799 km (1,739 mi). Perigee: 186 km (115 mi). Inclination: 33.4000 deg. Period: 115.70 min. Summary: Radiation, micrometeoroid data. .
1958 April 27 - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC1. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Sputnik 8A91. LV Configuration: Sputnik 8A91 B1-2. FAILURE: Launch vehicle disintegrated 88 seconds after liftoff.. Failed Stage: 0.
  • Sputnik failure - . Payload: D-1 s/n 1. Nation: USSR. Agency: MVS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Sputnik 3. Decay Date: 1958-04-01 . COSPAR: F580427A.
1958 May 15 - . 07:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC1. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Sputnik 8A91. LV Configuration: Sputnik 8A91 B1-1.
  • Sputnik 3 - . Payload: D-1 s/n 2. Mass: 1,327 kg (2,925 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MVS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Sputnik 3. Decay Date: 1960-04-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 8 . COSPAR: 1958-Delta-2. Apogee: 1,864 km (1,158 mi). Perigee: 217 km (134 mi). Inclination: 65.2000 deg. Period: 106.00 min. Summary: Variety of scientific data. Research in the upper atmosphere and outer space.
1958 May 28 - . 03:46 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. LV Family: Vanguard. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. LV Configuration: Vanguard SLV-1. FAILURE: Improper third stage trajectory - unknown cause.. Failed Stage: 3.
  • Vanguard 2B - . Payload: Lyman Alpha satellite. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Vanguard. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 2. Decay Date: 1958-05-27 . COSPAR: F580528A. Apogee: 3,500 km (2,100 mi).
1958 June 26 - . 05:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. LV Family: Vanguard. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. LV Configuration: Vanguard SLV-2. FAILURE: Premature second stage cutoff. Unknown cause.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • Vanguard 2C - . Payload: Lyman Alpha satellite. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Vanguard. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 2. Decay Date: 1958-06-26 . COSPAR: F580626A. Apogee: 165 km (102 mi).
1958 July 26 - . 15:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C. LV Configuration: Jupiter C/Juno I RS/CC-44.
  • Explorer 4 - . Payload: Explorer B. Mass: 8.00 kg (17.60 lb). Nation: USA. Related Persons: von Braun. Agency: DARPA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Explorer B. Decay Date: 1959-10-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 9 . COSPAR: 1958-Epsilon-1. Apogee: 1,352 km (840 mi). Perigee: 257 km (159 mi). Inclination: 50.2000 deg. Period: 100.90 min. Summary: Mapped project Argus radiation. .
1958 August 24 - . 06:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C. LV Configuration: Jupiter C/Juno I RS/CC-47. FAILURE: First Stage collided with upper stages. Second Stage ignited in wrong direction.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • Explorer 5 - . Payload: Explorer C. Mass: 17 kg (37 lb). Nation: USA. Related Persons: von Braun. Agency: DARPA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Explorer C. Decay Date: 1958-08-24 . COSPAR: F580824A.
1958 September 26 - . 15:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. LV Family: Vanguard. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. LV Configuration: Vanguard SLV-3. FAILURE: Insufficient 2nd stage thrust - unknown cause.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • Vanguard 2D - . Payload: Cloud cover satellite. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Vanguard. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 2. Decay Date: 1958-09-26 . COSPAR: F580926A. Apogee: 426 km (264 mi).
1959 February 17 - . 15:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. LV Family: Vanguard. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. LV Configuration: Vanguard SLV-4.
  • Vanguard 2 - . Payload: Vanguard 2E / Cloud cover satellite. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Vanguard. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 2. USAF Sat Cat: 11 . COSPAR: 1959-Alpha-1. Apogee: 3,049 km (1,894 mi). Perigee: 557 km (346 mi). Inclination: 32.9000 deg. Period: 122.80 min. Summary: Operated for 18 days; satellite wobble degraded data..
1959 April 14 - . 02:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. LV Family: Vanguard. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. LV Configuration: Vanguard SLV-5. FAILURE: Stage 2 damaged at separation.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • Vanguard 3A - . Payload: Magnetometer satellite. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Vanguard. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 3. Decay Date: 1959-04-13 . COSPAR: F590414A. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1959 June 22 - . 20:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. LV Family: Vanguard. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. LV Configuration: Vanguard SLV-6. FAILURE: Stage 2 propulsion malfunction.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • Vanguard 3B - . Payload: Radiation Balance satellite. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Vanguard. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 3. Decay Date: 1959-06-22 . COSPAR: F590622A. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi).
1959 July 16 - . 17:37 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Juno II. LV Configuration: Juno II AM-16. FAILURE: Control lost after 5.5 sec. Destroyed by range safety.. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Explorer S-1 - . Payload: S-1. Mass: 41 kg (90 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: S-1. Decay Date: 1959-07-16 . COSPAR: F590716A.
1959 August 7 - . 14:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able III. LV Configuration: Thor Able III 134.
  • Explorer 6 - . Payload: S-2. Mass: 64 kg (141 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: S-2. Decay Date: 1961-06-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 15 . COSPAR: 1959-Delta-1. Apogee: 42,400 km (26,300 mi). Perigee: 245 km (152 mi). Inclination: 47.0000 deg. Period: 765.00 min. Summary: First Earth photo; radiation data..
1959 September 18 - . 05:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. LV Family: Vanguard. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. LV Configuration: Vanguard X-248 SLV-7.
  • Vanguard 3 - . Payload: Vanguard 3C / Magne-Ray satellite. Mass: 23 kg (50 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Vanguard. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 3. USAF Sat Cat: 20 . COSPAR: 1959-Eta-1. Apogee: 3,413 km (2,120 mi). Perigee: 512 km (318 mi). Inclination: 33.4000 deg. Period: 126.40 min. Summary: Radiation, micrometeoroid data. Third stage failed to separate from payload. The TV-4BU burned-out third stage was left attached to the payload since the fiberglas case did not adversely affect the experiments..
1959 October 13 - . 15:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Juno II. LV Configuration: Juno II AM-19A.
  • Explorer 7 - . Payload: S-1A. Mass: 42 kg (92 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: S-1. USAF Sat Cat: 22 . COSPAR: 1959-Iota-1. Apogee: 857 km (532 mi). Perigee: 523 km (324 mi). Inclination: 50.3000 deg. Period: 98.60 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space. Returned magnetic field and solar flare data..
1960 March 23 - . 13:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Juno II. LV Configuration: Juno II AM-19C. FAILURE: Upper stage failed to ignite. Third stage failed to ignite due to loss of radio contact.. Failed Stage: 3.
  • Explorer S-46 - . Payload: S-46. Mass: 16 kg (35 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: S-46. Decay Date: 1960-03-23 . COSPAR: F600323A.
1960 April 1 - . 11:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able II. LV Configuration: Thor Able II-M1 148.
  • Tiros 1 - . Payload: Tiros A (A-1). Mass: 120 kg (260 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. USAF Sat Cat: 29 . COSPAR: 1960-Beta-2. Apogee: 696 km (432 mi). Perigee: 656 km (407 mi). Inclination: 48.4000 deg. Period: 98.30 min. Summary: TV and Infrared Observation Satellite; returned 22952 cloud cover photos. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1960 November 3 - . 05:23 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Juno II. LV Configuration: Juno II AM-19D.
  • Explorer 8 - . Payload: S-30. Mass: 41 kg (90 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: S-30. USAF Sat Cat: 60 . COSPAR: 1960-Xi-1. Apogee: 1,331 km (827 mi). Perigee: 394 km (244 mi). Inclination: 49.9000 deg. Period: 102.20 min. Summary: Ionospheric research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1960 November 23 - . 11:13 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta. LV Configuration: Thor Delta 245/D3.
  • Tiros 2 - . Payload: Tiros B (A-2). Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. USAF Sat Cat: 63 . COSPAR: 1960-Pi-1. Apogee: 610 km (370 mi). Perigee: 547 km (339 mi). Inclination: 48.5000 deg. Period: 96.30 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1960 December 4 - . 21:14 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-1. LV Configuration: Scout X-1 ST-3. FAILURE: Second stage malfunction.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • Explorer (9) S 56 - . Payload: S-56. Mass: 6.00 kg (13.20 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: S-56. Decay Date: 1960-12-04 . COSPAR: F601204A.
1961 February 16 - . 13:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-1. LV Configuration: Scout X-1 ST-4.
  • Explorer 9 - . Payload: S-56A. Mass: 7.00 kg (15.40 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: S-56. Decay Date: 1964-04-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 81 . COSPAR: 1961-Delta-1. Apogee: 2,433 km (1,511 mi). Perigee: 757 km (470 mi). Inclination: 38.8000 deg. Period: 118.00 min. Summary: 12 foot dia. balloon; atmospheric density studies. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1961 June 29 - . 04:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able-Star. LV Configuration: Thor Ablestar 315 AB008.
  • Injun 1 - . Mass: 25 kg (55 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Injun. USAF Sat Cat: 117 . COSPAR: 1961-Omicron-2. Apogee: 992 km (616 mi). Perigee: 869 km (539 mi). Inclination: 66.8000 deg. Period: 103.60 min. Summary: Dual launch; failed to separate from Solrad 3; still returned radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1961 June 30 - . 17:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-1. LV Configuration: Scout X-1 ST-5. FAILURE: Third stage did not ignite, and the vehicle was destroyed.. Failed Stage: 3.
  • Explorer (13) S 55 - . Payload: S-55. Mass: 84 kg (185 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Micrometeoroid satellite. Spacecraft: S-55. Decay Date: 1961-06-30 . COSPAR: F610630A. Apogee: 172 km (106 mi). Summary: Micrometeorite counter satellite (S-55)..
1961 July 12 - . 10:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta. LV Configuration: Thor Delta 286/D5.
  • Tiros 3 - . Payload: Tiros C (A-3). Mass: 129 kg (284 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. USAF Sat Cat: 162 . COSPAR: 1961-Rho-1. Apogee: 790 km (490 mi). Perigee: 723 km (449 mi). Inclination: 47.9000 deg. Period: 100.00 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1961 August 17 - . 14:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout Jr. LV Configuration: Blue Scout Jr O-1.
  • HETS Magnetosphere mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Apogee: 225,000 km (139,000 mi).
1961 August 25 - . 18:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-1. LV Configuration: Scout X-1 ST-6. FAILURE: Partial Failure.. Failed Stage: 4.
  • Explorer 13 - . Payload: S-55A. Mass: 86 kg (189 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Micrometeoroid satellite. Spacecraft: S-55. Decay Date: 1961-08-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 180 . COSPAR: 1961-Chi-1. Apogee: 1,164 km (723 mi). Perigee: 125 km (77 mi). Inclination: 37.7000 deg. Period: 97.50 min. Summary: Useless orbit; micrometeoroid research. Partial Failure..
1962 January 24 - . 09:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able-Star. LV Configuration: Thor Ablestar 311 AB010. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • Lofti 2 - . Mass: 99 kg (218 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Lofti 2. Decay Date: 1962-01-24 . COSPAR: F620124A. Summary: Carried 5 satellites..
1962 February 8 - . 12:43 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta. LV Configuration: Thor Delta 317/D7.
  • Tiros 4 - . Payload: Tiros D (A-9). Mass: 129 kg (284 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. USAF Sat Cat: 226 . COSPAR: 1962-Beta-1. Apogee: 812 km (504 mi). Perigee: 693 km (430 mi). Inclination: 48.3000 deg. Period: 99.90 min. Summary: Returned 32593 cloud cover photos. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1962 April 26 - . 18:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta. LV Configuration: Thor Delta 320/D9.
  • Ariel 1 - . Payload: UK 1 (S-51). Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: UK. Agency: NASA. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Ariel. Decay Date: 1976-03-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 285 . COSPAR: 1962-Omicron-1. Apogee: 1,203 km (747 mi). Perigee: 398 km (247 mi). Inclination: 53.8000 deg. Period: 100.80 min. Summary: Ionospheric studies; returned X-ray, ionospheric, cosmic ray data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1962 May 10 - . 12:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able-Star. LV Configuration: Thor Ablestar 314 AB011. FAILURE: Able-Star failed to ignite.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • Anna 1A - . Payload: Anna 1A. Mass: 160 kg (350 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: Anna. Decay Date: 1962-05-10 . COSPAR: F620510A. Summary: USN, USAF, US Army, NASA joint program..
1962 May 24 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-2M. LV Configuration: Scout X-2M S112. FAILURE: Failure.. Failed Stage: U.
  • P 35-1 - . Payload: FTV 3501. Nation: USA. Agency: AFSC. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Program 35. Decay Date: 1962-05-24 . COSPAR: F620524A. Summary: Military weather satellite to provide targetting information for reconnaisance satellites..
1962 June 19 - . 12:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta. LV Configuration: Thor Delta 321/D10.
  • Tiros 5 - . Payload: Tiros E (A-50). Mass: 129 kg (284 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. USAF Sat Cat: 309 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Alpha-1. Apogee: 880 km (540 mi). Perigee: 580 km (360 mi). Inclination: 58.1000 deg. Period: 99.40 min. Summary: Returned 58226 cloud cover images. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1962 August 18 - . 15:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar Mayak-2. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 63S1.
  • Cosmos 8 - . Payload: DS-K-8 s/n 1. Mass: 337 kg (742 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Micrometeoroid satellite. Spacecraft: DS-K-8. Completed Operations Date: 1962-08-23 . Decay Date: 1963-08-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 367 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Xi-1. Apogee: 598 km (371 mi). Perigee: 244 km (151 mi). Inclination: 49.0000 deg. Period: 92.90 min. Summary: Detected meteoroid flux in near-earth space and carried unspecified military research equipment..
1962 August 23 - . 11:44 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-2M. LV Configuration: Scout X-2M S117.
  • P 35-2 - . Mass: 91 kg (200 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Program 35. USAF Sat Cat: 369 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Omicron-1. Apogee: 752 km (467 mi). Perigee: 578 km (359 mi). Inclination: 98.5000 deg. Period: 98.10 min. Summary: Military weather satellite to provide targetting information for reconnaisance satellites..
1962 September 17 - . 23:46 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 350 / Agena B 1133.
  • TRS - . Payload: ERS 2. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ERS. COSPAR: 1962-A-Chi-xx.
1962 September 18 - . 08:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta. LV Configuration: Thor Delta 318/D12.
  • Tiros 6 - . Payload: Tiros F2 (A-51). Mass: 127 kg (279 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. USAF Sat Cat: 397 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Psi-1. Apogee: 654 km (406 mi). Perigee: 631 km (392 mi). Inclination: 58.3000 deg. Period: 97.60 min. Summary: Returned 66674 cloud cover images. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1962 September 25 - . LV Family: N1. Launch Vehicle: N1.
  • N1 launch vehicle upgraded to accomodate OS-1 75 tonne manned platform with nuclear weapons. - . Nation: USSR. Related Persons: Korolev; Khrushchev. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: OS-1 (1965). Work on the OS-1 began following a meeting between Khrushchev and chief designers at Pitsunda. Korolev was authorized to proceed immediately to upgrade the three stage N vehicle to a maximum 75 tonne payload in order to launch the station. By 1965 the mockup of the huge station had been completed.
1962 September 29 - . 06:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 341 (TA1).
  • Alouette 1 - . Payload: Alouette 1 / TAVE. Mass: 145 kg (319 lb). Nation: Canada. Agency: Clemson. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Alouette. USAF Sat Cat: 424 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Alpha-1. Apogee: 1,022 km (635 mi). Perigee: 987 km (613 mi). Inclination: 80.5000 deg. Period: 105.20 min. Summary: Ionospheric research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1962 October 26 - . 16:14 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 353 / Agena D 1401.
  • Starfish Radiation 1 - . Payload: Star-Rad 1 / Agena D 1401. Mass: 1,100 kg (2,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Starfish. Decay Date: 1967-10-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 444 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Kappa-1. Apogee: 5,458 km (3,391 mi). Perigee: 197 km (122 mi). Inclination: 71.4000 deg. Period: 146.50 min. Summary: Artificial radiation data..
1962 October 31 - . 08:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able-Star. LV Configuration: Thor Ablestar 319 AB012.
  • Anna 1B - . Mass: 161 kg (354 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: Anna. USAF Sat Cat: 446 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Mu-1. Apogee: 1,181 km (733 mi). Perigee: 1,075 km (667 mi). Inclination: 50.1000 deg. Period: 107.90 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1962 November 11 - . 20:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 128D / Agena B SPS 2405.
  • TRS 1 - . Payload: ERS 1. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ERS. COSPAR: 1962-B-Pi-xx.
1962 December 13 - . 04:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 365 / Agena D 2351.
  • Injun 3 - . Mass: 52 kg (114 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF; USN. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Injun. Decay Date: 1968-08-25 . USAF Sat Cat: 504 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Tau-2. Apogee: 2,406 km (1,495 mi). Perigee: 240 km (140 mi). Inclination: 70.3000 deg. Period: 112.10 min. Summary: Radiation decay data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1962 December 16 - . 14:33 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-3. LV Configuration: Scout X-3 S115.
  • Explorer 16 - . Payload: S-55B. Mass: 100 kg (220 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Micrometeoroid satellite. Spacecraft: S-55. USAF Sat Cat: 506 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Chi-1. Apogee: 1,159 km (720 mi). Perigee: 744 km (462 mi). Inclination: 52.0000 deg. Period: 104.10 min. Summary: Micrometeoroid data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1963 February 19 - . 16:33 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-3M. LV Configuration: Scout X-3M S126.
  • P 35-3 - . Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Program 35. Decay Date: 1979-12-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 533 . COSPAR: 1963-005A. Apogee: 810 km (500 mi). Perigee: 488 km (303 mi). Inclination: 100.5000 deg. Period: 97.80 min. Summary: Military weather satellite to provide targetting information for reconnaisance satellites..
1963 April 3 - . 02:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta B. LV Configuration: Thor Delta B 357/D17.
  • Explorer 17 - . Payload: AE A (S-6). Mass: 185 kg (407 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: AE. Decay Date: 1966-11-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 564 . COSPAR: 1963-009A. Apogee: 891 km (553 mi). Perigee: 254 km (157 mi). Inclination: 57.6000 deg. Period: 96.10 min. Summary: Atmospheric research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1963 April 26 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-2M. LV Configuration: Scout X-2M S121. FAILURE: Failure.. Failed Stage: U.
  • P 35-4 - . Payload: OPS 1298. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Program 35. Decay Date: 1963-04-26 . COSPAR: F630426B. Summary: Military weather satellite to provide targetting information for reconnaisance satellites..
1963 June 15 - . 14:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 378 / Agena D 2353.
  • RADOSE 112 - . Payload: NRL PL 112. Mass: 25 kg (55 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: RADOSE. Decay Date: 1963-07-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 600 . COSPAR: 1963-021D. Apogee: 875 km (543 mi). Perigee: 170 km (100 mi). Inclination: 69.9000 deg. Period: 95.10 min. Summary: Radiation dosimeter measurements. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1963 June 19 - . 09:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta B. LV Configuration: Thor Delta B 359/D19.
  • Tiros 7 - . Payload: Tiros G (A-52). Mass: 135 kg (297 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. Decay Date: 1994-06-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 604 . COSPAR: 1963-024A. Apogee: 349 km (216 mi). Perigee: 338 km (210 mi). Inclination: 58.2000 deg. Period: 91.40 min. Summary: Returned over 150000 cloud cover images. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1963 June 28 - . 21:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-4. LV Configuration: Scout X-4 S113.
  • GRS - . Payload: CRL 1. Mass: 99 kg (218 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFC. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: GRS. Decay Date: 1983-12-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 612 . COSPAR: 1963-026A. Apogee: 1,306 km (811 mi). Perigee: 413 km (256 mi). Inclination: 49.7000 deg. Period: 102.10 min. Summary: Geophysical Research Satellite; space gas data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1963 July 19 - . 03:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 75D / Agena B S01 1207.
  • TRS 10 - . Payload: ERS 10. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ERS. COSPAR: 1963-030xx.
1963 September 27 - . 11:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-2B. LV Configuration: Scout X-2B S132. FAILURE: Failure.. Failed Stage: U.
  • P 35-5 - . Payload: OPS 1610. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Program 35. Decay Date: 1963-09-27 . COSPAR: F630927A. Summary: Military weather satellite to provide targetting information for reconnaisance satellites..
1963 September 28 - . 20:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able-Star. LV Configuration: Thor Ablestar 375 AB013.
  • Transit 5E-1 - . Payload: APL SN 39. Mass: 61 kg (134 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Transit. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. USAF Sat Cat: 671 . COSPAR: 1963-038C. Apogee: 1,123 km (697 mi). Perigee: 1,065 km (661 mi). Inclination: 90.1000 deg. Period: 107.10 min. The missions of Satellite 1963-038C were to measure omnidirectional flux of protons and electrons at various energy levels, radiation effects on transistors, and the effectiveness of thermal coatings. The satellite was launched together with a classified Department of Defense spacecraft on September 28, 1963. Its planned orbit was apogee 1120 kilometres, perigee 1070 kilometres, inclination 88.9 degrees. The satellite weighed 62 kg; its body was in the shape of an 0.46 m x 0.25 m octagonal prism. It was powered by four solar blades and transmited on 136, 162, and 324 mcs. The spacecraft was built for the Bureau of Naval Weapons. In 1967 it was still sending usable data from all systems.
1963 November 27 - . 02:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta C. LV Configuration: Thor Delta C 387/D21.
  • Explorer 18 - . Payload: IMP A. Mass: 62 kg (136 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: IMP. Decay Date: 1965-11-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 693 . COSPAR: 1963-046A. Apogee: 197,616 km (122,792 mi). Perigee: 192 km (119 mi). Inclination: 33.3000 deg. Period: 5,666.20 min. Summary: Radiation data; Interplanetary Monitoring Program. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1963 December 5 - . 21:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able-Star. LV Configuration: Thor Ablestar 385 AB015.
  • Transit 5E-3 - . Mass: 53 kg (116 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Transit. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. USAF Sat Cat: 705 . COSPAR: 1963-049C. Apogee: 1,108 km (688 mi). Perigee: 1,060 km (650 mi). Inclination: 90.1000 deg. Period: 106.90 min. Summary: Radiation monitoring..
1963 December 19 - . 18:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-4. LV Configuration: Scout X-4 S122R.
  • Explorer 19 - . Payload: ADE A. Mass: 7.00 kg (15.40 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Langley. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ADE. Decay Date: 1981-05-10 . USAF Sat Cat: 714 . COSPAR: 1963-053A. Apogee: 2,391 km (1,485 mi). Perigee: 597 km (370 mi). Inclination: 78.6000 deg. Period: 115.90 min. Summary: 12 foot dia. balloon; identical to Explorer 9; atmospheric density studies. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1963 December 21 - . 09:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta B. LV Configuration: Thor Delta B 371/D22.
  • Tiros 8 - . Payload: Tiros H (A-53). Mass: 119 kg (262 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. USAF Sat Cat: 716 . COSPAR: 1963-054A. Apogee: 705 km (438 mi). Perigee: 667 km (414 mi). Inclination: 58.5000 deg. Period: 98.50 min. Summary: Returned more than 100,000 cloud cover images. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1964 January 11 - . 20:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2 Agena D 390 / Agena D 2354.
  • SECOR 1 - . Payload: EGRS 1. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USA. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR. USAF Sat Cat: 729 . COSPAR: 1964-001C. Apogee: 922 km (572 mi). Perigee: 904 km (561 mi). Inclination: 69.9000 deg. Period: 103.30 min. Summary: Located Pacific islands. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 January 30 - . 09:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC1. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8K72K.
  • Elektron 1 - . Payload: 2D s/n 1. Mass: 329 kg (725 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: Korolev. Program: Elektron. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Elektron-A. USAF Sat Cat: 746 . COSPAR: 1964-006A. Apogee: 6,439 km (4,001 mi). Perigee: 413 km (256 mi). Inclination: 60.9000 deg. Period: 161.00 min. Studied inner Van Allen belt. Electron I and II launched by a single carrier rocket. Electron I: simultaneous study of the Earth's inner and outer radiation belts, cosmic rays and upper atmosphere. Electron II: simultaneous study of the Earth's inner and outer radiation belts, cosmic rays and outer space.
  • Elektron 2 - . Payload: 2D s/n 2. Mass: 444 kg (978 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: Korolev. Program: Elektron. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Elektron-B. Decay Date: 1997-04-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 748 . COSPAR: 1964-006B. Apogee: 62,811 km (39,028 mi). Perigee: 5,611 km (3,486 mi). Inclination: 60.2000 deg. Period: 1,356.40 min. Studied outer Van Allen belt. Electron I and II launched by a single carrier rocket. Electron I: simultaneous study of the Earth's inner and outer radiation belts, cosmic rays and upper atmosphere. Electron II: simultaneous study of the Earth's inner and outer radiation belts, cosmic rays and outer space.
1964 March 19 - . 11:13 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta B. LV Configuration: Thor Delta B 391/D24. FAILURE: Insufficient third stage thrust.. Failed Stage: 3.
  • Explorer (20) - . Payload: Beacon Explorer A. Mass: 54 kg (119 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: BE. Decay Date: 1964-03-19 . COSPAR: F640319A. Summary: Also known as Explorer S-66..
1964 March 27 - . 17:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-3. LV Configuration: Scout X-3 S127R.
  • Ariel 2 - . Payload: UK 2 (UK-C). Mass: 68 kg (149 lb). Nation: UK. Agency: DSIR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Ariel. Decay Date: 1967-11-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 771 . COSPAR: 1964-015A. Apogee: 1,349 km (838 mi). Perigee: 287 km (178 mi). Inclination: 51.7000 deg. Period: 101.30 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1964 April 21 - . 18:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able-Star. LV Configuration: Thor Ablestar 379 AB014. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Transit 5E-4 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Transit. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. COSPAR: F640421B. Summary: Radiation monitoring..
1964 June 25 - . 01:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-4. LV Configuration: Scout X-4 S128R. FAILURE: Second stage exploded.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • ESRS - . Payload: CRL 2. Mass: 79 kg (174 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ESRS. Decay Date: 1964-06-25 . COSPAR: F640625A. Summary: Environmental Sciences Research Satellite..
1964 July 10 - . 21:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC1. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8K72K.
  • Elektron 3 - . Payload: 2D s/n 3. Mass: 350 kg (770 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: Korolev. Program: Elektron. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Elektron-A. USAF Sat Cat: 829 . COSPAR: 1964-038A. Apogee: 6,302 km (3,915 mi). Perigee: 408 km (253 mi). Inclination: 60.9000 deg. Period: 159.30 min. Summary: Studied inner Van Allen belt. Electron 3 and 4 launched by a single carrier rocket. Simultaneous study of the inner and outer radiation belts of the earth, cosmic rays and the upper atmosphere. .
  • Elektron 4 - . Payload: 2D s/n 4. Mass: 444 kg (978 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: Korolev. Program: Elektron. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Elektron-B. Decay Date: 1983-10-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 830 . COSPAR: 1964-038B. Apogee: 66,269 km (41,177 mi). Perigee: 447 km (277 mi). Inclination: 60.8000 deg. Period: 1,313.80 min. Summary: Studied outer Van Allen belt. Electron 3 and 4 launched by a single carrier rocket. Simultaneous study of the inner and outer radiation belts of the earth, cosmic rays and the upper atmosphere. .
1964 August 25 - . 13:43 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-4. LV Configuration: Scout X-4 S134R.
  • Explorer 20 - . Payload: IE A (S-48 Ionosphere Explorer). Mass: 44 kg (97 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: IE. USAF Sat Cat: 870 . COSPAR: 1964-051A. Apogee: 999 km (620 mi). Perigee: 857 km (532 mi). Inclination: 79.9000 deg. Period: 103.60 min. Summary: Ionospheric research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B)..
1964 August 28 - . 07:56 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B SLV-2. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2 Agena B 399 (TA3) / Agena B 6201. FAILURE: Agena-B cut off too early. Partial Failure.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • Nimbus 1 - . Payload: Nimbus A. Mass: 376 kg (828 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Nimbus. Decay Date: 1974-05-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 872 . COSPAR: 1964-052A. Apogee: 937 km (582 mi). Perigee: 429 km (266 mi). Inclination: 98.7000 deg. Period: 98.40 min. Returned 27,000 cloud cover images. The spacecraft carried an advanced vidicon camera system for recording and storing remote cloudcover pictures, an automatic picture transmission camera for providing real-time cloud cover pictures, and a high-resolution infrared radiometer to complement the daytime TV coverage and to measure nighttime radiative temperatures of cloud tops and surface terrain. A short second-stage burn resulted in an unplanned eccentric orbit. Otherwise, the spacecraft and its experiments operated successfully until September 22, 1964. The solar paddles became locked in position, resulting in inadequate electrical power to continue operations.
1964 August 28 - . 16:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M. LV Configuration: Vostok 8A92M T15000-05.
  • Cosmos 44 - . Payload: Meteor no. 1. Mass: 4,730 kg (10,420 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: Korolev. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor. USAF Sat Cat: 876 . COSPAR: 1964-053A. Apogee: 778 km (483 mi). Perigee: 599 km (372 mi). Inclination: 65.1000 deg. Period: 98.50 min. Summary: Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. .
1964 September 5 - . 01:23 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 195D (AA10) / Agena B 6501 (AA10).
  • OGO 1 - . Payload: OGO A. Mass: 487 kg (1,073 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OGO. Decay Date: 1980-08-10 . USAF Sat Cat: 879 . COSPAR: 1964-054A. Apogee: 127,394 km (79,158 mi). Perigee: 21,446 km (13,325 mi). Inclination: 44.6000 deg. Period: 3,809.50 min. Two experiment booms failed to properly deploy, with one of the booms obscuring a horizon scanner's view of earth. As a result, the spacecraft attitude could not be earth oriented and OGO 1 remained spin stabilized at 5 rpm. Nevertheless, data from all 20 experiments on board was received, although at a 'less than expected capacity' from some of them. Twelve of the experiemnts were particle studies and two were magnetic field studies. In addition, there was one experiment for each of the following types of studies: interplanetary dust, VLF, Lyman-alpha, Gegenschein, atmospheric mass, and radio astronomy. During September 1964, acceptable data were received over 70% of the orbital path. By June 1969, data acquisition was limited to 10% of the orbital path. Spacecraft operation was restricted to Spring and Fall due to power supply limitations. There were 11 such 3-month periods prior to the spacecraft being put into stand-by mode on 25 November 1969. By April 1970 the spacecraft perigee had increased to 46,000 km and the inclination had increased to 58.8 deg. All support was terminated November 1, 1971.
1964 October 4 - . 03:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta C. LV Configuration: Thor Delta C 392/D26.
  • Explorer 21 - . Payload: IMP B. Mass: 62 kg (136 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: IMP. Decay Date: 1965-12-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 889 . COSPAR: 1964-060A. Apogee: 95,590 km (59,390 mi). Perigee: 191 km (118 mi). Inclination: 33.5000 deg. Period: 2,097.00 min. Summary: Lower than planned orbit. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1964 October 10 - . 03:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-4. LV Configuration: Scout X-4 S123R.
  • Explorer 22 - . Payload: Beacon Explorer B. Mass: 52 kg (114 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Beacon. USAF Sat Cat: 899 . COSPAR: 1964-064A. Apogee: 1,053 km (654 mi). Perigee: 872 km (541 mi). Inclination: 79.7000 deg. Period: 104.30 min. Summary: Ionospheric and geodetic data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space..
1964 November 6 - . 12:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-4. LV Configuration: Scout X-4 S133R.
  • Explorer 23 - . Payload: S-55C. Mass: 134 kg (295 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Langley. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Micrometeoroid satellite. Spacecraft: S-55. Decay Date: 1983-06-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 924 . COSPAR: 1964-074A. Apogee: 980 km (600 mi). Perigee: 463 km (287 mi). Inclination: 51.9000 deg. Period: 99.20 min. Summary: Micrometeoroid data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1964 November 21 - . 17:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-4. LV Configuration: Scout X-4 S135R.
  • Explorer 24 - . Payload: ADE B. Mass: 9.00 kg (19.80 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Langley. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ADE. Decay Date: 1968-10-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 931 . COSPAR: 1964-076A. Apogee: 2,498 km (1,552 mi). Perigee: 530 km (320 mi). Inclination: 81.4000 deg. Period: 116.30 min. Summary: 12 foot dia. balloon; atmospheric density studies. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
  • Explorer 25 - . Payload: Injun 4. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Langley. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Injun. USAF Sat Cat: 932 . COSPAR: 1964-076B. Apogee: 2,319 km (1,440 mi). Perigee: 526 km (326 mi). Inclination: 81.3000 deg. Period: 114.30 min. Summary: Radiation data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1964 December 13 - . 00:08 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able-Star. LV Configuration: Thor Ablestar-2 427 AB017.
  • Transit 5E-5 - . Payload: APL SN 43 / OPS 6582. Mass: 78 kg (171 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Transit. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. USAF Sat Cat: 959 . COSPAR: 1964-083C. Apogee: 1,064 km (661 mi). Perigee: 1,007 km (625 mi). Inclination: 89.8000 deg. Period: 105.90 min. Summary: Celestial UV, magnetic field data..
1964 December 15 - . 20:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-4. LV Configuration: Scout X-4 S137R.
  • San Marco 1 - . Mass: 254 kg (559 lb). Nation: Italy. Agency: CRS. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: San Marco. Decay Date: 1965-09-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 957 . COSPAR: 1964-084A. Apogee: 842 km (523 mi). Perigee: 200 km (120 mi). Inclination: 37.8000 deg. Period: 95.10 min. Summary: Atmospheric density studies. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1965 January 19 - . 05:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor MG-18. LV Configuration: Thor MG-18 224.
  • DMSP-Block-4A F1 - . Payload: DAPP 10 / OPS 7040. Mass: 150 kg (330 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A. Decay Date: 1979-07-13 . USAF Sat Cat: 973 . COSPAR: 1965-003A. Apogee: 833 km (517 mi). Perigee: 462 km (287 mi). Inclination: 98.8000 deg. Period: 97.60 min. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. Launch date was January 18, 1965. The launch was successful and correct orbit was achieved. However, the heat shield on the second stage did not deploy correctly and the mission objectives were not fully realized. This first Burner I bird is distinguishable in photos by its black second stage.
1965 January 21 - . 21:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 172D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • OV1-01 - . Payload: ABRES MTV-1. Mass: 85 kg (187 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. Decay Date: 1965-01-21 . COSPAR: F650121A. Summary: Failure..
1965 January 22 - . 07:52 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta C. LV Configuration: Thor Delta C 374/D28.
  • Tiros 9 - . Payload: Tiros I (A-54). Mass: 138 kg (304 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. USAF Sat Cat: 978 . COSPAR: 1965-004A. Apogee: 2,563 km (1,592 mi). Perigee: 705 km (438 mi). Inclination: 96.4000 deg. Period: 119.00 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1965 February 16 - . 14:37 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC37B. LV Family: Saturn I. Launch Vehicle: Saturn I. LV Configuration: Saturn I-Blk2 SA-9.
  • Pegasus 1 - . Payload: Pegasus 1. Mass: 10,400 kg (22,900 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Huntsville. Program: Apollo. Class: Earth. Type: Micrometeoroid satellite. Spacecraft: Pegasus. Decay Date: 1978-09-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 1085 . COSPAR: 1965-009A. Apogee: 726 km (451 mi). Perigee: 510 km (310 mi). Inclination: 31.7000 deg. Period: 97.00 min. A Saturn I vehicle SA-9 launched a multiple payload into a high 744 by 496 km (462 by 308 mi) earth orbit. The rocket carried a boilerplate (BP) CSM (BP-16) and, fitted inside the SM, the Pegasus I meteoroid detection satellite. This was the eighth successful Saturn flight in a row, and the first to carry an active payload. BP-16's launch escape tower was jettisoned following second-stage S-IV ignition. After attaining orbit, the spacecraft were separated from the S-IV. Thereupon the Pegasus I's panels were deployed and were ready to perform their task, i.e., registering meteoroid impact and relaying the information to the ground.
1965 February 26 - . 05:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M. LV Configuration: Vostok 8A92M R15000-09.
  • Cosmos 58 - . Payload: Meteor no. 2. Mass: 4,730 kg (10,420 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: Korolev. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor. Decay Date: 1990-02-25 . USAF Sat Cat: 1097 . COSPAR: 1965-014A. Apogee: 345 km (214 mi). Perigee: 333 km (206 mi). Inclination: 65.0000 deg. Period: 91.30 min. Summary: Probable weather satellite. Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. .
1965 March 9 - . 18:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2 Agena D 419 / Agena D SS-01A 2701.
  • SECOR 3 - . Payload: EGRS 3. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USA ACE. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR. USAF Sat Cat: 1208 . COSPAR: 1965-016E. Apogee: 925 km (574 mi). Perigee: 898 km (557 mi). Inclination: 70.1000 deg. Period: 103.20 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1965 March 11 - . 13:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able-Star. LV Configuration: Thor Ablestar 440 AB018.
  • SECOR 2 - . Payload: EGRS 2. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USA ACE. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR. Decay Date: 1968-02-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 1250 . COSPAR: 1965-017B. Apogee: 1,014 km (630 mi). Perigee: 296 km (183 mi). Inclination: 90.0000 deg. Period: 97.90 min. Summary: Failed. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1965 March 18 - . 04:43 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor MG-18. LV Configuration: Thor MG-18 306.
  • DMSP-Block-4A F2 - . Payload: DAPP 11 / OPS 7353. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A. Decay Date: 1989-12-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 1273 . COSPAR: 1965-021A. Apogee: 146 km (90 mi). Perigee: 139 km (86 mi). Inclination: 99.0000 deg. Period: 87.30 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. A fully successful launch with all objectives met. The night launch time of 2100 hrs Vandenberg time with a 5 minute launch window was the same for both the first and second Burner I launches..
1965 April 3 - . 21:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC4E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D SLV-3. LV Configuration: SLV-3 Agena D 7401 / Agena D.
  • SECOR 4 - . Payload: EGRS 4. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USA ACE. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR. USAF Sat Cat: 1315 . COSPAR: 1965-027B. Apogee: 1,316 km (817 mi). Perigee: 1,267 km (787 mi). Inclination: 90.2000 deg. Period: 111.40 min. Summary: Failed. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1965 April 29 - . 14:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-4. LV Configuration: Scout X-4 S136R.
  • Explorer 27 - . Payload: Beacon Explorer C. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Beacon. USAF Sat Cat: 1328 . COSPAR: 1965-032A. Apogee: 1,309 km (813 mi). Perigee: 932 km (579 mi). Inclination: 41.2000 deg. Period: 107.70 min. Summary: Battery failed in 1968; ionospheric research and geodetic data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space..
1965 May 20 - . 16:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 1. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 1 282.
  • DMSP-Block-4A F3 - . Payload: DAPP 12 / OPS 8386. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A. USAF Sat Cat: 1377 . COSPAR: 1965-038A. Apogee: 731 km (454 mi). Perigee: 503 km (312 mi). Inclination: 98.1000 deg. Period: 97.10 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1965 May 25 - . 07:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC37B. LV Family: Saturn I. Launch Vehicle: Saturn I. LV Configuration: Saturn I-Blk2 SA-8.
  • Pegasus 2 - . Payload: Pegasus 2. Mass: 10,464 kg (23,069 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Huntsville. Program: Apollo. Class: Earth. Type: Micrometeoroid satellite. Spacecraft: Pegasus. Decay Date: 1979-11-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 1381 . COSPAR: 1965-039A. Apogee: 740 km (450 mi). Perigee: 502 km (311 mi). Inclination: 31.7000 deg. Period: 97.00 min. Pegasus 2 was a meteoroid detection satellite. The Saturn I launch vehicle (SA-8) placed the spacecraft, protected by a boilerplate CSM (BP-26), into a 740-by-509-km (460-by-316-mi) orbit. Once in orbit, the dummy CSM was jettisoned. Pegasus 2, still attached to the second stage of the launch vehicle, then deployed its 29-m (96-ft) winglike panels. Within several hours, the device began registering meteoroid hits.
1965 May 28 - . 02:54 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 68D / OV-1. FAILURE: Failure.. Failed Stage: 1.
  • OV1-03 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. Decay Date: 1965-05-28 . COSPAR: F650528A.
1965 May 29 - . 12:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta C. LV Configuration: Thor Delta C 441/D31.
  • Explorer 28 - . Payload: IMP C. Mass: 58 kg (127 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: IMP. Decay Date: 1968-07-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 1388 . COSPAR: 1965-042A. Apogee: 261,206 km (162,305 mi). Perigee: 229 km (142 mi). Inclination: 30.5000 deg. Period: 8,419.70 min. Summary: Magnetic field, radiation data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1965 July 2 - . 04:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta C. LV Configuration: Thor Delta C 415/D32.
  • Tiros 10 - . Payload: Tiros OT1. Mass: 127 kg (279 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: ESSA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. USAF Sat Cat: 1430 . COSPAR: 1965-051A. Apogee: 807 km (501 mi). Perigee: 722 km (448 mi). Inclination: 98.8000 deg. Period: 100.10 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1965 July 20 - . 08:27 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena D 225D / Agena D 1803.
  • ORS 3 - . Payload: ERS 17. Mass: 5.00 kg (11.00 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ERS. Decay Date: 1968-07-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 1460 . COSPAR: 1965-058C. Apogee: 111,793 km (69,464 mi). Perigee: 566 km (351 mi). Inclination: 36.9000 deg. Period: 2,595.40 min. Summary: Radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1965 July 30 - . 13:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC37B. LV Family: Saturn I. Launch Vehicle: Saturn I. LV Configuration: Saturn I-Blk2 SA-10.
  • Pegasus 3 - . Payload: Pegasus 3. Mass: 10,500 kg (23,100 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Huntsville. Program: Apollo. Class: Earth. Type: Micrometeoroid satellite. Spacecraft: Pegasus. Decay Date: 1969-08-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 1467 . COSPAR: 1965-060A. Apogee: 449 km (278 mi). Perigee: 441 km (274 mi). Inclination: 28.9000 deg. Period: 93.40 min. NASA launched Pegasus 3, third of the meteoroid detection satellites, as scheduled at 8:00 a.m. EST, from Cape Kennedy. As earlier, an Apollo spacecraft (boilerplate 9) served as the payload's shroud. This flight (SA-10) marked the end of the Saturn I program, which during its seven-year lifetime had achieved 10 straight successful launches and had contributed immeasurably to American rocket technology.
1965 August 10 - . 17:54 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout B. LV Configuration: Scout B S131R.
  • SECOR 5 (EGRS 5) - . Payload: SEV / FW4S. Mass: 24 kg (52 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Langley. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR. USAF Sat Cat: 1506 . COSPAR: 1965-063A. Apogee: 2,419 km (1,503 mi). Perigee: 1,134 km (704 mi). Inclination: 69.2000 deg. Period: 122.20 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1965 September 2 - . 20:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2 Agena D 401 / Agena D SS-01A 1602. FAILURE: Agena-D failed; destroyed by range safety.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • Starfish Radiation 2 - . Payload: OPS 3373 / FTV 1602. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Starfish. Decay Date: 1965-09-02 . COSPAR: F650902A. Apogee: 11 km (6 mi). Summary: Artificial radiation data..
1965 September 10 - . 04:41 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 1. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 1 213.
  • DMSP-Block-4A F4 - . Payload: DAPP 13 / OPS 8068. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A. USAF Sat Cat: 1580 . COSPAR: 1965-072A. Apogee: 993 km (617 mi). Perigee: 635 km (394 mi). Inclination: 98.5000 deg. Period: 101.20 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1965 October 5 - . 09:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 34D NB20.170 RS.
  • OV1-02 - . Payload: OV1 Dummy. Mass: 86 kg (189 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. USAF Sat Cat: 1613 . COSPAR: 1965-078A. Apogee: 2,735 km (1,699 mi). Perigee: 408 km (253 mi). Inclination: 144.2000 deg. Period: 117.60 min. Summary: Radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • OV1-02S - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. USAF Sat Cat: 1613 . COSPAR: 1965-078xx. Apogee: 2,418 km (1,502 mi). Perigee: 401 km (249 mi). Inclination: 144.2000 deg. Period: 114.00 min.
1965 October 14 - . 13:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 435 (TA4) / Agena D SS-01B 680.
  • OGO 2 - . Payload: OGO C (S-50). Mass: 507 kg (1,117 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OGO. Decay Date: 1981-09-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 1620 . COSPAR: 1965-081A. Apogee: 1,515 km (941 mi). Perigee: 419 km (260 mi). Inclination: 87.4000 deg. Period: 104.40 min. OGO 2 was a large observatory instrumented with 20 experiments designed to make simultaneous, correlative observations of aurora and airglow emissions, energetic particles, magnetic field variations, ionospheric properties, etc., especially over the polar areas. Soon after achieving orbit, difficulties in maintaining earth lock with horizon scanners caused exhaustion of attitude control gas by October 23, 1965, 10 days after launch. At this time, the spacecraft entered a spin mode (about 0.11 rpm) with a large coning angle about the previously vertical axis. Five experiments became useless when the satellite went into this spin mode. Six additional experiments were degraded by this loss of attitude control. By April 1966, both batteries had failed, so subsequent observations were limited to sunlit portions of the orbit. By December 1966, only eight experiments were operational, five of which were not degraded by the spin mode operation. By April 1967, the tape recorders had malfunctioned and only one third of the recorded data could be processed. Spacecraft power and periods of operational scheduling conflicts created six large data gaps so that data were observed on a total of about 306 days of the 2-yr, 18-day total span of observed satellite data to November 1, 1967. The spacecraft was shut down on November 1, 1967, with eight experiments still operational. It was reactivated for 2 weeks in February 1968 to operate the rubidium vapor magnetometer experiment.
1965 October 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC40. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 3C. LV Configuration: Titan IIIC 3C-4. FAILURE: Partial Failure..
  • OV2-01 - . Mass: 170 kg (370 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV2. Decay Date: 1972-07-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 1624 . COSPAR: 1965-082B. Apogee: 791 km (491 mi). Perigee: 708 km (439 mi). Inclination: 32.6000 deg. Period: 99.80 min. Summary: Dual launch with LCS 2; upper stage broke up. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1965 November 29 - . 04:48 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B SLV-2. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2 Agena B 453 (TA5) / Agena B S-01 6102 .
  • Alouette 2 - . Payload: Alouette 2 / Explorer 31. Mass: 145 kg (319 lb). Nation: Canada. Agency: DRTE. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Alouette. USAF Sat Cat: 1804 . COSPAR: 1965-098A. Apogee: 2,666 km (1,656 mi). Perigee: 503 km (312 mi). Inclination: 79.8000 deg. Period: 117.90 min. Ionospheric research; data correlated with Explorer 31. The double-launch project, known as ISIS-X was the first in a new co-operative NASA-Canadian Defense Research Board program for International Satellites for Ionospheric Studies. Alouette was in orbit with an apogee just over a kilometre lower than Explorer 31's and with a perigee of just more than a kilometre higher. The orbits were some 3000 km at apogee and 500 km at perigee.
  • Explorer 31 - . Payload: DME A. Mass: 99 kg (218 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DME. USAF Sat Cat: 1806 . COSPAR: 1965-098B. Apogee: 2,833 km (1,760 mi). Perigee: 505 km (313 mi). Inclination: 79.8000 deg. Period: 119.70 min. Ionospheric research; data correlated with Alouette 2. The Explorer 31, Direct Measurement Explorer, was launched with a Canadian Alouette II on November 28, 1965, on a Thor-Agena rocket from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California. The double-launch project, known as ISIS-X was the first in a new co-operative NASA-Canadian Defense Research Board program for International Satellites for Ionospheric Studies. Explorer 31 was in orbit with an apogee just over a kilometre more than Alouette's and with a perigee of just more than a kilometre lower. The orbits were some 3000 km at apogee and 500 km at perigee. Eight ionospheric measurement experiments sampled the environment both forward and after the satellite's path.
1965 December 6 - . 21:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-4. LV Configuration: Scout X-4 S139R.
  • FRANCE 1 - . Payload: FR 1. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: FRANCE. USAF Sat Cat: 1814 . COSPAR: 1965-101A. Apogee: 707 km (439 mi). Perigee: 696 km (432 mi). Inclination: 75.9000 deg. Period: 98.80 min. VLF wave propagation studies. Investigation of the properties of the ionized layers of the atmosphere by observation of the propagation of the properties of very low frequency waves in the ionosphere. First registered by the United States in A/AC.105/INF.125. Orbit given there was 99 .9 min, 749 x 753 km x 75.9 deg, with note: France provided the payload for 1965-101A.
1965 December 17 - . 02:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M. LV Configuration: Vostok 8A92M R15000-31.
  • Cosmos 100 - . Payload: Meteor no. 3. Mass: 4,730 kg (10,420 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor. Decay Date: 2002-02-15 . USAF Sat Cat: 1843 . COSPAR: 1965-106A. Apogee: 547 km (339 mi). Perigee: 485 km (301 mi). Inclination: 65.0000 deg. Period: 95.00 min. Summary: Probable weather satellite. Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. .
1965 December 21 - . 14:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC41. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 3C. LV Configuration: Titan IIIC 3C-8.
  • OV2-03 - . Mass: 193 kg (425 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV2. Decay Date: 1975-08-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 1863 . COSPAR: 1965-108A. Apogee: 22,846 km (14,195 mi). Perigee: 321 km (199 mi). Inclination: 26.8000 deg. Period: 399.30 min. Summary: Upper stage separation failed. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 January 8 - . 04:48 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 1. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 1 251. FAILURE: Second stage failed.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • DMSP-Block-4A F5 - . Payload: DAPP 14/OPS 2394. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A. Decay Date: 1966-01-06 . COSPAR: F660108A. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1966 February 3 - . 07:41 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta C. LV Configuration: Thor Delta C 445/D36.
  • ESSA 1 - . Payload: Tiros OT3. Mass: 138 kg (304 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: ESSA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. USAF Sat Cat: 1982 . COSPAR: 1966-008A. Apogee: 806 km (500 mi). Perigee: 684 km (425 mi). Inclination: 97.8000 deg. Period: 99.70 min. Summary: Environmental Survey Satellite. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1966 February 11 - . 18:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/1. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 63S1.
  • Cosmos 108 - . Payload: DS-U1-G s/n 1. Mass: 355 kg (782 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U1-G. Completed Operations Date: 1966-02-26 . Decay Date: 1966-11-21 . USAF Sat Cat: 2002 . COSPAR: 1966-011A. Apogee: 850 km (520 mi). Perigee: 220 km (130 mi). Inclination: 48.8000 deg. Period: 95.30 min. Summary: Studied the relationship between variations in the upper atmosphere and solar activity..
1966 February 17 - . 08:33 GMT - . Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Hammaguira Brigitte. LV Family: Diamant. Launch Vehicle: Diamant A. LV Configuration: Diamant A No. 2.
  • Diapason - . Payload: D-1A. Mass: 19 kg (41 lb). Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: D. USAF Sat Cat: 2016 . COSPAR: 1966-013A. Apogee: 2,484 km (1,543 mi). Perigee: 502 km (311 mi). Inclination: 34.1000 deg. Period: 115.80 min. Summary: Scientific satellite 'D-I' launched from Hammaguir (Algeria)..
1966 February 28 - . 13:58 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta E. LV Configuration: Thor Delta E 461/D37.
  • ESSA 2 - . Payload: Tiros OT2. Mass: 132 kg (291 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: ESSA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. USAF Sat Cat: 2091 . COSPAR: 1966-016A. Apogee: 1,415 km (879 mi). Perigee: 1,355 km (841 mi). Inclination: 101.3000 deg. Period: 113.50 min. Summary: Environmental Survey Satellite; carried APT cameras. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1966 March 30 - . 09:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 72D NB20.152 RS.
  • OV1-04 - . Mass: 88 kg (194 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. USAF Sat Cat: 2121 . COSPAR: 1966-025A. Apogee: 1,008 km (626 mi). Perigee: 884 km (549 mi). Inclination: 144.5000 deg. Period: 104.00 min. Summary: Thermal control experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • OV1-04S - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. USAF Sat Cat: 2121 . COSPAR: 1966-025xx. Apogee: 1,002 km (622 mi). Perigee: 879 km (546 mi). Inclination: 144.5000 deg. Period: 103.80 min.
  • OV1-05S - . Payload: BORE. Mass: 114 kg (251 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. USAF Sat Cat: 2122 . COSPAR: 1966-025B. Apogee: 1,056 km (656 mi). Perigee: 985 km (612 mi). Inclination: 144.6000 deg. Period: 105.60 min. Summary: Optical radiation test. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 March 31 - . 05:41 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 1. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 1 147.
  • DMSP-Block-4A F6 - . Payload: DAPP 15 / OPS 0340. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A. USAF Sat Cat: 2125 . COSPAR: 1966-026A. Apogee: 855 km (531 mi). Perigee: 604 km (375 mi). Inclination: 98.3000 deg. Period: 99.40 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1966 April 22 - . 09:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout B. LV Configuration: Scout B S145C.
  • OV3-01 - . Mass: 69 kg (152 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV3. USAF Sat Cat: 2150 . COSPAR: 1966-034A. Apogee: 3,585 km (2,227 mi). Perigee: 341 km (211 mi). Inclination: 82.4000 deg. Period: 126.40 min. Summary: Radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1966 May 11 - . 14:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Cosmos 118 - . Payload: Meteor no. 4. Mass: 4,730 kg (10,420 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor. Decay Date: 1988-11-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 2168 . COSPAR: 1966-038A. Apogee: 339 km (210 mi). Perigee: 316 km (196 mi). Inclination: 65.0000 deg. Period: 91.10 min. Summary: Probable weather satellite. Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. .
1966 May 15 - . 07:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B SLV-2A/B. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena B 456 (TA6) / Agena B S-01 6202 .
  • Nimbus 2 - . Payload: Nimbus C. Mass: 414 kg (912 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Nimbus. USAF Sat Cat: 2173 . COSPAR: 1966-040A. Apogee: 1,176 km (730 mi). Perigee: 1,093 km (679 mi). Inclination: 100.3000 deg. Period: 108.00 min. TV, IR cloud cover photos. The spacecraft carried an advanced vidicon camera system for recording and storing remote cloud cover pictures, an automatic picture transmission camera for providing real-time cloudcover pictures, and both high- and medium-resolution infrared radiometers (HRIR and MRIR) for measuring the intensity and distribution of electromagnetic radiation emitted by and reflected from the earth and its atmosphere. The spacecraft and experiments performed normally after launch until July 26, 1966, when the spacecraft tape recorder failed. Its function was taken over by the HRIR tape recorder until November 15, 1966, when it also failed. Some real-time data were collected until January 17, 1969, when the spacecraft mission was terminated owing to deterioration of the horizon scanner used for earth reference.
1966 May 24 - . 05:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/1. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 119 - . Payload: DS-U2-I s/n 1. Mass: 250 kg (550 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-I. Completed Operations Date: 1966-05-26 . Decay Date: 1966-11-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 2182 . COSPAR: 1966-043A. Apogee: 1,278 km (794 mi). Perigee: 209 km (129 mi). Inclination: 48.4000 deg. Period: 99.70 min. Summary: Studied the influence of the ionosphere on passing VLF radio waves..
1966 May 25 - . 14:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta C1. LV Configuration: Thor Delta C1 436/D38.
  • Explorer 32 - . Payload: AE B. Mass: 225 kg (496 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: AE. Decay Date: 1985-02-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 2183 . COSPAR: 1966-044A. Apogee: 2,723 km (1,691 mi). Perigee: 282 km (175 mi). Inclination: 64.6000 deg. Period: 116.00 min. Summary: Atmospheric Explorer; aeronomy experiments. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1966 June 7 - . 02:48 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: SLV-3 Agena B. LV Configuration: SLV-3 Agena B 5601 (AA16) / Agena B 6502.
  • OGO 3 - . Payload: OGO B. Mass: 634 kg (1,397 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OGO. Decay Date: 1981-09-15 . USAF Sat Cat: 2195 . COSPAR: 1966-049A. Apogee: 102,806 km (63,880 mi). Perigee: 19,519 km (12,128 mi). Inclination: 77.6000 deg. Period: 2,911.50 min. Orbiting Geophysical Observatory 3. All 21 experiments returned good data. At the time, this was the largest experimental complement ever put into orbit. There were 4 cosmic ray instruments (1 of which included a gamma-ray spectrometer), 4 plasma, 2 trapped radiation, 2 magnetic fields, 5 ionosphere, 3 radio/optical, and 1 micrometeoroid detectors. OGO 3 maintained 3-axis stabilization for 46 days. At that point, an attitude controller failed and the spacecraft was put into a spin on 23 July 1966. The spin period varied from 90-125 seconds. By June 1969, data acquisition was limited to 50% of the orbital path. Routine spacecraft operation was discontinued on December 1, 1969, after which only data from Heppner's experiment (Rubidium + Fluxgate magnetometer) was acquired. By March 1971 spacecraft perigee had increased to 16,400 km and the inclination had increased to 75.8 deg. All spacecraft support terminated on February 29, 1972.
1966 June 9 - . 20:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D SLV-3. LV Configuration: SLV-3 Agena D 7201 / Agena D 1351.
  • ORS 2 - . Payload: ERS 16. Mass: 15 kg (33 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ERS. Decay Date: 1967-03-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 2202 . COSPAR: 1966-051C. Apogee: 3,641 km (2,262 mi). Perigee: 178 km (110 mi). Inclination: 90.0000 deg. Period: 125.10 min. Summary: Metal-to-metal bonding experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • SECOR 6 - . Payload: EGRS 6. Mass: 17 kg (37 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USA ACE. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR. Decay Date: 1967-07-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 2205 . COSPAR: 1966-051B. Apogee: 3,646 km (2,265 mi). Perigee: 168 km (104 mi). Inclination: 90.0000 deg. Period: 125.00 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 June 10 - . 04:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout B. LV Configuration: Scout B S147C.
  • OV3-04 - . Mass: 79 kg (174 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV3. USAF Sat Cat: 2201 . COSPAR: 1966-052A. Apogee: 4,704 km (2,922 mi). Perigee: 643 km (399 mi). Inclination: 40.9000 deg. Period: 142.90 min. Summary: Radiation measurements. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 June 24 - . 00:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 473 (TA7) / Agena D SS-01B 631.
  • Pageos 1 - . Payload: Pageos A. Mass: 55 kg (121 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Langley. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: Pageos. Decay Date: 1975-07-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 2253 . COSPAR: 1966-056A. Apogee: 4,220 km (2,620 mi). Perigee: 3,913 km (2,431 mi). Inclination: 85.4000 deg. Period: 177.10 min. The PAGEOS (Passive Geodetic Earth Orbiting Satellite) spacecraft was a 30.48-m inflatable sphere, and had no instrumentation on board. It was the second (following GEOS 1) NASA satellite in the National Geodetic Satellites Program. The launch, orbit, separation, inflation and initial operation were nominal, with more than 40 ground stations participating in the observation program. The orbit was generally considered too high for drag-density study, although some work was done in this area by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory. Additional Details: here....
1966 June 25 - . 10:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M. LV Configuration: Vostok 8A92M N15000-21.
  • Cosmos 122 - . Payload: Meteor no. 5. Mass: 4,730 kg (10,420 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor. Decay Date: 1989-11-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 2254 . COSPAR: 1966-057A. Apogee: 388 km (241 mi). Perigee: 371 km (230 mi). Inclination: 65.0000 deg. Period: 92.10 min. Summary: Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. .
1966 July 1 - . 16:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta E1. LV Configuration: Thor Delta E1 467/D39.
  • Explorer 33 - . Payload: AIMP D. Mass: 93 kg (205 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: IMP. USAF Sat Cat: 2258 . COSPAR: 1966-058A. Apogee: 480,762 km (298,731 mi). Perigee: 265,679 km (165,084 mi). Inclination: 24.1000 deg. Period: 38,792.40 min. Summary: Intended to enter lunar orbit. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1966 July 14 - . 02:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 58D. FAILURE: Partial Failure.. Failed Stage: 1.
  • OV1-07 - . Payload: PasComSat. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. Decay Date: 1978-01-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 2324 . COSPAR: 1966-063A. Apogee: 1,022 km (635 mi). Perigee: 985 km (612 mi). Inclination: 144.2000 deg. Period: 105.20 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • OV1-08 PasComSat - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. Decay Date: 1978-01-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 2324 . COSPAR: 1966-063xx. Apogee: 410 km (250 mi). Perigee: 393 km (244 mi). Inclination: 144.2000 deg. Period: 92.60 min.
1966 August 4 - . 10:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout B. LV Configuration: Scout B S148C.
  • OV3-03 - . Mass: 75 kg (165 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV3. USAF Sat Cat: 2389 . COSPAR: 1966-070A. Apogee: 3,141 km (1,951 mi). Perigee: 349 km (216 mi). Inclination: 81.4000 deg. Period: 121.40 min. Summary: Radiation measurements. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 August 19 - . 19:26 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D SLV-3. LV Configuration: SLV-3 Agena D 7202 / Agena D 1352.
  • SECOR 7 - . Payload: EGRS 7. Mass: 17 kg (37 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USA ACE. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR. USAF Sat Cat: 2411 . COSPAR: 1966-077B. Apogee: 3,700 km (2,200 mi). Perigee: 3,671 km (2,281 mi). Inclination: 89.7000 deg. Period: 167.50 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • ORS 1 - . Payload: ERS 15. Mass: 5.00 kg (11.00 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ERS. USAF Sat Cat: 2412 . COSPAR: 1966-077C. Apogee: 3,700 km (2,200 mi). Perigee: 3,680 km (2,280 mi). Inclination: 89.7000 deg. Period: 167.60 min. Summary: Cold welding experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 September 16 - . 04:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2 167.
  • DMSP-Block-4A F7 - . Payload: DAPP 1416 (FTV-3) / OPS 6026. Mass: 125 kg (275 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A. USAF Sat Cat: 2418 . COSPAR: 1966-082A. Apogee: 857 km (532 mi). Perigee: 674 km (418 mi). Inclination: 98.3000 deg. Period: 100.20 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1966 October 2 - . 10:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta E. LV Configuration: Thor Delta E 463/D41.
  • ESSA 3 - . Payload: TOS A. Mass: 145 kg (319 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: ESSA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: TOS. USAF Sat Cat: 2435 . COSPAR: 1966-087A. Apogee: 1,486 km (923 mi). Perigee: 1,387 km (861 mi). Inclination: 100.9000 deg. Period: 114.60 min. Summary: Environmental Survey Satellite 3; replace ESSA 1. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1966 October 5 - . 22:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D SLV-3. LV Configuration: SLV-3 Agena D 7203 / Agena D 1353.
  • SECOR 8 - . Payload: EGRS 8. Mass: 17 kg (37 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USA ACE. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR. USAF Sat Cat: 2520 . COSPAR: 1966-089B. Apogee: 3,707 km (2,303 mi). Perigee: 3,674 km (2,282 mi). Inclination: 90.0000 deg. Period: 167.60 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 October 28 - . 11:56 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout B. LV Configuration: Scout B S150C.
  • OV3-02 - . Mass: 82 kg (180 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV3. Decay Date: 1971-09-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 2517 . COSPAR: 1966-097A. Apogee: 1,599 km (993 mi). Perigee: 319 km (198 mi). Inclination: 81.9000 deg. Period: 104.20 min. Summary: Radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 November 3 - . 13:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC40. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 3C. LV Configuration: Titan IIIC 3C-9.
  • OV1-06S - . Mass: 202 kg (445 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. Decay Date: 1966-12-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 2527 . COSPAR: 1966-099C. Apogee: 290 km (180 mi). Perigee: 287 km (178 mi). Inclination: 32.8000 deg. Period: 90.30 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 December 11 - . 21:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 89D / OV-1 (2x).
  • OV1-09 - . Mass: 230 kg (500 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. USAF Sat Cat: 2610 . COSPAR: 1966-111A. Apogee: 4,582 km (2,847 mi). Perigee: 475 km (295 mi). Inclination: 99.1000 deg. Period: 139.40 min. Summary: Radiation bio-hazard experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • OV1-10 - . Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. Decay Date: 2002-11-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 2611 . COSPAR: 1966-111B. Apogee: 604 km (375 mi). Perigee: 541 km (336 mi). Inclination: 93.4000 deg. Period: 96.10 min. Summary: Radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1966 December 12 - . 20:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/1. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 135 - . Payload: DS-U2-MP s/n 1. Mass: 355 kg (782 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Micrometeoroid satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-MP. Completed Operations Date: 1967-04-12 . Decay Date: 1967-04-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 2612 . COSPAR: 1966-112A. Apogee: 648 km (402 mi). Perigee: 253 km (157 mi). Inclination: 48.4000 deg. Period: 93.60 min. Summary: Studied cosmic dust particles in near-Earth space..
1966 December 21 - . 13:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/1. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 63S1.
  • Cosmos 137 - . Payload: DS-U2-D s/n 1. Mass: 295 kg (650 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-D. Completed Operations Date: 1969-05-12 . Decay Date: 1967-11-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 2627 . COSPAR: 1966-117A. Apogee: 1,718 km (1,067 mi). Perigee: 219 km (136 mi). Inclination: 48.8000 deg. Period: 104.40 min. Summary: Studied charged particle flows..
1967 January 26 - . 17:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta E. LV Configuration: Thor Delta E 472/D45.
  • ESSA 4 - . Payload: TOS B. Mass: 132 kg (291 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: ESSA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: TOS. USAF Sat Cat: 2657 . COSPAR: 1967-006A. Apogee: 1,440 km (890 mi). Perigee: 1,326 km (823 mi). Inclination: 102.0000 deg. Period: 113.40 min. Summary: Replaced ESSA 2. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1967 January 31 - . 12:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout B. LV Configuration: Scout B S151C. FAILURE: Failure.. Failed Stage: U.
  • OV3-05 - . Payload: OV3-05. Nation: USA. Agency: AFSC. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV3. Decay Date: 1967-01-21 . COSPAR: F670131A.
1967 February 8 - . 08:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2 169.
  • DMSP-Block-4A F8 - . Payload: DAPP 2418 (FTV-2) / OPS 6073. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A. USAF Sat Cat: 2669 . COSPAR: 1967-010A. Apogee: 846 km (525 mi). Perigee: 771 km (479 mi). Inclination: 99.1000 deg. Period: 101.10 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program; lower than planned orbit, but still operational..
1967 February 8 - . 09:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Hammaguira Brigitte. LV Family: Diamant. Launch Vehicle: Diamant A. LV Configuration: Diamant A No. 3. FAILURE: Partial Failure - injected into too low an orbit.. Failed Stage: 3.
  • Diademe 1 - . Payload: Diademe D-1C. Mass: 23 kg (50 lb). Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: Diadem. USAF Sat Cat: 2674 . COSPAR: 1967-011A. Apogee: 1,084 km (673 mi). Perigee: 545 km (338 mi). Inclination: 40.0000 deg. Period: 101.20 min. Summary: Orbit too low. Launch time of Diadem I was 10:39:40 on 8 Feb 1967. Launch time of Diadem II was 11:06:57 on 15 Feb 1967..
1967 February 14 - . 10:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/1. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 142 - . Payload: DS-U2-I s/n 2. Mass: 315 kg (694 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-I. Completed Operations Date: 1967-07-06 . Decay Date: 1967-07-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 2678 . COSPAR: 1967-013A. Apogee: 1,320 km (820 mi). Perigee: 216 km (134 mi). Inclination: 48.4000 deg. Period: 100.10 min. Summary: Studied the influence of the ionosphere on passing VLF radio waves..
1967 February 15 - . 10:06 GMT - . Launch Site: Hammaguira. Launch Complex: Hammaguira Brigitte. LV Family: Diamant. Launch Vehicle: Diamant A. LV Configuration: Diamant A No. 4.
  • Diademe 2 - . Payload: Diademe D-1D. Mass: 23 kg (50 lb). Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: Diadem. USAF Sat Cat: 2680 . COSPAR: 1967-014A. Apogee: 1,733 km (1,076 mi). Perigee: 584 km (362 mi). Inclination: 39.4000 deg. Period: 108.50 min. Summary: Launch time of Diadem I was 10:39:40 on 8 Feb 1967. Launch time of Diadem II was 11:06:57 on 15 Feb 1967. .
1967 February 28 - . 14:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC41/1. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Cosmos 144 - . Payload: Meteor no. 6. Mass: 4,730 kg (10,420 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor. Decay Date: 1982-09-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 2695 . COSPAR: 1967-018A. Apogee: 644 km (400 mi). Perigee: 574 km (356 mi). Inclination: 81.3000 deg. Period: 96.90 min. Summary: Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. .
1967 April 20 - . 11:21 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta E. LV Configuration: Thor Delta E 484/D48.
  • ESSA 5 - . Payload: TOS C. Mass: 145 kg (319 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: ESSA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: TOS. USAF Sat Cat: 2757 . COSPAR: 1967-036A. Apogee: 1,422 km (883 mi). Perigee: 1,355 km (841 mi). Inclination: 102.0000 deg. Period: 113.50 min. Summary: Replaced ESSA 3. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1967 April 26 - . 10:06 GMT - . Launch Site: San Marco. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout B. LV Configuration: Scout B S153C.
  • San Marco 2 - . Payload: San Marco B. Mass: 129 kg (284 lb). Nation: Italy. Agency: CRS. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: San Marco. Decay Date: 1967-10-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 2761 . COSPAR: 1967-038A. Apogee: 741 km (460 mi). Perigee: 219 km (136 mi). Inclination: 2.9000 deg. Period: 94.20 min. Summary: Atmospheric density data. Scientific satellite launched from a mobile range off Formosa Bay (Kenya). .
1967 April 27 - . 12:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC41/1. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Cosmos 156 - . Payload: Meteor no. 7. Mass: 4,730 kg (10,420 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor. Decay Date: 1989-10-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 2762 . COSPAR: 1967-039A. Apogee: 375 km (233 mi). Perigee: 368 km (228 mi). Inclination: 81.1000 deg. Period: 92.00 min. Summary: Worked with Cosmos 144. Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. .
1967 April 28 - . 10:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC41. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 3C. LV Configuration: Titan IIIC 3C-10.
  • OV5-03 - . Payload: ERS 20. Mass: 9.00 kg (19.80 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV5. USAF Sat Cat: 2768 . COSPAR: 1967-040D. Apogee: 111,229 km (69,114 mi). Perigee: 8,604 km (5,346 mi). Inclination: 32.8000 deg. Period: 2,829.60 min. Summary: Radiation research; deployed ERS 20. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • OV5-01 - . Payload: ERS 27. Mass: 9.00 kg (19.80 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV5. USAF Sat Cat: 2769 . COSPAR: 1967-040E. Apogee: 110,746 km (68,814 mi). Perigee: 8,979 km (5,579 mi). Inclination: 32.8000 deg. Period: 2,827.80 min. Summary: Materials research; deployed ERS 27. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • ERS 18 - . Mass: 9.00 kg (19.80 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ERS. USAF Sat Cat: 2767 . COSPAR: 1967-040C. Apogee: 110,842 km (68,873 mi). Perigee: 8,991 km (5,586 mi). Inclination: 0.0000 deg. Period: 2,831.30 min. Summary: Radiation research. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1967 May 24 - . 14:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta E1. LV Configuration: Thor Delta E1 486/D49.
  • Explorer 34 - . Payload: IMP F. Mass: 75 kg (165 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: IMP. Decay Date: 1969-05-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 2817 . COSPAR: 1967-051A. Apogee: 214,379 km (133,208 mi). Perigee: 242 km (150 mi). Inclination: 67.1000 deg. Period: 6,358.20 min. Summary: Radiation, magnetic field data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1967 June 5 - . 05:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/1. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 163 - . Payload: DS-U2-MP s/n 2. Mass: 357 kg (787 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Micrometeoroid satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-MP. Completed Operations Date: 1967-10-11 . Decay Date: 1967-10-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 2832 . COSPAR: 1967-056A. Apogee: 598 km (371 mi). Perigee: 255 km (158 mi). Inclination: 48.3000 deg. Period: 93.10 min. Summary: Studied cosmic dust particles in near-Earth space..
1967 June 29 - . 21:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2 171.
  • SECOR 9 - . Payload: EGRS 9. Mass: 20 kg (44 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USA ACE. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR. USAF Sat Cat: 2861 . COSPAR: 1967-065A. Apogee: 3,940 km (2,440 mi). Perigee: 3,803 km (2,363 mi). Inclination: 90.2000 deg. Period: 172.10 min. Summary: Location survey. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • Aurora 1 - . Payload: Aurora (P 67-1). Mass: 21 kg (46 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Aurora. USAF Sat Cat: 2876 . COSPAR: 1967-065B. Apogee: 3,937 km (2,446 mi). Perigee: 3,808 km (2,366 mi). Inclination: 90.2000 deg. Period: 172.10 min. Summary: Investigated aurora borealis. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1967 July 19 - . 14:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta E1. LV Configuration: Thor Delta E1 488/D50.
  • Explorer 35 - . Payload: AIMP E. Mass: 104 kg (229 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: IMP. USAF Sat Cat: 2884 . COSPAR: 1967-070A. Apogee: 675 km (419 mi). Perigee: 484 km (300 mi). Inclination: 32.4000 deg. Period: 96.26 min. Earth magnetic tail measurements. Lunar Orbit (Selenocentric). The Westinghouse Aerospace Division, under contract to National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Goddard Space Flight Center, engaged in the system design, integration, assembly and launch support for Anchored Interplanetary Monitoring Platform Satellite, officially designated Explorer 35 by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. It was launched on July 19, 1967, with the primary objectives of investigation of interplanetary plasma and the interplanetary magnetic field out to and at the lunar distance, in either a captured lunar orbit or a geocentric orbit of the earth. In the geocentric orbit, the apogee was near or beyond the lunar distance. In a lunar orbit, additional objectives included obtaining data on dust distribution, lunar gravitational field, ionosphere, magnetic field, and radiation environment around the moon. AIMP-E also studied spatial and temporal relationships of geophysical and interplanetary phenomena simultaneously being studied by several other National Aeronautics and Space Administration satellites. The investigation in the vicinity of the moon provided for measurements of the characteristics of the interplanetary dust distribution, solar and galactic cosmic rays, as well as a study of the magnetohydrodynamic wake of the earth in the interplanetary medium at the lunar distances.
1967 July 27 - . 19:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 92D. FAILURE: Partial Failure.. Failed Stage: 1.
  • OV1-08S - . Mass: 118 kg (260 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. Decay Date: 1972-02-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 2893 . COSPAR: 1967-072A. Apogee: 557 km (346 mi). Perigee: 529 km (328 mi). Inclination: 101.6000 deg. Period: 95.50 min. Summary: Carried cosmic ray telescope. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • OV1-12S - . Mass: 140 kg (300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. Decay Date: 1980-07-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 2901 . COSPAR: 1967-072D. Apogee: 579 km (359 mi). Perigee: 497 km (308 mi). Inclination: 101.7000 deg. Period: 95.40 min. Summary: Solar flare observations. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1967 July 28 - . 14:21 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 478 (TA8) / Agena D SS-01B 680.
  • OGO 4 - . Payload: OGO D (NASA S-50A). Mass: 634 kg (1,397 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OGO. Decay Date: 1972-08-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 2895 . COSPAR: 1967-073A. Apogee: 885 km (549 mi). Perigee: 422 km (262 mi). Inclination: 86.0000 deg. Period: 97.80 min. OGO 4 was a large observatory instrumented with experiments designed to study the interrelationships between the aurora and airglow emissions, energetic particle activity, geomagnetic field variation, ionospheric ionization and recombination, and atmospheric heating which take place during a period of increased solar activity. After the spacecraft achieved orbit and the experiments were deployed into an operating mode, an attitude control problem occurred. This condition was corrected by ground control procedures until complete failure of the tape recording systems in mid-January 1969. At that time, due to the difficulty of maintaining attitude control without the tape recorders, the attitude control system was commanded off, and the spacecraft was placed into a spin-stabilized mode about the axis which was previously maintained vertically. In this mode, seven of the remaining experiments were turned off since no meaningful data could be observed by them. On October 23, 1969, the satellite was turned off. It was reactivated again in January 1970 for 2 months to obtain VLF observations.
1967 August 23 - . 04:41 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2 266.
  • DMSP-Block-4A F9 - . Payload: DAPP 3419 (FTV-4) / OPS 7202. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A. USAF Sat Cat: 2920 . COSPAR: 1967-080A. Apogee: 873 km (542 mi). Perigee: 818 km (508 mi). Inclination: 98.9000 deg. Period: 101.90 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1967 October 11 - . 07:57 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2 268.
  • DMSP-Block-4A F10 - . Payload: DAPP 4417 (FTV-5) / OPS 1264. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A. USAF Sat Cat: 2980 . COSPAR: 1967-096A. Apogee: 796 km (494 mi). Perigee: 638 km (396 mi). Inclination: 99.2000 deg. Period: 99.10 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1967 October 24 - . 22:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Cosmos 184 - . Payload: Meteor no. 8. Mass: 4,730 kg (10,420 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor. Decay Date: 1989-04-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 3010 . COSPAR: 1967-102A. Apogee: 414 km (257 mi). Perigee: 409 km (254 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 92.80 min. Summary: Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. .
1967 November 10 - . 17:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta E1. LV Configuration: Thor Delta E1 480/D54.
  • ESSA 6 - . Payload: TOS D. Mass: 132 kg (291 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: ESSA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: TOS. USAF Sat Cat: 3035 . COSPAR: 1967-114A. Apogee: 1,485 km (922 mi). Perigee: 1,409 km (875 mi). Inclination: 102.1000 deg. Period: 114.80 min. Summary: Returned cloud cover images. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1967 November 29 - . 04:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: Woomera LA8. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Sparta. LV Configuration: SPARTA 2029/SV-10.
  • Wresat 1 - . Payload: Wresat / BE-3. Mass: 45 kg (99 lb). Nation: Australia. Agency: WRE. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Wresat. Decay Date: 1968-01-10 . USAF Sat Cat: 3054 . COSPAR: 1967-118A. Apogee: 1,252 km (777 mi). Perigee: 198 km (123 mi). Inclination: 83.3000 deg. Period: 99.30 min. Summary: Weapons Research Establishment Satellite; solar radiation, upper atmosphere data. WRESAT 1 launched for upper atmosphere and space research at 1419 h central standard time, from Woomera, South Australia. Launch vehicle based on Redstone. .
1967 December 5 - . 01:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout B. LV Configuration: Scout B S158C.
  • OV3-06 - . Payload: ATCOS 2. Mass: 95 kg (209 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV3. Decay Date: 1969-03-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 3057 . COSPAR: 1967-120A. Apogee: 443 km (275 mi). Perigee: 409 km (254 mi). Inclination: 90.0000 deg. Period: 93.00 min. Summary: Ionospheric studies. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1967 December 19 - . 06:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/1. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 63S1.
  • Cosmos 196 - . Payload: DS-U1-G s/n 2. Mass: 352 kg (776 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U1-G. Completed Operations Date: 1968-02-07 . Decay Date: 1968-07-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 3074 . COSPAR: 1967-125A. Apogee: 869 km (539 mi). Perigee: 220 km (130 mi). Inclination: 48.7000 deg. Period: 95.50 min. Summary: Studied the relationship between variations in the upper atmosphere and solar activity..
1968 March 4 - . 13:06 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D SLV-3A. LV Configuration: SLV-3A Agena D 5602A (AA26) / Agena D 6503 (AA26).
  • OGO 5 - . Payload: OGO E. Mass: 634 kg (1,397 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OGO. Decay Date: 2011-07-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 3138 . COSPAR: 1968-014A. Apogee: 111,034 km (68,993 mi). Perigee: 36,021 km (22,382 mi). Inclination: 50.3000 deg. Period: 3,746.50 min. OGO 5 carried 25 experiments, 17 of which were particle studies, and two were magnetic field studies. In addition, there was one each of the following types of experiments: radio astronomy, UV spectrum, Lyman-alpha, solar X ray, plasma waves, and electric field. By April 1971, spacecraft perigee had increased to 26,400 km and inclination had increased to 54 deg. The spacecraft attitude control failed on August 6, 1971, after 41 months of normal operation. The spacecraft was placed in a standby status on October 8, 1971. Four experiments (Meyer, Blamont, Thomas, and Simpson) were reactivated for the period from June 1 to July 13, 1972, after which all operational support terminated. Spacecraft orbit parameters changed significantly over the spacecraft life.
1968 March 6 - . 11:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/4. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63. FAILURE: Second stage failed 216 seconds after launch.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • DS-U1-Ya s/n 1 - . Payload: DS-U1-Ya. Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U1-Ya. COSPAR: F680306A. Summary: Studied charged particle flows and cosmic rays..
1968 March 14 - . 09:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Cosmos 206 - . Payload: Meteor no. 9. Mass: 4,730 kg (10,420 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor. Decay Date: 1989-04-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 3150 . COSPAR: 1968-019A. Apogee: 405 km (251 mi). Perigee: 396 km (246 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 92.60 min. Summary: Visual, IR cloud cover images. Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. .
1968 April 6 - . 09:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 107F / OV-1 (2x).
  • OV1-13 - . Mass: 107 kg (235 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. USAF Sat Cat: 3173 . COSPAR: 1968-026A. Apogee: 9,214 km (5,725 mi). Perigee: 587 km (364 mi). Inclination: 100.0000 deg. Period: 198.70 min. Summary: Radiation, engineering experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • OV1-14 - . Mass: 101 kg (222 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. USAF Sat Cat: 3174 . COSPAR: 1968-026B. Apogee: 9,858 km (6,125 mi). Perigee: 568 km (352 mi). Inclination: 100.0000 deg. Period: 207.00 min. Summary: Radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1968 April 18 - . 22:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/4. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 215 - . Payload: DS-U1-A s/n 1. Mass: 385 kg (848 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U1-A. Completed Operations Date: 1968-06-06 . Decay Date: 1968-06-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 3205 . COSPAR: 1968-033A. Apogee: 403 km (250 mi). Perigee: 255 km (158 mi). Inclination: 48.4000 deg. Period: 91.00 min. Summary: Studied the optical characteristics of the atmosphere. Radiation observatory; eight telescopes..
1968 April 26 - . 04:42 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/4. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 219 - . Payload: DS-U2-D s/n 2. Mass: 300 kg (660 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-D. Decay Date: 1969-03-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 3220 . COSPAR: 1968-038A. Apogee: 1,745 km (1,084 mi). Perigee: 215 km (133 mi). Inclination: 48.4000 deg. Period: 104.60 min. Summary: Studied charged particle flows..
1968 May 18 - . 08:23 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thorad Agena D SLV-2G. LV Configuration: Thorad SLV-2G Agena D 520 (TA9) / Agena D 6221. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • Nimbus B - . Mass: 570 kg (1,250 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Nimbus. Decay Date: 1968-05-18 . COSPAR: F680518A. Summary: Launched with Secor 10..
1968 May 23 - . 04:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2 277.
  • DMSP-Block-4A F11 - . Payload: DAPP 4B F-1 (FTV-8) / OPS 7869. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A. USAF Sat Cat: 3266 . COSPAR: 1968-042A. Apogee: 883 km (548 mi). Perigee: 806 km (500 mi). Inclination: 98.9000 deg. Period: 101.80 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1968 June 11 - . 21:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/4. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 225 - . Payload: DS-U1-Ya s/n 2. Mass: 375 kg (826 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U1-Ya. Completed Operations Date: 1968-06-29 . Decay Date: 1968-11-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 3279 . COSPAR: 1968-048A. Apogee: 519 km (322 mi). Perigee: 255 km (158 mi). Inclination: 48.4000 deg. Period: 92.20 min. Summary: Studied charged particle flows and cosmic rays..
1968 June 12 - . 13:14 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Cosmos 226 - . Payload: Meteor no. 10. Mass: 4,730 kg (10,420 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor. Decay Date: 1983-10-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 3282 . COSPAR: 1968-049A. Apogee: 639 km (397 mi). Perigee: 579 km (359 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 96.90 min. Summary: Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. .
1968 July 11 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 75F / OV-1 (2x).
  • OV1-15S - . Payload: Spades. Mass: 470 kg (1,030 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. Decay Date: 1968-11-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 3318 . COSPAR: 1968-059A. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Perigee: 153 km (95 mi). Inclination: 89.8000 deg. Period: 104.60 min. Summary: Studied relationship between atmospheric density and solar radiation. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • OV1-16 Cannonball 1 - . Payload: Loads. Mass: 600 kg (1,320 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. Decay Date: 1968-08-19 . USAF Sat Cat: 3319 . COSPAR: 1968-059B. Apogee: 556 km (345 mi). Perigee: 145 km (90 mi). Inclination: 89.8000 deg. Period: 91.50 min. Summary: Ionospheric drag tests. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1968 August 8 - . 20:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout B. LV Configuration: Scout B S165C.
  • Explorer 39 - . Payload: ADE C. Mass: 9.00 kg (19.80 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Langley. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ADE. Decay Date: 1981-06-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 3337 . COSPAR: 1968-066A. Apogee: 2,538 km (1,577 mi). Perigee: 670 km (410 mi). Inclination: 80.7000 deg. Period: 118.30 min. Summary: Air Density Explorer; atmospheric density and temperature data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
  • Explorer 40 - . Payload: Injun E. Mass: 70 kg (154 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Langley. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Injun. USAF Sat Cat: 3338 . COSPAR: 1968-066B. Apogee: 2,489 km (1,546 mi). Perigee: 679 km (421 mi). Inclination: 80.7000 deg. Period: 117.80 min. Summary: Injun Explorer; radiation data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1968 August 16 - . 11:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta N. LV Configuration: Thor Delta N 528/D58.
  • ESSA 7 - . Payload: TOS E. Mass: 145 kg (319 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: ESSA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: TOS. USAF Sat Cat: 3345 . COSPAR: 1968-069A. Apogee: 1,473 km (915 mi). Perigee: 1,431 km (889 mi). Inclination: 101.9000 deg. Period: 114.90 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1968 August 16 - . 20:57 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Burner 2. LV Configuration: Atlas / Burner 2 7004. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • LCS 3 - . Payload: LCS 3. Mass: 37 kg (81 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF; USN. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Orbiscal. Decay Date: 1968-08-16 . COSPAR: F680816A. Summary: First of two Atlas/Burner II space launches. 1 of 13 satellite launch attempts; investigate effects of ionosphere on radio signals..
1968 September 26 - . 07:37 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC41. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 3C. LV Configuration: Titan IIIC 3C-5.
  • OV2-05 - . Mass: 204 kg (449 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV2. Completed Operations Date: 1968-09-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 3428 . COSPAR: 1968-081A. Apogee: 35,745 km (22,210 mi). Perigee: 35,113 km (21,818 mi). Inclination: 12.3000 deg. Period: 1,417.90 min. Environmental research. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). As of 22 August 2001 located at 128.37 deg E drifting at 4.618 deg E per day. As of 2007 Feb 27 located at 91.48E drifting at 4.631E degrees per day.
  • OV5-04 - . Payload: ERS 21. Mass: 13 kg (28 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV5. Completed Operations Date: 1968-09-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 3430 . COSPAR: 1968-081C. Apogee: 35,786 km (22,236 mi). Perigee: 35,775 km (22,229 mi). Inclination: 3.0000 deg. Period: 1,435.80 min. Summary: Examined heat transfer in liquids in zero-g. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). Last known longitude (19 July 1995) 138.85 deg E drifting at 0.103 deg W per day..
  • OV5-02 - . Payload: ERS 28. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV5. Decay Date: 1971-02-15 . USAF Sat Cat: 3429 . COSPAR: 1968-081B. Apogee: 35,786 km (22,236 mi). Perigee: 184 km (114 mi). Inclination: 26.4000 deg. Period: 630.80 min. Summary: Particle radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1968 October 23 - . 04:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2 173.
  • DMSP-Block-4A F12 - . Payload: DAPP 6422 (FTV-7) / OPS 4078. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A. USAF Sat Cat: 3510 . COSPAR: 1968-092A. Apogee: 828 km (514 mi). Perigee: 783 km (486 mi). Inclination: 98.7000 deg. Period: 101.00 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1968 December 5 - . 18:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta E1. LV Configuration: Thor Delta E1 481/D61.
  • HEOS 1 - . Payload: HEOS A1. Mass: 108 kg (238 lb). Nation: Europe. Agency: ESRO. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: HEOS. Decay Date: 1975-10-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 3595 . COSPAR: 1968-109A. Apogee: 202,780 km (126,000 mi). Perigee: 20,020 km (12,430 mi). Inclination: 60.5000 deg. Period: 6,704.30 min. Summary: Highly Eccentric Orbiting Satellite; examined magnetic fields outside of Earth's magnetosphere. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1968 December 14 - . 05:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/4. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 259 - . Payload: DS-U2-I s/n 3. Mass: 325 kg (716 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-I. Completed Operations Date: 1969-05-05 . Decay Date: 1969-05-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 3612 . COSPAR: 1968-113A. Apogee: 1,331 km (827 mi). Perigee: 215 km (133 mi). Inclination: 48.4000 deg. Period: 100.20 min. Summary: Studied the influence of the ionosphere on passing VLF radio waves..
1968 December 15 - . 17:21 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta N. LV Configuration: Thor Delta N 532/D62.
  • ESSA 8 - . Payload: TOS F. Mass: 132 kg (291 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: ESSA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: TOS. USAF Sat Cat: 3615 . COSPAR: 1968-114A. Apogee: 1,464 km (909 mi). Perigee: 1,414 km (878 mi). Inclination: 102.0000 deg. Period: 114.60 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1968 December 19 - . 23:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC133/1. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 261 - . Payload: DS-U2-GK s/n 1. Mass: 347 kg (765 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-GK. Completed Operations Date: 1969-02-12 . Decay Date: 1969-02-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 3624 . COSPAR: 1968-117A. Apogee: 637 km (395 mi). Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Inclination: 71.2000 deg. Period: 93.00 min. Summary: Conducted complex geophysical studies of the upper atmosphere, including aiir density and auroral investigations..
1969 January 30 - . 06:46 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta E1. LV Configuration: Thor Delta E1 485/D65.
  • Isis 1 - . Payload: Isis A. Mass: 241 kg (531 lb). Nation: Canada. Agency: CRCSS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Isis. USAF Sat Cat: 3669 . COSPAR: 1969-009A. Apogee: 3,458 km (2,148 mi). Perigee: 578 km (359 mi). Inclination: 88.4000 deg. Period: 127.60 min. Summary: Ionospheric measurements; data correlated with measurements from Alouette 1. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1969 February 26 - . 07:47 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta E1. LV Configuration: Thor Delta E1 483/D67.
  • ESSA 9 - . Payload: TOS G. Mass: 145 kg (319 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: ESSA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: TOS. USAF Sat Cat: 3764 . COSPAR: 1969-016A. Apogee: 1,505 km (935 mi). Perigee: 1,425 km (885 mi). Inclination: 101.8000 deg. Period: 115.20 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1969 March 18 - . 07:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 104F / OV-1 (3x).
  • OV1-17S - . Mass: 142 kg (313 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. Decay Date: 1970-03-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 3823 . COSPAR: 1969-025A. Apogee: 466 km (289 mi). Perigee: 400 km (240 mi). Inclination: 99.1000 deg. Period: 93.20 min. Summary: Solar radiation experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • OV1-19S - . Mass: 124 kg (273 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. USAF Sat Cat: 3825 . COSPAR: 1969-025C. Apogee: 5,551 km (3,449 mi). Perigee: 483 km (300 mi). Inclination: 104.8000 deg. Period: 151.10 min. Summary: Radiation experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • OV1-17A Orbiscal 2 - . Payload: OV1-17P. Mass: 221 kg (487 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. Decay Date: 1969-03-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 3826 . COSPAR: 1969-025D. Apogee: 309 km (192 mi). Perigee: 175 km (108 mi). Inclination: 99.1000 deg. Period: 89.40 min. Summary: Radio beacon mountedon OV17 propulsion module. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • OV1-18S - . Mass: 125 kg (275 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF OAR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. Decay Date: 1972-08-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 3824 . COSPAR: 1969-025B. Apogee: 583 km (362 mi). Perigee: 466 km (289 mi). Inclination: 98.9000 deg. Period: 95.20 min. Summary: Ionospheric, radiation, electric field data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1969 March 26 - . 12:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-01 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 1. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 3835 . COSPAR: 1969-029A. Apogee: 576 km (357 mi). Perigee: 549 km (341 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 95.90 min. Summary: Cloud, snow, ice cover data. Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1969 April 14 - . 07:54 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thorad Agena D SLV-2G. LV Configuration: Thorad SLV-2G Agena D 543 (TA10) / Agena D 6222.
  • Nimbus 3 - . Payload: Nimbus B2. Mass: 575 kg (1,267 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Nimbus. USAF Sat Cat: 3890 . COSPAR: 1969-037A. Apogee: 1,130 km (700 mi). Perigee: 1,071 km (665 mi). Inclination: 100.4000 deg. Period: 107.30 min. Primary experiments consisted of a satellite infrared spectrometer (SIRS) for determining the vertical temperature profiles of the atmosphere, an infrared interferometer spectrometer (IRIS) for measuring the emission spectra of the earth-atmosphere system, both high- and medium-resolution infrared radiometers (HRIR and MRIR) for yielding information on the distribution and intensity of infrared radiation emitted and reflected by the earth and its atmosphere, monitor of ultraviolet solar energy (MUSE) for detecting solar UV radiation, image dissector camera system for providing daytime cloudcover pictures in both real-time mode using the real time transmission system and tape recorder mode using the high data rate storage system, radioisotope thermoelectric generator (RTG) SNAP-19 to assess the operational capability of radioisotope power for space applications, and an interrogation, recording and location system (IRLS) experiment designed to locate, interrogate, record, and retransmit meteorological and geophysical data from remote collection stations. Nimbus-3 was successful and performed normally until July 22, 1969, when the IRIS experiment failed. The HRIR and the SIRS experiments were terminated on January 25, 1970, and June 21, 1970, respectively. The remaining experiments continued operation until September 25, 1970, when the rear horizon scanner failed. Without this horizon scanner, it was impossible to maintain proper spacecraft attitude, thus making most experimental observations useless. All spacecraft operations were terminated on January 22, 1972.
  • SECOR 13 - . Payload: EGRS 13. Mass: 20 kg (44 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USA ACE. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: SECOR. USAF Sat Cat: 3891 . COSPAR: 1969-037B. Apogee: 1,129 km (701 mi). Perigee: 1,070 km (660 mi). Inclination: 100.3000 deg. Period: 107.30 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). .
1969 May 23 - . 07:57 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC41. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 3C. LV Configuration: Titan IIIC 3C-15.
  • OV5-05 - . Payload: ERS 29. Mass: 259 kg (570 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV5. USAF Sat Cat: 3950 . COSPAR: 1969-046A. Apogee: 69,130 km (42,950 mi). Perigee: 59,630 km (37,050 mi). Inclination: 33.0000 deg. Period: 3,121.90 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
  • OV5-06 - . Payload: ERS 26. Mass: 259 kg (570 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV5. USAF Sat Cat: 3951 . COSPAR: 1969-046B. Apogee: 69,022 km (42,888 mi). Perigee: 59,540 km (36,990 mi). Inclination: 33.6000 deg. Period: 3,115.40 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
  • OV5-09 - . Mass: 11 kg (24 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV5. USAF Sat Cat: 3952 . COSPAR: 1969-046C. Apogee: 69,011 km (42,881 mi). Perigee: 59,543 km (36,998 mi). Inclination: 33.5000 deg. Period: 3,115.10 min. Summary: VLF plasma wave detection. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1969 June 5 - . 14:42 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thorad Agena D SLV-2H. LV Configuration: Thorad SLV-2H Agena D 526 (TA11) / Agena D 6803.
  • OGO 6 - . Payload: OGO F. Mass: 634 kg (1,397 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OGO. Decay Date: 1979-10-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 3986 . COSPAR: 1969-051A. Apogee: 1,089 km (676 mi). Perigee: 397 km (246 mi). Inclination: 82.0000 deg. Period: 99.70 min. OGO 6 was a large observatory instrumented with 26 experiments designed to study the various interrelationships between, and latitudinal distributions of, high-altitude atmospheric parameters during a period of increased solar activity. On June 22, 1969, the spacecraft potential dropped significantly during sunlight operation and remained so during subsequent sunlight operation. This unexplained shift affected seven experiments which made measurements dependent upon knowledge of the spacecraft plasma sheath. During October 1969, a string of solar cells failed, but the only effect of the decreased power was to cause two experiments to change their mode of operation. Also during October 1969, a combination of manual and automatic attitude control was initiated, which extended the control gas lifetime of the attitude control system. In August 1970, tape recorder (TR) no. 1 operation degraded, so all recorded data were subsequently taken with TR no. 2. By September 1970, power and equipment degradation left 14 experiments operating normally, 3 partially, and 9 off. From October 14, 1970, TR no. 2 was used only on Wednesdays (world days) to conserve power and extend TR operation. In June 1971, the number of 'on' experiments decreased from 13 to 7, and on June 28, 1971, the spacecraft was placed in a spin-stabilized mode about the yaw (Z) axis and turned off due to difficulties with spacecraft power. OGO 6 was turned on again from October 10, 1971, through March 1972, for operation of experiment 25 by The Radio Research Laboratory, Japan.
1969 June 21 - . 08:47 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta E1. LV Configuration: Thor Delta E1 482/D69.
  • Explorer 41 - . Payload: IMP G. Mass: 174 kg (383 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: IMP. Decay Date: 1972-12-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 3990 . COSPAR: 1969-053A. Apogee: 98,159 km (60,993 mi). Perigee: 80,374 km (49,941 mi). Inclination: 86.0000 deg. Period: 4,906.30 min. Summary: Cislunar radiation data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1969 July 23 - . 04:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2 279.
  • DMSP-Block-4A F13 - . Payload: DAPP 7421 (FTV-6) / OPS 1127. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 4A. USAF Sat Cat: 4047 . COSPAR: 1969-062A. Apogee: 835 km (518 mi). Perigee: 768 km (477 mi). Inclination: 98.8000 deg. Period: 100.90 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1969 October 6 - . 01:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-02 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 2. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. Decay Date: 2002-08-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 4119 . COSPAR: 1969-084A. Apogee: 552 km (342 mi). Perigee: 513 km (318 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 95.30 min. Summary: Cloud and ice cover imaging; investigated IR, thermal reflection/radiation from Earth's atmosphere. Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1969 October 14 - . 13:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/4. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K63 2I.
  • Intercosmos 1 - . Payload: DS-U3-IK s/n 1. Mass: 320 kg (700 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: IK. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U3-IK. Completed Operations Date: 1969-10-30 . Decay Date: 1970-01-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 4128 . COSPAR: 1969-088A. Apogee: 617 km (383 mi). Perigee: 264 km (164 mi). Inclination: 48.3000 deg. Period: 93.40 min. Summary: Measurements of the solar radiation and its effect on the atmosphere of the earth. Payload included East European experiments to study solar ultraviolet and X-ray effects on the upper atmosphere. Investigation of.
1969 November 8 - . 01:52 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout B. LV Configuration: Scout B S169C.
  • Azur - . Payload: GRS A. Mass: 71 kg (156 lb). Nation: Germany. Agency: DFVLR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: AZUR. USAF Sat Cat: 4221 . COSPAR: 1969-097A. Apogee: 2,127 km (1,321 mi). Perigee: 373 km (231 mi). Inclination: 102.7000 deg. Period: 110.50 min. Summary: German Research Satellite A; examined Van Allen belts, solar particles, aurora. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1969 December 25 - . 09:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/4. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Intercosmos 2 - . Payload: DS-U1-IK s/n 1. Mass: 320 kg (700 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: IK. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U1-IK. Completed Operations Date: 1970-02-12 . Decay Date: 1970-06-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 4285 . COSPAR: 1969-110A. Apogee: 1,178 km (731 mi). Perigee: 200 km (120 mi). Inclination: 48.4000 deg. Period: 98.50 min. Summary: East European instruments carried to determine the characteristics of the earth's ionosphere and the concentrations of electrons and positive ions..
1969 December 27 - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC132/1. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. FAILURE: Launch vehicle failed to orbit - unknown cause.. Failed Stage: U.
  • Ionosfernaya? - . Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Ionosfernaya. COSPAR: F691227A.
1970 January 20 - . 20:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC133/1. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 321 - . Payload: DS-U2-MG s/n 1. Mass: 365 kg (804 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-MG. Completed Operations Date: 1970-03-23 . Decay Date: 1970-03-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 4308 . COSPAR: 1970-006A. Apogee: 479 km (297 mi). Perigee: 272 km (169 mi). Inclination: 71.0000 deg. Period: 92.10 min. Summary: Studed the Earth's magnetic poles..
1970 January 23 - . 11:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta N6. LV Configuration: Thor Delta N6 542/D76.
  • ITOS 1 - . Payload: Tiros M. Mass: 309 kg (681 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NOAA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: ITOS. USAF Sat Cat: 4320 . COSPAR: 1970-008A. Apogee: 1,479 km (919 mi). Perigee: 1,434 km (891 mi). Inclination: 101.8000 deg. Period: 115.00 min. Summary: Improved TIROS Operational Satellite. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1970 February 11 - . 08:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2 287.
  • DMSP-Block-5A F1 - . Payload: DAPP 1524 / OPS 0054. Mass: 195 kg (429 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5A. USAF Sat Cat: 4331 . COSPAR: 1970-012A. Apogee: 840 km (520 mi). Perigee: 749 km (465 mi). Inclination: 98.8000 deg. Period: 100.80 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1970 March 17 - . 11:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-03 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 3. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. Decay Date: 1983-11-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 4349 . COSPAR: 1970-019A. Apogee: 635 km (394 mi). Perigee: 537 km (333 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 96.40 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1970 April 8 - . 08:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thorad Agena D SLV-2G. LV Configuration: Thorad SLV-2G Agena D 553 (TA13) / Agena D 6223.
  • Nimbus 4 - . Payload: Nimbus D. Mass: 620 kg (1,360 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Nimbus. USAF Sat Cat: 4362 . COSPAR: 1970-025A. Apogee: 1,099 km (682 mi). Perigee: 1,088 km (676 mi). Inclination: 100.1000 deg. Period: 107.10 min. Environmental research. Primary experiments consisted of an image dissector camera system for providing daytime cloudcover pictures both in real-time and recorded modes, temperature-humidity infrared radiometer (THIR) for measuring daytime and nighttime surface and cloudtop temperatures as well as the water vapor content of the upper atmosphere, infrared interferometer spectrometer (IRIS) for measuring the emission spectra of the earth/atmosphere system, satellite infrared spectrometer (SIRS) for determining the vertical profiles of temperature and water vapor in the atmosphere, a monitor of ultraviolet solar energy (MUSE) for detecting solar UV radiation, a backscatter ultraviolet (BUV) detector for monitoring the vertical distribution and total amount of atmospheric ozone on a global scale, a filter wedge spectrometer (FWS) for accurate measurement of IR radiance as a function of wavelength from the earth/atmosphere system, a selective chopper radiometer (SCR) for determining the temperatures of six successive 10-km layers in the atmosphere from absorption measurements in the 15-micrometer CO2 band, and an interrogation, recording, and location system (IRLS) for locating, interrogating, recording, and retransmitting meteorological and geophysical data from remote collection stations. The spacecraft performed well until April 14, 1971, when attitude problems started. The experiments then operated on a limited time basis until September 30, 1980.
  • TOPO 1 - . Payload: Topo A. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USA TOPO. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: TOPO. USAF Sat Cat: 4363 . COSPAR: 1970-025B. Apogee: 1,087 km (675 mi). Perigee: 1,084 km (673 mi). Inclination: 100.0000 deg. Period: 107.00 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). .
1970 April 24 - . 22:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/4. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 335 - . Payload: DS-U1-R s/n 1. Mass: 295 kg (650 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U1-R. Completed Operations Date: 1970-06-20 . Decay Date: 1970-06-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 4380 . COSPAR: 1970-035A. Apogee: 401 km (249 mi). Perigee: 250 km (150 mi). Inclination: 48.4000 deg. Period: 91.00 min. Summary: Studied spectral range of the UF..
1970 April 28 - . 10:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-04 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 4. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. Decay Date: 2004-03-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 4393 . COSPAR: 1970-037A. Apogee: 578 km (359 mi). Perigee: 534 km (331 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 95.80 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1970 June 13 - . 04:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC133/1. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 348 - . Payload: DS-U2-GK s/n 2. Mass: 357 kg (787 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-GK. Completed Operations Date: 1970-07-25 . Decay Date: 1970-07-25 . USAF Sat Cat: 4413 . COSPAR: 1970-044A. Apogee: 598 km (371 mi). Perigee: 205 km (127 mi). Inclination: 71.0000 deg. Period: 92.50 min. Summary: Conducted complex geophysical studies of the upper atmosphere. Air density, auroral investigations..
1970 June 23 - . 14:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-05 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 5. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 4419 . COSPAR: 1970-047A. Apogee: 872 km (541 mi). Perigee: 815 km (506 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 101.80 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1970 August 7 - . 02:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/4. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Intercosmos 3 - . Payload: DS-U2-IK s/n 1. Mass: 340 kg (740 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-IK. Completed Operations Date: 1970-12-04 . Decay Date: 1970-12-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 4482 . COSPAR: 1970-057A. Apogee: 1,294 km (804 mi). Perigee: 201 km (124 mi). Inclination: 48.4000 deg. Period: 99.80 min. Summary: Studied charged particle flows and the ionosphere. Carried East European experiments that studied protons, electrons, alpha particles..
1970 August 10 - . 19:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC133/1. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Cosmos 356 - . Payload: DS-U2-MG s/n 2. Mass: 357 kg (787 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-MG. Completed Operations Date: 1970-10-03 . Decay Date: 1970-10-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 4487 . COSPAR: 1970-059A. Apogee: 573 km (356 mi). Perigee: 231 km (143 mi). Inclination: 82.0000 deg. Period: 92.60 min. Summary: Studed the Earth's magnetic poles..
1970 September 2 - . 00:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: Woomera LA5B. Launch Vehicle: Black Arrow. LV Configuration: Black Arrow R-2. FAILURE: Second stage shut down 13 seconds early.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • Orba - . Payload: X 2. Nation: UK. Agency: RAE. Class: Earth. Type: Micrometeoroid satellite. Spacecraft: Prospero. Decay Date: 1970-09-02 . COSPAR: F700902A. Apogee: 550 km (340 mi). Summary: Unsuccessful attempt to orbit a satellite..
1970 September 3 - . 08:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2 288.
  • DMSP-Block-5A F2 - . Payload: DAPP 2525 / OPS 0203. Mass: 195 kg (429 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5A. USAF Sat Cat: 4512 . COSPAR: 1970-070A. Apogee: 837 km (520 mi). Perigee: 739 km (459 mi). Inclination: 99.0000 deg. Period: 100.60 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1970 September 25 - . Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: Kagoshima M. LV Family: Mu. Launch Vehicle: Mu-4S. LV Configuration: Mu-4S M-4S-1. FAILURE: Fourth stage failed to ignite.. Failed Stage: 4.
  • SS - . Payload: MS-F1. Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: SS. Decay Date: 1970-09-25 . COSPAR: F700925A. Apogee: 712 km (442 mi).
1970 October 14 - . 11:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/4. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Intercosmos 4 - . Payload: DS-U3-IK s/n 2. Mass: 320 kg (700 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U3-IK. Completed Operations Date: 1971-01-08 . Decay Date: 1971-01-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 4580 . COSPAR: 1970-084A. Apogee: 656 km (407 mi). Perigee: 255 km (158 mi). Inclination: 48.4000 deg. Period: 93.70 min. Summary: Investigation of the ultra-violet and x-radiation of the sun and its effect on the structure of the Earth's upper atmosphere. Payload included East European experiments to study solar ultraviolet and X-ray effects on upper atmosphere..
1970 October 15 - . 11:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-06 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 6. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. Decay Date: 1999-01-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 4583 . COSPAR: 1970-085A. Apogee: 443 km (275 mi). Perigee: 441 km (274 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 93.40 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1970 November 9 - . 06:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout B. LV Configuration: Scout B S178C.
  • RM-1; RMS - . Payload: RM/FW4S. Mass: 46 kg (101 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Houston. Class: Earth. Type: Micrometeoroid satellite. Spacecraft: RM. Decay Date: 1971-02-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 4692 . COSPAR: 1970-094B. Apogee: 526 km (326 mi). Perigee: 303 km (188 mi). Inclination: 37.4000 deg. Period: 92.70 min. Summary: Radiation Meteoroid. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1970 November 17 - . 18:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC132/2. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 47117-107.
  • Cosmos 378 - . Payload: DS-U2-IP s/n 1. Mass: 710 kg (1,560 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-IP. Completed Operations Date: 1971-09-13 . Decay Date: 1972-08-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 4713 . COSPAR: 1970-097A. Apogee: 1,742 km (1,082 mi). Perigee: 234 km (145 mi). Inclination: 74.0000 deg. Period: 104.90 min. Summary: Studied the ionosphere and charged particle flows..
1970 December 2 - . 04:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC132/2. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 47117-105.
  • Cosmos 381 - . Mass: 710 kg (1,560 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Ionosfernaya. USAF Sat Cat: 4783 . COSPAR: 1970-102A. Apogee: 1,007 km (625 mi). Perigee: 961 km (597 mi). Inclination: 74.0000 deg. Period: 104.80 min.
1970 December 11 - . 11:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta N6. LV Configuration: Thor Delta N6 546/D81.
  • NOAA 1 - . Payload: ITOS A. Mass: 306 kg (674 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NOAA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: ITOS. USAF Sat Cat: 4793 . COSPAR: 1970-106A. Apogee: 1,473 km (915 mi). Perigee: 1,423 km (884 mi). Inclination: 101.7000 deg. Period: 114.80 min. Summary: Built for NASA; operated by NOAA. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1971 January 20 - . 11:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-07 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 7. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. Decay Date: 2005-06-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 4849 . COSPAR: 1971-003A. Apogee: 550 km (340 mi). Perigee: 538 km (334 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 95.50 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1971 February 17 - . 03:52 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2 249.
  • DMSP-Block-5A F3 - . Payload: DAPP 3526 / OPS 5268. Mass: 195 kg (429 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5A. USAF Sat Cat: 4953 . COSPAR: 1971-012A. Apogee: 799 km (496 mi). Perigee: 741 km (460 mi). Inclination: 98.7000 deg. Period: 100.20 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1971 March 13 - . 16:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta M6. LV Configuration: Thor Delta M6 562/D83.
  • Explorer 43 - . Payload: IMP I. Mass: 288 kg (634 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: IMP. Decay Date: 1974-10-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 5043 . COSPAR: 1971-019A. Apogee: 203,130 km (126,210 mi). Perigee: 1,845 km (1,146 mi). Inclination: 31.2000 deg. Period: 5,957.90 min. Summary: Earth magnetosphere research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1971 April 1 - . 02:57 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta E1. LV Configuration: Thor Delta E1 491/D84.
  • Isis 2 - . Payload: Isis B. Mass: 264 kg (582 lb). Nation: Canada. Agency: CRCSS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Isis. USAF Sat Cat: 5104 . COSPAR: 1971-024A. Apogee: 1,424 km (884 mi). Perigee: 1,358 km (843 mi). Inclination: 88.2000 deg. Period: 113.60 min. Summary: Ionospheric research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1971 April 15 - . 09:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Kourou. Launch Complex: Kourou Diamant. LV Family: Diamant. Launch Vehicle: Diamant B. LV Configuration: Diamant B No. 3.
  • Tournesol - . Payload: D-2A. Mass: 96 kg (211 lb). Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: D. Decay Date: 1980-01-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 5128 . COSPAR: 1971-030A. Apogee: 696 km (432 mi). Perigee: 457 km (283 mi). Inclination: 46.3000 deg. Period: 96.20 min.
1971 April 17 - . 11:44 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-08 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 8. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. Decay Date: 1991-01-10 . USAF Sat Cat: 5142 . COSPAR: 1971-031A. Apogee: 248 km (154 mi). Perigee: 243 km (150 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 89.40 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1971 April 24 - . 07:32 GMT - . Launch Site: San Marco. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout B. LV Configuration: Scout B S173C.
  • San Marco 3 - . Payload: San Marco C. Mass: 164 kg (361 lb). Nation: Italy. Agency: CRS. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: San Marco. Decay Date: 1971-11-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 5176 . COSPAR: 1971-036A. Apogee: 707 km (439 mi). Perigee: 222 km (137 mi). Inclination: 3.2000 deg. Period: 93.80 min. Summary: Atmospheric research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1971 June 4 - . 18:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC132/2. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 65014-101.
  • Cosmos 426 - . Payload: DS-U2-K s/n 1. Mass: 680 kg (1,490 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-K. Completed Operations Date: 1972-01-12 . Decay Date: 2002-05-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 5281 . COSPAR: 1971-052A. Apogee: 1,108 km (688 mi). Perigee: 354 km (219 mi). Inclination: 74.0000 deg. Period: 99.40 min. Summary: Studied charged particle flows and cosmic radiation..
1971 July 16 - . 01:41 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-09 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 9. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. Decay Date: 1991-08-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 5327 . COSPAR: 1971-059A. Apogee: 349 km (216 mi). Perigee: 342 km (212 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 91.50 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1971 August 7 - . 00:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 76F / OV-1 (2x).
  • OV1-20P - . Mass: 70 kg (154 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF STP. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. Decay Date: 1971-08-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 5394 . COSPAR: 1971-067A. Apogee: 1,932 km (1,200 mi). Perigee: 136 km (84 mi). Inclination: 92.0000 deg. Period: 105.90 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • OV1-21P - . Mass: 70 kg (154 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF STP. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: OV1. USAF Sat Cat: 5397 . COSPAR: 1971-067B. Apogee: 896 km (556 mi). Perigee: 778 km (483 mi). Inclination: 87.6000 deg. Period: 101.70 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1971 August 16 - . 18:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout B-1. LV Configuration: Scout B-1-F S180C.
  • Eole 1 - . Mass: 84 kg (185 lb). Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Eole. USAF Sat Cat: 5435 . COSPAR: 1971-071A. Apogee: 836 km (519 mi). Perigee: 651 km (404 mi). Inclination: 50.2000 deg. Period: 99.70 min. Summary: Experimental weather satellite; received meteorological data from balloon network. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1971 September 28 - . 04:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: Kagoshima M. LV Family: Mu. Launch Vehicle: Mu-4S. LV Configuration: Mu-4S M-4S-3.
  • SS-01 Shinsei - . Payload: MS-F2. Mass: 65 kg (143 lb). Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: SS. USAF Sat Cat: 5485 . COSPAR: 1971-080A. Apogee: 1,866 km (1,159 mi). Perigee: 872 km (541 mi). Inclination: 32.0000 deg. Period: 113.10 min. Summary: Scientific observations in outer space. Injection point 29 deg 7 min N, 145 deg 8 min E. .
1971 October 14 - . 07:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2A. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2A 159.
  • DMSP-Block-5B F1 - . Payload: DMSP 4527 / OPS 4311. Mass: 195 kg (429 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5B. USAF Sat Cat: 5557 . COSPAR: 1971-087A. Apogee: 850 km (520 mi). Perigee: 772 km (479 mi). Inclination: 99.1000 deg. Period: 101.10 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1971 October 21 - . 11:32 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta N6. LV Configuration: Thor Delta N6 572/D86. FAILURE: Failure.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • ITOS B - . Payload: ITOS B. Mass: 308 kg (679 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: ITOS. Decay Date: 1972-07-21 . USAF Sat Cat: 5565 . COSPAR: 1971-091A. Apogee: 1,483 km (921 mi). Perigee: 293 km (182 mi). Inclination: 102.5000 deg. Period: 102.70 min. Summary: Unusable orbit..
1971 October 28 - . 04:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Woomera. Launch Complex: Woomera LA5B. Launch Vehicle: Black Arrow. LV Configuration: Black Arrow R-3.
  • Prospero - . Payload: X 3. Mass: 66 kg (145 lb). Nation: UK. Agency: RAE. Class: Earth. Type: Micrometeoroid satellite. Spacecraft: Prospero. USAF Sat Cat: 5580 . COSPAR: 1971-093A. Apogee: 1,403 km (871 mi). Perigee: 531 km (329 mi). Inclination: 82.0000 deg. Period: 104.40 min. Summary: To test in space equipment for future satellites and to conduct a scientific experiment to measure the incidence of micro-meteoroids. Launch time 0409 GMT, injection point 13.7 deg S, 137.9 deg E. Anticipated life 100 years. .
1971 November 15 - . 05:52 GMT - . Launch Site: San Marco. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout B. LV Configuration: Scout B S163CR.
  • Explorer 45 - . Payload: SSS A. Mass: 52 kg (114 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: SSS. Decay Date: 1992-01-10 . USAF Sat Cat: 5598 . COSPAR: 1971-096A. Apogee: 18,149 km (11,277 mi). Perigee: 272 km (169 mi). Inclination: 3.2000 deg. Period: 322.80 min. Summary: Studies magnetosphere, energetic particles. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1971 December 2 - . 08:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/4. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Intercosmos 5 - . Payload: DS-U2-IK s/n 2. Mass: 340 kg (740 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: IK. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-IK. Decay Date: 1972-04-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 5641 . COSPAR: 1971-104A. Apogee: 1,181 km (733 mi). Perigee: 198 km (123 mi). Inclination: 48.4000 deg. Period: 98.50 min. Carried Czech and Soviet instruments that investigated the effects of solar activity on near-Earth radiation. Studied the radiation levels in near-Earth space, investigated dipole corpuscular streams in near space in connexion with solar activity and investigation of the nature and spectrum of low-frequency electromagnetic oscillations in natural plasma.
1971 December 5 - . 16:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Kourou. Launch Complex: Kourou Diamant. LV Family: Diamant. Launch Vehicle: Diamant B. LV Configuration: Diamant B No. 4. FAILURE: Second stage failed.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • D-2A Polaire - . Payload: D-2A Polaire. Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: D. COSPAR: F711205B.
1971 December 11 - . 20:47 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout B-1. LV Configuration: Scout B-1-F S183C.
  • Ariel 4 - . Payload: UK 4. Mass: 100 kg (220 lb). Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Ariel. Decay Date: 1978-12-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 5675 . COSPAR: 1971-109A. Apogee: 592 km (367 mi). Perigee: 476 km (295 mi). Inclination: 82.0000 deg. Period: 95.30 min. Summary: Ionospheric studies. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1971 December 27 - . 19:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC132/2. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 65014-103.
  • Oreol - . Payload: DS-U2-GKA s/n 1. Mass: 630 kg (1,380 lb). Nation: France. Agency: MO. Program: Aureole. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-GKA. Completed Operations Date: 1972-09-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 5729 . COSPAR: 1971-119A. Apogee: 1,779 km (1,105 mi). Perigee: 391 km (242 mi). Inclination: 74.0000 deg. Period: 106.90 min. Summary: Upper atmosphere, auroral studies. Investigation of physical phenomena in the Earth's upper atmosphere at high latitudes and study of the nature of auroras. .
1971 December 29 - . 10:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-10 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 10. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 5731 . COSPAR: 1971-120A. Apogee: 912 km (566 mi). Perigee: 838 km (520 mi). Inclination: 81.3000 deg. Period: 102.50 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1972 January 31 - . 17:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta L. LV Configuration: Thor Delta L 564/D87.
  • HEOS 2 - . Payload: HEOS A2. Mass: 123 kg (271 lb). Nation: Europe. Agency: ESRO. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: HEOS. Decay Date: 1974-08-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 5814 . COSPAR: 1972-005A. Apogee: 240,164 km (149,230 mi). Perigee: 405 km (251 mi). Inclination: 89.9000 deg. Period: 7,477.10 min. Summary: Highly Eccentric Orbiting Satellite; particles and fields data. Fifth satellite of ESRO. Also registered as US object 1972-05A in A/AC.105/INF.248 with orbit 7835.4 min, 439 x 248160 km x 90.2 deg, category B. .
1972 March 24 - . 08:46 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2A. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2A 153.
  • DMSP-Block-5B F2 - . Payload: DMSP 5528 / OPS 5058. Mass: 195 kg (429 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5B. USAF Sat Cat: 5903 . COSPAR: 1972-018A. Apogee: 858 km (533 mi). Perigee: 781 km (485 mi). Inclination: 98.9000 deg. Period: 101.30 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1972 March 30 - . 14:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-11 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 11. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 5917 . COSPAR: 1972-022A. Apogee: 877 km (544 mi). Perigee: 855 km (531 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 102.30 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1972 April 7 - . 10:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Intercosmos 6 - . Payload: Energia s/n 1. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Program: Intercosmos. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Energia. Completed Operations Date: 1972-04-11 . Decay Date: 1972-04-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 5936 . COSPAR: 1972-027A. Apogee: 326 km (202 mi). Perigee: 203 km (126 mi). Inclination: 51.8000 deg. Period: 89.80 min. Summary: Investigation of primary cosmic radiation and meteoritic particles in near-earth outer space. .
1972 April 14 - . 00:54 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Molniya 8K78M. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78M-SOL.
  • Prognoz 1 - . Payload: SO-M s/n 501. Mass: 845 kg (1,862 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Prognoz. Decay Date: 1981-03-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 5941 . COSPAR: 1972-029A. Apogee: 199,667 km (124,067 mi). Perigee: 1,005 km (624 mi). Inclination: 65.0000 deg. Period: 5,782.10 min. Summary: Study of the processes of solar activity and of their influence on interplanetary space and the Earth's magnetosphere. .
1972 June 29 - . 03:47 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Molniya 8K78M. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78M-SOL.
  • Prognoz 2 - . Payload: SO-M no. 2. Mass: 845 kg (1,862 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Prognoz. Decay Date: 1982-12-15 . USAF Sat Cat: 6068 . COSPAR: 1972-046A. Apogee: 201,804 km (125,394 mi). Perigee: 517 km (321 mi). Inclination: 65.3000 deg. Period: 5,849.20 min. Summary: Study of the processes of solar activity and of their influence on interplanetary space and the Earth's magnetosphere. .
1972 June 30 - . 05:58 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/4. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Intercosmos 7 - . Payload: DS-U3-IK s/n 3. Mass: 375 kg (826 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: IK. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U3-IK. Completed Operations Date: 1972-10-05 . Decay Date: 1972-10-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 6075 . COSPAR: 1972-047A. Apogee: 550 km (340 mi). Perigee: 260 km (160 mi). Inclination: 48.4000 deg. Period: 92.60 min. Summary: Continuation of joint studies of the sun's ultra-violet and x-radiation and its effects on the structure of the earth's upper atmosphere..
1972 June 30 - . 18:52 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-12 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 12. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 6079 . COSPAR: 1972-049A. Apogee: 893 km (554 mi). Perigee: 876 km (544 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 102.70 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1972 July 23 - . 18:06 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 0900. LV Configuration: Delta 0900 574/D89.
  • Landsat 1 - . Payload: ERTS A. Mass: 816 kg (1,798 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Landsat. Class: Earth. Type: Earth resources satellite. Spacecraft: Landsat 1-2-3. USAF Sat Cat: 6126 . COSPAR: 1972-058A. Apogee: 909 km (564 mi). Perigee: 898 km (557 mi). Inclination: 99.1000 deg. Period: 103.10 min. Summary: Earth Resources Technology Satellite. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1972 August 13 - . 15:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout D-1. LV Configuration: Scout D-1-F S184C.
  • Explorer 46 - . Payload: Meteoroid Technology Satellite. Mass: 136 kg (299 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Langley. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Micrometeoroid satellite. Spacecraft: MTS. Decay Date: 1979-11-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 6142 . COSPAR: 1972-061A. Apogee: 811 km (503 mi). Perigee: 492 km (305 mi). Inclination: 37.7000 deg. Period: 97.70 min. Summary: Micrometeoroid tests. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1972 August 19 - . 02:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: Kagoshima M. LV Family: Mu. Launch Vehicle: Mu-4S. LV Configuration: Mu-4S M-4S-4.
  • SS-02 Denpa - . Payload: REXS. Mass: 75 kg (165 lb). Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: SS. Decay Date: 1980-05-19 . USAF Sat Cat: 6152 . COSPAR: 1972-064A. Apogee: 6,322 km (3,928 mi). Perigee: 238 km (147 mi). Inclination: 31.0000 deg. Period: 157.40 min. Summary: Ionospheric experiments. Scientific observations in the ionosphere and magnetosphere. Interjection point 31 deg 15' N 11 deg 05' E. .
1972 September 23 - . 01:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 1604. LV Configuration: Delta 1604 579/D90.
  • Explorer 47 - . Payload: IMP H. Mass: 376 kg (828 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: IMP. USAF Sat Cat: 6197 . COSPAR: 1972-073A. Apogee: 235,600 km (146,300 mi). Perigee: 201,100 km (124,900 mi). Inclination: 17.2000 deg. Period: 17,670.00 min. Summary: Investigated cislunar radiation, Earth's magnetosphere, interplantary magnetic field. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). .
1972 October 15 - . 17:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 0300. LV Configuration: Delta 0300 575/D91.
  • NOAA 2 - . Payload: ITOS D. Mass: 344 kg (758 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NOAA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: ITOS. USAF Sat Cat: 6235 . COSPAR: 1972-082A. Apogee: 1,455 km (904 mi). Perigee: 1,449 km (900 mi). Inclination: 101.8000 deg. Period: 114.90 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1972 October 26 - . 22:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-13 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 13. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 6256 . COSPAR: 1972-085A. Apogee: 880 km (540 mi). Perigee: 851 km (528 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 102.30 min. Summary: Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. .
1972 November 9 - . 03:23 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2A. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2A 294.
  • DMSP-Block-5B F3 - . Payload: DMSP 6530 / OPS 7323. Mass: 195 kg (429 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5B. USAF Sat Cat: 6275 . COSPAR: 1972-089A. Apogee: 841 km (522 mi). Perigee: 785 km (487 mi). Inclination: 98.6000 deg. Period: 101.10 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1972 November 30 - . 21:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC133/1. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Intercosmos 8 - . Payload: DS-U1-IK s/n 2. Mass: 340 kg (740 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: IK. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U1-IK. Completed Operations Date: 1973-02-01 . Decay Date: 1973-03-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 6291 . COSPAR: 1972-094A. Apogee: 645 km (400 mi). Perigee: 203 km (126 mi). Inclination: 71.0000 deg. Period: 93.10 min. Summary: Continued joint investigation of the characteristics of the earth's ionosphere and recording of electron and proton fluxes..
1972 December 11 - . 07:56 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 0900. LV Configuration: Delta 0900 577/D93.
  • Nimbus 5 - . Payload: Nimbus E. Mass: 722 kg (1,591 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Nimbus. USAF Sat Cat: 6305 . COSPAR: 1972-097A. Apogee: 1,101 km (684 mi). Perigee: 1,088 km (676 mi). Inclination: 100.1000 deg. Period: 107.20 min. Environmental research. Primary experiments included a temperature-humidity infrared radiometer (THIR) for measuring day and night surface and cloudtop temperatures as well as the water vapor content of the upper atmosphere, electrically scanning microwave radiometer (ESMR) for mapping the microwave radiation from the earth's surface and atmosphere, infrared temperature profile radiometer (ITPR) for obtaining vertical profiles of temperature and moisture, Nimbus E microwave spectrometer (NEMS) for determining tropospheric temperature profiles, atmospheric water vapor abundances, and cloud liquid water contents, selective chopper radiometer (SCR) for observing the global temperature structure of the atmosphere, and a surface composition mapping radiometer (SCMR) for measuring the differences in the thermal emission characteristics of the earth's surface.
1972 December 16 - . 11:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout D-1. LV Configuration: Scout D-1-F S181C.
  • Aeros 1 - . Payload: GRS B. Mass: 127 kg (279 lb). Nation: Germany. Agency: DFVLR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Aeros. Decay Date: 1973-08-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 6315 . COSPAR: 1972-100A. Apogee: 867 km (538 mi). Perigee: 223 km (138 mi). Inclination: 96.9000 deg. Period: 95.60 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1973 February 15 - . 01:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Molniya 8K78M. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78M-SOL.
  • Prognoz 3 - . Payload: SO-M no. 3. Mass: 845 kg (1,862 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Prognoz. Decay Date: 1976-12-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 6364 . COSPAR: 1973-009A. Apogee: 199,442 km (123,927 mi). Perigee: 896 km (556 mi). Inclination: 65.0000 deg. Period: 5,768.60 min. Summary: Solar flare monitor. Study of the processes of solar activity and of their influence on interplanetary space and the Earth's magnetosphere. .
1973 March 20 - . 11:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-14 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 14. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 6392 . COSPAR: 1973-015A. Apogee: 878 km (545 mi). Perigee: 860 km (530 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 102.30 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1973 April 19 - . 10:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC86/4. LV Family: Kosmos 2. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K63.
  • Intercosmos 9 - . Payload: DS-U2-IK s/n . Mass: 400 kg (880 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: IK. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-IK. Completed Operations Date: 1973-10-15 . Decay Date: 1973-10-15 . USAF Sat Cat: 6433 . COSPAR: 1973-022A. Apogee: 1,526 km (948 mi). Perigee: 199 km (123 mi). Inclination: 48.4000 deg. Period: 102.20 min. Summary: Also designated Intercosmos Copernicus 500. Investigated solar radio-frequency radiation and the characteristics of the earth's ionosphere..
1973 May 29 - . 10:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-15 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 15. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 6659 . COSPAR: 1973-034A. Apogee: 879 km (546 mi). Perigee: 845 km (525 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 102.20 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1973 July 16 - . 17:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 0300. LV Configuration: Delta 0300 578/D96. FAILURE: Second stage failure.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • ITOS E - . Payload: ITOS E. Mass: 345 kg (760 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: ITOS. Decay Date: 1973-07-16 . COSPAR: F730716A. Summary: Improved TIROS Operational System..
1973 August 17 - . 04:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2A. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2A 291.
  • DMSP-Block-5B F4 - . Payload: DMSP 7529 / OPS 8364. Mass: 195 kg (429 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5B. USAF Sat Cat: 6787 . COSPAR: 1973-054A. Apogee: 819 km (508 mi). Perigee: 779 km (484 mi). Inclination: 98.9000 deg. Period: 100.90 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1973 October 3 - . 13:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 596 Nauka - . Payload: FEU-170 s/n 1L. Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Nauka. Decay Date: 1973-10-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 6856 . COSPAR: 1973-070xx. Apogee: 273 km (169 mi). Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Inclination: 65.4000 deg. Period: 89.30 min.
1973 October 26 - . 02:26 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 1604. LV Configuration: Delta 1604 582/D97.
  • Explorer 50 - . Payload: IMP J. Mass: 371 kg (817 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: IMP. USAF Sat Cat: 6893 . COSPAR: 1973-078A. Apogee: 244,361 km (151,838 mi). Perigee: 190,749 km (118,525 mi). Inclination: 31.6000 deg. Period: 17,576.70 min. Summary: Solar flare and radiation monitor. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1973 October 30 - . 19:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC132/2. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53749-158.
  • Intercosmos 10 - . Payload: DS-U2-IK s/n 3. Mass: 550 kg (1,210 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: IK. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-IK. Completed Operations Date: 1974-06-07 . Decay Date: 1977-07-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 6911 . COSPAR: 1973-082A. Apogee: 1,453 km (902 mi). Perigee: 257 km (159 mi). Inclination: 74.0000 deg. Period: 102.00 min. Summary: Geophysical research at high latitudes to study the electromagnetic coupling of the earth's magnetosphere and ionosphere..
1973 November 6 - . 17:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 0300. LV Configuration: Delta 0300 576/D98.
  • NOAA 3 - . Payload: ITOS F. Mass: 345 kg (760 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NOAA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: ITOS. USAF Sat Cat: 6920 . COSPAR: 1973-086A. Apogee: 1,510 km (930 mi). Perigee: 1,501 km (932 mi). Inclination: 102.1000 deg. Period: 116.10 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1973 December 16 - . 06:18 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 1900. LV Configuration: Delta 1900 585/D99.
  • Explorer 51 - . Payload: AE C. Mass: 658 kg (1,450 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: AE. Decay Date: 1978-12-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 6977 . COSPAR: 1973-101A. Apogee: 4,306 km (2,675 mi). Perigee: 155 km (96 mi). Inclination: 68.1000 deg. Period: 132.50 min. Summary: Atmospheric Explorer; upper atmospheric research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1973 December 26 - . 16:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC132/2. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 65024-111.
  • Oreol 2 - . Payload: DS-U2-GKA s/n 2. Mass: 550 kg (1,210 lb). Nation: France. Agency: MO. Program: Aureole. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-GKA. Completed Operations Date: 1974-04-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 7003 . COSPAR: 1973-107A. Apogee: 1,441 km (895 mi). Perigee: 387 km (240 mi). Inclination: 74.0000 deg. Period: 103.30 min. Summary: Continued investigations in the earth's upper atmosphere at high latitudes and study of the nature of polar aurorae begun on board the Oreol satellite in 1971..
1974 January 24 - . 15:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 629 Nauka - . Payload: FEU-170-13 s/n 2L. Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Nauka. Decay Date: 1974-02-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 7100 . COSPAR: 1974-003xx. Apogee: 280 km (170 mi). Perigee: 194 km (120 mi). Inclination: 62.8000 deg. Period: 89.20 min.
1974 February 18 - . 10:05 GMT - . Launch Site: San Marco. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout D-1. LV Configuration: Scout D-1-F S190C.
  • San Marco 4 - . Payload: San Marco C2. Mass: 164 kg (361 lb). Nation: Italy. Agency: CRS. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: San Marco. Decay Date: 1976-05-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 7154 . COSPAR: 1974-009A. Apogee: 875 km (543 mi). Perigee: 270 km (160 mi). Inclination: 2.9000 deg. Period: 96.10 min. Summary: Measurement of density, temperature, composition of atmosphere. Launch time 10:05:28.5 GMT. Anticipated life: 3 years. .
1974 March 5 - . 11:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-16 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 16. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 7209 . COSPAR: 1974-011A. Apogee: 877 km (544 mi). Perigee: 821 km (510 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 101.90 min. Summary: Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. .
1974 March 16 - . 08:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2A. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2A 207.
  • DMSP-Block-5B F5 - . Payload: DMSP 8531 / OPS 8579. Mass: 195 kg (429 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5B. USAF Sat Cat: 7218 . COSPAR: 1974-015A. Apogee: 846 km (525 mi). Perigee: 757 km (470 mi). Inclination: 99.1000 deg. Period: 100.90 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1974 April 24 - . 11:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-17 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 17. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 7274 . COSPAR: 1974-025A. Apogee: 879 km (546 mi). Perigee: 855 km (531 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 102.30 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1974 May 17 - . 09:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 590/D102.
  • SMS 1 - . Payload: SMS A. Mass: 243 kg (535 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: SMS. Completed Operations Date: 1981-01-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 7298 . COSPAR: 1974-033A. Apogee: 36,303 km (22,557 mi). Perigee: 36,216 km (22,503 mi). Inclination: 15.5000 deg. Period: 1,460.30 min. Synchronous Meteorological Satellite. 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 45 deg W in 1974-1975; over the Atlantic Ocean 75 deg W in 1975; over the Americas at 105 deg W in 1976-1978; over the Americas at 91 deg W in1978; over the Atlantic Ocean 75 deg W in 1979; over the Atlantic Ocean 70 deg W in 1979; over the Pacific Ocean 132 deg W in 1980 As of 3 September 2001 located at 84.60 deg W drifting at 5.986 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 10 located at 116.51E drifting at 5.981W degrees per day.
1974 May 17 - . 11:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC107/1. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53749-167.
  • Intercosmos 11 - . Payload: DS-U3-IK s/n 4. Mass: 400 kg (880 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: IK. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U3-IK. Completed Operations Date: 1975-02-14 . Decay Date: 1979-09-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 7299 . COSPAR: 1974-034A. Apogee: 511 km (317 mi). Perigee: 483 km (300 mi). Inclination: 50.6000 deg. Period: 94.50 min. Summary: Investigation of solar ultraviolet rays and X-rays and their effect on the earth's upper atmosphere..
1974 July 9 - . 14:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC43/4. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-18 - . Payload: Meteor-Priroda no. 1. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor-Priroda. USAF Sat Cat: 7363 . COSPAR: 1974-052A. Apogee: 909 km (564 mi). Perigee: 883 km (548 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 102.90 min. Summary: Conducted experimental work in studying the natural resources of the earth. Also tested plasma engine.
1974 July 16 - . 11:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout D-1. LV Configuration: Scout D-1-F S186C.
  • Aeros 2 - . Payload: Aeros B. Mass: 127 kg (279 lb). Nation: Germany. Agency: DFVLR. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Aeros. Decay Date: 1975-09-25 . USAF Sat Cat: 7371 . COSPAR: 1974-055A. Apogee: 869 km (539 mi). Perigee: 224 km (139 mi). Inclination: 97.5000 deg. Period: 95.60 min. Summary: Upper atmospheric research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1974 August 9 - . 03:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2A. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2A 275.
  • DMSP-Block-5C F1 - . Payload: DMSP 9532 / OPS 6983. Mass: 195 kg (429 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5C. USAF Sat Cat: 7411 . COSPAR: 1974-063A. Apogee: 844 km (524 mi). Perigee: 779 km (484 mi). Inclination: 98.8000 deg. Period: 101.10 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1974 October 15 - . 07:47 GMT - . Launch Site: San Marco. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout B-1. LV Configuration: Scout B-1 S187C.
  • Ariel 5 - . Payload: UK 5. Mass: 129 kg (284 lb). Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Ariel. Decay Date: 1980-03-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 7471 . COSPAR: 1974-077A. Apogee: 549 km (341 mi). Perigee: 504 km (313 mi). Inclination: 2.9000 deg. Period: 94.90 min. Summary: X-ray observatory. Cosmic X-ray astronomy. Injection point: 2.7S, 58.2E. Anticipated life: 5 years. Time of launch: 07:47:00.25 GMT. Decay also (belatedly) noted in ST/SG/SER.E/216. .
1974 October 28 - . 10:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-19 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 19. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 7490 . COSPAR: 1974-083A. Apogee: 882 km (548 mi). Perigee: 842 km (523 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 102.20 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1974 October 31 - . 10:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC132/2. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53721-253.
  • Intercosmos 12 - . Payload: DS-U2-IK s/n 4. Mass: 400 kg (880 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: IK. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-IK. Completed Operations Date: 1975-02-20 . Decay Date: 1975-07-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 7500 . COSPAR: 1974-086A. Apogee: 707 km (439 mi). Perigee: 243 km (150 mi). Inclination: 74.0000 deg. Period: 94.10 min. Summary: Atmospheric, ionospheric research. Comprehensive investigation of the earth's atmosphere and ionosphere and of micrometeorite fluxes..
1974 November 1 - . 14:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 692 Nauka - . Payload: FEU-170 s/n 4L. Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Nauka. COSPAR: 1974-087xx.
1974 November 15 - . 17:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2310. LV Configuration: Delta 2310 592/D104.
  • NOAA 4 - . Payload: ITOS G. Mass: 340 kg (740 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NOAA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: ITOS. USAF Sat Cat: 7529 . COSPAR: 1974-089A. Apogee: 1,459 km (906 mi). Perigee: 1,445 km (897 mi). Inclination: 101.8000 deg. Period: 114.90 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1974 December 17 - . 11:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-20 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 20. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 7574 . COSPAR: 1974-099A. Apogee: 868 km (539 mi). Perigee: 846 km (525 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 102.10 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1975 January 22 - . 17:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2910. LV Configuration: Delta 2910 598/D107.
  • Landsat 2 - . Payload: Landsat B. Mass: 953 kg (2,101 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Landsat. Class: Earth. Type: Earth resources satellite. Spacecraft: Landsat 1-2-3. USAF Sat Cat: 7615 . COSPAR: 1975-004A. Apogee: 913 km (567 mi). Perigee: 900 km (550 mi). Inclination: 99.3000 deg. Period: 103.10 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1975 February 6 - . 16:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Kourou. Launch Complex: Kourou Diamant. LV Family: Diamant. Launch Vehicle: Diamant BP.4. LV Configuration: Diamant BP.4 No. 1.
  • Starlette - . Payload: Starlette (BETA). Mass: 47 kg (103 lb). Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: Starlette. USAF Sat Cat: 7646 . COSPAR: 1975-010A. Apogee: 1,108 km (688 mi). Perigee: 805 km (500 mi). Inclination: 49.8000 deg. Period: 104.20 min. Summary: Geodesic satellite. .
1975 February 6 - . 22:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 593/D108.
  • SMS 2 - . Payload: SMS B. Mass: 627 kg (1,382 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: SMS. Completed Operations Date: 1982-08-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 7648 . COSPAR: 1975-011A. Apogee: 36,060 km (22,400 mi). Perigee: 35,941 km (22,332 mi). Inclination: 12.0000 deg. Period: 1,447.10 min. Synchronous Meteorological Satellite. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Americas at (GOES W) 115 deg W in 1975-1976; over the Pacific Ocean (GOES W) 135 deg W in 1976-1978; over the Atlantic Ocean (GOES E) 75 deg W in 1979-1981; over the Americas at 106 deg W in 1982 As of 29 August 2001 located at 123.04 deg W drifting at 2.760 deg W per day. As of 2007 Feb 27 located at 127.44E drifting at 2.742W degrees per day.
1975 February 24 - . 05:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: Kagoshima M. LV Family: Mu. Launch Vehicle: Mu-3C. LV Configuration: Mu-3C M-3C-2.
  • SS-03 Taiyo - . Payload: SRATS. Mass: 86 kg (189 lb). Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: SS. Decay Date: 1980-06-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 7671 . COSPAR: 1975-014A. Apogee: 3,125 km (1,941 mi). Perigee: 254 km (157 mi). Inclination: 31.5000 deg. Period: 120.20 min. Examined solar radiation, thermospheric structure. SRATS (Solar and Thermospheric Radiation Satellite) is the third Japanese scientific satellite, to study the intereffects of solar radiation and the thermosphere of the earth. National name: Taiyo. Launch time 0525 GMT.
1975 March 27 - . 14:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC132/1. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53721-268.
  • Intercosmos 13 - . Payload: DS-U2-IK s/n 5. Mass: 400 kg (880 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: IK. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-IK. Completed Operations Date: 1975-06-21 . Decay Date: 1980-09-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 7710 . COSPAR: 1975-022A. Apogee: 1,689 km (1,049 mi). Perigee: 284 km (176 mi). Inclination: 83.0000 deg. Period: 104.90 min. Summary: Upper atmospheric experiments. Study of dynamic processes in the earth's magnetosphere and polar ionosphere and investigation of low-frequency electromagnetic waves..
1975 April 1 - . 12:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-21 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 21. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 7714 . COSPAR: 1975-023A. Apogee: 884 km (549 mi). Perigee: 853 km (530 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 102.30 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1975 April 19 - . 07:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC107/2. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53731-279.
  • Aryabhata - . Payload: ISS. Mass: 360 kg (790 lb). Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Aryabhata. Decay Date: 1992-02-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 7752 . COSPAR: 1975-033A. Apogee: 409 km (254 mi). Perigee: 398 km (247 mi). Inclination: 50.7000 deg. Period: 92.60 min. Summary: Atmospheric research. Experimental satellite for satellite technology and some scientific experiments. Launched from a cosmodrome in the USSR. .
1975 May 17 - . 10:32 GMT - . Launch Site: Kourou. Launch Complex: Kourou Diamant. LV Family: Diamant. Launch Vehicle: Diamant BP.4. LV Configuration: Diamant BP.4 No. 2.
  • Pollux - . Payload: D-5A. Mass: 35 kg (77 lb). Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: D. Decay Date: 1975-08-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 7801 . COSPAR: 1975-039A. Apogee: 1,256 km (780 mi). Perigee: 299 km (185 mi). Inclination: 30.0000 deg. Period: 100.40 min. D5A: Weight 36 kg. Testing in space of a hydrazine catalytic decomposition micropropulsion unit. Responsible organization: Societe Europeene de Propulsion. D5B: Weight 76 kg. Testing in space of the CACTUS accelerometer (ultrasensitive triaxial capacitive accelerometric sensor). Responsible organization: ONERA, Chatillon-sous-Berneux, France.
  • Castor - . Payload: D-5B. Mass: 77 kg (169 lb). Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: D. Decay Date: 1979-02-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 7802 . COSPAR: 1975-039B. Apogee: 1,275 km (792 mi). Perigee: 277 km (172 mi). Inclination: 29.9000 deg. Period: 100.30 min. D5A: Weight 36 kg. Testing in space of a hydrazine catalytic decomposition micropropulsion unit. Responsible organization: Societe Europeene de Propulsion. D5B: Weight 76 kg. Testing in space of the CACTUS accelerometer (ultrasensitive triaxial capacitive accelerometric sensor). Responsible organization: ONERA, Chatillon-sous-Berneux, France.
1975 May 24 - . 03:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2A. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2A 197.
  • DMSP-Block-5C F2 - . Payload: DMSP 10533 / OPS 6226. Mass: 194 kg (427 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5C. USAF Sat Cat: 7816 . COSPAR: 1975-043A. Apogee: 880 km (540 mi). Perigee: 794 km (493 mi). Inclination: 98.7000 deg. Period: 101.70 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1975 June 3 - . 09:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC107/2. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53721-257. FAILURE: First stage failed 84 seconds after launch.. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Intercosmos 14 - . Payload: DS-U3-IK s/n 5. Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Program: Intercosmos. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U3-IK. COSPAR: F750603A. Summary: Measurements of the sun; used for Interkosmos launches. Payload included East European experiments to study solar UV, X-ray effects on upper atmosphere. Investigation of solar radiation and its effect on the atmosphere of the earth..
1975 June 12 - . 08:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2910. LV Configuration: Delta 2910 595/D111.
  • Nimbus 6 - . Payload: Nimbus F. Mass: 829 kg (1,827 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Nimbus. USAF Sat Cat: 7924 . COSPAR: 1975-052A. Apogee: 1,114 km (692 mi). Perigee: 1,101 km (684 mi). Inclination: 100.0000 deg. Period: 107.40 min. Environmental research. The experiments selected for Nimbus-6 were the earth radiation budget (ERB), electrically scanning microwave radiometer (ESMR), high-resolution infrared radiation sounder (HIRS), limb radiance inversion radiometer (LRIR), pressure modulated radiometer (PMR), scanning microwave spectrometer (SCAMS), temperature-humidity infrared radiometer (THIR), tracking and data relay experiment (T+DRE), and the tropical wind energy conversion and reference level experiment (TWERLE). This complement of advanced sensors was capable of mapping tropospheric temperature, water vapor abundance, and cloud water content; providing vertical profiles of temperature, ozone, and water vapor; transmitting real-time data to a geostationary spacecraft (ATS 6); and yielding data on the earth's radiation budget.
1975 July 11 - . 04:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 2-01 - . Payload: Meteor-2 no. 1. Mass: 2,750 kg (6,060 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor-2. USAF Sat Cat: 8026 . COSPAR: 1975-064A. Apogee: 876 km (544 mi). Perigee: 844 km (524 mi). Inclination: 81.3000 deg. Period: 102.20 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1975 September 18 - . 00:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-22 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 22. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 8293 . COSPAR: 1975-087A. Apogee: 909 km (564 mi). Perigee: 800 km (490 mi). Inclination: 81.3000 deg. Period: 102.00 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1975 September 23 - . 10:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Voskhod 11A57.
  • Cosmos 769 Nauka - . Payload: FEU-170-13 s/n 5L. Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Nauka. COSPAR: 1975-088xx.
1975 September 27 - . 08:37 GMT - . Launch Site: Kourou. Launch Complex: Kourou Diamant. LV Family: Diamant. Launch Vehicle: Diamant BP.4. LV Configuration: Diamant BP.4 No. 3.
  • Aura - . Payload: D-2. Mass: 115 kg (253 lb). Nation: France. Agency: CNES. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: D. Decay Date: 1982-09-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 8332 . COSPAR: 1975-092A. Apogee: 697 km (433 mi). Perigee: 476 km (295 mi). Inclination: 37.1000 deg. Period: 96.50 min. Solar UV radiation experiments. Study of solar and stellar ultraviolet radiation. 1. Spectral analysis of small and large sources located close to the plane of the ecliptic. Responsible organization: Laboratoire d'Astronomie Spatiale, Traverse du Siphon, 13000- Marseille (France). 2. St udy of solar ultraviolet radiation and its absorption by the earth's atmosphere. Responsible organization: Laboratoire de Physique Stellaire et Planetaire, Meudon, France. Weight 106.6 kg.
1975 October 6 - . 09:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2910. LV Configuration: Delta 2910 600/D115.
  • Explorer 54 - . Payload: AE D. Mass: 676 kg (1,490 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: AE. Decay Date: 1976-03-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 8353 . COSPAR: 1975-096A. Apogee: 3,819 km (2,373 mi). Perigee: 151 km (93 mi). Inclination: 90.1000 deg. Period: 126.80 min. Summary: Atmospheric Explorer; atmospheric research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1975 October 16 - . 22:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 597/D116.
  • GOES 1 - . Payload: GOES A. Mass: 295 kg (650 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NOAA. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: GOES. Completed Operations Date: 1985-01-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 8366 . COSPAR: 1975-100A. Apogee: 35,811 km (22,251 mi). Perigee: 35,787 km (22,236 mi). Inclination: 14.8000 deg. Period: 1,436.70 min. Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Atlantic Ocean at 55 deg W in 1975-1976; over the Pacific Ocean 135 deg W in 1976-1978; over the Atlantic Ocean 10 deg W in 1978; over the Indian Ocean 58 deg E in 1978-1979; over the Pacific Ocean 135 deg W in 1979-1980; over the Atlantic Ocean 93 deg W in 1980; over the Pacific Ocean 130 deg W in 1980-1985 As of 3 September 2001 located at 81.97 deg W drifting at 0.051 deg E per day. As of 2007 Mar 9 located at 81.95W drifting at 0.055W degrees per day.
1975 November 20 - . 02:06 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2910. LV Configuration: Delta 2910 604/D117.
  • Explorer 55 - . Payload: AE E. Mass: 721 kg (1,589 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: AE. Decay Date: 1981-06-10 . USAF Sat Cat: 8440 . COSPAR: 1975-107A. Apogee: 3,002 km (1,865 mi). Perigee: 154 km (95 mi). Inclination: 19.7000 deg. Period: 117.70 min. Summary: Atmospheric Explorer. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1975 December 6 - . 03:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout F. LV Configuration: Scout F-1 S196C. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • Explorer (56) - . Payload: DAD-A. Mass: 71 kg (156 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DAD. Decay Date: 1975-12-05 . COSPAR: F751206A. Summary: Dual Air Density; air density experiments..
1975 December 11 - . 17:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC132/1. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53746-308.
  • Intercosmos 14 - . Payload: DS-U2-IK s/n 6. Mass: 700 kg (1,540 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: IK. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U2-IK. Completed Operations Date: 1976-07-09 . Decay Date: 1983-02-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 8471 . COSPAR: 1975-115A. Apogee: 1,684 km (1,046 mi). Perigee: 335 km (208 mi). Inclination: 74.0000 deg. Period: 105.30 min. Summary: Study of low-frequency electromagnetic vibrations in the magnetosphere of the earth, of the structure of the ionosphere and of the intensity of micrometeorite fluxes..
1975 December 22 - . 02:08 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Molniya 8K78M. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78M-SOL.
  • Prognoz 4 - . Payload: SO-M s/n 504. Mass: 905 kg (1,995 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Prognoz. Decay Date: 1977-12-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 8510 . COSPAR: 1975-122A. Apogee: 199,000 km (123,000 mi). Perigee: 634 km (393 mi). Inclination: 65.0000 deg. Period: 5,740.00 min. Investigation of the corpuscular and electromagnetic radiation of the sun and of solar plasma fluxes, study of the magnetic fields in circumterrestrial space in order to determine the effects of solar activity on the interplanetary medium and in the magne tosphere of the earth.
1975 December 25 - . 19:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-23 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 23. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 8519 . COSPAR: 1975-124A. Apogee: 868 km (539 mi). Perigee: 850 km (520 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 102.10 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1976 February 19 - . 07:52 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Burner 2A. LV Configuration: Thor Burner 2A 182. FAILURE: Early booster cut-off due to incorrect calculation of the Thor fuel load.. Failed Stage: G.
  • DMSP-Block-5C F3 - . Payload: DMSP 11534/Star 26B S/N 009 / OPS 5140. Mass: 175 kg (385 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5C. Decay Date: 1976-02-19 . USAF Sat Cat: 8696 . COSPAR: 1976-016A. Apogee: 361 km (224 mi). Perigee: 89 km (55 mi). Inclination: 98.9000 deg. Period: 88.90 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program; unusable orbit. Last of the Thor Burner missions..
1976 February 29 - . 03:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Tanegashima. Launch Complex: Tanegashima N. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: N-1 Delta. LV Configuration: N-1 N-2(F).
  • ISS 1 - . Payload: ISS a. Mass: 139 kg (306 lb). Nation: Japan. Agency: NASDA. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: JISS. USAF Sat Cat: 8709 . COSPAR: 1976-019A. Apogee: 1,003 km (623 mi). Perigee: 988 km (613 mi). Inclination: 69.7000 deg. Period: 105.00 min. Ionospheric sounding. Japanese Ionospheric Sounding Satellite (JISS - national name 'Ume') is intended for regular observations by means of radio waves of the global distribution of the critical frequencies of the ionosphere, and for utilization of the results of the observati on for radio wave forecasts and warning necessary for effective operation of short-wave radio-communication. Time of launch 0330UT.
1976 April 7 - . 13:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-24 - . Payload: Meteor M s/n 37. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 8799 . COSPAR: 1976-032A. Apogee: 881 km (547 mi). Perigee: 832 km (516 mi). Inclination: 81.3000 deg. Period: 102.10 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1976 May 4 - . 08:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2913. LV Configuration: Delta 2913 609/D123.
  • Lageos - . Payload: Lageos 1. Mass: 411 kg (906 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Huntsville. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: Lageos. USAF Sat Cat: 8820 . COSPAR: 1976-039A. Apogee: 5,947 km (3,695 mi). Perigee: 5,839 km (3,628 mi). Inclination: 109.9000 deg. Period: 225.50 min. LAGEOS (Laser Geodetic Satellite) was a very dense (high mass-to-area ratio) laser retroreflector satellite which provided a permanent reference point in a very stable orbit for such precision earth-dynamics measurements as crustal motions, regional strains, fault motions, polar motion and earth-rotation variations, solid earth tides, and other kinematic and dynamic parameters associated with earthquake assessment and alleviation. The performance in orbit of LAGEOS was limited only by degradation of the retroreflectors, so many decades of useful life can be expected. The high mass-to-area ratio and the precise, stable (attitude-independent) geometry of the spacecraft, together with the orbit, made this satellite the most precise position reference available. Because it is visible in all parts of the world and has an extended operation life in orbit, LAGEOS can serve as a fundamental standard for decades. Additional Details: here....
1976 May 15 - . 13:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC43/3. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-25 - . Payload: Meteor-Priroda s/n 2-1. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor-Priroda. USAF Sat Cat: 8845 . COSPAR: 1976-043A. Apogee: 884 km (549 mi). Perigee: 829 km (515 mi). Inclination: 81.3000 deg. Period: 102.10 min. Summary: Continuation of experimental work in studying the natural resources of the earth..
1976 July 27 - . 12:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC107/2. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53746-316.
  • Intercosmos 16 - . Payload: DS-U3-IK s/n 6. Mass: 550 kg (1,210 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: IKI. Program: DS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: DS-U3-IK. Completed Operations Date: 1976-11-13 . Decay Date: 1979-07-10 . USAF Sat Cat: 9055 . COSPAR: 1976-076A. Apogee: 517 km (321 mi). Perigee: 464 km (288 mi). Inclination: 50.6000 deg. Period: 94.40 min. Summary: Investigation of the ultraviolet and X-ray radiation of the Sun and the influence of such radiation on the structure of the Earth's upper atmosphere..
1976 July 29 - . 17:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2310. LV Configuration: Delta 2310 605/D126.
  • NOAA 5 - . Payload: ITOS H. Mass: 340 kg (740 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NOAA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: ITOS. USAF Sat Cat: 9057 . COSPAR: 1976-077A. Apogee: 1,523 km (946 mi). Perigee: 1,507 km (936 mi). Inclination: 102.3000 deg. Period: 116.30 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1976 September 11 - . 08:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DSV-2U. LV Configuration: Thor DSV-2U 172.
  • AMS 1 - . Payload: DMSP 5D S-1 / OPS 5721. Mass: 450 kg (990 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5D. USAF Sat Cat: 9415 . COSPAR: 1976-091A. Apogee: 833 km (517 mi). Perigee: 804 km (499 mi). Inclination: 98.5000 deg. Period: 101.30 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1976 October 15 - . 22:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-26 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 26. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 9481 . COSPAR: 1976-102A. Apogee: 887 km (551 mi). Perigee: 836 km (519 mi). Inclination: 81.3000 deg. Period: 102.20 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1976 November 25 - . 03:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Molniya 8K78M. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78M-SOL.
  • Prognoz 5 - . Payload: SO-M s/n 505. Mass: 930 kg (2,050 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Prognoz. Decay Date: 1979-07-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 9557 . COSPAR: 1976-112A. Apogee: 198,560 km (123,370 mi). Perigee: 777 km (482 mi). Inclination: 65.2000 deg. Period: 5,728.00 min. Investigation of the corpuscular and electromagnetic radiation of the sun and of solar plasma fluxes, study of the magnetic fields in circumterrestrial space in order to determine the effects of solar activity on the interplanetary medium and in the magne tosphere of the earth.
1977 January 6 - . 23:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 2-02 - . Payload: Meteor-2 no. 2. Mass: 2,750 kg (6,060 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor-2. USAF Sat Cat: 9661 . COSPAR: 1977-002A. Apogee: 893 km (554 mi). Perigee: 876 km (544 mi). Inclination: 81.3000 deg. Period: 102.70 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service..
1977 February 15 - . 11:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC132/2. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 53721-261.
  • Cosmos 893 - . Payload: GVM DS-U2-IK s/n 1. Mass: 550 kg (1,210 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: GVM DS-U2-IK. Completed Operations Date: 1977-02-15 . Decay Date: 1984-10-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 9833 . COSPAR: 1977-011A. Apogee: 1,656 km (1,028 mi). Perigee: 354 km (219 mi). Inclination: 74.0000 deg. Period: 105.20 min. Summary: Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. .
1977 April 5 - . 02:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-27 - . Payload: Meteor M no. 27. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor M 11F614. USAF Sat Cat: 9903 . COSPAR: 1977-024A. Apogee: 887 km (551 mi). Perigee: 844 km (524 mi). Inclination: 81.3000 deg. Period: 102.30 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service. .
1977 April 20 - . 10:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 617/D130.
  • ESA-Geos 1 - . Payload: ESA GEOS 1. Mass: 573 kg (1,263 lb). Nation: Europe. Agency: ESA. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ESA-Geos. USAF Sat Cat: 9931 . COSPAR: 1977-029A. Apogee: 38,214 km (23,745 mi). Perigee: 2,939 km (1,826 mi). Inclination: 26.6000 deg. Period: 734.00 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1977 June 5 - . 02:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DSV-2U. LV Configuration: Thor DSV-2U 183.
  • AMS 2 - . Payload: DMSP 5D S-2/Star 37S S/N 15003 / OPS 5644. Mass: 450 kg (990 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5D. USAF Sat Cat: 10033 . COSPAR: 1977-044A. Apogee: 849 km (527 mi). Perigee: 788 km (489 mi). Inclination: 99.0000 deg. Period: 101.30 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1977 June 16 - . 10:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 616/D131.
  • GOES 2 - . Payload: GOES B. Mass: 627 kg (1,382 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NOAA. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: GOES. USAF Sat Cat: 10061 . COSPAR: 1977-048A. Apogee: 36,080 km (22,410 mi). Perigee: 35,985 km (22,360 mi). Inclination: 14.1000 deg. Period: 1,448.70 min. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Atlantic Ocean at 75 deg W in 1977-1978 over the Americas at 100-110 deg W in 1979-1984 over the Americas at 112-114 deg W in 1984-1990 over the Atlantic Ocean 60 deg W in 1990-1992 over the Pacific Ocean 135 deg W in 1992-1995; over the Pacific Ocean 177 deg W in 1995-on. As of 4 September 2001 located at 147.59 deg W drifting at 3.154 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 8 located at 1.58W drifting at 3.141W degrees per day.
1977 June 29 - . 18:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-28 - . Payload: Meteor-Priroda s/n 2-2. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor-Priroda. Decay Date: 1993-08-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 10113 . COSPAR: 1977-057A. Apogee: 338 km (210 mi). Perigee: 332 km (206 mi). Inclination: 97.4000 deg. Period: 91.20 min. Summary: Continuation of experimental work in studying the natural resources of the earth. Acquisition of meteorological information required for use in the operational weather service. .
1977 July 14 - . 10:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 618/D132.
  • Himawari 1 - . Payload: GMS 1. Mass: 670 kg (1,470 lb). Nation: Japan. Agency: NASDA. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: GMS. Completed Operations Date: 1989-09-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 10143 . COSPAR: 1977-065A. Apogee: 36,148 km (22,461 mi). Perigee: 36,005 km (22,372 mi). Inclination: 11.1000 deg. Period: 1,451.00 min. Geostationary meteorological satellite. Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Pacific Ocean at 140 deg E in 1977-1981; over the Pacific Ocean 160 deg E in 1981-1984; over the Pacific Ocean 140 deg E in 1984; over the Pacific Ocean160 deg E in 1984-1989 As of 29 August 2001 located at 10.47 deg W drifting at 3.675 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 10 located at 112.63E drifting at 3.690W degrees per day.
1977 September 22 - . 00:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Molniya 8K78M. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78M-SOL.
  • Prognoz 6 - . Payload: SO-M s/n 506. Mass: 910 kg (2,000 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Prognoz. USAF Sat Cat: 10370 . COSPAR: 1977-093A. Apogee: 196,379 km (122,024 mi). Perigee: 1,850 km (1,140 mi). Inclination: 74.4000 deg. Period: 5,683.20 min. Investigation of the corpuscular and electromagnetic radiation of the sun and of solar plasma fluxes, study of the magnetic fields in circumterrestrial space in order to determine the effects of solar activity on the interplanetary medium and in the magne tosphere of the earth.
1977 October 22 - . 13:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 623/D135.
  • ISEE 1 - . Payload: ISEE A. Mass: 340 kg (740 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ISEE. Decay Date: 1987-09-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 10422 . COSPAR: 1977-102A. Apogee: 137,806 km (85,628 mi). Perigee: 436 km (270 mi). Inclination: 12.7000 deg. Period: 3,441.00 min. Summary: International Sun-Earth Explorer. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
  • ISEE 2 - . Payload: ISEE B. Mass: 166 kg (365 lb). Nation: Europe. Agency: ESA. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ISEE. Decay Date: 1987-09-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 10423 . COSPAR: 1977-102B. Apogee: 137,765 km (85,603 mi). Perigee: 406 km (252 mi). Inclination: 13.5000 deg. Period: 3,438.50 min. Summary: International Sun-Earth Explorer. .
1977 November 23 - . 01:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 620/D136.
  • Meteosat 1 - . Mass: 697 kg (1,536 lb). Nation: Europe. Agency: ESA. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteosat. Completed Operations Date: 1985-06-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 10489 . COSPAR: 1977-108A. Apogee: 35,854 km (22,278 mi). Perigee: 35,777 km (22,230 mi). Inclination: 11.9000 deg. Period: 1,437.60 min. European Space Agency satellite. Launch time 0135 GMT. Reached definitive position, 0 deg longitude over the Gulf of Guinea, on 7 December. Launched by United States Delta rocket. Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Atlantic Ocean at E-4 deg W in 1977-1981; 8E-12 deg E in 1981-1984; 2E-6 deg E in 1984-1985 As of 29 August 2001 located at 51.23 deg E drifting at 0.354 deg E per day. As of 2007 Mar 3 located at 11.52E drifting at 0.055W degrees per day.
1977 December 14 - . 09:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 2-03 - . Payload: Meteor-2 no. 3. Mass: 2,750 kg (6,060 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor-2. USAF Sat Cat: 10514 . COSPAR: 1977-117A. Apogee: 874 km (543 mi). Perigee: 847 km (526 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 102.20 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information needed for use by the weather service..
1978 February 4 - . 07:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: Kagoshima M. LV Family: Mu. Launch Vehicle: Mu-3H. LV Configuration: Mu-3H M-3H-2.
  • SS-05 Kyokko - . Payload: Exos A. Mass: 103 kg (227 lb). Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: EXOS. USAF Sat Cat: 10664 . COSPAR: 1978-014A. Apogee: 3,952 km (2,455 mi). Perigee: 639 km (397 mi). Inclination: 65.4000 deg. Period: 134.00 min. 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.
1978 February 16 - . 04:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Tanegashima. Launch Complex: Tanegashima N. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: N-1 Delta. LV Configuration: N-1 N-4(F).
  • ISS 2 - . Payload: ISS b. Mass: 140 kg (300 lb). Nation: Japan. Agency: NASDA. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: JISS. USAF Sat Cat: 10674 . COSPAR: 1978-018A. Apogee: 1,216 km (755 mi). Perigee: 973 km (604 mi). Inclination: 69.4000 deg. Period: 107.20 min. 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.
1978 March 5 - . 17:54 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2910. LV Configuration: Delta 2910 621/D139.
  • Landsat 3 - . Payload: Landsat C. Mass: 960 kg (2,110 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Landsat. Class: Earth. Type: Earth resources satellite. Spacecraft: Landsat 1-2-3. USAF Sat Cat: 10702 . COSPAR: 1978-026A. Apogee: 915 km (568 mi). Perigee: 895 km (556 mi). Inclination: 98.9000 deg. Period: 103.10 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1978 April 26 - . 10:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout D-1. LV Configuration: Scout D-1 S201C.
  • HCMM - . Payload: AEM 1. Mass: 134 kg (295 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: AEM. Decay Date: 1981-12-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 10818 . COSPAR: 1978-041A. Apogee: 641 km (398 mi). Perigee: 560 km (340 mi). Inclination: 97.6000 deg. Period: 96.70 min. Summary: 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). .
1978 May 1 - . 03:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DSV-2U. LV Configuration: Thor DSV-2U 143.
  • AMS 3 - . Payload: DMSP 5D S-3 / OPS 6182. Mass: 513 kg (1,130 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5D. USAF Sat Cat: 10820 . COSPAR: 1978-042A. Apogee: 799 km (496 mi). Perigee: 786 km (488 mi). Inclination: 98.7000 deg. Period: 100.70 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1978 June 16 - . 10:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 625/D142.
  • GOES 3 - . Payload: GOES C. Mass: 627 kg (1,382 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NOAA. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: GOES. USAF Sat Cat: 10953 . COSPAR: 1978-062A. Apogee: 35,812 km (22,252 mi). Perigee: 35,767 km (22,224 mi). Inclination: 9.8000 deg. Period: 1,436.30 min. 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.
1978 June 27 - . 01:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas/Agena F/D. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Agena D 23F.
  • Seasat 1 - . Payload: Seasat A. Mass: 2,300 kg (5,000 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA; JPL. Class: Earth. Type: Earth resources radar satellite. Spacecraft: Seasat. USAF Sat Cat: 10967 . COSPAR: 1978-064A. Apogee: 765 km (475 mi). Perigee: 761 km (472 mi). Inclination: 108.0000 deg. Period: 100.10 min. Summary: Oceanographic. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1978 July 2 - . 09:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 1026 - . Payload: Energia s/n 2. Mass: 6,000 kg (13,200 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Energia. Duration: 4.00 days. Decay Date: 1978-07-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 10977 . COSPAR: 1978-069A. Apogee: 247 km (153 mi). Perigee: 212 km (131 mi). Inclination: 51.7000 deg. Period: 89.00 min. Summary: Investigation of primary cosmic radiation and meteoritic particles in near-earth outer space..
1978 July 14 - . 10:43 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 631/D143.
  • ESA-Geos 2 - . Payload: ESA GEOS 2. Mass: 573 kg (1,263 lb). Nation: Europe. Agency: ESA. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ESA-Geos. Completed Operations Date: 1984-01-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 10981 . COSPAR: 1978-071A. Apogee: 36,049 km (22,399 mi). Perigee: 36,027 km (22,386 mi). Inclination: 14.6000 deg. Period: 1,449.00 min. Magnetospheric research. European Space Agency satellite. Launch time 1043 GMT. Reached initial operational position of 6 deg East on 26 Jul 1978. During the two years of its mission, it will be maintained in position between longitude 0 and 35 deg east in geosynchronous orbit. Positioned in geosynchronous orbit over the Atlantic Ocean at 36 deg E in 1978-1979 over the Atlantic Ocean 6-36 deg E in 1979-1981; over the Atlantic Ocean 24 deg E in 1981; over the Atlantic Ocean 33-37 deg E in 1981-1984 As of 3 September 2001 located at 177.77 deg W drifting at 3.212 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 9 located at 179.12E drifting at 3.212W degrees per day.
1978 August 12 - . 15:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2914. LV Configuration: Delta 2914 633/D144.
  • ISEE 3 - . Payload: ISEE C. Mass: 479 kg (1,056 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ISEE. USAF Sat Cat: 11004 . COSPAR: 1978-079A. Apogee: 1,089,200 km (676,700 mi). Perigee: 181 km (112 mi). Inclination: 1.0000 deg. Period: 67,852.90 min. International Sun-Earth Explorer; later renamed the International Cometary Explorer. Measured interaction between solar wind and Earth; rendezvoused with comet Giacobini-Zinner September 11, 1985. After several passes through the Earth's magnetotail, with gravity assists from lunar flybys in March, April, September and October of 1983, a final close lunar flyby (119.4 km above the moon's surface) on December 22, 1983, ejected the spacecraft out of the Earth-Moon system and into a heliocentric orbit ahead of the Earth, on a trajectory intercepting that of Comet Giacobini-Zinner. A total of fifteen propulsive maneuvers (four of which were planned) and five lunar flybys were needed to carry out the transfer from the halo orbit to an escape trajectory from the earth-moon system into a heliocentric orbit. The primary scientific objective of ICE was to study the interaction between the solar wind and a cometary atmosphere. As planned, the spacecraft traversed the plasma tail of Comet Giacobini-Zinner on September 11, 1985, and made in situ measurements of particles, fields, and waves. It also transited between the Sun and Comet Halley in late March 1986, when other spacecraft (Giotto, Planet-A, MS-T5, VEGA) were also in the vicinity of Comet Halley on their comet rendezvous missions. ICE became the first spacecraft to directly investigate two comets. An update to the ICE mission was approved by NASA headquarters in 1991. It defined a Heliospheric mission for ICE consisting of investigations of coronal mass ejections in coordination with ground-based observations, continued cosmic ray studies, and special period observations such as when ICE and Ulysses are on the same solar radial line. As of January 1990, ICE was in a 355 day heliocentric orbit with an aphelion of 1.03 AU, a perihelion of 0.93 AU and an inclination of 0.1 degree. This will bring it back to the vicinity of the earth-moon system in August, 2014. Termination of operations of ISEE 3 was authorized May 5, 1997. Additional Details: here....
1978 September 16 - . 05:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: Kagoshima M. LV Family: Mu. Launch Vehicle: Mu-3H. LV Configuration: Mu-3H M-3H-3.
  • SS-06 Jikiken - . Payload: Exos B. Mass: 100 kg (220 lb). Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: EXOS. USAF Sat Cat: 11027 . COSPAR: 1978-087A. Apogee: 21,192 km (13,168 mi). Perigee: 251 km (155 mi). Inclination: 31.3000 deg. Period: 370.90 min. Launching organization: Institute of Space and Aeronautical Science, University of Tokyo. Stimulated plasma wave experiment, natural plasma wave measurement, plasma parameter measurement by VLF Doppler technique, electric field probe and plasma density me asurement, energetic particle analysis, and controlled electron beam emission experiment. Characteristics: weight 90.5 kg, configuration - polyhedron with 38 faces, height 0.6m , diameter 0.75m, attitude control spin stabilization, life two years.
1978 October 13 - . 11:23 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 29F / Star-37S-ISS.
  • Tiros N - . Mass: 734 kg (1,618 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros N. USAF Sat Cat: 11060 . COSPAR: 1978-096A. Apogee: 845 km (525 mi). Perigee: 829 km (515 mi). Inclination: 98.7000 deg. Period: 101.70 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1978 October 24 - . 08:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 2910. LV Configuration: Delta 2910 630/D145.
  • Nimbus 7 - . Payload: Nimbus G. Mass: 907 kg (1,999 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Nimbus. USAF Sat Cat: 11080 . COSPAR: 1978-098A. Apogee: 957 km (594 mi). Perigee: 943 km (585 mi). Inclination: 99.0000 deg. Period: 104.10 min. Environmental research. The experiments carried were a limb infrared monitoring of the stratosphere (LIMS), stratospheric and mesopheric sounder (SAMS), coastal-zone color scanner (CZCS), stratospheric aerosol measurement (SAM II), earth radiation budget (ERB), scanning multichannel microwave radiometer (SMMR), solar backscatter UV and total ozone mapping spectrometer (SBUV/TOMS), and temperature-humidity infrared radiometer (THIR). These sensors were capable of observing several parameters at and below the mesospheric levels. After 11 years in orbit, three experiments, SAM II, SBUV/TOMS, and ERB, were still functioning successfully.
  • CAMEO - . Payload: CAMEO Li Canister/CAMEO Ba Canister. Mass: 350 kg (770 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: CAMEO. USAF Sat Cat: 11081 . COSPAR: 1978-098B. Apogee: 968 km (601 mi). Perigee: 924 km (574 mi). Inclination: 99.4000 deg. Period: 104.00 min. Summary: Released barium cloud..
1978 October 24 - . 19:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC132/1. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 65055-106.
  • Magion 1 - . Payload: S2. Mass: 15 kg (33 lb). Nation: Czech Republic. Agency: RVSN. Program: Intercosmos. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Magion. Decay Date: 1981-09-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 11110 . COSPAR: 1978-099B. Apogee: 762 km (473 mi). Perigee: 404 km (251 mi). Inclination: 83.0000 deg. Period: 96.40 min. Ionospheric, magnetospheric studies. The Czechoslovak satellite MAGION was launched into orbit by the Soviet spacecraft Intercosmos 18. It forms a part of the scientific programme of Intercosmos 18, launched from USSR territory on 24 Oct 1978. MAGION was separated into an autonomous orbit on 14 Nov 1978. General function: Reasearch of the magnetosphere and ionosphere of the earth (magnetosphere-ionosphere satellite).
1978 October 26 - . 07:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC32/2. LV Family: Tsiklon. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon-3.
  • Cosmos 1045 - . Payload: Meteor-2 Mass Model. Mass: 2,670 kg (5,880 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor-2. USAF Sat Cat: 11084 . COSPAR: 1978-100A. Apogee: 1,705 km (1,059 mi). Perigee: 1,686 km (1,047 mi). Inclination: 82.5000 deg. Period: 120.30 min. Summary: Probable oceanographic. Investigation of the upper atmosphere and outer space. .
1978 October 30 - . 05:23 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Molniya 8K78M. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78M-SOL.
  • Prognoz 7 - . Payload: SO-M s/n 507. Mass: 950 kg (2,090 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Prognoz. Decay Date: 1980-09-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 11088 . COSPAR: 1978-101A. Apogee: 202,627 km (125,906 mi). Perigee: 472 km (293 mi). Inclination: 64.9000 deg. Period: 5,881.10 min. Magnetospheric investigations. Investigation of the corpuscular and electromagnetic radiation of the sun, of solar plasma fluxes and of the magnetic fields in circumterrestrial space in order to determine the effects of solar activity on the interplanetary medium and the magnetosphere of the earth; investigation of galactic ultraviolet rays, X-rays and gamma rays. In addition to Soviet apparatus, carried scientific apparatus produced in the USSR, the Czechoslovak Socialist Republic, France, the Hungarian People's Republic and Sweden.
1979 January 25 - . 05:43 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-29 - . Payload: Meteor-Priroda s/n 2-3. Mass: 3,800 kg (8,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor-Priroda. USAF Sat Cat: 11251 . COSPAR: 1979-005A. Apogee: 596 km (370 mi). Perigee: 546 km (339 mi). Inclination: 97.8000 deg. Period: 96.10 min. Obtaining information needed for research into the natural resources of the earth and the development of methods for remote sensing of the underlying surface, and obtaining meteorological information. In addition to Soviet apparatus, carried scientific ap paratus from the German Democratic Republic.
1979 February 12 - . 13:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC32/2. LV Family: Tsiklon. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon-3.
  • Cosmos 1076 - . Payload: Okean-E no. 1. Mass: 1,950 kg (4,290 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: Okean. Class: Earth. Type: Earth resources radar satellite. Spacecraft: Okean-E. Completed Operations Date: 1980-03-13 . Decay Date: 2001-08-10 . USAF Sat Cat: 11266 . COSPAR: 1979-011A. Apogee: 530 km (320 mi). Perigee: 514 km (319 mi). Inclination: 82.5000 deg. Period: 95.10 min. Summary: Test mission of Okean satellite without the radar. Development of methods for obtaining operational information on the Pacific Ocean..
1979 February 18 - . 16:18 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout D-1. LV Configuration: Scout D-1 S202C.
  • SAGE - . Payload: AEM 2. Mass: 147 kg (324 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: SAGE. Decay Date: 1989-04-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 11270 . COSPAR: 1979-013A. Apogee: 506 km (314 mi). Perigee: 456 km (283 mi). Inclination: 55.0000 deg. Period: 94.20 min. Summary: Studied dust, liquid droplets in upper atmosphere. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). .
1979 February 21 - . 05:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Kagoshima. Launch Complex: Kagoshima M. LV Family: Mu. Launch Vehicle: Mu-3C. LV Configuration: Mu-3C M-3C-4.
  • SS-04 Hakucho - . Payload: Corsa B. Mass: 100 kg (220 lb). Nation: Japan. Agency: ISAS. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: SS. Decay Date: 1985-04-15 . USAF Sat Cat: 11272 . COSPAR: 1979-014A. Apogee: 566 km (351 mi). Perigee: 543 km (337 mi). Inclination: 29.8000 deg. Period: 95.70 min. Soft X-ray telescope. Launching organization: Institute of Space and Aeronautical Science, University of Tokyo. Function: Observation of X-ray radiation of celestial bodies with good time resolution over a wide spectrum range. Characterstics: weight 96 kg, configuration regula r octagonal prism, height 0.66 m, diameter 0.76m, spin stabilized. Expected life 2 years.
1979 February 24 - . 08:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F/OIS. LV Configuration: Atlas F/OIS 27F.
  • Solwind (P 78-1) - . Payload: P 78-1. Mass: 1,331 kg (2,934 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Solwind. Decay Date: 1985-09-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 11278 . COSPAR: 1979-017A. Apogee: 317 km (196 mi). Perigee: 310 km (190 mi). Inclination: 97.8000 deg. Period: 90.80 min. Summary: Ionosphere and magnetosphere studies; destroyed on 13 September 1985 (while still functioning) as part of an American ASAT test..
1979 March 1 - . 18:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 2-04 - . Payload: Meteor-2 no. 4. Mass: 2,750 kg (6,060 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor-2. USAF Sat Cat: 11288 . COSPAR: 1979-021A. Apogee: 872 km (541 mi). Perigee: 839 km (521 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 102.00 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information required for use in the operational weather service with the aid of advanced equipment..
1979 June 2 - . 23:26 GMT - . Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: Wallops Island LA3A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout D-1. LV Configuration: Scout D-1 S198C.
  • Ariel 6 - . Payload: UK 6. Mass: 154 kg (339 lb). Nation: UK. Agency: SRC. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Ariel. Decay Date: 1990-09-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 11382 . COSPAR: 1979-047A. Apogee: 383 km (237 mi). Perigee: 372 km (231 mi). Inclination: 55.0000 deg. Period: 92.10 min. Summary: Detection of heavy cosmic particles and X-ray astronomy. Launch time 2326 GMT. Also registered by the United States in ST/SG/SER.E/26, with parameters 97.2 min, 601 x 653 km x 55.0 deg, category A. .
1979 June 6 - . 18:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DSV-2U. LV Configuration: Thor DSV-2U 264.
  • AMS 4 - . Payload: DMSP 5D S-5 / OPS 5390. Mass: 513 kg (1,130 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5D. USAF Sat Cat: 11389 . COSPAR: 1979-050A. Apogee: 826 km (513 mi). Perigee: 805 km (500 mi). Inclination: 98.6000 deg. Period: 101.20 min. Summary: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program..
1979 June 7 - . 10:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Kapustin Yar. Launch Complex: Kapustin Yar LC107/1. LV Family: Kosmos 3. Launch Vehicle: Kosmos 11K65M. LV Configuration: Kosmos 11K65M 65055-109.
  • Bhaskara 1 - . Payload: SEO. Mass: 441 kg (972 lb). Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Class: Earth. Type: Earth resources satellite. Spacecraft: Bhaskara. Decay Date: 1989-02-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 11392 . COSPAR: 1979-051A. Apogee: 399 km (247 mi). Perigee: 394 km (244 mi). Inclination: 50.7000 deg. Period: 92.50 min. Summary: Launched from a cosmodrome in the USSR. Experimental satellite for conducting earth resources survey over India. .
1979 June 27 - . 15:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 25F / Star-37S-ISS.
  • NOAA 6 - . Payload: NOAA A. Mass: 723 kg (1,593 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NOAA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros N. USAF Sat Cat: 11416 . COSPAR: 1979-057A. Apogee: 800 km (490 mi). Perigee: 785 km (487 mi). Inclination: 98.6000 deg. Period: 100.70 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1979 August 17 - . 07:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC43/4. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 1122 Nauka - . Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Nauka. COSPAR: 1979-075xx.
1979 September 5 - . 10:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC41/1. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 1127 - . Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Program: Resurs. Class: Earth. Type: Earth resources satellite. Spacecraft: Resurs F1-17F41. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1979-09-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 11520 . COSPAR: 1979-080A. Apogee: 268 km (166 mi). Perigee: 210 km (130 mi). Inclination: 81.3000 deg. Period: 89.30 min. 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.
1979 October 30 - . 14:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout G. LV Configuration: Scout G-1 S203C.
  • Magsat - . Payload: AEM 3. Mass: 181 kg (399 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Magsat. Decay Date: 1980-06-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 11604 . COSPAR: 1979-094A. Apogee: 561 km (348 mi). Perigee: 352 km (218 mi). Inclination: 96.8000 deg. Period: 93.70 min. Summary: Measured near-Earth magnetic field and crustal anomalies. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). .
1979 October 31 - . 09:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 2-05 - . Payload: Meteor-2 no. 5. Mass: 2,750 kg (6,060 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor-2. USAF Sat Cat: 11605 . COSPAR: 1979-095A. Apogee: 881 km (547 mi). Perigee: 862 km (535 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 102.40 min. Summary: Acquisition of meteorological information required for use in the operational weather service with the aid of advanced equipment. .
1980 January 23 - . 07:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC32/1. LV Family: Tsiklon. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon-3.
  • Cosmos 1151 - . Payload: Okean-E no. 2. Mass: 1,950 kg (4,290 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MO. Program: Okean. Class: Earth. Type: Earth resources radar satellite. Spacecraft: Okean-E. Completed Operations Date: 1981-10-13 . USAF Sat Cat: 11671 . COSPAR: 1980-005A. Apogee: 589 km (365 mi). Perigee: 566 km (351 mi). Inclination: 82.5000 deg. Period: 96.20 min. Summary: Test mission of Okean satellite without the radar. Testing of methods for obtaining operational information on the oceans..
1980 May 29 - . 10:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 19F / Star-37S-ISS. FAILURE: Atlas sustainer engine under-thrust resulted in 50 second extended burn time, and spacecraft attempted to separate and fired apogee kick motor while booster was still thrusting.. Failed Stage: P.
  • NOAA B - . Payload: NOAA B. Mass: 1,405 kg (3,097 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NOAA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros N. Decay Date: 1981-05-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 11819 . COSPAR: 1980-043A. Apogee: 1,445 km (897 mi). Perigee: 264 km (164 mi). Inclination: 92.2000 deg. Period: 102.10 min. Unusable orbit; would have been NOAA 7. At engine start up, one of the booster engines suffered an internal fuel leak, causing it to run at about 80% thrust. As a result the booster was low on velocity and heavy on propellant over much of its flight and ran an incredible 50 seconds longer than the nominal burn. The NOAA Advanced TIROS payload was designed with no direct communication with the booster, and unaware of the booster problem, at 375 sec after liftoff attempted to separate with the booster still firing. The booster's continued thrusting defeated the payload's attempt to perform the required pitch maneuver. When the payload fired its apogee kick motor, it blew the top of the booster's liquid oxygen tank off. The spacecraft survived all this, but the resultant orbit was highly elliptical rather than the desired circular sun-synchronous. The mission was a total loss. Officially: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C).>
1980 June 6 - . 07:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC41/1. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 1185 - . Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Program: Resurs. Class: Earth. Type: Earth resources satellite. Spacecraft: Resurs F1-17F41. Duration: 14.00 days. Decay Date: 1980-06-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 11827 . COSPAR: 1980-046A. Apogee: 277 km (172 mi). Perigee: 208 km (129 mi). Inclination: 82.3000 deg. Period: 89.30 min. High resolution photo surveillance; film capsule; maneuverable (?); also performed earth resource 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.
1980 June 18 - . 06:14 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-30 - . Payload: Resurs-OE s/n 3-1. Mass: 3,475 kg (7,661 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Program: Resurs. Class: Earth. Type: Earth resources satellite. Spacecraft: Resurs-OE. Duration: 4,274.00 days. Decay Date: 1992-03-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 11848 . COSPAR: 1980-051A. Apogee: 457 km (283 mi). Perigee: 428 km (265 mi). Inclination: 97.7000 deg. Period: 93.40 min. First flight of prototype for Resurs-O1 spacecraft. Also performed remote sensing tasks. Acquisition of information required for continued investigation of the natural resources of the earth; development of remote sensing methods for measuring the status of the earth's surface and the atmosphere beneath the satellite.
1980 July 15 - . 02:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DSV-2U. LV Configuration: Thor DSV-2U 304. FAILURE: Separation problem gutted wiring from spacecraft.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • AMS 5 - . Payload: DMSP 5D S-4. Mass: 513 kg (1,130 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: DMSP. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: DMSP Block 5D. Decay Date: 1980-07-14 . COSPAR: F800715A. Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. Although there was a press release immediately after the launch (by the spacecraft SPO) that said the 2nd stage motor exploded, in reality the problem was found to be due to poor design of the electrical connectors between the 2nd and third stages and a separation problem that ripped the wiring out of the spacecraft.
1980 July 18 - . 02:33 GMT - . Launch Site: Sriharikota. Launch Complex: Sriharikota SLV. LV Family: SLV. Launch Vehicle: SLV-3. LV Configuration: SLV-3 SLV-3-E2.
  • Rohini RS-1 - . Payload: Rohini 1B. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Nation: India. Agency: ISRO. Class: Earth. Type: Earth resources satellite. Spacecraft: Rohini. Decay Date: 1981-05-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 11899 . COSPAR: 1980-062A. Apogee: 921 km (572 mi). Perigee: 307 km (190 mi). Inclination: 44.7000 deg. Period: 97.00 min. Summary: Experimental-technology mission. Rohini satellite RS-1. .
1980 July 31 - . 07:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC43/3. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 1203 - . Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Program: Resurs. Class: Earth. Type: Earth resources satellite. Spacecraft: Resurs F1-17F41. Duration: 14.00 days. Decay Date: 1980-08-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 11915 . COSPAR: 1980-066A. Apogee: 270 km (160 mi). Perigee: 213 km (132 mi). Inclination: 82.3000 deg. Period: 89.40 min. 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.
1980 September 3 - . 10:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC41/1. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 1209 - . Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Program: Resurs. Class: Earth. Type: Earth resources satellite. Spacecraft: Resurs F1-17F41. Duration: 14.00 days. Decay Date: 1980-09-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 11950 . COSPAR: 1980-072A. Apogee: 267 km (165 mi). Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Inclination: 82.3000 deg. Period: 89.20 min. 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.
1980 September 9 - . 11:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 2-06 - . Payload: Meteor-2 no. 6. Mass: 2,750 kg (6,060 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor-2. USAF Sat Cat: 11962 . COSPAR: 1980-073A. Apogee: 886 km (550 mi). Perigee: 834 km (518 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 102.10 min. Summary: Gathering meteorological information and data on penetrating radiation fluxes in circumterrestrial space. .
1980 September 9 - . 22:27 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 3914. LV Configuration: Delta 3914 637/D152.
  • GOES 4 - . Payload: GOES D. Mass: 627 kg (1,382 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NOAA. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: GOES. Completed Operations Date: 1988-11-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 11964 . COSPAR: 1980-074A. Apogee: 36,213 km (22,501 mi). Perigee: 35,948 km (22,337 mi). Inclination: 9.4000 deg. Period: 1,451.20 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). Positioned in geosynchronous orbit at 98 deg W in 1980-1981; 135 deg W in 1981-1983; 135-143 deg W in 1983; 139 deg W in 1984-1985; 10 deg W in 1985; 44 deg W in 1985-1988 As of 5 September 2001 located at 37.03 deg E drifting at 3.758 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 10 located at 45.89E drifting at 3.763W degrees per day.
1980 December 25 - . 04:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Molniya 8K78M. LV Configuration: Molniya 8K78M-SOL.
  • Prognoz 8 - . Payload: SO-M s/n 508. Mass: 910 kg (2,000 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Prognoz. Decay Date: 1984-12-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 12116 . COSPAR: 1980-103A. Apogee: 197,364 km (122,636 mi). Perigee: 978 km (607 mi). Inclination: 65.8000 deg. Period: 5,687.80 min. Examined solar wind interaction with magnetosphere. Investigation of the corpuscular and electromagnetic radiation of the sun and of solar plasma fluxes, study of the magnetic fields in circumterrestrial space in order to determine the effects of solar activity on the interplanetary medium and in the magne tosphere of the earth. In addition to Soviet apparatus, carried scientific apparatus produced in the USSR, the Czechoslovak Socialist Republic, the Polish People's Republic, and Sweden.
1981 January 23 - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC32/1. LV Family: Tsiklon. Launch Vehicle: Tsiklon-3. FAILURE: Payload shroud failed to separate.. Failed Stage: S.
  • Geo-IK no. 1 - . Payload: Geo-IK no. 1. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: RVSN. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: Geo-IK. Decay Date: 1981-01-23 . COSPAR: F810123A.
1981 May 14 - . 21:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 2-07 - . Payload: Meteor-2 no. 7. Mass: 2,750 kg (6,060 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteor-2. USAF Sat Cat: 12456 . COSPAR: 1981-043A. Apogee: 888 km (551 mi). Perigee: 835 km (518 mi). Inclination: 81.3000 deg. Period: 102.20 min. Summary: Gathering meteorological information and data on penetrating radiation fluxes in circumterrestrial space..
1981 May 22 - . 22:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Delta 3914. LV Configuration: Delta 3914 645/D154.
  • GOES 5 - . Payload: GOES E. Mass: 836 kg (1,843 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NOAA. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: GOES. Completed Operations Date: 1990-07-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 12472 . COSPAR: 1981-049A. Apogee: 35,810 km (22,250 mi). Perigee: 35,775 km (22,229 mi). Inclination: 6.5000 deg. Period: 1,436.40 min. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). Positioned in geosynchronous orbit at 85 deg W in 1981; 75 deg W in 1981-1987; 106 deg W in 1987-1988; 65 deg W in 1988-1989 As of 31 August 2001 located at 107.28 deg W drifting at 0.248 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 9 located at 110.88W drifting at 0.246W degrees per day.
1981 June 19 - . 12:32 GMT - . Launch Site: Kourou. Launch Complex: Kourou ELA1. LV Family: Ariane. Launch Vehicle: Ariane 1. LV Configuration: Ariane 1 L03.
  • Meteosat 2 - . Mass: 697 kg (1,536 lb). Nation: Europe. Agency: ESA. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Meteosat. Completed Operations Date: 1991-12-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 12544 . COSPAR: 1981-057A. Apogee: 36,329 km (22,573 mi). Perigee: 36,124 km (22,446 mi). Inclination: 11.1000 deg. Period: 1,458.60 min. Meteosat 2 is a geostationary meteorological satellite, operating within the world wide network of the World Weather Watch of WMO. Its main missions are: Imaging in the visible, IR and water vapour region of the spectrum; data reception from so-called dat a collection platforms (DCPs); data distribution to meteorological services and other interested parties (research institutes etc). Launch time 1233:03 UT. Geostationary position 0 deg E. Designator ESA/81/03. As of 3 September 2001 located at 58.52 deg W drifting at 5.577 deg W per day. As of 2007 Mar 10 located at 125.67W drifting at 5.583W degrees per day.
1981 June 23 - . 10:52 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 87F / Star-37S-ISS.
  • NOAA 7 - . Payload: NOAA C. Mass: 1,405 kg (3,097 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NOAA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros N. USAF Sat Cat: 12553 . COSPAR: 1981-059A. Apogee: 847 km (526 mi). Perigee: 828 km (514 mi). Inclination: 98.9000 deg. Period: 101.70 min. Summary: Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1981 July 2 - . 07:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Plesetsk. Launch Complex: Plesetsk LC43/3. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Soyuz 11A511U.
  • Cosmos 1280 - . Mass: 6,300 kg (13,800 lb). Nation: USSR. Agency: MOM. Program: Resurs. Class: Earth. Type: Earth resources satellite. Spacecraft: Resurs F1-17F41. Duration: 13.00 days. Decay Date: 1981-07-15 . USAF Sat Cat: 12577 . COSPAR: 1981-063A. Apogee: 280 km (170 mi). Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Inclination: 82.3000 deg. Period: 89.30 min. 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.
1981 July 10 - . 05:14 GMT - . Launch Site: Baikonur. Launch Complex: Baikonur LC1. Launch Pad: LC1 or LC31. LV Family: R-7. Launch Vehicle: Vostok 8A92M.
  • Meteor 1-31 - . Payload: Meteor-Priroda.