Atlas F
Atlas F
Intercontinental ballistic missile. Year: 1961. IOC: 1961. Family: Atlas. Country: USA. Status: Out of production.

Final operational version of Atlas ICBM. Differed in guidance systems. Deployed as missiles from 1961 to 1966. After retirement, the ICBM's were refurbished and used over twenty years as space launch vehicles.

Historical Essay © Andreas Parsch

Because even the dispersed storage and semi-buried coffins of the Atlas E offered insufficient protection, the USAF decided already in 1959 to deploy Atlas missiles in underground silos, just like the HGM-25A Titan I. This resulted in the SM-65F Atlas F missile, which was essentially an SM-65E with a modified fueling system to accomodate the new silo launcher. The first silo-stored Atlas F squadron became operational in November 1962. Because the SM-65F could be fueled while still in the silo, launch survivability was much improved. After fueling, it took only two minutes to raise and launch the missile. In a crisis, it was even possible to store the SM-65F fully fueled in the silo for some length of time, which lead to a reaction time of only five minutes. However, fueling in the silo was even more dangerous than in the open, and four Atlas Fs violently exploded during this operation, destroying their silos.

In June 1963, the existing Atlas missiles were redesignated in the xGM-16 series as follows:

Old Designation New Designation
SM-65D CGM-16D
USM-65D CTM-16D
SM-65E CGM-16E
USM-65E CTM-16E
SM-65F HGM-16F

There are also sources which claim that the SM-65Ds based on unprotected pads at Vandenberg AFB were redesignated as PGM-16D. While this would be logical, the PGM-16D designation was apparently never officially allocated. Also, reports claiming that XPGM-16A, XPGM-16B, and XPGM-16C were the new designations for XSM-65A, XSM-65B, and XSM-65C, respectively, are in error, because all three development models had long been expended by 1963. While the 1963 redesignations did include some "paper" designations of retired or cancelled missiles, this was not true for the Atlas series.

After the LGM-30 Minuteman had become operational in early 1963, the Atlas became rapidly obsolete. By October 1964, all Atlas D missiles had been phased out, followed by the Atlas E/F in April 1965. About 350 Atlas ICBMs of all versions were built, with a peak deployment level of 129 (30 D, 27 E, 72 F).

The Atlas was used as a space launch vehicle since the very beginning of the program, and Atlas developments are still used in this role in the 21st century. Converted ICBMs and early purpose-built space launchers, usually with additional upper stages, were used by the USAF under the basic SLV-3 designator. In 1990, the Atlas E, Atlas II and Atlas IIA/AS vehicles received the official military designations SB-1A, SB-2A and SB-2B, respectively. Current prime contractor for all Atlas rockets is Lockheed-Martin.

Specifications

Note: Data given by several sources show slight variations. Figures given below may therefore be inaccurate!

Data for CGM-16D/E and HGM-16F:

  CGM-16D CGM-16E/HGM-16F
Length 22.9 m (75 ft) 25.1 m (82 ft 6 in)
Diameter 3.05 m (10 ft)
Weight 118000 kg (260000 lb)
Speed 25000 km/h (15500 mph)
Ceiling 800 km (500 miles)
Range 10200 km (5500 nm)
Propulsion Booster: 2x Rocketdyne XLR89-NA-5; 666 kN (150000 lb) each
Sustainer: Rocketdyne XLR105-NA-5; 267 kN (60000 lb)
Vernier: 2x Rocketdyne LR101-NA-7; 4.5 kN (1000 lb) each		 Booster: 2x Rocketdyne LR89-NA-5; 733 kN (165000 lb) each
Sustainer: Rocketdyne LR105-NA-5; 253 kN (57000 lb)
Vernier: 2x Rocketdyne LR101-NA-7; 4.5 kN (1000 lb) each
Warhead W-49 thermonuclear (1.45 MT) in Mk.2 or Mk.3 RV W-38 thermonuclear (4.5 MT) in Mk.4 RV
Main Sources

[1] James N. Gibson: "Nuclear Weapons of the United States", Schiffer Publishing Ltd, 1996
[2] Bill Gunston: "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Rockets and Missiles", Salamander Books Ltd, 1979
[3] Jacob Neufeld: "Ballistic Missiles in the United States Air Force, 1945-1960", Office of Air Force Histoy, 1990
[4] Jay Miller: "The X-Planes X-1 to X-45", Midland Publishing, 2001

The vehicles converted for space launch use and launched from Vandenberg AFB used a radio guidance system that was based on a modification of the General Electric Radio Tracking System (GERTS), originally employed on the Atlas D. In fact, the GERTS guidance used for space launch employed one of the original radar stations used for the Atlas D and even used some actual Atlas D components in its Pulse Beacon Decoder, the vehicle's X-band radio transponder. Newer solid state computers were used to run the guidance software and were interfaced with the radar; eventually they were made redundant, although with a human operator charged with detecting failure.

The large Bosch-Arma pod on the side of the Atlas E and F space boosters launched from Vandenberg AFB from the mid-70's to the mid-90's was in fact empty. It was not removed and replaced with a more streamlined fairing since that would have cost money and gained no significant performance. So, the Atlas E and F space boosters used Atlas E and F ICBM airframes and engines with the tanks modified with a new payload interface section, a mixture of Atlas E and F components (selected based on which designs were most suitable for the space launch mission) and a modified Atlas D radio guidance system.

GERTS was a complex, glitch-prone system, its only saving graces being that it was both the cheapest guidance system around and the most reliable, operating for almost 30 years without one flight failure and at a per-flight cost an order of magnitude below that of an inertial guidance system. Prior to Apollo-Saturn, all U.S. manned orbital flights used GERTS, both on the Mercury-Atlas D and the Gemini-Titan II missions.

The proper way to refer to the space booster Atlas E's and F's was "Atlas E/F Space Booster," because of the mix of configuration features. Of course, individually the boosters were referred to by their "Tail Numbers" such as 19F, 76E, 68E, etc. The total launched cost of an Atlas E/F space booster was about $15M - or less than 1/3 the cost of a Titan II space booster, and less than 1/20th what was finally admitted as the cost of a single Space Shuttle mission. About 35 unmodified Atlas E/F missiles in storage at Norton AFB were scrapped in the early 1970's. The Space Shuttle was coming and it was assumed that they were not needed. The cost of maintaining them in storage was "horrendous" - about $2000 each per year. At least a half billion dollars worth of perfectly usable, incredibly cheap space boosters (equivalent to a couple of billon dollars in replacement costs) were run over with a bulldozer in order to save perhaps one million dollars in storage costs overtwenty years . The Air Force officer who recommended this travesty of planning received a medal for his farsightedness.

Manufacturer: Convair. Launches: 101. Failures: 22. Success Rate: 78.22%. First Launch Date: 1961-08-09. Last Launch Date: 1981-06-23. Launch data is: complete. LEO Payload: 820 kg (1,800 lb). to: 185 km Orbit. at: 90.00 degrees. Associated Spacecraft: Calsphere, Cannonball, GPS Block 1, Gridsphere, LCS, Musketball, Mylar, NOSS, NOSS-Subsat, NTS, Orbiscal, OV1, OV5, P 72, RADCAT, Radsat, Rigidsphere, RM, Seasat, Solwind, Tiros N, Boost Glide Re-entry Vehicle. Liftoff Thrust: 1,713.800 kN (385,278 lbf). Total Mass: 121,980 kg (268,910 lb). Core Diameter: 3.05 m (10.00 ft). Total Length: 24.00 m (78.00 ft). Launch Price $: 50.000 million. in: 1994 price dollars. Flyaway Unit Cost $: 11.000 million. in: 1985 unit dollars.

Model: Atlas Burner 2. Intercontinental ballistic orbital launch vehicle. Family: Atlas. Country: USA.

Atlas SLV-3 + 1 x Star 37B upper stage.

Apogee: 800 km (490 mi). Liftoff Thrust: 1,700.000 kN (382,100 lbf). Total Mass: 130,000 kg (280,000 lb). Core Diameter: 3.05 m (10.00 ft). Total Length: 28.90 m (94.80 ft).

Model: Atlas Burner 2A. Intercontinental ballistic orbital launch vehicle. Family: Atlas. Country: USA.

Atlas F + 1 x Star 37B + 1 x Star 26B upper stages.

Apogee: 800 km (490 mi). Liftoff Thrust: 1,700.000 kN (382,100 lbf). Total Mass: 130,000 kg (280,000 lb). Total Length: 30.00 m (98.00 ft).

Model: Atlas F. Intercontinental ballistic orbital launch vehicle. Family: Atlas. Country: USA.

Final operational version of Atlas ICBM.

LEO Payload: 820 kg (1,800 lb). to: 185 km Orbit. at: 90.00 degrees. Liftoff Thrust: 1,713.800 kN (385,278 lbf). Total Mass: 121,980 kg (268,910 lb). Core Diameter: 3.05 m (10.00 ft). Total Length: 24.00 m (78.00 ft).

Model: Atlas F/Agena D. Intercontinental ballistic orbital launch vehicle. Family: Atlas. Country: USA.

Atlas F + 1 x Agena D upper stage.

Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Liftoff Thrust: 1,731.000 kN (389,144 lbf). Total Mass: 130,000 kg (280,000 lb). Core Diameter: 3.05 m (10.00 ft). Total Length: 34.60 m (113.50 ft).

Model: Atlas F/MSD. Intercontinental ballistic orbital launch vehicle. Family: Atlas. Country: USA.

Atlas F + 1 x MSD upper stage.

Apogee: 1,100 km (600 mi). Liftoff Thrust: 1,731.000 kN (389,144 lbf). Total Mass: 122,000 kg (268,000 lb). Core Diameter: 3.05 m (10.00 ft). Total Length: 27.30 m (89.50 ft).

Model: Atlas F/OIS. Intercontinental ballistic orbital launch vehicle. Family: Atlas. Country: USA.

Atlas F + 1 x OIS upper stage.

Apogee: 550 km (340 mi). Liftoff Thrust: 1,731.000 kN (389,144 lbf). Total Mass: 120,000 kg (260,000 lb). Total Length: 32.10 m (105.30 ft).

Model: Atlas F/PTS. Intercontinental ballistic orbital launch vehicle. Family: Atlas. Country: USA.

Atlas F + 1 x Star 37E upper stage.

Payload: 295 kg (650 lb). to a: geosynchronous transfer orbit trajectory. Liftoff Thrust: 1,731.000 kN (389,144 lbf). Total Mass: 125,000 kg (275,000 lb). Core Diameter: 3.05 m (10.00 ft). Total Length: 29.20 m (95.80 ft).

Model: Atlas F/SVS. Intercontinental ballistic orbital launch vehicle. Family: Atlas. Country: USA.

Atlas F + 1 x Star 37E + 1 x Star 37E upper stages.

Apogee: 20,000 km (12,000 mi). Liftoff Thrust: 1,731.000 kN (389,144 lbf). Total Mass: 125,000 kg (275,000 lb). Core Diameter: 3.05 m (10.00 ft). Total Length: 29.20 m (95.80 ft).

Model: Atlas F/Trident. Intercontinental ballistic orbital launch vehicle. Family: Atlas. Country: USA.

Atlas F + 1 x Trident upper stage.

Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi). Liftoff Thrust: 1,731.000 kN (389,144 lbf). Total Mass: 130,000 kg (280,000 lb). Total Length: 25.00 m (82.00 ft).

Model: HGM-16F. Intercontinental ballistic missile. IOC: 1960. Family: Atlas. Country: USA. Department of Defence Designation: CGM-16F. Popular Name: Atlas F. Alternate Designation: SM-65F.

ICBM version. Also CGM-16F

Manufacturer: Convair (GD). Total Mass: 120,000 kg (260,000 lb). Core Diameter: 3.05 m (10.00 ft). Total Length: 25.15 m (82.51 ft). Span: 4.88 m (16.01 ft). Standard warhead mass: 2,500 kg (5,500 lb). Maximum range: 12,100 km (7,500 mi). Number Standard Warheads: 1. Standard RV: Mk. 4. Standard warhead: W38. Standard warhead yield: 3,750 KT. Standard warhead CEP: 3.23 km (2.00 mi). Boost Propulsion: Liquid rocket, Lox/Kerosene. Guidance: Inertial. Maximum speed: 29,030 kph (18,030 mph). Ceiling: 1,287,800 m (4,225,000 ft). Development Cost $: 2,230.000 million. in: 1965 average dollars. Recurring Price $: 8.309 million. Total Number Built: 381. Total Development Built: 18. Total Production Built: 343. Flyaway Unit Cost $: 1.800 million. in: 1965 unit dollars. Cost comments: Development cost and flyaway cost total for Atlas A through F (ICBM's).

Stage Data - Atlas F
  • Stage Number: 0. 1 x Stage: Atlas MA-3. Gross Mass: 3,174 kg (6,997 lb). Empty Mass: 3,174 kg (6,997 lb). Thrust (vac): 1,644.960 kN (369,802 lbf). Isp: 290 sec. Burn time: 120 sec. Isp(sl): 256 sec. Diameter: 4.90 m (16.00 ft). Span: 4.90 m (16.00 ft). Length: 0.00 m ( ft). Propellants: Lox/Kerosene. No Engines: 2. Engine: LR-89-5.
  • Stage Number: 1. 1 x Stage: Atlas E/F. Gross Mass: 117,826 kg (259,761 lb). Empty Mass: 4,926 kg (10,859 lb). Thrust (vac): 386.300 kN (86,844 lbf). Isp: 316 sec. Burn time: 309 sec. Isp(sl): 214 sec. Diameter: 3.05 m (10.00 ft). Span: 4.90 m (16.00 ft). Length: 20.12 m (66.01 ft). Propellants: Lox/Kerosene. No Engines: 1. Engine: LR-105-5.
Atlas F Chronology

1961 August 9 - 04:31 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC13. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 2F.

  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). First F flight, at AMR), successful References: 1811.
1961 November 22 - 21:04 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 4F.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 1836.
1961 December 12 - 20:16 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 5F. FAILURE: Guidance Failure.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). References: 1811.
1961 December 21 - 03:35 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 6F. FAILURE: Hydraulics Failure.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 1811.
1962 April - Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
  • Atlas F training facility activated. Nation: USA. VAFB Atlas F training facility turned over to SAC References: 4460.
1962 April 9 - 20:50 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 11F. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. References: 1811.
1962 August 1 - 21:07 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576. Launch Pad: 576E. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 15F.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). First successful Atlas F flight at operational site, SMS 576E (15F) References: 88, 278, 917.
1962 August 10 - 21:11 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: OSTF. Launch Pad: OSTF2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 57F. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). References: 917.
1962 August 13 - 22:00 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 7F.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 1811.
1962 September - Launch Site: Schilling AFB. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
  • Atlas SMS 560 operational. Nation: USA. Schilling AFB SMS 550 operational References: 4460.
1962 September 15 - Launch Site: Lincoln AFB. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
  • Atlas SMS 551 operational. Nation: USA. Lincoln AFB SMS 551 operational References: 4460.
1962 September 19 - 19:30 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 8F.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 1811.
1962 October 9 - Launch Site: Altus AFB. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
  • Atlas SMS 577 operational. Nation: USA. Altus AFB SMS 577 operational References: 4460.
1962 October 19 - 18:15 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 14F.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 1811.
1962 November 7 - 19:43 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 16F.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 1811.
1962 November 14 - 22:36 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: OSTF. Launch Pad: OSTF2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 13F. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). References: 917.
1962 November 15 - Launch Site: Dyess AFB. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
  • Atlas SMS 578 operational. Nation: USA. Dyess AFB SMS 578 operational References: 4460.
1962 November 30 - Launch Site: Walker AFB. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
  • Atlas SMS 579 operational. Nation: USA. Walker AFB SMS 579 operational References: 4460.
1962 December 5 - 21:25 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 21F.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). Last Atlas F R&D flight. References: 1811.
1962 December 20 - Launch Site: Plattsburgh AFB. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
  • Atlas SMS 556 - last Atlas squadron - operational. Nation: USA. Plattsburgh AFB SMS 556 (last Atlas squadron) operational References: 4460.
1963 March 1 - 21:00 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 134F.
  • ABRES REX-I re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). References: 1811.
1963 March 16 - 02:05 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576. Launch Pad: 576D. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 63F.
  • OT TALL TREE 5 operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 917.
1963 March 21 - 21:10 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: OSTF. Launch Pad: OSTF2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 83F.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 917.
1963 March 24 - 00:29 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576. Launch Pad: 576E. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 52F. FAILURE: Failure.
  • OT TALL TREE 4 operational test launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). References: 917.
1963 April 27 - 02:03 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 135F.
  • ABRES REX-II re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 1811.
1963 June 1 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
  • Atlas F propellant loading accident. Nation: USA. Exploded during propellant loading (Walker AFB 1)
1963 June 2 - 00:26 GMT - Launch Site: Walker AFB. Launch Complex: Missile. Launch Pad: 579-1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 77F. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Error mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. References: 1840.
1963 October 4 - 05:17 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576. Launch Pad: 576G. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 45F. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. References: 917.
1963 October 28 - 03:15 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 136F. FAILURE: Failure.
  • ABRES WAC-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 1811.
1963 December 18 - 22:56 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576. Launch Pad: 576G. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 109F.
  • Research and development launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 917.
1964 February 13 - 18:11 GMT - Launch Site: Walker AFB. Launch Complex: Missile. Launch Pad: 579-5. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 88F. FAILURE: Exploded during propellant loading.
  • Accident Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Operational ICBM test at Walker AFB. References: 1840.
1964 March 9 - 21:54 GMT - Launch Site: Walker AFB. Launch Complex: Missile. Launch Pad: 579-2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 90F. FAILURE: Exploded during propellant loading.
  • Accident Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Operational ICBM test at Walker AFB. References: 1840.
1964 April 1 - 20:22 GMT - Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: LC11. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 137F.
  • ABRES WAC-2 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 1811.
1964 April 3 - 20:26 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576. Launch Pad: 576G. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 3F. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. References: 917.
1964 May 14 - Launch Site: Altus AFB. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. FAILURE: Exploded during propellant loading.
  • Accident Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Operational missile test at Altus AFB. References: 1716.
1964 August 7 - 20:12 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576. Launch Pad: 576E. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 110F.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 1811.
1964 August 31 - 15:46 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576. Launch Pad: 576D. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 36F.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 917.
1964 December 22 - 19:15 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576. Launch Pad: 576E. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 111F.
  • ST Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 917.
1965 January 8 - 18:59 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: 576. Launch Pad: 576G. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 106F.
  • ST Test mission Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 917.
1965 March 25 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas E, Atlas F.
  • Six Atlas squadrons deactivated. Nation: USA. Forbes AFB SMS 548, Warren-3 AFB SMS 549, Altus AFB SMS 577, Dyess AFB SMS 578, Walker AFB SMS 579, and Plattsburgh AFB SMS 556 all deactivated References: 4460.
1965 June 25 - Launch Vehicle: Atlas E, Atlas F.
  • Three Atlas squadrons deactivated. Nation: USA. Fairchild AFB SMS 567, Schilling AFB SMS 550, and Lincoln AFB SMS 551 all deactivated References: 4460.
1965 August 5 - 13:21 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 147F.
  • ABRES LORV-2A re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 917.
1966 April - Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
  • Final active Atlas squadron deactivated. Nation: USA. VAFB SMS 576 deactivated References: 4460.
1966 August 8 - 17:47 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 149F. FAILURE: Failure.
  • ABRES MBRV-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). References: 917.
1966 October 11 - 19:59 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 115F. FAILURE: Failure.
  • ABRES SBGRV-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 50 km (31 mi). References: 917.
1967 January 18 - 01:34 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 148F.
  • ABRES TVX-13 (21) re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 1811.
1967 February 13 - 22:05 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 121F.
  • ABRES TX-22 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 1811.
1967 March 16 - 17:56 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 151F.
  • ABRES MBRV-2 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 1811.
1967 May 19 - 22:00 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 119F.
  • ABRES SBGRV-2 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 1811.
1967 June 9 - 10:23 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 122F.
  • ABRES SPDS (RMP-B-1) re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 1811.
1967 July 22 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 114F.
  • RMP-B-2 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1967 July 29 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 150F.
  • ABRES MBRV-3 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1967 October 14 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 118F.
  • ABRES MBRV-4 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1967 October 27 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 81F. FAILURE: Failure.
  • RMP-B-3 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi). References: 916.
1967 November 10 - 12:20 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 113F.
  • ABRES BGRV-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 1836.
1967 December 21 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 117F.
  • RMP-B-4 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1968 January 31 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 94F.
  • RMP-B-5 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1968 February 26 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 116F.
  • ABRES BGRV-2 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Spacecraft: Boost Glide Re-entry Vehicle. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). The Boost Glide Re-entry Vehicle was launched from Vandenberg AFB, California to the area of Wake Island in the Pacific Ocean. It was launched from an Atlas missile booster and served to provide data on hypersonic manoeuvring flight characteristics. References: 916.
1968 April 6 - 09:59 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 107F / OV-1 (2x).
  • OV1-13 Nation: USA. Mass: 107 kg (235 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: OV1. Agency: USAF OAR. Perigee: 587 km (364 mi). Apogee: 9,214 km (5,725 mi). Inclination: 100.00 deg. Period: 198.70 min. COSPAR: 1968-026A. USAF Sat Cat: 3173. Radiation, engineering experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • OV1-14 Nation: USA. Mass: 101 kg (222 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: OV1. Agency: USAF OAR. Perigee: 568 km (352 mi). Apogee: 9,858 km (6,125 mi). Inclination: 100.00 deg. Period: 207.00 min. COSPAR: 1968-026B. USAF Sat Cat: 3174. Radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1968 May 3 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 95F. FAILURE: Failure.
  • ABRES Penaid TVX re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). References: 916.
1968 June 1 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 89F.
  • ABRES PDV re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1968 June 22 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 86F.
  • RMP-B-8 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1968 June 29 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 32F.
  • ABRES RVTO-1A-2 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1968 July 11 - 19:30 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 75F / OV-1 (2x).
  • OV1-15S Nation: USA. Payload: Spades. Mass: 470 kg (1,030 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: OV1. Agency: USAF OAR. Perigee: 153 km (95 mi). Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Inclination: 89.80 deg. Period: 104.60 min. COSPAR: 1968-059A. USAF Sat Cat: 3318. Decay Date: 1968-11-06. Studied relationship between atmospheric density and solar radiation. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • OV1-16 Cannonball 1 Nation: USA. Payload: Loads. Mass: 600 kg (1,320 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: OV1. Agency: USAF OAR. Perigee: 145 km (90 mi). Apogee: 556 km (345 mi). Inclination: 89.80 deg. Period: 91.50 min. COSPAR: 1968-059B. USAF Sat Cat: 3319. Decay Date: 1968-08-19. Ionospheric drag tests. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1968 August 16 - 20:57 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3E. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas Burner 2. LV Configuration: Atlas Burner 2 7004 / Burner-2 (No Agena). FAILURE: Failure.
  • LCS 3 Nation: USA. Payload: LCS 3. Mass: 37 kg (81 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere. Spacecraft: Orbiscal. Agency: U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy. COSPAR: F680816A. Decay Date: 1968-08-16. First of two Atlas/Burner II space launches. 1 of 13 satellite launch attempts; investigate effects of ionosphere on radio signals. References: 5, 126, 278.
  • AVL-802 Grid Sphere 7-2 Nation: USA. Payload: AVL-802. Spacecraft: Calsphere. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: F680816B. References: 279.
  • AVL-802 Grid Sphere 7-1 Nation: USA. Payload: AVL-802. Spacecraft: Orbiscal. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: F680816C. References: 279.
  • AVL-802 Mylar Sphere Nation: USA. Payload: AVL-802. Spacecraft: Calsphere. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: F680816D. References: 279.
  • RM-18 Nation: USA. Payload: RM-18. Spacecraft: RM. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: F680816E. References: 279.
  • Orbiscal 1 Nation: USA. Payload: Orbiscal 1. Spacecraft: Orbiscal. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: F680816F. References: 279.
  • Radcat Nation: USA. Payload: Radcat. Spacecraft: Radcat. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: F680816G. References: 279.
  • OV5-8 Nation: USA. Payload: OV5-8. Spacecraft: OV5. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: F680816H. References: 279.
  • EGRS 12 Nation: USA. Payload: EGRS 12. Spacecraft: Orbiscal. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: F680816I. References: 279.
  • EGRS 11 Nation: USA. Payload: EGRS 11. Spacecraft: Orbiscal. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: F680816J. References: 279.
  • UVR Nation: USA. Payload: UVR. Spacecraft: Orbiscal. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: F680816K. References: 279.
  • AVL-802 Rigid Sphere Nation: USA. Payload: AVL-802. Spacecraft: Calsphere. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: F680816L. References: 279.
  • LIDOS Nation: USA. Payload: LIDOS. Spacecraft: Orbiscal. Agency: USAF AFSC. COSPAR: F680816M. References: 279.
1968 September 25 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 99F.
  • RMP-B-9 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1968 September 27 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 84F.
  • RVTO-1A-3 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1968 November 16 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 56F. FAILURE: Failure.
  • RMP-B-10 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). References: 916.
1968 November 24 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 60F.
  • RVTO-1A-4 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1969 January 16 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 70F.
  • RMP-B-11 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1969 March 18 - 07:40 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 104F / OV-1 (3x).
  • OV1-17S Nation: USA. Mass: 142 kg (313 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: OV1. Agency: USAF OAR. Perigee: 400 km (240 mi). Apogee: 466 km (289 mi). Inclination: 99.10 deg. Period: 93.20 min. COSPAR: 1969-025A. USAF Sat Cat: 3823. Decay Date: 1970-03-05. Solar radiation experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • OV1-18S Nation: USA. Mass: 125 kg (275 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: OV1. Agency: USAF OAR. Perigee: 466 km (289 mi). Apogee: 583 km (362 mi). Inclination: 98.90 deg. Period: 95.20 min. COSPAR: 1969-025B. USAF Sat Cat: 3824. Decay Date: 1972-08-27. Ionospheric, radiation, electric field data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • OV1-19S Nation: USA. Mass: 124 kg (273 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: OV1. Agency: USAF OAR. Perigee: 483 km (300 mi). Apogee: 5,551 km (3,449 mi). Inclination: 104.80 deg. Period: 151.10 min. COSPAR: 1969-025C. USAF Sat Cat: 3825. Radiation experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • OV1-17A Orbiscal 2 Nation: USA. Payload: OV1-17P. Mass: 221 kg (487 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: OV1. Agency: USAF OAR. Perigee: 175 km (108 mi). Apogee: 309 km (192 mi). Inclination: 99.10 deg. Period: 89.40 min. COSPAR: 1969-025D. USAF Sat Cat: 3826. Decay Date: 1969-03-24. Radio beacon mountedon OV17 propulsion module. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1969 August 20 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 112F.
  • ABRES RVTO-1A-5 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1969 September 16 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 100F.
  • RMP-B-12 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1969 October 10 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 98F. FAILURE: Failure.
  • RMP-B-13 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). References: 916.
1969 December 3 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 44F.
  • ABRES RVTO-1A-6 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1969 December 12 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 93F.
  • RMP-B-14 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1970 February 8 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 96F.
  • RMP-B-15 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1970 March 13 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 28F.
  • RMP-B-16 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1970 May 30 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 91F.
  • RMP-B-17 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1970 June 9 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 92F.
  • ABRES RVTO-1A-7 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1970 December 22 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 105F.
  • ABRES RVTO-2A-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1971 April 5 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 85F.
  • ABRES LAR-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1971 Jun 29 1012? - 10:12 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: ABRES. Launch Pad: ABRESA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Trident. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Trident 103F.
  • ABRES RVTO-2A-3 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 1176.
1971 August 7 - 00:11 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: BMRS. Launch Pad: BMRSA2. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 76F/ OV-1 (2x).
  • OV1-20P Nation: USA. Mass: 70 kg (154 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: OV1. Agency: USAF STP. Perigee: 136 km (84 mi). Apogee: 1,932 km (1,200 mi). Inclination: 92.00 deg. Period: 105.90 min. COSPAR: 1971-067A. USAF Sat Cat: 5394. Decay Date: 1971-08-28. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • OV1-21P Nation: USA. Mass: 70 kg (154 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: OV1. Agency: USAF STP. Perigee: 778 km (483 mi). Apogee: 896 km (556 mi). Inclination: 87.60 deg. Period: 101.70 min. COSPAR: 1971-067B. USAF Sat Cat: 5397. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • Cannonball 2 Nation: USA. Payload: LOADS 2. Mass: 364 kg (802 lb). Class: Calibration. Spacecraft: Cannonball. Agency: USAF STP. Perigee: 133 km (82 mi). Apogee: 1,970 km (1,220 mi). Inclination: 92.00 deg. Period: 106.30 min. COSPAR: 1971-067C. USAF Sat Cat: 5382. Decay Date: 1972-01-31. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • Musketball 1 Nation: USA. Payload: RTDS. Class: Technology. Spacecraft: Musketball. Agency: USAF STP. Perigee: 134 km (83 mi). Apogee: 859 km (533 mi). Inclination: 87.60 deg. Period: 94.60 min. COSPAR: 1971-067D. USAF Sat Cat: 5383. Decay Date: 1971-09-19. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • Gridsphere 1 Nation: USA. Payload: AVL-802 Grid Sphere 7-1. Mass: 37 kg (81 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: Gridsphere. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 756 km (469 mi). Apogee: 856 km (531 mi). Inclination: 87.60 deg. Period: 101.00 min. COSPAR: 1971-067E. USAF Sat Cat: 5398. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • LCS 4 Nation: USA. Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Class: Calibration. Spacecraft: LCS. Agency: USA. Perigee: 779 km (484 mi). Apogee: 910 km (560 mi). Inclination: 87.60 deg. Period: 101.80 min. COSPAR: 1971-067F. USAF Sat Cat: 5396. Decay Date: 1972-06-11. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • Gridsphere 2 Nation: USA. Payload: AVL-802 Grid Sphere 7-2. Mass: 4.00 kg (8.80 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: Gridsphere. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 783 km (486 mi). Apogee: 915 km (568 mi). Inclination: 87.60 deg. Period: 101.90 min. COSPAR: 1971-067G. USAF Sat Cat: 5401. Decay Date: 1979-03-18. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • Rigidsphere Nation: USA. Payload: AVL-802 Rigid Sphere. Mass: 6.00 kg (13.20 lb). Class: Calibration. Spacecraft: Rigidsphere. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 781 km (485 mi). Apogee: 916 km (569 mi). Inclination: 87.60 deg. Period: 101.80 min. COSPAR: 1971-067H. USAF Sat Cat: 5406. Decay Date: 1979-11-02. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • Mylar Balloon Nation: USA. Payload: AVL-802 Mylar Sphere. Mass: 2.00 kg (4.40 lb). Class: Technology. Spacecraft: Mylar. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 791 km (491 mi). Apogee: 912 km (566 mi). Inclination: 87.60 deg. Period: 101.90 min. COSPAR: 1971-067P. USAF Sat Cat: 5410. Decay Date: 1981-09-01. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1971 September 1 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: BMRS. Launch Pad: BMRSA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 74F.
  • ABRES LAR-2 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1972 October 2 - 20:09 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: BMRS. Launch Pad: BMRSA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas Burner 2A. LV Configuration: Atlas Burner 2A 102F / Burner-2.
  • RADCAT Nation: USA. Payload: Radsat / Radcat. Mass: 208 kg (458 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Military. Spacecraft: RADCAT. Agency: USA. Perigee: 627 km (389 mi). Apogee: 638 km (396 mi). Inclination: 98.60 deg. Period: 97.40 min. COSPAR: 1972-076A. USAF Sat Cat: 6212. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • Radsat Nation: USA. Payload: P 72-1. Mass: 726 kg (1,600 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Military. Spacecraft: Radsat. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 688 km (427 mi). Apogee: 705 km (438 mi). Inclination: 98.70 deg. Period: 98.70 min. COSPAR: 1972-076B. USAF Sat Cat: 6217. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1973 August 29 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: BMRS. Launch Pad: BMRSA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 78F.
  • BMRS RVTO-3A-2 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1973 September 30 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: BMRS. Launch Pad: BMRSA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 108F.
  • BMRS ACE-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1974 March 6 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: BMRS. Launch Pad: BMRSA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 73F.
  • BMRS SFT-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1974 March 23 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: BMRS. Launch Pad: BMRSA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 97F.
  • BMRS ACE-2 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1974 May 1 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: BMRS. Launch Pad: BMRSA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 54F.
  • BMRS SFT-2 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1974 June 28 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: BMRS. Launch Pad: BMRSA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 82F.
  • BMRS SFT-3 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1974 July 14 - 05:17 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3W. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/PTS. LV Configuration: Atlas F/PTS 69F.
  • NTS 1 Nation: USA. Program: Navstar. Payload: Timation 3. Mass: 293 kg (645 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Navigation. Spacecraft: NTS. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 13,446 km (8,354 mi). Apogee: 13,774 km (8,558 mi). Inclination: 125.20 deg. Period: 468.70 min. COSPAR: 1974-054A. USAF Sat Cat: 7369. Demonstrated navigation technologies leading eventually to Navstar/GPS system. Operated for 5 years. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1974 September 8 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: BMRS. Launch Pad: BMRSA1. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 80F.
  • BMRS ACE-3 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1974 October 13 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: BMRS. Launch Pad: BMRSA3. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 31F.
  • BMRS RVTO-3A-1 re-entry vehicle test flight Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). References: 916.
1975 April 13 - 00:51 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3W. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 71F / Star-17A. FAILURE: First stage failure due to explosion in flame pit at lift-off.
  • P 72-2 Nation: USA. Class: Technology. Type: Military. Spacecraft: P 72. Agency: U.S. Air Force. COSPAR: F750413A. Decay Date: 1975-04-12. A lack of deluge water and collection in the flame bucket of a kerosene/liquid oxygen gel led to the explosion of the gel on lift-off, damaging one of the Atlas engines and leading to complete engine failure during the ascent. References: 5, 126, 278.
1976 April 30 - 19:12 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3W. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/MSD. LV Configuration: Atlas F/MSD 59F.
  • NOSS 1 (Whitecloud 1) Nation: USA. Payload: PARCAE 1. Class: Sigint. Type: Naval reconnaisance. Spacecraft: NOSS. Agency: USN. Perigee: 1,092 km (678 mi). Apogee: 1,128 km (700 mi). Inclination: 63.50 deg. Period: 107.50 min. COSPAR: 1976-038A. USAF Sat Cat: 8818. Ocean surveillance; aka White Cloud type spacecraft; Navy Ocean Surveillance Satellite; PARCAE. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 172, 278.
  • SSU 1 (NOSS 1) Nation: USA. Payload: NOSS-Subsat 1-1. Class: Sigint. Type: Naval reconnaisance. Spacecraft: NOSS-Subsat. Agency: USN. Perigee: 932 km (579 mi). Apogee: 1,284 km (797 mi). Inclination: 63.40 deg. Period: 107.40 min. COSPAR: 1976-038C. USAF Sat Cat: 8835. Deployed from NOSS 1. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • SSU 2 (NOSS 1) Nation: USA. Payload: NOSS-Subsat 1-2. Class: Sigint. Type: Naval reconnaisance. Spacecraft: NOSS-Subsat. Agency: USN. Perigee: 931 km (578 mi). Apogee: 1,286 km (799 mi). Inclination: 63.40 deg. Period: 107.40 min. COSPAR: 1976-038D. USAF Sat Cat: 8836. Deployed from NOSS 1. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • SSU 3 (NOSS 1) Nation: USA. Payload: NOSS-Subsat 1-3. Class: Sigint. Type: Naval reconnaisance. Spacecraft: NOSS-Subsat. Agency: USN. Perigee: 893 km (554 mi). Apogee: 1,324 km (822 mi). Inclination: 63.40 deg. Period: 107.40 min. COSPAR: 1976-038J. USAF Sat Cat: 8884. Deployed from NOSS 1. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1977 June 23 - 09:16 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3W. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 65F / SGS-1.
  • NTS 2 Nation: USA. Program: Navstar. Mass: 431 kg (950 lb). Class: Technology. Type: Navigation. Spacecraft: NTS. Agency: USAF/USN. Perigee: 20,115 km (12,498 mi). Apogee: 20,256 km (12,586 mi). Inclination: 63.90 deg. Period: 718.10 min. COSPAR: 1977-053A. USAF Sat Cat: 10091. Navigation Technical Satellite; GPS precursor. Operated 50% satisfactorily -- still operating 25 years later. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1977 December 8 - 17:45 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3W. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/MSD. LV Configuration: Atlas F/MSD 50F / Star-37E.
  • NOSS 2 Nation: USA. Payload: PARCAE 2. Class: Sigint. Type: Naval reconnaisance. Spacecraft: NOSS. Agency: USN. Perigee: 1,054 km (654 mi). Apogee: 1,169 km (726 mi). Inclination: 63.40 deg. Period: 107.50 min. COSPAR: 1977-112A. USAF Sat Cat: 10502. Ocean surveillance; aka White Cloud type spacecraft; Navy Ocean Surveillance Satellite; PARCAE. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 172, 278.
  • SS 1 Nation: USA. Payload: SSU. Class: Sigint. Type: Naval reconnaisance. Spacecraft: NOSS-Subsat. Agency: USN. Perigee: 1,054 km (654 mi). Apogee: 1,169 km (726 mi). Inclination: 63.40 deg. Period: 107.50 min. COSPAR: 1977-112D. USAF Sat Cat: 10529. Deployed from NOSS 2. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • SS 2 Nation: USA. Payload: SSU. Class: Sigint. Type: Naval reconnaisance. Spacecraft: NOSS-Subsat. Agency: USN. Perigee: 1,055 km (655 mi). Apogee: 1,168 km (725 mi). Inclination: 63.40 deg. Period: 107.50 min. COSPAR: 1977-112E. USAF Sat Cat: 10544. Deployed from NOSS 2. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • SS 3 Nation: USA. Payload: SSU. Class: Sigint. Type: Naval reconnaisance. Spacecraft: NOSS-Subsat. Agency: USN. Perigee: 1,055 km (655 mi). Apogee: 1,168 km (725 mi). Inclination: 63.40 deg. Period: 107.50 min. COSPAR: 1977-112F. USAF Sat Cat: 10594. Deployed from NOSS 2. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1978 February 22 - 23:44 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3E. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/SVS. LV Configuration: Atlas F/SVS 64F.
  • Navstar 1 Nation: USA. Program: Navstar. Payload: GPS SVN 1. Mass: 759 kg (1,673 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: GPS Block 1. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 20,249 km (12,582 mi). Apogee: 20,560 km (12,770 mi). Inclination: 64.50 deg. Period: 727.00 min. COSPAR: 1978-020A. USAF Sat Cat: 10684. Also known as Navigational Development Satellite 1. Technology prototype of Navstar satellite. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1978 May 13 - 10:34 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3E. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/SVS. LV Configuration: Atlas F/SVS 49F.
  • Navstar 2 Nation: USA. Program: Navstar. Payload: GPS SVN 2. Mass: 759 kg (1,673 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: GPS Block 1. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 19,523 km (12,131 mi). Apogee: 20,653 km (12,833 mi). Inclination: 63.60 deg. Period: 714.20 min. COSPAR: 1978-047A. USAF Sat Cat: 10893. Also known as Navigational Development Satellite 2. Technology prototype of Navstar satellite. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1978 June 27 - 01:12 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3W. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/Agena D. LV Configuration: Atlas F/Agena D 23F.
  • Seasat 1 Nation: USA. Payload: Seasat A. Mass: 2,300 kg (5,000 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Radarsat. Spacecraft: Seasat. Agency: NASA/JPL. Perigee: 761 km (472 mi). Apogee: 765 km (475 mi). Inclination: 108.00 deg. Period: 100.10 min. COSPAR: 1978-064A. USAF Sat Cat: 10967. Oceanographic. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1978 October 7 - 00:28 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3E. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/SVS. LV Configuration: Atlas F/SVS 47F.
  • Navstar 3 Nation: USA. Program: Navstar. Payload: GPS SVN 3. Mass: 759 kg (1,673 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: GPS Block 1. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 20,706 km (12,866 mi). Apogee: 20,941 km (13,012 mi). Inclination: 63.30 deg. Period: 744.20 min. COSPAR: 1978-093A. USAF Sat Cat: 11054. Technology prototype of Navstar satellite. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1978 October 13 - 11:23 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3W. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 29F / Star-37S-ISS.
  • Tiros N Nation: USA. Program: Tiros. Mass: 734 kg (1,618 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: Tiros N. Agency: NASA GSF. Perigee: 829 km (515 mi). Apogee: 845 km (525 mi). Inclination: 98.70 deg. Period: 101.70 min. COSPAR: 1978-096A. USAF Sat Cat: 11060. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1978 December 11 - 03:59 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3E. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/SVS. LV Configuration: Atlas F/SVS 39F.
  • Navstar 4 Nation: USA. Program: Navstar. Payload: GPS SVN 4. Mass: 770 kg (1,690 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: GPS Block 1. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 20,750 km (12,890 mi). Apogee: 21,012 km (13,056 mi). Inclination: 64.60 deg. Period: 746.50 min. COSPAR: 1978-112A. USAF Sat Cat: 11141. Global Positioning System. First pre-opertional Navstar satellite. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1979 February 24 - 08:24 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3W. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/OIS. LV Configuration: Atlas F/OIS 27F.
  • Solwind (P 78-1) Nation: USA. Payload: P 78-1. Mass: 1,331 kg (2,934 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere. Spacecraft: Solwind. Agency: USN. Perigee: 310 km (190 mi). Apogee: 317 km (196 mi). Inclination: 97.80 deg. Period: 90.80 min. COSPAR: 1979-017A. USAF Sat Cat: 11278. Decay Date: 1985-09-30. Ionosphere and magnetosphere studies; destroyed on 13 September 1985 (while still functioning) as part of an American ASAT test. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1979 June 27 - 15:51 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3W. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 25F / Star-37S-ISS.
  • NOAA 6 Nation: USA. Program: Tiros. Payload: NOAA A. Mass: 723 kg (1,593 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: Tiros N. Agency: NOAA. Perigee: 785 km (487 mi). Apogee: 800 km (490 mi). Inclination: 98.60 deg. Period: 100.70 min. COSPAR: 1979-057A. USAF Sat Cat: 11416. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1980 February 9 - 23:08 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3E. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/SVS. LV Configuration: Atlas F/SVS 35F.
  • Navstar 5 Nation: USA. Program: Navstar. Payload: GPS SVN 5. Mass: 770 kg (1,690 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: GPS Block 1. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 19,805 km (12,306 mi). Apogee: 20,560 km (12,770 mi). Inclination: 64.90 deg. Period: 718.00 min. COSPAR: 1980-011A. USAF Sat Cat: 11690. Global Positioning System. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1980 March 3 - 09:27 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3W. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/MSD. LV Configuration: Atlas F/MSD 67F.
  • NOSS 3 Nation: USA. Payload: PARCAE 3. Class: Sigint. Type: Naval reconnaisance. Spacecraft: NOSS. Agency: USN. Perigee: 1,035 km (643 mi). Apogee: 1,150 km (710 mi). Inclination: 63.00 deg. Period: 107.10 min. COSPAR: 1980-019A. USAF Sat Cat: 11720. Ocean surveillance; aka White Cloud type spacecraft; Navy Ocean Surveillance Satellite; PARCAE. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 172, 278.
  • EP 1 Nation: USA. Payload: SSU. Class: Sigint. Type: Naval reconnaisance. Spacecraft: NOSS-Subsat. Agency: USN. Perigee: 1,048 km (651 mi). Apogee: 1,166 km (724 mi). Inclination: 63.50 deg. Period: 107.40 min. COSPAR: 1980-019C. USAF Sat Cat: 11731. Deployed from NOSS 3. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • EP 2 Nation: USA. Payload: SSU. Spacecraft: NOSS. Agency: USN. Perigee: 730 km (450 mi). Apogee: 1,484 km (922 mi). Inclination: 63.40 deg. Period: 107.41 min. COSPAR: 1980-019D. USAF Sat Cat: 11732. References: 279.
  • EP-2 (NOSS 3) Nation: USA. Payload: Plume shield. Class: Sigint. Type: Naval reconnaisance. Spacecraft: NOSS-Subsat. Agency: USN. Perigee: 1,048 km (651 mi). Apogee: 1,166 km (724 mi). Inclination: 63.50 deg. Period: 107.40 min. COSPAR: 1980-019E. USAF Sat Cat: 11733. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
  • EP 3 Nation: USA. Payload: SSU. Class: Sigint. Type: Naval reconnaisance. Spacecraft: NOSS-Subsat. Agency: USN. Perigee: 1,048 km (651 mi). Apogee: 1,166 km (724 mi). Inclination: 63.50 deg. Period: 107.40 min. COSPAR: 1980-019G. USAF Sat Cat: 11745. Deployed from NOSS 3. References: 2, 5, 6, 278.
1980 April 26 - 22:00 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3E. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F/SVS. LV Configuration: Atlas F/SVS 34F.
  • Navstar 6 Nation: USA. Program: Navstar. Payload: GPS SVN 6. Mass: 770 kg (1,690 lb). Class: Navigation. Spacecraft: GPS Block 1. Agency: USAF. Perigee: 19,387 km (12,046 mi). Apogee: 20,471 km (12,720 mi). Inclination: 62.80 deg. Period: 707.80 min. COSPAR: 1980-032A. USAF Sat Cat: 11783. Global Positioning System. References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1980 May 29 - 10:53 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3W. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: 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.
  • NOAA B Nation: USA. Program: Tiros. Payload: NOAA B. Mass: 1,405 kg (3,097 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: Tiros N. Agency: NOAA. Perigee: 264 km (164 mi). Apogee: 1,445 km (897 mi). Inclination: 92.20 deg. Period: 102.10 min. COSPAR: 1980-043A. USAF Sat Cat: 11819. Decay Date: 1981-05-03. 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).>References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1981 June 23 - 10:52 GMT - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: SLC3. Launch Pad: SLC3W. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. Model: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 87F / Star-37S-ISS.
  • NOAA 7 Nation: USA. Program: Tiros. Payload: NOAA C. Mass: 1,405 kg (3,097 lb). Class: Earth. Type: Weather. Spacecraft: Tiros N. Agency: NOAA. Perigee: 828 km (514 mi). Apogee: 847 km (526 mi). Inclination: 98.90 deg. Period: 101.70 min. COSPAR: 1981-059A. USAF Sat Cat: 12553. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). References: 1, 2, 5, 6, 278.
1985 February 6 - Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F.
  • USAF Nation: USA.
Bibliography and Further Reading
  • McDowell, Jonathan, Jonathan's Space Home Page, Harvard University, 1997-present. Jonathan McDowell's complete on-line listing of all objects orbited and over 20,000 rocket launches Accessed at: http://www.planet4589.org/jsr.html.
  • Isakowitz, Steven J,, International Reference to Space Launch Systems Second Edition, AIAA, Washington DC, 1991 (succeeded by 2000 edition). ISBN: 1563473534. Superseded by the later editions. More at amazon.com...
  • Wilson, Andrew, editor,, Jane's/Interavia Space Directory, Jane's Information Group, Coulsdon, Surrey, 1992 et al. ISBN: 0710618107. The most comprehensive source of information for current space projects. Too expensive for human beings and most libraries. More at amazon.com...
  • Parsch, Andreas, DesignationSystems.Net, . Outstanding, unique reference for aircraft, missiles, propulsion, and avionics systems. Accessed at: http://www.designation-systems.net/.
  • Walker, Chuck, with Powell, Joel, Atlas - The Ultimate Weapon, Apogee Books, Canada, 2005. ISBN: 1894959183. Another excellent Apogee Book, the only in-depth account of the design, development, and production of the rocket that was America's first ICBM, pioneered US spaceflight, and continued to take payloads into orbit into the next millenium. More at amazon.com...
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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