Encyclopedia Astronautica
Vandenberg


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Vandenberg
Credit: © Mark Wade
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Vandenberg
Location of Vandenberg
Credit: © Mark Wade
Vandenberg Air Force Base is located on the Central Coast of California about 240 km northwest of Los Angeles. It is used for launches of unmanned government and commercial satellites into polar orbit and intercontinental ballistic missile test launches toward the Kwajalein Atoll.

Vandenberg began as the US Army's Camp Cooke before World War II. The Army purchased approximately 86,000 acres of land in March 1941. With its flat plateau, surrounding hills, numerous nearby canyons, and relative remoteness from populated areas, the Army was convinced that it had found an ideal location for armored division training. Five armored divisions and numerous other units trained their during the second world war. The main camp was inactivated in June 1946, then reactivated in August 1950 for armored training during the Korean War. It was mothballed again in February 1953.

By 1955 the US Air Force identified an urgent need for a secure launch site for long-range ballistic missile tests to targets in the Pacific Ocean and space launches into polar orbit. Camp Cooke's remote location, with a southern-facing shore, offered a unique location for such activities. In November 1956 the Secretary of Defense transferred North Camp Cooke to the Air Force. Two months later the first Air Force unit, the 6591st Support Squadron, was established at Cooke. Ground breaking for the missile base came in May 1957. The United States Air Force responded to Russian Sputnik launch in October 1957 by accelerating the development of its missile program. It transferred management responsibilities for Cooke AFB from Air Research and Development Command (ARDC) to the Strategic Air Command (SAC) on January 1, 1958. Site activation, and research and development testing of ballistic missiles remained with ARDC. Space launches were to be conducted jointly by both commands. Although the mission at Cooke was now divided between ARDC and SAC, the two commands cultivated a close relationship that was to flourish for the next 35 years.

On October 4, 1958, Cooke AFB was renamed Vandenberg AFB in honor of the late General Hoyt S. Vandenberg, the Air Force's second Chief of Staff. The first missile launch from Vandenberg AFB was a Thor IRBM on December 16, 1958. Two months later on February 28, 1959, the world's first polar orbiting satellite, Discoverer I, lifted into space from a Thor/Agena booster combination. The Atlas made its debut West Coast flight on September 9. The following month, equipped with a nuclear warhead, Vandenberg became the site of the first ICBM to be placed on alert in the United States.

In 1961, the Titan I entered the inventory at Vandenberg AFB, but a more advanced version with storable propellants, all inertial guidance, and in-silo launch capability--the Titan II--was already in the process of development. More importantly, the solid-propellant, three-stage Minuteman ICBM was under development and began flight tests at Vandenberg in September 1962.

In subsequent years, other launch vehicles followed including the Peacekeeper (MX) ICBM beginning in June 1983, the Titan IV space booster in March 1991, the air-launched Pegasus booster in April 1995, and most recently the Delta II commercial space booster in February 1996. By April 1996, 1,721 orbital and ballistic missiles had lifted off from Vandenberg AFB.

By far, the most ambitious Air Force endeavors at Vandenberg were the Manned Orbiting Laboratory (MOL) and the Space Shuttle programs. Construction work for MOL began at Space Launch Complex 6 (SLC-6) in March 1966. The land for the new facility was obtained by an eminent domain purchase of the adjacent 15,000 acre Sudden Ranch at a cost of $9,842,700. Three years later, in June 1969, the project was canceled, the victim of cost overruns, completion delays, and emerging new technologies.

After nearly a decade of abandonment, SLC-6 was reactivated and underwent an estimated $4 billion modification program in preparation for the Space Shuttle, beginning in January 1979. Persistent site technical problems, however, and a joint decision by the Air Force and NASA to consolidate Shuttle operations at Cape Canaveral in Florida, following the Challenger tragedy in 1986, resulted in the official termination of the Shuttle program at Vandenberg on December 26, 1989. Today, SLC-6 is used by commercial space launch firms and for launches of the new Delta IV EELV booster.

On February 1, 1965, Vandenberg's AFWTR was given full responsibility for ICBM and space support functions, previously assigned to the Navy's Pacific Missile Range. The transfer involved taking over fixed and mobile range sites at Point Arguello, California; Pillar Point (San Mateo County), California; Kokee Park (Kauai County), Hawaii; South Point (Hawaii County), Hawaii; Canton, Midway, and Wake Islands in the mid-Pacific; Eniwetok and Bikini Atolls in the Marshall Islands; and six range instrumented ships (Huntsville, Longview, Range Tracker, Richfield, Sunnyvale, and Watertown).

By 1968, the AFWTR fleet had increased to eleven ships and was also supporting NASA's manned space program at Cape Canaveral, Florida. As land-based tracking and monitoring systems became increasingly more accurate and reliable, AFWTR retired from service its range ships the last one, USNS Sunnyvale, in January 1975. Likewise, most of the fixed instrumentation sites were transferred to other agencies.

Although geographically the range extends westward to the middle of the Indian Ocean, the only instrumentation sites presently comprising the downrange portion of the Western Range are at the Hawaiian Islands (augmented with instrumentation sites from other organizations), and the Army's missile range at Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands. The uprange or California sites are located at Vandenberg AFB, Santa Ynez Peak (Santa Barbara County), Anderson Peak (Monterey County), and Pillar Point Air Force Station (San Mateo County). Additional support is garnered from the naval facilities at Point Mugu and Laguna Peak (Ventura County), as well as from San Nicholas Island off the coast from Point Mugu. The 30th Space Wing's Western Range instrumentation sites are operated and maintained by ITT/Federal Services Corporation.

In 1995 the California Spaceport, operated by Spaceport Systems International was created at Vandenberg. The U.S. Air Force awarded a 25 year lease which included a payload processing facility and more than 100 acres of land for commercial launch facility construction.

The FAA-certified California Spaceport took advantage of Vandenberg's existing launch pads, runways, payload processing facilities, telemetry and tracking equipment. Work was completed in 2004 to build a rolling access gantry to support Minuteman and future Peacekeeper space booster derivatives. A new SLC-8 gantry was installed in 2005.

The Spaceport Systems International Commercial Launch Facility (CLF) Site was located just south of SLC-6 next to the evaporation ponds. The concern's Integrated Processing Facility (IPF) was originally built for the Space Shuttle Program at a cost in excess of $300 million. The building was designed to process three shuttle-class payloads simultaneously. The vertical sliding doors were modified to allow the transfer of encapsulated payloads from the IPF in support of EELV and other launch programs.

SLC-6, after another expensive conversion program, finally saw use in the 21st Century as the launch facility for the Delta 4H Heavy EELV. By 2008 over 1940 major launches had been made from Vandenberg.

Minimum Inclination: 51.0 degrees. Maximum Inclination: 145.0 degrees.

Location: Vandenberg AFB, California.
Longitude: -120.6012 deg.
Latitude: 34.7720 deg.
Apogee: 112 km (69 mi).

More... - Chronology...
Associated Countries
Associated Spacecraft
  • KH-1 American military surveillance satellite. 22 launches, 1959.01.21 (Thor Agena test) to 1960.09.13 (Discoverer 15). First US film reconnaissance satellite, and first polar orbiting satellite. More...
  • Transit American navigation satellite. 46 launches, 1959.09.17 (Transit 1A) to 1988.08.25 (Transit O-31). The Transit Navigation System began development in 1958. More...
  • Midas American military early warning satellite. 18 launches, 1960.02.26 (Midas 1) to 1966.10.05 (Midas 12). Part of a then-secret USAF program known as WS-117L, the MIDAS (Missile Defense Alarm System) program began in November 1958. More...
  • GRAB American military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. 9 launches, 1960.04.13 (Dummy subsatellite) to 1965.03.09 (Solrad 7B). GRAB, the first US electronic intelligence (ELINT) satellite, was not declassified until June 1998. More...
  • Samos American military surveillance satellite. 17 launches, 1960.10.11 (Samos 1) to 1962.11.11 (Samos 11). First generation photo surveillance; return of camera and film by capsule; program still partially classified, evidently due to embarrassment. More...
  • KH-2 American military surveillance satellite. 10 launches, 1960.10.26 (SRV 506) to 1961.08.04 (SRV 512). Early US reconnaissance satellite. Carried one 'C-Prime' panoramic camera, with a focal length of 61 cm and a ground resolution of 9 m. More...
  • KH-5 American military surveillance satellite. 16 launches, 1961.02.17 (Discoverer 20) to 1964.08.21 (KH-5 9066A). US mapping satellite. Carried one frame camera, with a focal length of 76 mm, and a ground resolution of 140 m. More...
  • Lofti American communications technology satellite. 2 launches, 1961.02.22 (Lofti) and 1963.06.15 (Lofti 2A). The Low Frequency Trans-Ionospheric (LOFTI) satellites were produced as a cooperative effort with the Radio Division. 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...
  • KH-3 American military surveillance satellite. 12 launches, 1961.08.30 (Discoverer 29) to 1962.01.13 (SRV 571). Early US reconnaissance satellite. Carried one 'C-Double Prime' panoramic camera, with a focal length of 61 cm and a ground resolution of 7.6 m. More...
  • Westford Needles American passive communications satellite. 3 launches, 1961.10.21 (Westford) to 1963.05.09 (Westford). In an attempt to lay a radio-reflective ring around the world, small metal dipole needles were allowed to sublimate out of a matrix. More...
  • Oscar International series of amateur radio communications satellites. Operational, first launch 1961.12.12. Launched in a variety of configurations and by many nations. More...
  • SURCAL American military target satellite. 15 launches, 1962.01.24 (Surcal) to 1969.09.30 (Surcal). More...
  • SECOR American earth geodetic satellite. 13 launches, 1962.01.24 (Secor) to 1969.04.14 (SECOR 13). More...
  • Ferret American military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. 19 launches, 1962.02.21 (Ferret 1) to 1971.07.16 (OPS 8373). More...
  • KH-4 American military surveillance satellite. 31 launches, 1962.02.27 (Discoverer 38) to 1963.12.21 (KH-4 9062). Early US reconnaissance satellite. Carried two 'Mural' panoramic cameras, with a focal length of 61 cm, and a ground resolution of 7.6 m. 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...
  • 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...
  • 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...
  • TAVE American technology satellite. One launch, 1962.09.29. Thor Agena Vibration Experiment 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...
  • NRL ELINT American military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. 6 launches, 1962.12.13 (Black Sphere) to 1969.09.30 (Surcal). NRL ELINT satellite. More...
  • KH-6 American military surveillance satellite. 3 launches, 1963.03.18 (KH-6 8001) to 1963.07.31 (KH 4A-07). US reconnaissance satellite, lashed together to meet an emergency requirement for close-up imaging of a suspected Soviet ICBM site near Tallinn. More...
  • SSF American military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. 54 launches, 1963.03.18 (P-11 No. 1) to 1989.08.08 (USA 41). More...
  • P 11 American technology satellite. One launch, 1963.03.18, P-11. More...
  • AE American earth atmosphere satellite. 5 launches, 1963.04.03 (Explorer 17) to 1975.11.20 (Explorer 55). Atmospheric research. More...
  • Dash American military technology satellite. 2 launches, 1963.05.09 (Dash 1) and 1963.07.18 (Dash 2). Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology. More...
  • TRS American technology satellite. 5 launches, 1963.05.09 (TRS 2) to 1964.07.17 (TRS 6). TRS satellites undertook a range of engineering experiments related to radiation-hardening of solar cells and spacecraft electronics. More...
  • RADOSE American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1963.06.15. Radiation dosimeter measurements. More...
  • KH-7 American military surveillance satellite. 43 launches, 1963.07.12 (KH 7-01 (Gambit)) to 1967.06.04 (KH 7-38). US reconnaissance satellite. Still classified. Camera believed to have ground resolution of 0.46 m. Film returned in two capsules. More...
  • KH-4A American military surveillance satellite. 70 launches, 1963.08.25 (KH-4A 1001) to 1969.09.22 (SRV 743R). Early US reconnaissance satellite. Carried two 'J-1' panoramic cameras, with a focal length of 61 cm, and a ground resolution of 2.7 m. More...
  • LAMPO American military target satellite. One launch, 1963.08.29. 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...
  • GGSE American gravity gradient technology satellite. 5 launches, 1964.01.11 (GGSE 1) to 1967.05.31 (GGSE 5). Developed designs and deployment techniques later applied to the NOSS / Whitecloud naval reconnaissance satellites. More...
  • AFP-43 American military technology satellite. 4 launches, 1964.01.19 (OPS 3367A) to 1964.06.18 (OPS 4467B). Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology. More...
  • Echo 2 American passive communications satellite. One launch, 1964.01.25. Passive communications satellite; balloon; 1st joint US/USSR space mission. 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...
  • OGO American earth magnetosphere satellite. 6 launches, 1964.09.05 (OGO 1) to 1969.06.05 (OGO 6). More...
  • Calsphere American military target satellite. 11 launches, 1964.10.06 (Calsphere 1) to 1971.02.17 (Calsphere 5). Radar calibration objects (but also cover for other classified subsatellites). 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...
  • 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...
  • DODECAPOLE American military target satellite. 2 launches, 1965.03.09 (DODECAPOLE 1/Porcupine 1) and 1965.08.13 (Dodecapole 2). More...
  • Snapshot American ion engine technology satellite. One launch, 1965.04.03. Carried SNAP-9A nuclear power source. The on-board reactor provided electrical power for a 2.2-lb ion engine. More...
  • LCS American military target satellite. 3 launches, 1965.05.06 (LCS 1) to 1971.08.07 (LCS 4). Aluminum sphere used for radar calibration. More...
  • Tempsat American military target satellite. 2 launches, 1965.08.13 (Tempsat 1) and 1969.09.30 (Tempsat 2). Surveillance Calibration; black 14 inch diameter. sphere. More...
  • GEOS American solar satellite. 3 launches, 1965.11.06 (Explorer 29) to 1975.04.09 (Geos 3). The GEOS spacecraft were gravity-gradient-stabilized, solar-cell powered satellites designed exclusively for geodetic studies. 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...
  • Bluebell American military target satellite. 2 launches, 1966.02.15 (Bluebell 2C (Cylinder)) and (Bluebell 2S (Sphere)). Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology. 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...
  • Pageos American earth geodetic satellite. 3 launches, 1966.06.24 (Pageos 1) to (Pageos canister half). 100 foot diameter. balloon. More...
  • KH-8 American military surveillance satellite. 61 launches, 1966.07.29 (OPS 3014) to 1984.04.17 (OPS 8424). Longest-lived and last US film-return reconnaissance satellite. Ground resolution 0.5 m. Film returned in two capsules. Typical life 50 days. 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...
  • 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...
  • ESRO European technology satellite. 5 launches, 1967.05.30 (ESRO 2A) to 1972.11.22 (ESRO 4). The ESRO series were small Scout-launched probes of near-earth space. More...
  • Timation American navigation technology satellite. 2 launches, 1967.05.31 (Timation 1) and 1969.09.30 (Timation 2). More...
  • Aurora American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1967.06.29. Investigated aurora borealis. More...
  • KH-4B American military surveillance satellite. 24 launches, 1967.09.15 (KH-4B 1101) to 1972.05.25 (KH-4B 1117). Early US reconnaissance satellite. Carried two 'J-3' panoramic cameras, with a focal length of 61 cm, and a ground resolution of 1.8 m. More...
  • IS-A Russian military anti-satellite system. 22 launches, 1967.10.27 (Cosmos 185) to 1982.06.18 (Cosmos 1379). First operational ASAT. Tested in 1967-1971 and deployed through the late 1970's. Design as revised by Yangel and Korolev from Chelomei's original. More...
  • RAE American radio astronomy satellite. 2 launches, 1968.07.04 (Explorer 38) to 1973.06.10 (Explorer 49). 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...
  • RADCAT American military technology satellite. 2 launches, 1968.08.16 (Radcat) and 1972.10.02 (RADCAT). Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology. 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...
  • 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...
  • 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...
  • SOICAL American military target satellite. 2 launches, 1969.09.30 (SOICAL Cone) and (SOICAL Cylinder). Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology. More...
  • AZUR German earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1969.11.08. German Research Satellite A; examined Van Allen belts, solar particles, aurora. 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...
  • SERT American ion engine technology satellite. One launch, 1970.02.04. Electric ion engine tests. 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...
  • CEPE American satellite. One launch, 1970.12.11. Cylindrical Electrostatic Probe Experiment (orbital experiment attached to Delta second stage) More...
  • Jumpseat American military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. 7 launches, 1971.03.21 (Jumpseat 1) to 1983.07.31 (Jumpseat 7). Jumpseat signals intelligence satellites were launched by Titan 3B or 34B into highly elliptic Molniya-type orbits. More...
  • SESP American military technology satellite. 3 launches, 1971.06.08 (SESP 70-1) to 1976.07.08 (SESP 74-2). Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology. More...
  • KH-9 American military surveillance satellite. 26 launches, 1971.06.15 (KH-9 no. 01 (Big Bird)) to 1986.04.18 (SRV-4). Popularly known as 'Big Bird'. Titan 3C-class film-return reconnaissance satellite. More...
  • Musketball American technology satellite. One launch, 1971.08.07. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology. More...
  • Cannonball American military target satellite. One launch, 1971.08.07. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology. More...
  • Rigidsphere American military target satellite. One launch, 1971.08.07. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology. More...
  • Mylar American technology satellite. One launch, 1971.08.07. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology. More...
  • Gridsphere American technology satellite. 2 launches, 1971.08.07 (Gridsphere 1) and (Gridsphere 2). Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology. 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...
  • ASTEX American technology satellite. One launch, 1971.10.17. Space Test Program; technology experiments. More...
  • NOSS American military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. 22 launches, 1971.12.14 (OPS 7898 P/L 1) to 1993.08.02 (TLD). Ocean surveillance; aka White Cloud type spacecraft; Navy Ocean Surveillance Satellite; PARCAE. More...
  • TD-1A European technology satellite. One launch, 1972.03.12. Sixth satellite of ESRO. 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...
  • TIP American navigation satellite. 6 launches, 1972.09.02 (Triad 1) to 1988.06.16 (Nova 2). More...
  • Radsat American military technology satellite. One launch, 1972.10.02. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology. 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...
  • Miranda British technology satellite. One launch, 1974.03.09. Satellite technology. Anticipated life: longer than 50 years. More...
  • Hawkeye American solar satellite. One launch, 1974.06.03, Explorer 52. Solar wind experiments. Follow-on to Injun. More...
  • NTS American navigation technology satellite. 2 launches, 1974.07.14 (NTS 1) and 1977.06.23 (NTS 2). Demonstrated navigation technologies. 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...
  • ANS Dutch visible astronomy satellite. One launch, 1974.08.30. Astronomical Netherlands Satellite; lower than planned orbit. More...
  • Intasat Spanish communications technology satellite. One launch, 1974.11.15. Spanish communications satellite. More...
  • P 72 American military technology satellite. One launch, 1975.04.13. Unknown satellite lost on a single Atlas launch failure. Evidently not repeated. More...
  • COS European technology satellite. One launch, 1975.08.09. CERS/ESRO satellite, first European Space Agency satellite. More...
  • DAD American earth atmosphere satellite. 2 launches, 1975.12.06 (DAD-B) and (DAD-B). Dual Air Density; air density experiments. More...
  • NOSS-Subsat American military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. 27 launches, 1976.04.30 (SSU 1 (NOSS 1)) to 1996.05.12 (USA 121). Detected the location of naval vessels using radio interferometry. 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...
  • P 76 American communications technology satellite. One launch, 1976.05.22. Communications propagation experiments. More...
  • SDS American military communications satellite. 7 launches, 1976.06.02 (SDS no. 1) to 1987.02.12 (USA 21). SDS satellites, put into Molniya-type orbits, provided data relay services for optical reconnaissance and other military spacecraft. 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...
  • KH-11 American military surveillance satellite. 9 launches, 1976.12.19 (KH-11 no. 1) to 1988.11.06 (USA 33). Also known as Kennan, Program 1010. Used systems developed for KH-10 Manned Orbiting Laboratory. More...
  • GPS Block 1 American navigation satellite. 11 launches, 1978.02.22 (Navstar 1) to 1985.10.09 (USA 10). GPS Block 1 prototype satellites formed the GPS Demonstration system and were followed by the Block 2 operational system. More...
  • PIX American technology satellite. One launch, 1978.03.05. Plasma Interaction Experiment. 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...
  • CAMEO American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1978.10.13. Released barium cloud. 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...
  • 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...
  • Magsat American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1979.10.30. Measured near-Earth magnetic field and crustal anomalies. More...
  • LIPS American tether technology satellite. 3 launches, 1980.12.09 (LIPS 1) to 1987.05.15 (LIPS 3). 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...
  • MicroSat SSTL British technology satellite. 3 launches, 1981.10.06 (CERISE) to 1990.01.22 (Oscar 14). Original version of the Surrey Microsat bus. More...
  • SME American solar satellite. One launch, 1981.10.06. The Solar Mesosphere Explorer satellite was developed to investigate the processes that create and destroy ozone in the Earth's upper atmosphere. More...
  • Landsat 4-5 American earth land resources satellite. 2 launches, 1982.07.16 (Landsat 4) to 1984.03.01 (Landsat 5). 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...
  • IRAS American infrared astronomy satellite. 2 launches, 1983.01.26 (IRAS) and (PIX 2). All-sky survey of astronomical IR bodies. More...
  • Exosat European x-ray astronomy satellite. One launch, 1983.05.26. EXOSAT was a space research satellite of the European Space Agency. 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...
  • Singleton American military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. 3 launches, 1988.09.05 (USA 32) to 1992.04.25 (USA 81). Signals intelligence satellite; possibly some kind of imaging also done. On-board propulsion boosts spacecraft to 800 km operating orbit. More...
  • Lacrosse American military side-looking radar all-weather surveillance radar satellite. Operational, first launch 1988.12.02. More...
  • SDS-2 American military communications satellite. 4 launches, 1989.08.08 (USA 40) to 1996.07.03 (USA 125). More...
  • COBE American infrared astronomy satellite. One launch, 1989.11.18. More...
  • Misty American nuclear detection surveillance satellite. 2 launches, 1990.02.28 (USA 53) to 1999.05.22 (USA 144). More...
  • Stacksat P87-2 American technology satellite. 3 launched, 1990.04.11 (USA 56) to (USA 58). The U. S. military's STACKSAT mission involved the launch of three similar spacecraft, POGS, TEX and SCE. More...
  • MACSAT American military communications satellite. 2 launches, 1990.05.09 (Macsat 1; M-1) and (Macsat 2; M-2). More...
  • NOSS-2 American military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. 5 launches, 1990.06.08 (USA 59) to 1996.05.12 (USA 122). New generation of NOSS naval reconnaissance satellites. More...
  • NOSS-2 subsatellite American military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. 6 launches, 1990.06.08 (USA 60) to 1991.11.08 (USA 77). 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...
  • SAMPEX American earth magnetosphere satellite. One launch, 1992.07.03. More...
  • MSTI American military strategic defense satellite. 3 launches, 1992.11.21 (MSTI) to 1996.05.17 (MSTI-3). BMDO technology demonstration; Miniature Seeker Technology Demonstration. More...
  • Improved Crystal American military surveillance satellite. Operational, first launch 1992.11.28. Improved CRYSTAL was an optical reconnaissance satellite built for the US National Reconnaissance Office. Prime contractor was thought to be Lockheed. More...
  • Radcal American military target satellite. One launch, 1993.06.25. Radar calibration. 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...
  • ISAS Interstage Adapter Subsystem, consisting of the STAR-37M solid rocket motor, the Interstage Adapter for Clementine, and radiation detectors. It transmitted radiation data on the Van Allen Radiation belts for three months. American military technology satellite. One launch, 1994.01.25. More...
  • Clementine American lunar orbiter. One launch, 1994.01.25. Clementine was jointly sponsored by BMDO and NASA as the Deep Space Program Science Experiment (DSPSE). More...
  • DARPASAT American technology satellite. One launch, 1994.03.13, USA 102. GPS receiver and data processor technology tests. More...
  • TAOS American military strategic defense satellite. One launch, 1994.03.13, USA 101. TAOS was a technology demonstration satellite whose purpose was to demonstrate autonomous space navigation systems to reduce satellite ground support needs. More...
  • Microstar American communications technology satellite. 22 launches, 1995.04.03 (Orbcomm F1) to 2008.10.19 (Formosat 3F). Small satellite bus, specially designed for multiple launch by Pegasus or Taurus family launch vehicles. More...
  • GemStar American communications satellite. One launch, 1995.08.15. Global Electronic Messaging Satellite. 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...
  • SURFSAT-1 American technology satellite. One launch, 1995.11.04, SURFSAT. SURFSAT-1 was a small satellite built by undergraduate college students and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory to support experiments by NASA's Deep Space Network. 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...
  • MSX American military strategic defense satellite. One launch, 1996.04.24. More...
  • TiPS American tether technology satellite. 3 launches, 1996.05.12 (USA 123) to 1998.10.03 (USA 141). The 53 kg satellite consisted of 2 end masses connected by a 4 km tether. NRO (the National Reconnaissance Office) provided funding for the TiPS project. More...
  • LM 700 American communications satellite. 98 launches, 1997.05.05 (Iridium 8) to 2002.06.20 (Iridium SV98 ). The LM 700 had its first use in the Iridium system, a commercial communications network comprised of a minimum of 66 LEO spacecraft. 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...
  • Celestis American burial satellite. 4 launches, 1998.02.10 (Celestis-02) to 2008.08.03 (Celestis-4). Celestis offers the loved ones of the space-smitten deceases the opportunity to have (a portion) of their cremains put into orbit. 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...
  • STEX American tether technology satellite. One launch, 1998.10.03. STEX's (Space Technology EXperiments) main equipment was provided by the Naval Research Laboratory. 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...
  • Sunsat South African technology satellite. One launch, 1999.02.23. Sunsat was built by students at Stellenbosch University, South Africa and carried a small imager and a message relay payload. More...
  • ARGOS American ion engine technology satellite. One launch, 1999.02.23. ARGOS was the USAF Space Test Program P91-1 technology satellite by Boeing/Seal Beach. 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...
  • Ikonos American civilian surveillance satellite. 2 launches, 1999.04.27 (Ikonos 1) and 1999.09.24 (Ikonos). The first high resolution commercial imaging satellite. 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...
  • 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...
  • ACRIMSAT American solar satellite. One launch, 1999.12.21. The NASA ACRIMSAT satellite was managed by JPL, and measured the integrated solar energy output from 0.2 to 2 microns. ACRIMSAT was built by Orbital Sciences. More...
  • KOMPSAT South Korean communications technology satellite. One launch, 1999.12.21. KOMPSAT was the first joint spacecraft development project for the South Korean aerospace agency KARI (Korea Aerospace Research Institute). More...
  • FalconSat American technology satellite. 3 launches, 2000.01.27 (Falconsat) to 2007.03.09 (Falconsat-3). The JAWSAT/FalconSat payloads were developed as a joint effort between the Air Force Academy and Weber State University. More...
  • MEMS American communications technology satellite. 2 launches, 2000.01.27 (Picosat 1) to (Picosat 2). DARPA/Aerospace Corp. MEMS (Micro Electro-mechanical Systems) were 0. More...
  • OPAL American technology satellite. One launch, 2000.01.27. Stanford University Orbiting Picosat Automated Launcher. More...
  • JAWSAT American technology satellite. One launch, 2000.01.27. The JAWSAT/FalconSat payloads are being developed as a joint effort between the Air Force Academy and Weber State University. More...
  • STENSAT American technology satellite. One launch, 2000.01.27. Picosat built by built by the AMSAT-NA (Amateur Satellite, North America) group, and carried an amateur radio transponder. More...
  • OCSE American technology satellite. One launch, 2000.01.27. Optical Calibration Sphere Experiment, a 3.5m diameter inflatable sphere built by L'Garde Inc. for calibrating the lasers at the AFRL Starfire Optical Range. More...
  • ASUSAT American technology satellite. One launch, 2000.01.27. Arizona State University satellite with an Earth imager and an amateur radio transponder. More...
  • JAK American technology satellite, launched, 2000.01.27. Three picosatellites (JAK, Thelma, and Louise), developed by the Artemis team of women undergraduates at Santa Clara University, were deployed from the OPAL satellite. More...
  • MTI American military surveillance satellite. One launch, 2000.03.12. The Multispectral Thermal Imager (MTI) was a space-based research and development project sponsored by the U. More...
  • IMAGE American solar satellite. One launch, 2000.03.25. The IMAGE spacecraft imaged remote particle populations in the magnetosphere. More...
  • SA-200 The Spectrum Astro SA-200 satellite bus provided a flexible platform for satellites launched by the Pegasus booster. 4 launches, 2000.07.19 (Mightysat 2.1) to 2009.05.05. More...
  • Munin Swedish technology satellite. One launch, 2000.11.21. Small 6 kg Munin nanosatellite was built by Swedish students in collaboration with the Swedish Institute for Space Physics (IRF) and carried a particle detector, a spectrometer, and an auroral camera. 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...
  • 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...
  • Picosat American tether technology satellite. One launch, 2001.09.07. Picosat 7/Picosat 8 were ejected from the Mightysat II.1 satellite. The 0.25 kg satellites were connected by a 30 m tether and were deployed a year after launch. More...
  • NOSS-3 American military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Operational, first launch 2001.09.08. More...
  • SBD American technology satellite. One launch, 2001.09.21. SBD, the Orbital Corporation Special Bus Design, was a 73 kg test version of an enlarged Microstar bus. More...
  • Orbview American civilian surveillance satellite. 2 launches, 2001.09.21 (Orbview-4) and 2003.06.26 (Orbview 3). More...
  • QuickBird American civilian surveillance satellite. One launch, 2001.10.18. The QuickBird commercial imaging satellite was owned by DigitalGlobe (formerly EarthWatch) and used a Ball BCP2000 bus with a launch mass of 1028 kg and a dry mass of about 995 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...
  • TIMED American solar satellite. One launch, 2001.12.07. TIMED was the first NASA Solar Terrestrial Probe, operated by Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab to study the thermosphere, mesosphere and lower ionosphere. 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...
  • ICESat American earth land resources satellite. One launch, 2003.01.13. More...
  • CHIPSat American ultraviolet astronomy satellite. One launch, 2003.01.13. NASA's Cosmic Hot Interstellar Plasma Spectrometer (CHIPS) mission used the CHIPSat bus. More...
  • XSS American rendezvous technology satellite. 2 launches, 2003.01.29 (XSS-10) and 2005.04.11 (USA 165). 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...
  • 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...
  • 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...
  • Calipso American earth weather satellite. One launch, 2006.04.28. More...
  • Cloudsat American earth weather satellite. One launch, 2006.04.28. More...
  • Jumpseat-2 American military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. 2 launches, 2006.06.25 (USA 200) to 2008.03.13 (USA 200). More...
  • USA 193 American military technology satellite. One launch, 2006.12.14, US shoots down failed USA 193 satellite.. Classifed NRO mission of uncertain objectives, possibly military observation with a mixed payload. More...
  • RS-300 American technology satellite bus, first launched 2007.03.09. Ball Aerospace's RS-300 was a small, low-cost spacecraft aimed at cost-capped principle investigator led missions for Earth or space science. More...
  • Cosmo-SkyMed Italian military surveillance radar satellite. Constellation of four satellites launched 2007.06.08 - 2010.11.06. More...
  • WorldView American civilian surveillance satellite. First launch 2007.09.18. DigitalGlobe's WorldView satellite provided highly detailed imagery for precise map creation, change detection and in-depth image analysis. More...
See also
  • Aerobee In late 1945 James Van Allen was assigned by John Hopkins University to survey sounding rocket requirements for upper atmosphere research. The V-2 was found to be too heavy and complex. In 1946 Van Allen decided that what was needed was a small rocket, derived from the Aerojet Wac Corporal and the Bumblebee missile developed under a US Navy program. This combination of an Aerojet booster and a Bumblebee second stage was dubbed the Aerobee. More...
  • AMROC The AMROC corporation proposed to develop low-cost hybrid-propulsion orbital launch vehicles in the 1980's. Actual flight hardware did not go beyond a small test vehicle. More...
  • Arcas The Arcas (All-Purpose Rocket for Collecting Atmospheric Soundings) was developed by the Atlantic Research Corporation for the Office of Naval Research (ONR) with the support of the Navy Bureau of Aeronautics and the Air Force Cambridge Research Laboratories. Primarily a meteorological rocket, the Arcas was first fired in July 1959. The single-stage version was designed to lift 5.4 kg to 64 km. For more demanding missions, several versions of boosted Arcas were developed, as well as a stretched Super Arcas motor. More...
  • Asp Sounding rocket (Atmospheric Sounding Projectile) originally designed against a US Navy Bureeau of Ships requirement to sample the mushroom clouds of nuclear explosions. Developed by Cooper Development Corporation for the Naval Radiological Defense Laboratory. Flight test in 1956. Designed to lift 13.6 kg to 40 km. More...
  • Astrobee Aerojet-designed family of sounding rockets conceived as a lower-cost replacement of the liquid-propellant Aerobee. More...
  • Athena Privately funded family of solid propellant satellite launch vehicles. Originally known as LMLV (Lockheed-Martin Launch Vehicle); LLV (Lockheed Launch Vehicle). Sales did not develop as hoped by the company after the MEO-satellite bubble burst in the 1990's. More...
  • Atlas The Atlas rocket, originally developed as America's first ICBM, was the basis for most early American space exploration and was that country's most successful medium-lift commercial launch vehicle. It launched America's first astronaut into orbit; the first generations of spy satellites; the first lunar orbiters and landers; the first probes to Venus, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, and Saturn; and was America's most successful commercial launcher of communications satellites. Its innovative stage-and-a-half and 'balloon tank' design provided the best dry-mass fraction of any launch vehicle ever built. It was retired in 2004 after 576 launches in a 47-year career. More...
  • Atlas V The Atlas V launch vehicle system was a completely new design that succeeded the earlier Atlas series. Atlas V vehicles were based on the 3.8-m (12.5-ft) diameter Common Core Booster (CCB) powered by a single Russian RD-180 engine. These could be clustered together, and complemented by a Centaur upper stage, and up to five solid rocket boosters, to achieve a wide range of performance. More...
  • Black Brant The Black Brant originated in a 1957 Canadian government requirement for a sounding rocket to characterize the ionosphere in order to improve military communications. Bristol Aerospace of Winnipeg, Manitoba was selected to design the rocket, while the Canadian Armament Research and Development Establishment (CARDE) was responsible for the propellant and filling. The lighter production version of the vehicle was renamed Black Brant. Later versions of Black Brant used a variety of booster and upper stages to supplement the original single-stage vehicle. More...
  • Bomarc Bomarc Mach 3 ramjet surface to air missile; the only surface-to-air missile ever deployed by the US Air Force. Its development in the 1950's played an important role in technological base for later missiles and launch vehicles. More...
  • Cajun The Cajun research rocket was developed as a dimensionally-similar but higher performance successor to the Deacon. More...
  • Deacon The Deacon was an advanced solid rocket motor design cancelled at the end of World War II. In 1947 NACA began using reworked surplus motors to boost instrumented subscale aircraft models to speeds of up to Mach 4. They became a workhorse for the Agency's aerodynamic research, resulting in new production. Thousands were flown, until, by the end of the 1950's, supersonic wind tunnels took over the job. More...
  • Delta IV The Delta IV was the world's first all-Lox/LH2 launch vehicle and represented the only all-new-technology launch vehicle developed in the United States since the 1970's. It was the winner of the bulk of the USAF EELV orders and was based on the all-new RS-68-powered Lox/LH2 cryogenic Common Booster Core (CBC). This could be used with new Delta cryogenic upper stages powered by the RL10 engine but unrelated to previous Centaur upper stages. More...
  • Delta The Delta launch vehicle was America's longest-lived, most reliable, and lowest-cost space launch vehicle. Development began in 1955 and it continued in service in the 21st Century despite numerous candidate replacements. More...
  • Honest John Unguided single-stage solid-propellant US Army missile developed by Douglas Aircraft. It was later used as the booster stage for a range of sounding rockets, test vehicles, and targets. More...
  • Hopi The Hopi-Dart vehicle consisted of a Hopi III booster as first stage, and an unpowered dart as second stage. A boosted version of the configuration used a Kiva motor as the first stage. More...
  • Javelin The four-stage Javelin rocket was originally known as the Argo D-4 and was developed by the Air Force to replace its Jason rocket with the mission of measuring radiation in space after high-altitude nuclear explosions. It was subsequently used by NASA for a variety of high-altitude near-space scientific experiments. More...
  • Minotaur Minotaur was developed for the US Air Force's Orbital/Suborbital Program (OSP) as a low-cost, four-stage Space Launch Vehicle (SLV) using a combination of government-supplied surplus Minuteman II ICBM motors and proven Orbital space launch technologies. Proposed growth versions would use surplus Peacekeeper rocket stages. More...
  • Minuteman Mainstay of the US deterrent. 1,000 Minuteman silos were built in the early 1960's, and the missile was to remain in service to the mid-21st Century. As versions were retired and updated, they provided a plentiful source of surplus rocket motors for other projects. More...
  • Pegasus Privately-funded, air-launched winged light satellite launcher. More...
  • R-17 The final refinement of the R-11 design, the R-17, was exported widely and became infamous around the world by its ASCC reporting name - "Scud". It was perhaps the most famous ballistic missile of the post-war period due to its use in the Iran-Iraq 'War of the Cities' and the Gulf War. This was the definitive production version of what was essentially a storable-propellant rocket with the performance of the V-2. More...
  • Scout Solid-fuel, light payload, lower-cost launch vehicle developed by the Air Force and NASA in the late 1950's and used in a variety of configurations over thirty years. Launched from Cape Canaveral, Vandenberg, Wallops Island, and from Italy's equatorial San Marco platform off Kenya. Italy studied but did not develop subsequent upgraded versions. More...
  • Sergeant Single-stage solid-propulsion tactical ballistic missile developed for the US Army. Surplus rockets and the Sergeant's rocket motor (known commercially as Castor) became the basis for many sounding rockets. More...
  • Taurus Pad-launched launch vehicle using Pegasus upper stages and Castor-120 first stage. More...
  • Terrier Standard US Navy surface-to-air missile developed during the 1950's. Modified single stage Navy Terrier missiles were used as sounding rockets, sometimes supplemented with upper stages. More...
  • Titan The Titan launch vehicle family was developed by the United States Air Force to meet its medium lift requirements in the 1960's. The designs finally put into production were derived from the Titan II ICBM. Titan outlived the competing NASA Saturn I launch vehicle and the Space Shuttle for military launches. It was finally replaced by the USAF's EELV boosters, the Atlas V and Delta IV. Although conceived as a low-cost, quick-reaction system, Titan was not successful as a commercial launch vehicle. Air Force requirements growth over the years drove its costs up - the Ariane using similar technology provided lower-cost access to space. More...
  • Trident US Navy submarine-launched ballistic missiles, which superseded the Polaris. More...
  • Viper Single stage sounding rocket developed as a follow-on to the Loki-Dart. More...
Associated Launch Vehicles
  • Bomarc USAF Mach 3 ramjet surface-to-air missile; later converted to target missiles and launched from Vandenberg AFB. More...
  • Nike Cajun American sounding rocket. Two stage vehicle sounding rocket consisting of a Nike booster together with a Cajun upper stage. Aside from the Soviet MMR-06, the Nike-Cajun was the most often launched sounding rocket. The Cajun motor was developed for NASA in the 1950's by Thiokol, providing a more modern but still affordable replacement for the World War II-era Deacon. More...
  • Nike Asp American sounding rocket. Rail-launched vehicle consisting of an Asp plus a Nike booster. This product of the Cooper Development Corporation was designed to lift 27 kg to 260 km. An improved version, the Aspan 300, was also developed.The Nike-Asp was sometimes ship-launched. More...
  • HJ Nike Nike American sounding rocket. Three stage vehicle consisting of 1 x M-6 + 1 x Nike + 1 x Nike More...
  • Arcas American sounding rocket. The Arcas (All-Purpose Rocket for Collecting Atmospheric Soundings) was developed by the Atlantic Research Corporation for the Office of Naval Research (ONR) with the support of the Navy Bureau of Aeronautics and the Air Force Cambridge Research Laboratories. Primarily a meteorological rocket, the Arcas was first fired in July 1959. The single-stage version was designed to lift 5.4 kg to 64 km. For more demanding missions, several versions of boosted Arcas were developed, as well as a stretched Super Arcas motor. More...
  • Thor Agena A American orbital launch vehicle. Two stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Thor DM-18A + 1 x Agena A More...
  • Titan 1 American intercontinental ballistic missile. ICBM, built as back-up to Atlas, using two stages instead of one and a half, and conventional tank construction in lieu of balloon tanks. It was also to have been used for suborbital tests of the X-20A Dynasoar manned space plane. For unknown reasons never refurbished for use as space launcher and scrapped after being replaced by the Titan II in the missile role in mid-1960's. More...
  • Atlas D American intercontinental ballistic missile. Rocket used both as a space launcher and ICBM. More...
  • Minuteman 1A American intercontinental ballistic missile. Initial production version, 3 stage vehicle. The Minuteman IA used exclusively the Mk.5 RV with the W59 (1 MT) warhead. More...
  • Terrier Asp American sounding rocket. Two stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Terrier + 1 x Asp More...
  • Nike Viper I American sounding rocket. Two stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Nike + 1 x Viper I More...
  • Atlas Agena A American orbital launch vehicle. Atlas D + 1 x Agena A upper stage. Agena originally called 'Hustler', based on engine for cancelled rocket-propelled nuclear warhead pod for B-58 Hustler bomber. More...
  • Thor Able-Star American orbital launch vehicle. As Thor Able but with enlarged Ablestar second stage with 2 1/2 x greater burn time. More...
  • Kiva/Hopi American sounding rocket. Two stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Kiva + 1 x Hopi More...
  • Caleb American air-launched orbital launch vehicle. Heavily classifed project related to air-launched ASAT development. Launch tests in 1958. NOTS project staff believed they successully orbited a satellite but unconfirmed. More...
  • Journeyman American sounding rocket. Five stage vehicle of the Argo series consisting of 2 x Recruit + 1 x Sergeant + 1 x Lance + 1 x Lance + 1 x Altair More...
  • Blue Scout Jr American suborbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Castor + 1 x Antares + 1 x Alcor + 1 x Cetus More...
  • Atlas E American intercontinental ballistic missile. Initial fully operational version of Atlas ICBM. Differed in guidance system from Atlas F. Deployed as missiles from 1960 to 1966. After retirement, the ICBM's were refurbished and used over twenty years as space launch vehicles. More...
  • Thor Agena B American orbital launch vehicle. Two stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Thor DM-21 + 1 x Agena B More...
  • Astrobee 1500 American sounding rocket. Three stage vehicle consisting of 2 x Recruit + 1 x Aerojet Jr + 1 x Alcor More...
  • Astrobee 200 American sounding rocket. Two stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Genie + 1 x Alcor More...
  • Atlas Agena B American orbital launch vehicle. Atlas D with improved, enlarged Agena upper stage. More...
  • Atlas F American intercontinental ballistic missile. 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 for over thirty years as space launch vehicles. More...
  • Terrier Asp IV American sounding rocket. Two stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Terrier + 1 x Asp IV More...
  • Titan 2 American intercontinental ballistic missile. ICBM, developed also as the launch vehicle for the manned Gemini spacecraft in the early 1960's. When the ICBM's were retired in the 1980's they were refurbished and a new series of launches began. More...
  • Scout X-2 American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Algol 1D + 1 x Castor + 1 x Antares 2 + 1 x Altair More...
  • Scout X-2M American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Algol 1D + 1 x Castor + 1 x Antares 2 + 1 x MG-18 More...
  • Black Brant 3 Canadian sounding rocket. Single stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Black Brant IIIA or IIIB. More...
  • Thor Agena D American orbital launch vehicle. Two stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Thor DM-21 + 1 x Agena D More...
  • Minuteman 1B American intercontinental ballistic missile. Full production version. Minuteman IB used the Mk.5 RV with the W59 (1 MT), the Mk.11 with the W56 (1.2 MT) and the Mk.11A with the W56 as well. More...
  • Scout X-3 American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Algol 2A + 1 x Castor + 1 x Antares 2 + 1 x Altair More...
  • Scout X-3M American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Algol 2A + 1 x Castor + 1 x Antares 2 + 1 x MG-18 More...
  • Nike Javelin American sounding rocket. Two stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Nike + 1 x Javelin More...
  • Scout X-4 American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Algol 2A + 1 x Castor + 1 x Antares 2 + 1 x Altair 2 More...
  • Atlas Agena D American orbital launch vehicle. Atlas D with further improved and lightened Agena upper stage. More...
  • Scout X-2B American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Algol 1D + 1 x Castor + 1 x Antares 2 + 1 x Altair 2 More...
  • Minuteman 2 American intercontinental ballistic missile. US ICBM. 3 stage vehicle. The LGM-30F Minuteman II used the W56 warhead exclusively with either the Mk. 11B or Mk. 11C re-entry vehicle. More...
  • Thor MG-18 American orbital launch vehicle. Two stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Thor DM-18A + 1 x MG-18 More...
  • Thor Burner 1 American orbital launch vehicle. Two stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Thor DM-18A + 1 x FW4S More...
  • Scout B American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Algol 2B + 1 x Castor 2 + 1 x Antares 2 + 1 x FW4S More...
  • Delta E American orbital launch vehicle. Thor augmented with 3 x Castor 2 motors with Delta E and Altair 2 upper stage. More...
  • Scout A American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. All-solid low cost lightweight launch vehicle. More...
  • Atlas SLV-3 American orbital launch vehicle. Standardized Atlas booster with no or small solid upper stage. More...
  • Delta E1 American orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 3 x Castor + 1 x Thor DSV-2C + 1 x Delta E + 1 x FW4D More...
  • Titan 3B American orbital launch vehicle. Titan core with Agena upper stage. Found to be more cost effective and higher performance than using Transtage. More...
  • Thor Burner 2 American orbital launch vehicle. Two stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Thor DM-18A + 1 x Star 37B More...
  • Castor American suborbital launch vehicle. Single stage version. More...
  • Delta J American orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 3 x Castor + 1 x Thor DSV-2C + 1 x Delta E + 1 x Star 37D More...
  • Minuteman 3 American four-stage solid-propellant intercontinental ballistic missile. In the 21st Century, the sole remaining US ICBM. More...
  • Delta N American orbital launch vehicle. Long Tank Thor augmented with 3 Castor 2 boosters and Delta E upper stage. More...
  • Aerobee 170 American sounding rocket. Two stage sounding rocket consisting of a solid Nike booster paired with an Aerobee 150 liquid-propellant second stage. More...
  • Thorad Agena D SLV-2H Thor Agena upgraded with Long Tank Thor stage. Variant with straight tank from Delta was Thorad (Long Tank Augmented Thrust Thor Delta) More...
  • Thorad Agena D SLV-2H Thor Agena upgraded with Long Tank Thor stage. Variant with straight tank from Delta was Thorad (Long Tank Augmented Thrust Thor Delta) More...
  • Delta L American orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 3 x Castor 2 + 1 x LT Thor DSV-2L-1B + 1 x Delta E + 1 x FW4D More...
  • Delta N6 American orbital launch vehicle. Three stage vehicle consisting of 6 x Castor 2 + 1 x LT Thor DSV-2L-1C + 1 x Delta E More...
  • Titan 23B American orbital launch vehicle. Basic Titan 3A core, originally developed for Titan 3C, with Agena D upper stage replacing Transtage. New radio guidance system, 1.5 m diameter fairing atop Agena. Payload remained attached to the Agena. More...
  • Titan 33B American orbital launch vehicle. Basic Titan 3A core, except guidance provided by the Agena upper stage. The Agena and its payload were completely enclosed in a new 3.05 m diameter shroud. 'Ascent Agena' seperated after orbital insertion and did not remain attached to the payload. More...
  • Titan 3D American orbital launch vehicle. Titan 3C without transtage. More...
  • Titan 24B American orbital launch vehicle. Stretched first stage, originally developed for the cancelled MOL program, with Agena D upper stage. Radio guidance system, 1.5 m diameter fairing atop Agena. Payload remained attached to the Agena. More...
  • Scout B-1 American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Algol 2C + 1 x Castor 2 + 1 x Antares 2 + 1 x Star 20 More...
  • Thor Burner 2A American orbital launch vehicle. Three stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Thor DM-18A + 1 x Star 37B + 1 x Star 26B More...
  • Ute Tomahawk American sounding rocket. The Ute (TU-715) motor was developed from the Genie motor baseline to serve as a first stage booster in the Ute-Tomahawk sounding rocket vehicle. 2 stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Ute + 1 x Tomahawk More...
  • Delta 0900 American orbital launch vehicle. Three stage vehicle consisting of 9 x Castor 2 + 1 x LT Thor DSV-2L-1C + 1 x DSV-3N-4 More...
  • Scout D-1 American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Algol 3A + 1 x Castor 2 + 1 x Antares 2 + 1 x Star 20 More...
  • Delta 0300 American orbital launch vehicle. Three stage vehicle consisting of 3 x Castor 2 + 1 x LT Thor DSV-2L-1C + 1 x DSV-3N-4 More...
  • Scout A-1 American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Algol 2C + 1 x Castor 2 + 1 x Antares 2 + 1 x Altair 2 More...
  • Delta 1900 American orbital launch vehicle. Three stage vehicle consisting of 9 x Castor 2 + 1 x ELT Thor/MB-3 + 1 x Delta F More...
  • Scout E-1 American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Five stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Algol 3A + 1 x Castor 2 + 1 x Antares 2 + 1 x FW4S + 1 x BE-3 More...
  • Delta 2310 American orbital launch vehicle. Three stage vehicle consisting of 3 x Castor 2 + 1 x ELT Thor/RS-27 + 1 x Delta P /TR-201 More...
  • Delta 2910 American orbital launch vehicle. Three stage vehicle consisting of 9 x Castor 2 + 1 x ELT Thor/RS-27 + 1 x Delta P /TR-201 More...
  • Titan 34B American orbital launch vehicle. Stretched Titan core, originally developed for Titan 3M MOL, with Agena D upper stage. Guidance provided by the Agena upper stage. The Agena and its payload were completely enclosed in a 3.05 m diameter shroud. 'Ascent Agena' seperated after orbital insertion and did not remain attached to the payload. More...
  • Delta 1410 American orbital launch vehicle. Three stage vehicle consisting of 4 x Castor 2 + 1 x ELT Thor/MB-3 + 1 x Delta P /TR-201 More...
  • Scout F American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Algol 3A + 1 x Castor 2 + 1 x Antares 2B + 1 x Star 20 More...
  • Delta 2913 American orbital launch vehicle. Three stage vehicle consisting of 9 x Castor 2 + 1 x ELT Thor/RS-27 + 1 x Delta P /TR-201 + 1 x Star 37D More...
  • Delta 3914 American orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 9 x Castor 4 + 1 x ELT Thor/RS-27 + 1 x Delta P /TR-201 + 1 x Star 37E More...
  • Atlas F/SVS American orbital launch vehicle. Atlas F + 1 x Star 37E + 1 x Star 37E upper stages. More...
  • Scout G American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 1 x Algol 3A + 1 x Castor 2 + 1 x Antares 3 + 1 x Star 20 More...
  • Delta 3910 American orbital launch vehicle. Three stage vehicle consisting of 9 x Castor 4 + 1 x ELT Thor/RS-27 + 1 x Delta P /TR-201 More...
  • Delta 3913 American orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 9 x Castor 4 + 1 x ELT Thor/RS-27 + 1 x Delta P /TR-201 + 1 x Star 37N More...
  • Atlas E/SVS American orbital launch vehicle. Atlas E + 1 x Star 37E + 1 x Star 37E upper stages. More...
  • Delta 3920 American orbital launch vehicle. Three stage vehicle consisting of 9 x Castor 4A + 1 x ELT Thor/RS-27 + 1 x Delta K More...
  • Atlas H American orbital launch vehicle. Atlas H used the Atlas first stage developed for the Atlas G vehicle. It was flown without the Centaur upper stage. More...
  • Peacekeeper American intercontinental ballistic missile. 10 nuclear MIRV warheads. In service 1986-2004. More...
  • Titan 34D American orbital launch vehicle. Stretched Titan core designed for use with 5 1/2 segment solid rocket motors. IUS (Interim/Inertial Upper Stage) solid upper stages, Transtage, or used without upper stages. More...
  • Atlas E/SGS-2 American orbital launch vehicle. Atlas E + 1 x Star 48 + 1 x Star 48 upper stages. More...
  • Trident D-5 American intercontinental range, submarine-launched ballistic missile. Deployed March 1990 aboard the new Ohio-class submarines. 336 remain in service in the 2010's as America's seaborne nuclear deterrent. More...
  • Titan 2G American intercontinental ballistic orbital launch vehicle. Space launch version, obtained through minimal refurbishment of decommissioned ICBM's. More...
  • SICBM American mobile small intercontinental ballistic missile. Developed 1986-1991, but cancelled as unnecessary at the end of the Cold War. More...
  • AMROC IRR American low cost orbital launch vehicle. Single stage vehicle. More...
  • Delta 5920-8 American orbital launch vehicle. Three stage vehicle consisting of 9 x Castor 4A + 1 x ELT Thor/RS-27 + 1 x Delta K with 2.4 m (8 foot) diameter fairing) More...
  • Titan 403A American orbital launch vehicle. Version of Titan 4 with no upper stage, configured for launch of lower-mass, higher-orbit Lacrosse, SDS and NOSS-2 payloads from Vandenberg. More...
  • Titan 404A American orbital launch vehicle. Version of Titan 4 with no upper stage, configured for launch of heavy-weight, low altitude KH-12 and Improved CRYSTAL payloads from Vandenberg. More...
  • Atlas IIAS American orbital launch vehicle. The Atlas II booster was 2.7-meters longer than the Atlas I and included uprated Rocketdyne MA-5A engines. The Atlas I vernier engines were replaced with a hydrazine roll control system. The Centaur stage was stretched 0.9-meters compared to the Centaur I stage. Fixed foam insulation replaced Atlas I's jettisonable insulation panels. Higher performance RL10A-4 or RL10A-4-1 engines replaced Atlas II's RL10A-3-3A. The Atlas IIAS model added four Thiokol Castor IVA solid rocket boosters (SRBs) to the core Atlas stage to augment thrust for the first two minutes of flight. More...
  • Astrid American test vehicle. Single stage vehicle to demonstrate laser-pumped propulsion. More...
  • ARPA Taurus American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Four stage version consisting of 1 x TU-904 + 1 x Orion 50 + 1 x Orion 50 + 1 x Orion 38 More...
  • Taurus American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Pad-launched launch vehicle using Pegasus upper stages and Castor-120 first stage. First launch used slightly larger Peacekeeper ICBM first stage instead of Castor-120. Under a 2002 contract from Boeing, Orbital developed a three-stage version of Taurus to serve as the interceptor boost vehicles for the US government's missile intercept system. The firm portion of the company's contract, awarded in early 2002, was valued at $450 million and extended through 2007. More...
  • Delta 7925-10 American orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 9 x GEM-40 + 1 x EELT Thor/RS-27A + 1 x Delta K + 1 x Star 48B with 3.05 m (10 foot) diameter fairing More...
  • Athena-1 American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Basic version of the Athena with a Castor 120 first stage, Orbus second stage, and OAM Orbital Adjustment Module. More...
  • Delta 7920-X Three stage vehicle consisting of 9 x GEM-40 + 1 x EELT Thor/RS-27A + 1 x Delta K with 3.05 m (10 foot) diameter fairing More...
  • Delta 7920-X Three stage vehicle consisting of 9 x GEM-40 + 1 x EELT Thor/RS-27A + 1 x Delta K with 3.05 m (10 foot) diameter fairing More...
  • Delta 7920-XC Three stage vehicle consisting of 9 x GEM-40 + 1 x EELT Thor/RS-27A + 1 x Delta K with 3.05 m (10 foot) diameter composite fairing More...
  • Athena-2 American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. The Athena-2 version featured a Castor 120 first stage, Castor 120 second stage, Orbus third stage, and OAM Orbital Adjustment Module. More...
  • Delta 7420-XC Three stage vehicle consisting of 4 x GEM-40 + 1 x EELT Thor/RS-27A + 1 x Delta K with 3.05 m (10 foot) diameter composite fairing More...
  • Delta 7326-9.5 American orbital launch vehicle. Four stage vehicle consisting of 3 x GEM-40 + 1 x EELT Thor/RS-27A + 1 x Delta K + 1 x Star 37FM with 2.9 m (9.5 foot) diameter fairing) More...
  • Titan 404B American orbital launch vehicle. Version of Titan 4B with no upper stage, configured for launch from Vandenberg. More...
  • Delta 7320-10 American orbital launch vehicle. Three stage vehicle consisting of 3 x GEM-40 + 1 x EELT Thor/RS-27A + 1 x Delta K More...
  • Minotaur 1 American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Orbital launch vehicle consisting of a surplus Minuteman M55A1 first stage, Minuteman SR19 second stage, and new Orion 50XL third stage, Orion 38 fourth stage, and optional HAPS fifth stage for velocity trim and multiple payload deployment. Payload 580 kg to an 185 km, 28.5 degree orbit from Cape Canaveral; 310 kg to a 740 km sun-synchronous orbit from Vandenberg. More...
  • Minotaur 2 American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Suborbital target vehicle consisting of an M55A1 first stage, SR19 second stage, and M57 third stage - essentially a Minuteman II with Orbital guidance and control systems. 440 kg payload on a 6700 km suborbital trajectory. More...
  • Titan 403B American orbital launch vehicle. Version of Titan 4B with no upper stage, configured for launch from Vandenberg. More...
  • Orbus American target missile. Three stage vehicle consisting of 1 x GEM-40 + 1 x Orbus 1 + 1 x Orbus 1 More...
  • Delta 7920-10L American orbital launch vehicle. Three stage vehicle consisting of 9 x GEM-40 + 1 x EELT Thor/RS-27A + 1 x Delta K with 3.05 m (10 foot) diameter long fairing More...
  • Atlas V 401 American orbital launch vehicle. Atlas V version with a 4-m diameter payload fairing, single engine Centaur upper stage, and no strap-on solid boosters. Payloads: 7,095 kg (15,642 lb) to sun synchronous orbit; 4,950 kg (10,910 lb) to geosynchronous transfer orbit. More...
  • Delta IV Medium+ (4.2) American orbital launch vehicle. As Delta 4 medium but with 2 x GEM-60 solid rocket boosters and a 4 m diameter payload fairing. More...
  • OBV American anti-ballistic missile. Suborbital booster for the US Missile Defense Agency's Ground-based Midcourse Defense system's EKV ballistic missile kill vehicle. The basic OBV consisted of the upper three stages and guidance system from the Taurus orbital launch vehicle (essentially a wingless Pegasus-XL). The OBV was launched from an open pad; the operational version was to be silo-launched. More...
  • Delta IV Medium American orbital launch vehicle. Basic Delta-4 vehicle with no strap-ons, the core vehicle, and RL10B-1 upper stage with a 4 m diameter payload fairing. World's first all-cryogenic launch vehicle. More...
  • Atlas V 411 American orbital launch vehicle. Atlas V with 4-m diameter payload fairing, single engine Centaur upper stage, and one strap-on solid booster. Payloads: 8,763 kg (19,320 lb) to sun synchronous orbit; 6,075 kg (13,393 lb) to geosynchronous transfer orbit. More...
Associated Manufacturers and Agencies
  • USAF American agency overseeing development of rockets and spacecraft. United States Air Force, USA. More...
Associated Programs
  • DMSP The first CORONA photos in August 1960 convinced authorities that knowledge of cloud cover over Russia was necessary and could be obtained only via satellite. Since the civilian TIROS program could not yet meet the requirement, the Director, National Reconnaissance Office authorized an 'interim' effort - the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. The satellite series continued to be updated and served into the 21st Century. More...
  • ELINT Various US electronic intelligence satellites, most of them from the Naval Research Laboratory, were orbited in the 1960's and still remain classified. More...
  • Explorer Series of satellites launched by Jet Propulsion Laboratory for the exploration of the space environment (micrometeoroids, charged particles, radiation, etc) from both earth orbital and heliocentric orbital locations. More...
  • Iridium The Iridium system is a commercial communications network comprised of a constellation of 66 LEO spacecraft. The system uses L-Band to provide global communications services through portable handsets. More...
  • Navstar The Navstar GPS (Global Positioning System) program was a joint service effort directed by the United States Department of Defence. Navstar GPS is a space-based radio-positioning system nominally consisting of a 24-satellite constellation that provides navigation and timing information to military and civilian users worldwide. In addition to the satellites, the system consists of a worldwide satellite control network and GPS receiver units that acquire the satellite's signals and translate them into position information. Originally envisioned as primarily a military system, GPS was found to have a wide variety of civilian applications, many of them never conceived by the original system's designers. More...
  • Orbcomm Orbcomm was a commercial venture to provide global messaging services using a constellation of 26 low-Earth orbiting satellites. More...
  • Oscar Amateur radio satellite network. For over a third of a century a series of OSCAR satellites have been launched in a variety of configurations and by many nations. More...
  • Small Explorer A series of relatively low-cost satellites launched by NASA for solar and astronomical studies. More...
  • STEP Space Test Experiment Program; series of USAF technology test satellites. More...
  • Tiros TIROS spacecraft were the beginning of a long series of polar-orbiting meteorological satellites. TIROS was followed by the TOS (TIROS Operational System) series, and then the ITOS (Improved TIROS) series, and later the NOAA series. TIROS spacecraft were developed by GSFC and managed by ESSA (Environmental Science Services Administration). The objective was to establish a global weather satellite system. More...
  • Transit Spin-stabilized Transit satellites were developed by the US Navy into the first operational navigation satellite system, for use by ballistic missile submarines and surface vessels. Early Transits carried a variety of piggy-back payloads, many still classified. Transit was also known as the Navy Navigation Satellite (NNS). Transit provided continuous navigation satellite service from 1964, initially for Polaris submarines and later for civilian use. More...
Bibliography
  • McDowell, Jonathan, Jonathan's Space Home Page (launch records), Harvard University, 1997-present. Web Address when accessed: here.
  • Official Site of the Topic, Information obtained from the manufacturer or operator's official web site.
Associated Launch Sites
  • Vandenberg SLC10E Delta launch complex. Originally a Thor 75 SMS launch pad. Upgraded to a launch emplacement in 1961. More...
  • Vandenberg LE-8 Delta launch complex. Originally a Thor 75 SMS IRBM pad. Upgraded for use as a launch emplacement in 1961. More...
  • Vandenberg LC-B Viper, Terrier, Hopi, Deacon, Cajun, Astrobee launch complex. Launch Complex B, Naval Missile Facility, Point Arguello More...
  • Vandenberg OSTF1 Atlas launch complex. Originally an Atlas Operational Silo Test Facility. Upgraded to a 576 SMS launch pad in 1963. More...
  • Vandenberg OSTF2 Atlas launch complex. Originally an Atlas Operational Silo Test Facility. Upgraded to a 576 SMS launch pad in 1963. More...
  • Vandenberg LC-A Scout, Javelin, Honest John, Black Brant, Astrobee, Asp, Seagull, Journeyman, Dac Roc launch complex. Launch Complex A, Naval Missile Facility, Point Arguello More...
  • Vandenberg 576B1 Atlas launch complex. Originally an Atlas 576 SMS ICBM pad. Upgraded for use as ABRES pad in 1965. More...
  • Vandenberg 576B3 Atlas launch complex. Originally an Atlas 576 SMS ICBM pad. Upgraded for use as ABRES pad in 1965. More...
  • Vandenberg 576B2 Atlas launch complex. Originally an Atlas 576 SMS ICBM pad. Upgraded for use as ABRES pad in 1965. More...
  • Vandenberg SLC1E Delta launch complex. Originally a Thor 75 SMS launch pad. Upgraded to a space launch complex in 1967. More...
  • Vandenberg 576A2 Atlas launch complex. Originally an Atlas 576 SMS ICBM pad. Upgraded for use as ABRES re-entry vehicle test program pad in 1965, and for BMRS program in 1971. More...
  • Vandenberg SLC1W Delta launch complex. Originally a Thor 75 SMS launch pad. Upgraded to a space launch complex in 1966. More...
  • Vandenberg SLC2E Delta launch complex. Originally a Thor 75 SMS launch pad. Upgraded to a space launch complex in 1966. More...
  • Vandenberg 576A1 Atlas launch complex. Atlas 576 SMS ICBM pad, dedicated to ABM target payloads for Nike Zeus at Kwajalein. Upgraded for use as ABRES re-entry vehicle test program pad in 1965, and for BMRS program in 1971. More...
  • Vandenberg SLC10W Delta launch complex. Originally a Thor 75 SMS launch pad. Upgraded to a launch emplacement in 1965. More...
  • Vandenberg LF07 Minuteman launch silo. Originally a Minuteman 394 SMS silo. Upgraded for use as a Launch Facility in 1964. More...
  • Vandenberg 576A3 Atlas, AMROC launch complex. Originally an Atlas 576 SMS ICBM pad. Upgraded for use as ABRES pad in 1965, and for BMRS program in 1971. More...
  • Vandenberg LF08 Minuteman, Peacekeeper, Astrid launch silo. Originally a Minuteman 394 SMS silo. Upgraded for use as a Launch Facility in 1964, and later again modified to launch the Peacekeeper. More...
  • Vandenberg SLC5 Scout launch complex. Dedicated Scout launch pad, used during the life of that vehicle from 1962 to 1994. More...
  • Vandenberg SLC3W Delta, Atlas launch complex. First designated LC1-1 and used to launch Atlas Agena B with Samos payloads. After Samos cancellation, rebuilt in 1963 to support launch of KH-4 Corona spysats atop Thor-Agena. Refurbished in 1973 to accomodate surplus Atlas ICBM's in space launch role. More...
  • Vandenberg LF03 Minuteman, Minotaur launch silo. Originally a Minuteman 394 SMS silo. Upgraded for use as a Launch Facility in 1964, and later again modified to launch the Minotaur. More...
  • Vandenberg LF05 Minuteman, Peacekeeper launch silo. Originally a Minuteman 394 SMS silo. Upgraded for use as a Launch Facility in 1964. More...
  • Vandenberg SLC4W Titan, Atlas launch complex. First designated PALC2-3 and used to launch Atlas Agena D with KH-7 spysats. Rebuilt in 1966 to handle Titan 3B with various military payloads. From 1988 used to launch refurbished surplus Titan 2 ICBM's in space launch role. More...
  • Vandenberg SLC3E Atlas V, Atlas launch complex. Atlas test facility, originally designated PALC1-2, then LC1-2, and finally upgraded to a Space Launch Facility in 1966. More...
  • Vandenberg LF02 Minuteman, Peacekeeper launch silo. Originally a Minuteman 394 SMS silo. Upgraded for use as a Launch Facility in 1964, and later again modified to launch the Peacekeeper. More...
  • Vandenberg SLC4E Titan, Atlas launch complex. First designated PALC2-4 and used to launch Atlas Agena D with KH-7 spysats. Rebuilt after MOL cancellation in 1970 to handle Titan 3D with KH-9 and KH-11 spysats. Upgraded in 1989-1990 for Titan 4. More...
  • Vandenberg LF04 Minuteman launch silo. Originally a Minuteman 394 SMS silo. Upgraded for use as a Launch Facility in 1964. More...
  • Vandenberg LF06 Minuteman, Minotaur launch silo. Originally a Minuteman 394 SMS silo. Upgraded for use as a Launch Facility in 1964, and later again modified to launch the Peacekeeper. More...
  • Vandenberg SLC2W Delta launch complex. Originally a Thor 75 SMS launch pad. Upgraded to a space launch complex in 1966. More...

Vandenberg Chronology
1950 August 7 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • Camp Cooke reactivated - . Nation: USA. Summary: Camp Cooke reactivated and used during the Korean War as an armored and infantry training site..
1953 February 1 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • Camp Cooke again inactivated. (Future Vandenberg) - . Nation: USA.
1956 November 16 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
  • Vandenberg selected as first ICBM base. - . Nation: USA. Department of Defense transferred northern portion of Camp Cooke, Calif. (now Vandenberg AFB), to the Air Force to be used as first ICBM base. The Secretary of Defense directed the United States Army to transfer 64,000 acres of Camp Cooke's 86,000 acres to the Air Force.
1957 April 23 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • Vandenberg AFB established by ARDC - . Nation: USA. Summary: Vandenberg AFB established by Air Research and Development Command (ARDC) on the north 64,047 acres (approximately 100 square miles) of what was then Camp Cooke..
1957 May 9 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • Start of new construction. - . Nation: USA. Summary: Start of new construction and major rehabilitation at Camp Cooke..
1957 July 1 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
  • First Atlas wing activated at Cooke AFB. - . Nation: USA. Summary: Air Research and Development Command activated the 704th Strategic Missile Wing (Atlas) at Cooke AFB..
1958 January 1 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • Cooke AFB transferred to SAC - . Nation: USA. Summary: Cooke AFB (with major operational and training units) transferred from Air Research and Development Command to Strategic Air Command. Launch facility construction as well as research and development activities at Cooke AFB were the responsibility of the A.
1958 February 14 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • 19,861 acres of Camp Cooke transferred to Navy - . Nation: USA. Summary: 19,861 acres of South Camp Cooke transferred from the Army to the Navy on interim permit basis (actual transfer on 27 May)..
1958 March 5 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • Joint Navy-Air Force Agreement defines PMR - . Nation: USA. Summary: The Joint Navy-Air Force (Burke-White) Agreement was completed. This agreement defined the areas of responsibility between the projected Pacific Missile Range and Cooke Air Force Base..
1958 April 4 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • U.S. Naval Missile Facility at Point Arguello - . Nation: USA. Summary: Establishment of the U.S. Naval Missile Facility at Point Arguello, the southern portion of former Camp Cooke (facility formally commissioned on 10 May)..
1958 June 16 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • Formal establishment of Pacific Missile Range - . Nation: USA. Summary: Formal establishment of the Navy's Pacific Missile Range (with its headquarters at Point Mugu and its major launch head at Point Arguello)..
1958 October 4 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • Cooke AFB redesignated Vandenberg AFB - . Nation: USA. Related Persons: Vandenberg, Hoyt. Summary: Cooke AFB redesignated Vandenberg AFB, honoring the late General Hoyt S. Vandenberg, the Air Force's second Chief of Staff. Vandenberg AFB, first operational ICBM base in free world, was dedicated..
1958 December 16 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • First missile launch from Vandenberg AFB - . Nation: USA. Summary: First missile launch from Vandenberg AFB - a Thor intermediate range ballistic missile (IRBM). The mission was a success..
1958 December 16 - . 23:44 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 151.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). Summary: Two Thor shots, one from Cape Canaveral and one from Vandenberg AFB, were successful. Intermediate range ballistic missile portion of PMR was inaugurated with successful firing of USAF Thor from Vandenberg AFB..
1959 January 4 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • Vandenberg AFB / PMR operaitonal. - . Nation: USA. Summary: Vandenberg Air Force Base and the Pacific Missile Range declared officially operational for firings..
1959 January 21 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 160. FAILURE: Launch vehicle failure.. Failed Stage: U.
  • Thor Agena test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-1. COSPAR: F590121A. Summary: First flight test of Thor-Agena for KH program..
1959 February 28 - . 21:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 163 / Agena A 1022.
  • Discoverer 1 - . Payload: KH-1 prototype / Agena A 1022. Mass: 618 kg (1,362 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: DARPA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-1. Decay Date: 1959-03-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 13 . COSPAR: 1959-Beta-1. Apogee: 968 km (601 mi). Perigee: 163 km (101 mi). Inclination: 89.7000 deg. Period: 96.00 min. Summary: First polar orbiting satellite; KH-1 prototype; did not carry camera or film capsule..
1959 April 13 - . 21:18 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 170 / Agena A 1018.
  • Discoverer 2 - . Payload: KH-1 prototype / Agena A 1022. Mass: 743 kg (1,638 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: DARPA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-1. Decay Date: 1959-04-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 14 . COSPAR: 1959-Gamma-1. Apogee: 346 km (214 mi). Perigee: 239 km (148 mi). Inclination: 89.9000 deg. Period: 90.40 min. KH-1 prototype; tested capsule recovery techniques; did not carry camera; capsule recovery failed. Because of a timing error, the US believed that the capsule landed somewhere on the island of Spitsbergen, north of Norway, instead of landing in the recovery zone near Hawaii. The capsule was never found; and CIA officials suspect it may have been snatched by the Soviets. The search for this capsule formed the basis of the book and film 'Ice Station Zebra'.

    In the winter of 1960/1961, a US Discovery spy satellite capsule was found by loggers near Kalinin, 200 km north of Moscow. The loggers cracked it open with an axe. Sergei Khrushchev believed this to be the Discoverer 2 capsule. What was left was examined by Soviet engineers but didn’t reveal much information - it was a polished aluminium sphere, 30 cm in diameter, gilded on the exterior. Some said it was found as early as the winter of 1959.

1959 April 16 - . 20:46 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LE-8. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 161.
  • IWST test flight - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). Summary: Integrated Weapon System Training 1. First Thor IRBM launched by British crew at Vandenberg AFB..
1959 May 1 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. LV Family: Terrier. Launch Vehicle: Terrier ASROC Cajun. LV Configuration: Terrier ASROC Cajun Terasca. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi).
1959 June 3 - . 20:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 174 / Agena A 1020. FAILURE: No telemetry after Agena ignition.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • Discoverer 3 - . Payload: KH-1 prototype / Agena A 1018. Mass: 753 kg (1,660 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: DARPA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-1. Decay Date: 1959-06-03 . COSPAR: F590603A. Summary: KH-1 prototype; did not carry camera; film capsule recovery failed..
  • SRV - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-1. COSPAR: F590603B.
1959 June 16 - . 21:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 191. FAILURE: Autopilot error.. Failed Stage: G.
  • IWST test flight - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 0 km ( mi). Summary: Integrated Weapon System Training Launch 2.
1959 June 25 - . 22:47 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 179 / Agena A 1023. FAILURE: Insufficient stage 2 velocity.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • Discoverer 4 - . Payload: KH-1 9001. Mass: 743 kg (1,638 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: DARPA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-1. Decay Date: 1959-06-25 . COSPAR: F590625A. Summary: KH-1; 1st generation low resolution photo surveillance. Failed to achieve orbit..
  • SRV 102 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-1. COSPAR: F590625B.
1959 June 26 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. LV Family: Terrier. Launch Vehicle: Terrier ASROC Cajun. LV Configuration: Terrier ASROC Cajun Terasca.
  • Radar beacon test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1959 July 14 - . 17:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Asp. Launch Vehicle: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp NN8.65.
  • Solar x-ray mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 July 17 - . 17:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Asp. Launch Vehicle: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp NN8.66. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Solar mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1959 July 24 - . 16:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Asp. Launch Vehicle: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp NN8.67.
  • Solar mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 227 km (141 mi).
1959 August 3 - . 21:41 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 175.
  • IWST - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 August 7 - . 17:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Asp. Launch Vehicle: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp NN8.68CF.
  • Solar x-ray mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 225 km (139 mi).
1959 August 12 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. LV Family: Terrier. Launch Vehicle: Terrier ASROC Cajun. LV Configuration: Terrier ASROC Cajun Terasca. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Ultraviolet Scanner test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 0 km ( mi).
1959 August 13 - . 19:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 192 / Agena A 1029.
  • Discoverer 5 - . Payload: KH-1 9002 / Agena A 1029. Mass: 781 kg (1,721 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: DARPA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-1. Decay Date: 1959-09-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 18 . COSPAR: 1959-Epsilon-1. Apogee: 731 km (454 mi). Perigee: 214 km (132 mi). Inclination: 79.9000 deg. Period: 94.10 min. Summary: KH-1; 1st generation low resolution photo surveillance; film capsule boosted into higher orbit, decayed 2/11/61. Mission failed. Power supply failure. No recovery..
  • Discoverer 5 Capsule - . Payload: KH-1 9002 Capsule. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-1. Decay Date: 1961-02-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 26 . COSPAR: 1959-Epsilon-2. Apogee: 1,700 km (1,000 mi). Perigee: 218 km (135 mi). Inclination: 78.9000 deg. Period: 104.30 min. Summary: KH-1; 1st generation low resolution photo surveillance; film capsule boosted into higher orbit, decayed 2/11/61. Mission failed. Power supply failure. No recovery..
1959 August 14 - . 16:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Asp. Launch Vehicle: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp NN8.69CF.
  • Solar x-ray mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 237 km (147 mi).
1959 August 14 - . 19:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 190. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • IWST - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 0 km ( mi).
1959 August 19 - . 19:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 200 / Agena A 1028.
  • Discoverer 6 - . Payload: KH-1 9003 / Agena A 1028. Mass: 783 kg (1,726 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: DARPA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-1. Decay Date: 1959-10-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 19 . COSPAR: 1959-Zeta-1. Apogee: 846 km (525 mi). Perigee: 207 km (128 mi). Inclination: 83.9000 deg. Period: 95.10 min. Summary: KH-1; 1st generation low resolution photo surveillance; film capsule recovery failed. Mission failed. Retro rockets malfunctioned negating recovery..
1959 August 22 - . 02:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Asp. Launch Vehicle: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp NN8.70CF.
  • Solar mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 August 24 - . 22:47 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Asp. Launch Vehicle: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp NN8.71CF.
  • Solar mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 August 28 - . 16:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Asp. Launch Vehicle: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp NN8.72CF.
  • Solar x-ray mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 214 km (132 mi).
1959 August 31 - . 22:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Asp. Launch Vehicle: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp NN8.73CF.
  • Sunflare II Solar x-ray / solar mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 September 1 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
  • Atlas D ICBM operational. - . Nation: USA. Summary: USAF Atlas ICBM officially declared operational and taken over by the Strategic Air Command, at Vandenberg AFB..
1959 September 1 - . 01:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Asp. Launch Vehicle: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp NN8.74CF.
  • Solar mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 September 1 - . 19:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Asp. Launch Vehicle: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp NN8.75CF.
  • Ionosphere / plasma / solar mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 210 km (130 mi).
1959 September 2 - . 00:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Asp. Launch Vehicle: Nike Asp. LV Configuration: Nike Asp NN8.76CF.
  • Solar mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 September 9 - . 17:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 12D.
  • Initial operational capability demonstration launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). First SAC operational (IOC) launch, 576th SMS, successful: impacted within one mile of target near Wake Island, a 4,480 nautical mile flight. Afterwards, General Thomas S. Power, Commander in Chief of Strategic Air Command, declared the Atlas system to be operational.
1959 September 17 - . 21:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 228.
  • IWST - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 September 30 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. LV Family: Terrier. Launch Vehicle: Terrier Asp. LV Configuration: Terrier Asp Tarp.
  • Ultraviolet Scanner test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1959 October 6 - . 18:26 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LE-8. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 239.
  • IWST - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 October 21 - . 22:57 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 220.
  • IWST - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 November 7 - . 20:28 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 206 / Agena A 1051.
  • Discoverer 7 - . Payload: KH-1 9004 / Agena A 1051. Mass: 794 kg (1,750 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: DARPA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-1. Decay Date: 1959-11-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 24 . COSPAR: 1959-Kappa-1. Apogee: 820 km (500 mi). Perigee: 158 km (98 mi). Inclination: 81.6000 deg. Period: 94.40 min. Summary: KH-1; 1st generation low resolution photo surveillance; satellite tumbled; film capsule not recovered. Mission failed. Failed to achieve orbit..
1959 November 12 - . 19:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 181.
  • IWST - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 November 20 - . 19:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 212 / Agena A 1050.
  • Discoverer 8 - . Payload: KH-1 9005 / Agena A 1050. Mass: 795 kg (1,752 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-1. Decay Date: 1960-03-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 25 . COSPAR: 1959-Lambda-1. Apogee: 1,661 km (1,032 mi). Perigee: 186 km (115 mi). Inclination: 80.5000 deg. Period: 103.50 min. Summary: KH-1; 1st generation low resolution photo surveillance; film capsule recovery failed. Mission failed. Eccentric orbit negating recovery..
1959 December 2 - . 05:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 265. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Combat training launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 0 km ( mi).
1959 December 15 - . 02:14 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 185. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • IWST - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 0 km ( mi).
1960 January 21 - . 20:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 215.
  • IWST - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1960 January 26 - . 23:43 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 6D. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Initial operational capability demonstration launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Summary: Two Atlas ICBMs launched within two hours - one by SAC at VAFB, one by GD/A at AMR; both successful..
1960 February 4 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Viper. Launch Vehicle: Nike Viper I.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AEC. Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
1960 February 4 - . 18:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 218 / Agena A 1052. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • Discoverer 9 - . Payload: KH-1 9006. Mass: 765 kg (1,686 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-1. Decay Date: 1960-02-04 . COSPAR: F600204A. Summary: KH-1; 1st generation low resolution photo surveillance. Mission failed..
  • SRV 113 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-1. COSPAR: F600204B.
1960 February 19 - . 20:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 223 / Agena A 1054. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • Discoverer 10 - . Payload: KH-1 9007. Mass: 765 kg (1,686 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-1. Decay Date: 1960-02-19 . COSPAR: F600219A. Summary: KH-1; Mission failed..
  • SRV 110 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-1. COSPAR: F600219B.
1960 March 2 - . 20:06 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LE-8. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 272.
  • Combat training launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1960 April 15 - . 20:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 234 / Agena A 1055.
  • Discoverer 11 - . Payload: KH-1 9008 / Agena A 1055. Mass: 790 kg (1,740 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-1. Decay Date: 1960-04-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 32 . COSPAR: 1960-Delta-1. Apogee: 603 km (374 mi). Perigee: 166 km (103 mi). Inclination: 80.4000 deg. Period: 92.20 min. Summary: KH-1; film capsule recovery failed. Mission failed. Attitude control system malfunctioned..
1960 April 22 - . 19:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 25D.
  • Initial operational capability operational readiness test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1960 April 29 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Viper. Launch Vehicle: Nike Viper I.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AEC. Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
1960 May 6 - . 16:47 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 23D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Initial operational capability operational readiness test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 2.00 km (1.20 mi).
1960 June 22 - . 23:26 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 233.
  • Combat training launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1960 June 27 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Viper. Launch Vehicle: Nike Viper I.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AEC. Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
1960 June 29 - . 22:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 160 / Agena A 1053. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • Discoverer 12 - . Payload: KH-1 prototype. Mass: 790 kg (1,740 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-1. Decay Date: 1960-06-29 . COSPAR: F600629A. Summary: KH-1 prototype; designed to test capsule recovery system; did not carry camera..
  • SRV - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-1. COSPAR: F600629B.
1960 July 1 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • Major expansion of Pacific Missile Range - . Nation: USA. Summary: Major expansion of Pacific Missile Range with acquisition of Eniwetok and Kwajalein Atolls in the Marshall Islands by the United States Navy for instrumentation complexes (in support of Air Force launches from Vandenberg AFB)..
1960 July 1 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Deacon. Launch Vehicle: Deacon Arrow II.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AEC. Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
1960 July 8 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Deacon. Launch Vehicle: Deacon Arrow II.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AEC. Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
1960 July 14 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Deacon. Launch Vehicle: Deacon Arrow II.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AEC. Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
1960 July 20 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Cajun. Launch Vehicle: Nike Cajun. LV Configuration: Nike Cajun AEC probe.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AEC. Apogee: 120 km (70 mi).
1960 July 22 - . 23:46 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 74D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Initial operational capability operational readiness test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 July 28 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Platform: F4D-1 747. Launch Vehicle: Caleb. LV Configuration: Caleb NOTS EV-II.
  • TV-1 test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN NOTS. Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). Summary: Research and Development Flight (TV-1).
1960 August 10 - . 20:37 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 231 / Agena A 1057.
  • Discoverer 13 - . Payload: KH-1 prototype / Agena A 1057. Mass: 850 kg (1,870 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-1. Decay Date: 1960-11-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 48 . COSPAR: 1960-Theta-1. Apogee: 683 km (424 mi). Perigee: 258 km (160 mi). Inclination: 82.8000 deg. Period: 94.00 min. Summary: KH-1 prototype; designed to test capsule recovery system; did not carry camera; capsule successfully recovered from ocean..
1960 August 12 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Hopi. Launch Vehicle: Kiva/Hopi.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1960 August 18 - . 19:57 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 237 / Agena A 1056.
  • Discoverer 14 - . Payload: KH-1 9009 / Agena A 1056. Mass: 850 kg (1,870 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-1. Decay Date: 1960-09-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 54 . COSPAR: 1960-Kappa-1. Apogee: 803 km (498 mi). Perigee: 177 km (109 mi). Inclination: 79.6000 deg. Period: 94.40 min. Summary: KH-1; film capsule recovered 1.2 days later; 1st successful photosurveillance mission. First successful mission. Cameras operated satisfactorily..
1960 September 12 - . 20:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 47D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Initial operational capability demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1960 September 13 - . 22:14 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena A. LV Configuration: Thor Agena A 246 / Agena A 1058.
  • Discoverer 15 - . Payload: KH-1 9010 / Agena A 1058. Mass: 863 kg (1,902 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-1. Decay Date: 1960-10-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 57 . COSPAR: 1960-Mu-1. Apogee: 755 km (469 mi). Perigee: 200 km (120 mi). Inclination: 80.9000 deg. Period: 94.10 min. Summary: KH-1; film capsule lost at sea. Mission failed. Attained orbit successfully. Capsule sank prior to retrieval..
1960 September 19 - . 16:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. Launch Vehicle: Journeyman. LV Configuration: Journeyman NASA 11.01GE.
  • NERV I Cosmic rays mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 1,884 km (1,170 mi).
1960 September 29 - . 20:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 33D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Initial operational capability demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1960 September 30 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Viper. Launch Vehicle: Nike Viper I.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AEC. Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
1960 October 11 - . 20:33 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena A. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena A 57D / Agena A 2101. FAILURE: Second stage failure.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • Samos 1 - . Payload: Samos E-1 no. 1. Mass: 1,845 kg (4,067 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: Samos. Decay Date: 1960-10-11 . COSPAR: F601011A. Summary: First generation photo surveillance; radio relay of images; Satellite and Missile Observation Satellite..
1960 October 11 - . 21:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LE-8. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 186.
  • Combat training launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1960 October 12 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Hopi. Launch Vehicle: Kiva/Hopi.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1960 October 13 - . 04:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 81D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Initial operational capability demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1960 October 24 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Platform: F4D-1 747. Launch Vehicle: Caleb. LV Configuration: Caleb NOTS EV-II. FAILURE: Second stage failed..
  • TV-2 test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN NOTS. Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). Summary: Research and Development Flight (TV-2).
1960 October 26 - . 20:26 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 253 / Agena B 1061. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • Discoverer 16 - . Payload: KH-2 9011. Mass: 1,091 kg (2,405 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-2. Decay Date: 1960-10-26 . COSPAR: F601026A. Summary: KH-1; mission failed..
  • SRV 506 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-2. COSPAR: F601026B.
1960 October 27 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Hopi. Launch Vehicle: Kiva/Hopi.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1960 November 12 - . 20:43 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 297 / Agena B 1062.
  • Discoverer 17 - . Payload: KH-2 9012 / Agena B 1062. Mass: 1,091 kg (2,405 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-2. Decay Date: 1960-12-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 61 . COSPAR: 1960-Omicron-1. Apogee: 984 km (611 mi). Perigee: 190 km (110 mi). Inclination: 81.7000 deg. Period: 96.40 min. KH-1; film capsule recovered 2.1 days later. Mission failed. Obtained orbit successfully. Film separated before any camera operation leaving only 1.7 ft of film in capsule. On December 2, the Air Force revealed that exceedingly valuable information had been obtained from human tissues carried by Discoverer 17 (the cover story for the mission). The tissues had been exposed to an unexpectedly heavy dose of radiation for more than 50 hours in flight.
1960 November 21 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Cajun. Launch Vehicle: Nike Cajun.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AEC. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1960 November 22 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Cajun. Launch Vehicle: Nike Cajun.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AEC. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1960 December 4 - . 05:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I V-2.
  • Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km ( mi).
1960 December 6 - . 18:44 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Hopi. Launch Vehicle: Kiva/Hopi.
  • PHOENIX I Ionosphere mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 367 km (228 mi).
1960 December 7 - . 20:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 296 / Agena B 1103.
  • Discoverer 18 - . Payload: KH-2 9013 / Agena B 1103. Mass: 1,240 kg (2,730 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-2. Decay Date: 1961-04-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 67 . COSPAR: 1960-Sigma-1. Apogee: 510 km (310 mi). Perigee: 233 km (144 mi). Inclination: 81.5000 deg. Period: 92.00 min. Summary: KH-2; film capsule recovered 3.1 days later. First successful mission employing KH-2 camera system..
1960 December 13 - . 20:08 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LE-8. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 267.
  • Combat training launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1960 December 14 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Hopi. Launch Vehicle: Kiva/Hopi.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1960 December 14 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Hopi. Launch Vehicle: Kiva/Hopi.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1960 December 16 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Hopi. Launch Vehicle: Kiva/Hopi.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1960 December 16 - . 20:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 99D.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1960 December 20 - . 20:32 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 258 / Agena B 1101.
  • Discoverer 19 - . Payload: Midas test payload. Mass: 1,060 kg (2,330 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Military. Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft: Midas. Decay Date: 1961-01-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 68 . COSPAR: 1960-Tau-1. Apogee: 359 km (223 mi). Perigee: 186 km (115 mi). Inclination: 83.4000 deg. Period: 90.00 min. Summary: Tested IR sensors for Midas program; did not carry camera or film capsule. .
1961 January 31 - . 20:21 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena A. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena A 70D / Agena A 2102.
  • Samos 2 - . Payload: Samos E-1 no. 2. Mass: 1,900 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: Samos. Decay Date: 1973-10-21 . USAF Sat Cat: 70 . COSPAR: 1961-Alpha-1. Apogee: 557 km (346 mi). Perigee: 474 km (294 mi). Inclination: 97.4000 deg. Period: 95.00 min. Summary: First generation photo surveillance; radio relay of images; micrometeoroid impact data. Poor results..
1961 February 17 - . 20:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 298.
  • Discoverer 20 - . Payload: KH-5 s/n 9014A / Agena B 1104. Mass: 1,110 kg (2,440 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-5. Decay Date: 1962-07-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 83 . COSPAR: 1961-Epsilon-1. Apogee: 491 km (305 mi). Perigee: 277 km (172 mi). Inclination: 80.8000 deg. Period: 92.30 min. Summary: KH-5; film capsule not ejected. Mission failed. Program malfunctioned and capsule did not reenter. First attempted ARGON mission. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
  • SRV 520 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-5. Decay Date: 1961-10-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 90 . COSPAR: 1961-Epsilon-4. Apogee: 327 km (203 mi). Perigee: 321 km (199 mi). Inclination: 80.7000 deg. Period: 91.00 min.
1961 February 18 - . 22:58 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 261 / Agena B 1102.
  • Discoverer 21 - . Payload: Midas test payload. Mass: 1,110 kg (2,440 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Military. Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft: Midas. Decay Date: 1962-04-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 84 . COSPAR: 1961-Zeta-1. Apogee: 458 km (284 mi). Perigee: 212 km (131 mi). Inclination: 80.6000 deg. Period: 91.30 min. Summary: Tested IR sensors for Midas program; did not carry camera or film capsule..
1961 March 27 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Deacon. Launch Vehicle: Deacon Arrow II.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AEC. Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
1961 March 30 - . 05:13 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 243.
  • Combat training launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1961 March 30 - . 20:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 300 / Agena B 1105. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • Discoverer 22 - . Payload: KH-2 9015. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-2. Decay Date: 1961-03-30 . COSPAR: F610330A. Summary: KH-2; Mission failed..
  • SRV 509 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-2. COSPAR: F610330B.
1961 April 8 - . 19:21 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 307 / Agena B 1106.
  • Discoverer 23 - . Payload: KH-5 s/n 9016A / Agena B 1106 / Capsule SRV 521. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-5. Decay Date: 1962-04-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 100 . COSPAR: 1961-Lambda-1. Apogee: 651 km (404 mi). Perigee: 295 km (183 mi). Inclination: 82.3000 deg. Period: 94.10 min. Summary: KH-5; film capsule boosted into higher orbit, decayed 5/23/62. Mission failed. Loss of satellite control gas caused unstable condition. No recovery. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1961 May 3 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLTF. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I VS-1.
  • Demonstration launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 60 km (37 mi). Summary: The nation's first silo launch of a Titan I at Vandenberg AFB..
1961 May 24 - . 21:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 95D.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1961 June 7 - . 21:37 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 27E. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Research and development Category II test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Summary: First E launched at SMS 576 from OSTF-1, unsuccessful.
1961 June 8 - . 21:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 302 / Agena B 1108. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • Discoverer 24 - . Payload: KH-5 s/n 9018A. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-5. Decay Date: 1961-06-08 . COSPAR: F610608A. Summary: KH-5. Mission failed..
  • SRV 541 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-5. COSPAR: F610608B.
1961 June 16 - . 23:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 303 / Agena B 1107.
  • Discoverer 25 - . Payload: KH-2 9017 / Agena B 1107. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-2. Decay Date: 1961-07-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 108 . COSPAR: 1961-Xi-1. Apogee: 404 km (251 mi). Perigee: 222 km (137 mi). Inclination: 82.1000 deg. Period: 90.80 min. Summary: KH-2; film capsule recovered 2.1 days later. Capsule recovered from water on orbit 32. Streaks throughout film..
1961 June 20 - . 23:54 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 276.
  • Combat training launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1961 July 7 - . 23:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 308 / Agena B 1109.
  • Discoverer 26 - . Payload: KH-2 9019 / Agena B 1109. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-2. Decay Date: 1961-12-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 160 . COSPAR: 1961-Pi-1. Apogee: 803 km (498 mi). Perigee: 228 km (141 mi). Inclination: 82.9000 deg. Period: 94.90 min. Summary: KH-2; film capsule recovered 2.1 days later. Main camera malfunctioned on pass 22..
1961 July 12 - . 15:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 97D / Agena B 1201.
  • Midas 3 - . Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1201. Mass: 1,600 kg (3,500 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Military. Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft: Midas. USAF Sat Cat: 163 . COSPAR: 1961-Sigma-1. Apogee: 3,540 km (2,190 mi). Perigee: 3,343 km (2,077 mi). Inclination: 91.2000 deg. Period: 161.40 min. Summary: Missile Defense Alarm System..
1961 July 21 - . 22:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 322 / Agena B 1110. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • Discoverer 27 - . Payload: KH-5 s/n 9020A. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-5. Decay Date: 1961-07-21 . COSPAR: F610721A. Summary: KH-5; destroyed by range safety. Mission failed..
  • SRV 524 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-5. COSPAR: F610721B.
1961 August 1 - . 20:18 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Astrobee. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee 1500. LV Configuration: Astrobee 1500 AA16.304. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test / geodetic mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1961 August 4 - . 00:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 309 / Agena B 1111. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • Discoverer 28 - . Payload: KH-2 9021. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-2. Decay Date: 1961-08-03 . COSPAR: F610804A. Summary: KH-2; Mission failed..
  • SRV 512 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-2. COSPAR: F610804B.
1961 August 23 - . 01:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 101D.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1961 August 30 - . 20:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 323 / Agena B 1112.
  • Discoverer 29 - . Payload: KH-3 s/n 9023 / Agena B 1112. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-3. Decay Date: 1961-09-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 181 . COSPAR: 1961-Psi-1. Apogee: 542 km (336 mi). Perigee: 152 km (94 mi). Inclination: 82.1000 deg. Period: 91.50 min. Summary: KH-3; film capsule recovered 2.1 days later. First use of KH-3 camera system. All frames out of focus..
1961 September 6 - . 22:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 165.
  • Combat training launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1961 September 9 - . 19:28 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 106D / Agena B 2120. FAILURE: Exploded on launch pad.. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Samos 3 - . Payload: Samos E-2 no. 1. Mass: 1,890 kg (4,160 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: Samos. Decay Date: 1961-09-09 . COSPAR: F610909A. Summary: First generation photo surveillance; radio relay of images..
1961 September 12 - . 19:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 310 / Agena B 1113.
  • Discoverer 30 - . Payload: KH-3 s/n 9022 / Agena B 1113. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-3. Decay Date: 1961-12-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 182 . COSPAR: 1961-Omega-1. Apogee: 557 km (346 mi). Perigee: 219 km (136 mi). Inclination: 82.5000 deg. Period: 92.30 min. Summary: KH-3; film capsule recovered 2.1 days later. Best mission to date. Same out-of-focus condition as in 9023..
1961 September 17 - . 21:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 324 / Agena B 1114.
  • Discoverer 31 - . Payload: KH-3 s/n 9024 / Agena B 1114. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-3. Decay Date: 1961-10-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 186 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Beta-1. Apogee: 403 km (250 mi). Perigee: 231 km (143 mi). Inclination: 82.6000 deg. Period: 90.80 min. Summary: KH-3; film capsule recovery failed. Mission failed. Power failure and loss of control gas on orbit 33..
1961 September 23 - . 20:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-A1. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-2.
  • Mk 4 re-entry vehicle research and development mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Summary: Launched from Titan II silo.
1961 October 5 - . 19:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Platform: F-4H. Launch Vehicle: Caleb. LV Configuration: Caleb NC17.116. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test / aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN NOTS. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1961 October 13 - . 19:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 328 / Agena B 1115.
  • Discoverer 32 - . Payload: KH-3 s/n 9025 / Agena B 1115. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-3. Decay Date: 1961-11-13 . USAF Sat Cat: 189 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Gamma-1. Apogee: 391 km (242 mi). Perigee: 233 km (144 mi). Inclination: 81.6000 deg. Period: 90.70 min. Summary: KH-3; film capsule recovered 1.1 days later. Capsule recovered on orbit 18. 96% of film out of focus..
1961 October 21 - . 13:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 105D.
  • Midas 4 - . Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1202. Mass: 1,800 kg (3,900 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Military. Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft: Midas. USAF Sat Cat: 192 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Delta-1. Apogee: 3,763 km (2,338 mi). Perigee: 3,482 km (2,163 mi). Inclination: 95.9000 deg. Period: 165.90 min. Summary: Missile Defense Alarm System. Deployed subsatellites..
  • Westford - . Payload: Westford. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: WestFord Needles. USAF Sat Cat: 194 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Delta-3.
1961 October 23 - . 19:23 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 329 / Agena B 1116. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • Discoverer 33 - . Payload: KH-3 s/n 9026. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-3. Decay Date: 1961-10-23 . COSPAR: F611023A. Summary: KH-3; Mission failed..
  • SRV 513 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-3. COSPAR: F611023B.
1961 November 5 - . 20:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 330 / Agena B 1117.
  • Discoverer 34 - . Payload: KH-3 s/n 9027 / Agena B 1117. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-3. Decay Date: 1962-12-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 197 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Epsilon-1. Apogee: 859 km (533 mi). Perigee: 231 km (143 mi). Inclination: 82.4000 deg. Period: 95.60 min. Summary: KH-3; film capsule recovery not attempted. Mission failed. Improper launch angle resulted in extreme orbit..
  • SRV 553 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-3. COSPAR: 1961-A-Epsilon-x.
1961 November 15 - . 13:42 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. Launch Vehicle: Journeyman. LV Configuration: Journeyman NASA 11.04GB.
  • BIOS I Biological mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 1,057 km (656 mi).
1961 November 15 - . 21:23 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 326 / Agena B 1118.
  • Discoverer 35 - . Payload: KH-3 s/n 9028 / Agena B 1118. Mass: 2,100 kg (4,600 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-3. Decay Date: 1961-12-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 201 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Zeta-1. Apogee: 278 km (172 mi). Perigee: 238 km (147 mi). Inclination: 81.6000 deg. Period: 89.70 min. Summary: KH-3; film capsule recovered 1.1 days later. All cameras operated satisfactorily. Grainy emulsion noted..
1961 November 18 - . 13:42 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. Launch Vehicle: Journeyman. LV Configuration: Journeyman NASA 11.05GB.
  • BIOS I Biological mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 1,057 km (656 mi).
1961 November 22 - . 20:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 108D / Agena B 2202. FAILURE: Failure.. Failed Stage: U.
  • Samos 4 - . Payload: Samos E-5 no. 1. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: Samos. Decay Date: 1961-11-22 . COSPAR: F611122A. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). Summary: First generation photo surveillance; return of camera and film by capsule; SAMOS type satellite..
1961 November 29 - . 23:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 53D.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1961 December 4 - . 04:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout Jr. LV Configuration: Blue Scout Jr O-2.
  • Magnetosphere mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 44,400 km (27,500 mi).
1961 December 6 - . 01:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LE-8. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 214.
  • Combat training launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1961 December 7 - . 21:18 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 82D.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1961 December 8 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Astrobee. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee 1500.
  • Project CAMBRIDGE Geodetic mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 2,190 km (1,360 mi).
1961 December 12 - . 20:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 325 / Agena B 1119.
  • Discoverer 36 - . Payload: KH-3 s/n 9029 / Agena B 1119. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-3. Decay Date: 1962-03-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 213 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Kappa-1. Apogee: 173 km (107 mi). Perigee: 131 km (81 mi). Inclination: 89.5000 deg. Period: 87.50 min. Summary: KH-3; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. Best mission to date..
  • Oscar 1 - . Mass: 5.00 kg (11.00 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Oscar. Class: Communications. Type: Amateur radio communications satellite. Spacecraft: Oscar. Decay Date: 1962-01-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 214 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Kappa-2. Apogee: 474 km (294 mi). Perigee: 245 km (152 mi). Inclination: 81.2000 deg. Period: 91.80 min. The first Oscar Phase I amateur satellite was launched piggyback with Discover 36. A group of enthusiasts in California formed Project OSCAR and persuaded the United States Air Force to replace ballast on the Agena upper stage with the 4.5 kg OSCAR I package. The satellite was box shaped with a single monopole antenna and battery powered. The 140 mW transmitter onboard discharged its batteries after three weeks. 570 Amateurs in 28 countries reported receiving its simple 'HI-HI' morse code signals on the VHF 2 meter band (144.983 MHz) until January 1, 1962. The speed of the HI-HI message was controlled by a temperature sensor inside the spacecraft. OSCAR I re-entered the atmosphere January 31, 1962 after 312 revolutions. Additional Details: here....
1961 December 22 - . 19:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 114D / Agena B 2203.
  • Samos 5 - . Payload: Samos E-5 no. 2. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: Samos. Decay Date: 1962-01-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 218 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Lambda-2. Apogee: 310 km (190 mi). Perigee: 187 km (116 mi). Inclination: 89.6000 deg. Period: 89.40 min. First generation photo surveillance; return of camera and film by capsule; SAMOS type satellite. Reached orbit but failed to deorbit and be recovered. In his memoirs Sergei Khrushchev recounts recovery of what he believed to be a recoverable Samos, except the date given is the winter before tests of this configuration actually started. He relates that a second American capsule was recovered in the spring of 1961. It was equipped with a 30 cm lens and 100’s of metres of 10 cm wide film. Also recovered were a pear-shaped module made of fibreglass, and an inertial orientation system powered by electric motors. It may have been a SAMOS prototype. The capsule was found by tractor drivers, who disassembled it and used the film to wrap around the frame of their outhouse to provide some privacy in the treeless area. Unfortunately this ruined the film, preventing the Russians from developing it and discovering the technical capabilities of the system.
1962 January 13 - . 21:41 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 327 / Agena B 1120. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • Discoverer 37 - . Payload: KH-3 s/n 9030. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-3. Decay Date: 1962-01-13 . COSPAR: F620113A. Summary: KH-3. Mission failed. Last attempted flight of KH-3 series..
  • SRV 571 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-3. COSPAR: F620113B.
1962 January 17 - . 21:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 123D.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 January 21 - . 00:57 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-A3. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-4.
  • Demo - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1962 January 23 - . 21:28 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 132D.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 February 16 - . 23:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 137D.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 February 21 - . 18:44 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 332 / Agena B 2301. FAILURE: Partial failure. Agena failed to restart to circularize orbit.. Failed Stage: 2.
  • Ferret 1 - . Payload: Ferret 1 / Agena B 2301. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: Ferret. Decay Date: 1962-03-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 242 . COSPAR: 1962-Delta-1. Apogee: 219 km (136 mi). Perigee: 169 km (105 mi). Inclination: 81.9000 deg. Period: 88.30 min.
1962 February 21 - . 22:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 52D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 February 23 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-A1. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-18. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Research and development Cat II / operational test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 50 km (31 mi).
1962 February 27 - . 19:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 241 / Agena B 1123.
  • Discoverer 38 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9031 / Agena B 1123. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1962-03-21 . USAF Sat Cat: 247 . COSPAR: 1962-Epsilon-1. Apogee: 277 km (172 mi). Perigee: 207 km (128 mi). Inclination: 82.2000 deg. Period: 89.40 min. Summary: First mission of the KH-4 series. Much of film slightly out of focus.. Capsule recovered 4.1 days later..
1962 March 1 - . 00:14 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 66E.
  • Research and development Category II test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
1962 March 7 - . 22:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 112D / Agena B 2204.
  • Samos 6 - . Payload: Samos E-5 no. 3. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: Samos. Decay Date: 1963-06-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 259 . COSPAR: 1962-Eta-3. Apogee: 686 km (426 mi). Perigee: 236 km (146 mi). Inclination: 90.9000 deg. Period: 93.90 min. Summary: First generation photo surveillance; return of camera and film by capsule; SAMOS type satellite. Failed to return camera and film. Samos film return project cancelled; remaining 4 cameras placed in warehouse and later used on KH-6 Lanyard..
1962 March 14 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Terrier. Launch Vehicle: Terrier Asp IV.
  • Vista-300 test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi).
1962 March 19 - . 23:28 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC10E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 229.
  • Combat training launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1962 March 24 - . 00:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 134D.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Summary: President John F. Kennedy visited Vandenberg AFB and witnessed the launch of Atlas 134D..
1962 March 26 - . 19:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Platform: F-4H. Launch Vehicle: Caleb. LV Configuration: Caleb NC17.121. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Test / aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN NOTS. Apogee: 21 km (13 mi).
1962 April 9 - . 15:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 110D.
  • Midas 5 - . Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1203. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Military. Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft: Midas. USAF Sat Cat: 271 . COSPAR: 1962-Kappa-1. Apogee: 3,405 km (2,115 mi). Perigee: 2,784 km (1,729 mi). Inclination: 86.7000 deg. Period: 152.90 min. Summary: Missile Defense Alarm System..
  • West Ford Drag - . Payload: West Ford Drag Experiment. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: WestFord Needles. Decay Date: 1962-05-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 272 . COSPAR: 1962-Kappa-2.
1962 April 12 - . 01:57 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 129D.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 April 18 - . 00:54 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 331 / Agena B 1124.
  • Discoverer 39 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9032 / Agena B 1124. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1962-05-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 276 . COSPAR: 1962-Lambda-1. Apogee: 540 km (330 mi). Perigee: 158 km (98 mi). Inclination: 73.5000 deg. Period: 91.60 min. Summary: KH-4. Best mission to date..
1962 April 26 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • First West Coast launch of a Scout space booster. - . Nation: USA.
1962 April 26 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-2. LV Configuration: Scout X-2 S111. FAILURE: Failure.. Failed Stage: U.
  • Solrad 4B - . Payload: GRAB 4B. Mass: 91 kg (200 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: GRAB. Decay Date: 1962-04-26 . COSPAR: F620426A. Summary: Solar radiation monitor..
1962 April 26 - . 18:56 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 118D / Agena B SPS 2401.
  • Samos 7 - . Payload: Samos E-6 no. 1 / Agena B 2401. Mass: 1,588 kg (3,500 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: Samos. Decay Date: 1962-04-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 286 . COSPAR: 1962-Pi-1. Summary: Second generation photo surveillance; radio relay of images; Satellite and Missile Observation Satellite. Poor results..
  • FTV 2401 RV - . Payload: E-6 RV. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: Samos. COSPAR: 1962-Pi-xx.
1962 April 27 - . 23:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 140D.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 April 29 - . 00:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 333 / Agena B 1125.
  • KH-4 9033 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9033 / Agena B 1125. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1962-05-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 290 . COSPAR: 1962-Rho-1. Apogee: 475 km (295 mi). Perigee: 180 km (110 mi). Inclination: 73.1000 deg. Period: 91.10 min. Summary: KH-4. Mission failed. Parachute ejector squibs holding parachute container cover failed to fire. No recovery..
1962 May 4 - . 21:43 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-A1. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-34.
  • Research and development Category II test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1962 May 12 - . 00:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 127D.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 May 15 - . 19:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 334 / Agena B 1126.
  • KH-5 9034A - . Payload: KH-5 s/n 9034A/Agena B 1126. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-5. Decay Date: 1963-11-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 292 . COSPAR: 1962-Sigma-1. Apogee: 550 km (340 mi). Perigee: 283 km (175 mi). Inclination: 82.3000 deg. Period: 93.00 min. Summary: KH-5; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. First successful KH-5 mission. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
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 May 30 - . 01:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 336 / Agena B 1128.
  • KH-4 9035 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9035 / Agena B 1128. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1962-06-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 302 . COSPAR: 1962-Phi-1. Apogee: 350 km (210 mi). Perigee: 192 km (119 mi). Inclination: 74.1000 deg. Period: 89.90 min. Summary: KH-4; film capsule recovered 3.1 days later. Slight corona static on film..
1962 May 31 - . 17:08 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C. LV Configuration: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C 102.
  • ERCS/279L 1 Communications mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 830 km (510 mi).
1962 June 2 - . 00:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 335 / Agena B 1127.
  • KH-4 9036 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9036 / Agena B 1127. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1962-06-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 304 . COSPAR: 1962-Chi-1. Apogee: 401 km (249 mi). Perigee: 211 km (131 mi). Inclination: 74.5000 deg. Period: 90.60 min. Summary: KH-4. Mission failed. During air catch, chute tore loose. Capsule sank..
  • Oscar 2 - . Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Oscar. Class: Communications. Type: Amateur radio communications satellite. Spacecraft: Oscar. Decay Date: 1962-06-21 . USAF Sat Cat: 305 . COSPAR: 1962-Chi-2. Apogee: 339 km (210 mi). Perigee: 188 km (116 mi). Inclination: 74.2000 deg. Period: 89.80 min. OSCAR II was launched piggyback with a United States Air Force satellite. OSCAR II was very similar to OSCAR I. Differences included (1) changing the surface thermal coatings to achieve a cooler internal spacecraft environment, (2) modifying the sensing system so the satellite temperature could be measured accurately as the batteries decayed, and (3) lowering the transmitter power output to 100 mW to extend the life of the onboard battery. OSCAR II lasted 18 days ceasing operation on June 20, 1962 and re-entered June 21, 1962.
1962 June 8 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor.
  • Last launch of a Thor IRBM from Vandenberg - . Nation: USA. Summary: Last launch of a Thor IRBM from Vandenberg. (First launch and first missile fired from Vandenberg AFB on 16 December 1958.).
1962 June 17 - . 18:14 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 115D / Agena B SPS 2402.
  • Samos 8 - . Payload: Samos E-2 no. 2 / Agena B 2402. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: Samos. Decay Date: 1962-06-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 307 . COSPAR: 1962-Psi-1. Apogee: 198 km (123 mi). Perigee: 198 km (123 mi). Inclination: 96.2000 deg. Period: 88.40 min. Summary: First generation photo surveillance; radio relay of images; Satellite and Missile Observation Satellite. Poor results..
  • FTV 2402 RV - . Payload: E-6 RV. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: Samos. COSPAR: 1962-Psi-xx.
1962 June 18 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 343 / Agena B 2312.
  • Ferret 2 - . Payload: Ferret 2 / Agena B 2312. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: Ferret. Decay Date: 1963-10-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 308 . COSPAR: 1962-Omega-2. Apogee: 377 km (234 mi). Perigee: 347 km (215 mi). Inclination: 82.1000 deg. Period: 91.80 min.
  • FTV 2312 - . Payload: Ferret 2. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: ELINT. Spacecraft: Ferret. Decay Date: 1963-10-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 308 . COSPAR: 1962-Omega-1. Apogee: 170 km (100 mi). Perigee: 161 km (100 mi). Inclination: 82.2000 deg. Period: 87.80 min.
1962 June 19 - . 00:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LE-8. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. LV Configuration: Thor DM-18A 269.
  • Combat training launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: RAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1962 June 23 - . 00:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 339 / Agena B 1129.
  • KH-4 9037 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9037 / Agena B 1129. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1962-07-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 315 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Beta-1. Apogee: 314 km (195 mi). Perigee: 199 km (123 mi). Inclination: 75.1000 deg. Period: 89.60 min. Summary: KH-4. Corona static occurs on some film..
1962 June 26 - . 10:57 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 21D.
  • NTMP K-1 Target mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Summary: First launch of an Atlas from Vandenberg AFB as a target for an Army Nike-Zeus from Kwajalein..
1962 June 28 - . 01:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 340 / Agena D 1151.
  • KH-4 9038 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9038 / Agena D 1151. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1962-09-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 316 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Gamma-1. Apogee: 698 km (433 mi). Perigee: 205 km (127 mi). Inclination: 76.0000 deg. Period: 93.60 min. Summary: KH-4; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. Severe corona static..
1962 July 9 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Astrobee. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee 1500. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Magnetosphere mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: Sandia. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).
1962 July 9 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. Launch Vehicle: Journeyman.
  • Magnetosphere mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AEC. Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi).
1962 July 12 - . 16:57 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 141D.
  • NTMP K-2 Target mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 July 13 - . 21:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 67E. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Research and development Category II test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 July 18 - . 20:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 120D.
  • Samos 9 - . Payload: Samos E-2 no. 3 / Agena B 2403. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: Samos. Decay Date: 1962-07-25 . USAF Sat Cat: 342 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Zeta-1. Apogee: 234 km (145 mi). Perigee: 184 km (114 mi). Inclination: 96.0000 deg. Period: 88.60 min. Summary: First generation photo surveillance; radio relay of images; Satellite and Missile Observation Satellite. Poor results..
  • FTV 2403 RV - . Payload: E-6 RV. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: Samos. Decay Date: 1962-07-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 343 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Zeta-2. Apogee: 215 km (133 mi). Perigee: 163 km (101 mi). Inclination: 96.1000 deg. Period: 88.30 min.
1962 July 19 - . 11:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 13D.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 July 21 - . 00:56 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 342 / Agena B 1130.
  • KH-4 9039 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9039 / Agena B 1130. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1962-08-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 344 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Eta-1. Apogee: 376 km (233 mi). Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Inclination: 70.0000 deg. Period: 90.30 min. Summary: KH-4. Aborted after 6 photo passes. Heavy corona and radiation fog..
1962 July 24 - . 17:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C. LV Configuration: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C 101.
  • ERCS / 279L 2 Communications mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1962 July 25 - . 15:41 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Platform: F-4H. Launch Vehicle: Caleb. LV Configuration: Caleb NC17.117.
  • Test / aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN NOTS. Apogee: 1,166 km (724 mi).
1962 July 28 - . 00:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 347 / Agena B 1131.
  • KH-4 9040 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9040 / Agena B 1131. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1962-08-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 345 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Theta-1. Apogee: 403 km (250 mi). Perigee: 204 km (126 mi). Inclination: 71.0000 deg. Period: 90.60 min. Summary: KH-4; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. No filters on slave horizon cameras. Heavy corona and radiation fog..
1962 August 1 - . 21:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 15F.
  • Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). Summary: First successful Atlas F flight at operational site, SMS 576E (15F).
1962 August 2 - . 00:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 344 / Agena D 1152.
  • KH-4 9041 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9041 / Agena D 1152. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1962-08-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 360 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Kappa-1. Apogee: 423 km (262 mi). Perigee: 212 km (131 mi). Inclination: 83.0000 deg. Period: 90.80 min. Summary: KH-4; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. Severe corona and radiation fog..
1962 August 5 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Hopi. Launch Vehicle: Kiva/Hopi.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1962 August 5 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 124D / Agena B SPS 2404.
  • Samos 10 - . Payload: Samos E-6 no. 2 / Agena B 2404. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: Samos. Decay Date: 1962-08-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 361 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Lambda-2. Apogee: 203 km (126 mi). Perigee: 201 km (124 mi). Inclination: 96.2000 deg. Period: 88.50 min. Summary: Second generation photo surveillance; radio relay of images; Satellite and Missile Observation Satellite. Poor results..
  • FTV 2404 - . Payload: AFP-201 PVP 854. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: Samos. Decay Date: 1962-08-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 361 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Lambda-1. Apogee: 203 km (126 mi). Perigee: 203 km (126 mi). Inclination: 96.3000 deg. Period: 88.50 min.
  • FTV 2404 RV - . Payload: E-6 RV. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: Samos. COSPAR: 1962-A-Lambda-xx.
1962 August 9 - . 22:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 8D.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 August 9 - . 23:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 87D.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 August 10 - . 21:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 57F. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
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 August 29 - . 01:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 349 / Agena D 1153.
  • KH-4 9044 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9044 / Agena D 1153. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1962-09-10 . USAF Sat Cat: 377 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Sigma-1. Apogee: 400 km (240 mi). Perigee: 187 km (116 mi). Inclination: 65.2000 deg. Period: 90.40 min. Summary: KH-4; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. Erratic vehicle attitude. Radiation fog minimal..
1962 September 1 - . 20:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 348 / Agena B 1132.
  • KH-5 9042A - . Payload: KH-5 s/n 9042A/Agena B 1132. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-5. Decay Date: 1964-10-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 385 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Upsilon-1. Apogee: 639 km (397 mi). Perigee: 293 km (182 mi). Inclination: 82.8000 deg. Period: 94.00 min. Summary: KH-5. Mission failed. Parachute shrouds parted during air catch, capsule sank. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
  • SRV 600 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-5. COSPAR: 1962-A-Upsilon-x.
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.
  • KH-4 9043 / TRS 1 (ERS 2) - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9043 / TRS 1 (ERS 2) / Agena B 1133. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1962-11-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 396 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Chi-1. Apogee: 668 km (415 mi). Perigee: 204 km (126 mi). Inclination: 81.8000 deg. Period: 93.30 min. Summary: KH-4; film capsule recovered 1.1 days later; ERS-2 subsatellite failed to deploy. Capping shutter malfunction, slight corona and radiation fog..
  • TRS - . Payload: ERS 2. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ERS. COSPAR: 1962-A-Chi-xx.
1962 September 28 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • First international satellite launch - Vandenberg - . Nation: USA.
1962 September 28 - . 21:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF04. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 503. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Research and development Category I test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 50 km (31 mi). Summary: Initial launch of a Minuteman I from Vandenberg.
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). .
  • TAVE - . Payload: TAVE. Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Spacecraft: TAVE. USAF Sat Cat: 426 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Alpha-2. Apogee: 1,019 km (633 mi). Perigee: 993 km (617 mi). Inclination: 80.5000 deg. Period: 105.20 min. Summary: Thor Agena Vibration Experiment.
1962 September 29 - . 23:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 351 / Agena D 1154.
  • KH-4 9045 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9045 / Agena D 1154. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1962-10-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 427 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Beta-1. Apogee: 388 km (241 mi). Perigee: 190 km (110 mi). Inclination: 65.4000 deg. Period: 90.30 min. Summary: KH-4. First use of stellar camera, erratic vehicle attitude, numerous light leaks..
1962 October 2 - . 11:46 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 4D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • NTMP K-3 Target mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1962 October 6 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-A1. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-35.
  • Research and development Category II test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1962 October 9 - . 18:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 352 / Agena B 1134.
  • KH-5 9046A - . Payload: KH-5 s/n 9046A/Agena B 1134. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-5. Decay Date: 1962-10-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 436 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Epsilon-1. Apogee: 427 km (265 mi). Perigee: 213 km (132 mi). Inclination: 82.0000 deg. Period: 91.00 min. Summary: KH-5; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. 50% of stellar terrain film was blank due to shutter malfunction. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
  • SRV 603 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-5. COSPAR: 1962-B-Epsilon-x.
1962 October 26 - . 10:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 159D.
  • NTMP K-5 / Pod 20 Target - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
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 November 5 - . 22:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 356 / Agena B 1136.
  • KH-4 9047 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9047 / Agena B 1136. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1962-12-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 453 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Omicron-1. Apogee: 403 km (250 mi). Perigee: 208 km (129 mi). Inclination: 75.0000 deg. Period: 90.60 min. Summary: KH-4; film capsule; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. Camera door malfunctioned, flare degraded 15% of film..
  • SRV 599 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-4. COSPAR: 1962-B-Omicron-x.
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.
  • Samos 11 - . Payload: Samos E-6 no. 3 / TRS 1 / Agena B 2405. Mass: 1,860 kg (4,100 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: Samos. Decay Date: 1962-11-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 455 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Pi-1. Apogee: 292 km (181 mi). Perigee: 128 km (79 mi). Inclination: 96.0000 deg. Period: 88.70 min. Summary: Second generation photo surveillance; radio relay of images; Satellite and Missile Observation Satellite. Poor results. SAMOS project cancelled..
  • FTV 2405 RV - . Payload: E-6 RV. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Spacecraft: Samos. COSPAR: 1962-B-Pi-xx.
  • TRS 1 - . Payload: ERS 1. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ERS. COSPAR: 1962-B-Pi-xx.
1962 November 14 - . 22:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 13F. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1962 November 21 - . 18:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C. LV Configuration: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C 201.
  • ERCS / 279L 3 Communications mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1962 November 24 - . 22:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 367 / Agena B 1135.
  • KH-4 9048 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9048 / Agena B 1135. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1962-12-13 . USAF Sat Cat: 481 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Rho-1. Apogee: 339 km (210 mi). Perigee: 206 km (128 mi). Inclination: 65.0000 deg. Period: 89.90 min. Summary: KH-4. Some film exposed through base..
1962 December 4 - . 21:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 361 / Agena D 1155.
  • KH-4 9049 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9049 / Agena D 1155. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1962-12-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 490 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Sigma-1. Apogee: 273 km (169 mi). Perigee: 194 km (120 mi). Inclination: 65.1000 deg. Period: 89.20 min. Summary: KH-4. Mission failed. During air catch chute tore, capsule sank..
1962 December 5 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-A1. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-11.
  • Research and development Category II test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1962 December 10 - . 20:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF05. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 502. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Research and development Category I test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1962 December 12 - . 11:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 161D.
  • NTMP K-6 Target mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1962 December 13 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Terrier. Launch Vehicle: Terrier Asp IV.
  • Vista-300 test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 150 km (90 mi).
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.
  • Black Sphere - . Payload: NRL PL120. Mass: 23 kg (50 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF; USN. Program: ELINT. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: NRL ELINT. Decay Date: 1967-02-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 502 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Tau-1. Apogee: 2,385 km (1,481 mi). Perigee: 230 km (140 mi). Inclination: 70.3000 deg. Period: 111.80 min. Summary: Identified by McDowell as probable NRL ELINT satellite..
  • SURCAL 1A - . Mass: 37 kg (81 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF; USN. Class: Military. Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: SURCAL. Decay Date: 1966-01-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 508 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Tau-4. Apogee: 2,160 km (1,340 mi). Perigee: 227 km (141 mi). Inclination: 70.3000 deg. Period: 109.30 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • Calsphere 1A - . Payload: NRL ELINT. Mass: 23 kg (50 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF; USN. Program: ELINT. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: NRL ELINT. Decay Date: 1967-02-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 513 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Tau-5. Apogee: 2,069 km (1,285 mi). Perigee: 228 km (141 mi). Inclination: 70.3000 deg. Period: 108.40 min. Summary: Identified by McDowell as probable NRL ELINT satellite..
  • 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). .
  • SURCAL 2A - . Payload: NRL PL121. Mass: 3.00 kg (6.60 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF; USN. Class: Military. Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: SURCAL. Decay Date: 1963-07-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 507 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Tau-3. Apogee: 2,762 km (1,716 mi). Perigee: 222 km (137 mi). Inclination: 70.2000 deg. Period: 115.80 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1962 December 14 - . 21:26 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 368 / Agena D 1156.
  • KH-4 9050 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9050 / Agena D 1156. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1963-01-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 505 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Phi-1. Apogee: 386 km (239 mi). Perigee: 200 km (120 mi). Inclination: 70.0000 deg. Period: 90.30 min. Summary: KH-4; film capsule recovered 4.1 days later. Best mission to date..
1962 December 17 - . 20:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 131D / Agena B 1205. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • Midas 6 - . Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1205. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Military. Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft: Midas. Decay Date: 1962-12-17 . COSPAR: F621217A. Summary: Missile Defense Alarm System. Carried ERS-3, ERS-4 subsatellites..
  • TRS 3 - . Payload: ERS 3. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Spacecraft: Midas. COSPAR: F621217B.
  • TRS 4 - . Payload: ERS 4. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Spacecraft: Midas. COSPAR: F621217C.
1962 December 18 - . 17:26 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 64E. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • NTMP K-4 ABM test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1962 December 19 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1B(m). LV Configuration: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1B(m) 21-1.
  • Ion Engine Test A Technology mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 2,000 km (1,200 mi). When the high-voltage power supplies were first turned-on, intermittent high-voltage breakdowns occurred, and the beam power supply became inoperative. Post-flight examination of the power supply indicated the high-voltage breakdowns were probably caused by pressure buildup in the primary propulsion unit due to gas vented from the spacecraft batteries. The primary propulsion unit high voltage section was not adequately vented to keep the pressure low enough. Engine thrusting was not accomplished in this test.
1962 December 19 - . 01:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-3. LV Configuration: Scout X-3 S118.
  • Transit 5A - . Payload: Transit 5A-1. Mass: 61 kg (134 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Transit. Class: Navigation. Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. Decay Date: 1986-09-25 . USAF Sat Cat: 509 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Psi-1. Apogee: 347 km (215 mi). Perigee: 336 km (208 mi). Inclination: 90.6000 deg. Period: 91.40 min. Summary: First operational solar-powered prototype; failed first day. The satellite verified a new technique for deploying the solar panels and for separating from the rocket, but otherwise it was not successful because of trouble with the power system..
1962 December 22 - . 09:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 160D.
  • NTMP K-7 / Pod 4 ABM sensor test / plume characterization mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 2,259 km (1,403 mi).
1963 January 7 - . 21:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 369 / Agena D 1157.
  • KH-4 9051 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9051 / Agena D 1157. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1963-01-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 525 . COSPAR: 1963-002A. Apogee: 384 km (238 mi). Perigee: 202 km (125 mi). Inclination: 82.0000 deg. Period: 90.30 min. Summary: KH-4. Erratic vehicle attitude. Frame ephemeris not created..
1963 January 16 - . 21:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B. LV Configuration: Thor Agena B 363 / Agena B 2313.
  • OPS 0180 - . Payload: Ferret 3 / Agena B 2313. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: Ferret. Decay Date: 1969-01-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 527 . COSPAR: 1963-003A. Apogee: 522 km (324 mi). Perigee: 461 km (286 mi). Inclination: 81.9000 deg. Period: 94.40 min.
1963 January 25 - . 10:44 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 39D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • NTMP K-9/OT ABM test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1963 January 29 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-A1. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-8.
  • Research and development Category II test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 January 31 - . 08:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 176D.
  • NTMP K-12 ABM test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1963 February 2 - . 06:56 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C. LV Configuration: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C 202.
  • ERCS 279L Communications mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 February 12 - . 01:47 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. Launch Vehicle: Journeyman. LV Configuration: Journeyman NASA 11.06UE.
  • Electron Spectrometer Magnetospheric mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Apogee: 1,675 km (1,040 mi).
1963 February 13 - . 11:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 182D.
  • NTMP K-8 / NC20.133 ABM test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1963 February 16 - . 21:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-C. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-7. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Awful Tired - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 5.00 km (3.10 mi). Summary: Research and development launch - Mk 6 re-entry vehicle.
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 February 28 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • First use of a Thrust-Augmented-Thor/Agena - . Nation: USA. Summary: First use of a Thrust-Augmented-Thor/Agena space booster at Vandenberg..
1963 February 28 - . 09:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 188D.
  • NTMP K-10 ABM test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1963 February 28 - . 21:48 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 354 / Agena D 1159 (No solids). FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • KH-4 9052 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9052. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1963-02-28 . COSPAR: F630228A. Summary: KH-4. Mission failed..
  • SRV 610 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-4. COSPAR: F630228B.
1963 March 10 - . 02:42 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 102D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 0 km ( mi).
1963 March 12 - . 05:21 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 64D.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1963 March 14 - . 01:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C. LV Configuration: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C 203.
  • ERCS 279L Communications mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 March 15 - . 11:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 46D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • TALL TREE 1 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1963 March 16 - . 02:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576D. LV Family: Atlas. 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).
1963 March 16 - . 08:32 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 193D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • NTMP K-14/NC20.145 Target/Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1963 March 18 - . 21:13 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 360 / Agena D 1164 (No solids). FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • KH-6 8001 - . Payload: KH-6 s/n 8001. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-6. Decay Date: 1963-03-18 . COSPAR: F630318A. Summary: First launch of KH-6. Mission failed..
  • P-11 - . Payload: P-11. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: P 11. COSPAR: F630318C.
  • P-11 No. 1 - . Payload: P-11 No. 1. Mass: 80 kg (176 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: SSF. Decay Date: 1963-03-18 . COSPAR: F630318B. Summary: Ferret subsatellite aboard first launch of KH-6. Mission failed..
1963 March 21 - . 21:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 83F.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1963 March 24 - . 00:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 52F. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • OT TALL TREE 4 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1963 March 30 - . 08:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-A2. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-3.
  • NTMP K-17 Target mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 April 1 - . 23:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 376 / Agena D 1160.
  • KH-4 9053 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9053 / Agena D 1160. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1963-04-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 562 . COSPAR: 1963-007A. Apogee: 408 km (253 mi). Perigee: 198 km (123 mi). Inclination: 74.9000 deg. Period: 90.50 min. Summary: KH-4; film capsule recovered 3.1 days later. Best imagery to date..
1963 April 5 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-A1. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I V-1.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 April 5 - . 03:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-3. LV Configuration: Scout X-3 S119. FAILURE: Failure.. Failed Stage: U.
  • Transit 5A-2 - . Payload: Transit 5A-2. Mass: 84 kg (185 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Transit. Class: Navigation. Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. Decay Date: 1963-04-05 . COSPAR: F630405A. Summary: Replacement for the failed Transit 5A; failed to reach orbit..
1963 April 11 - . 20:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF06. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 534.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 April 12 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF02. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 565.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 April 13 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-A3. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-1.
  • NTMP K-21 Target mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 April 23 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF05. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 585.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 April 24 - . 20:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 65E.
  • Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi). Summary: First successful E missile from OSTF-1, SMS 576.
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 April 26 - . 20:13 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 372 / Agena D 1411. FAILURE: Attitude sensors were misaligned. No orbit.. Failed Stage: G.
  • KH-5 9055A - . Payload: KH-5 s/n 9055A. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-5. Decay Date: 1963-04-26 . COSPAR: F630426AA. Summary: Mission failed..
1963 April 27 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-C. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-8.
  • Dinner Party - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Summary: Research and development launch. Mk 6 re-entry vehicle..
1963 April 30 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF03. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 595.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 May 1 - . 10:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-A1. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I V-4. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC.
1963 May 8 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF06. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 604.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 May 9 - . 20:06 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 119D / Agena B S01 1206.
  • Midas 7 - . Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1206. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Military. Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft: Midas. USAF Sat Cat: 574 . COSPAR: 1963-014A. Apogee: 3,680 km (2,280 mi). Perigee: 3,609 km (2,242 mi). Inclination: 87.3000 deg. Period: 166.40 min. Summary: MIDAS 7 was the first operational MIDAS mission and the first equipped with the W-37 sensor. During its six weeks of operation, MIDAS 7 recorded nine US ICBM launches, including the first missile launch ever detected from space..
  • TRS 2 - . Payload: ERS 5. Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Technology. Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: TRS. Decay Date: 1973-07-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 579 . COSPAR: 1963-014B. Apogee: 4,902 km (3,045 mi). Perigee: 2,269 km (1,409 mi). Inclination: 87.2000 deg. Period: 165.00 min. Summary: Solar cells damage data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • TRS 3 - . Payload: ERS 6. Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Technology. Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: TRS. USAF Sat Cat: 608 . COSPAR: 1963-014C. Apogee: 3,691 km (2,293 mi). Perigee: 3,591 km (2,231 mi). Inclination: 87.3000 deg. Period: 166.40 min. Summary: Solar cells damage data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • Dash 1 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Technology. Type: Military technology satellite. Spacecraft: Dash. USAF Sat Cat: 589 . COSPAR: 1963-014D. Apogee: 3,724 km (2,313 mi). Perigee: 3,558 km (2,210 mi). Inclination: 87.3000 deg. Period: 166.30 min.
1963 May 11 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-B. LV Family: Hopi. Launch Vehicle: Kiva/Hopi.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: AFCRL. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1963 May 13 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-D. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-19.
  • Flying Frog - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Summary: Research and development launch. Mk 6 re-entry vehicle..
1963 May 17 - . 23:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C. LV Configuration: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C 301.
  • ERCS 279L Communications mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 May 18 - . 22:21 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 364 / Agena D 1165.
  • KH-6 8002 - . Payload: KH-6 s/n 8002 / Agena D 1165. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-6. Decay Date: 1963-05-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 578 . COSPAR: 1963-016A. Apogee: 506 km (314 mi). Perigee: 147 km (91 mi). Inclination: 74.5000 deg. Period: 91.00 min. Summary: KH-6. Second launch of KH-6. Operation was successful but no film was used. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1963 May 24 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF07. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 658.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 June 4 - . 20:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 62E.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
1963 June 12 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena B 139D / Agena B SPS 1204. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • Midas 8 - . Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1204. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Military. Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft: Midas. Decay Date: 1963-06-12 . COSPAR: F630613A. Summary: Missile Defense Alarm System. Carried ERS-7, ERS-8 subsatellites..
  • TRS 7 - . Payload: ERS 7. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Spacecraft: Midas. COSPAR: F630613B.
  • TRS 8 - . Payload: ERS 8. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Spacecraft: Midas. COSPAR: F630613C.
1963 June 12 - . 09:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 198D.
  • NTMP - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1963 June 12 - . 23:58 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 362 / Agena D 1161.
  • KH-4 9054 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9054 / Agena D 1161. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1963-07-11 . USAF Sat Cat: 590 . COSPAR: 1963-019A. Apogee: 416 km (258 mi). Perigee: 193 km (119 mi). Inclination: 81.8000 deg. Period: 90.70 min. Summary: KH-4. Some imagery seriously affected by corona..
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.
  • Lofti 2A - . Mass: 26 kg (57 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Technology. Type: Communications technology satellite. Spacecraft: Lofti. Decay Date: 1963-07-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 601 . COSPAR: 1963-021B. Apogee: 876 km (544 mi). Perigee: 170 km (100 mi). Inclination: 69.9000 deg. Period: 95.10 min. Summary: VLF experiments. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • USN satellite - . Payload: NRL PL130?. Mass: 35 kg (77 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: ELINT. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: NRL ELINT. Decay Date: 1963-07-27 . USAF Sat Cat: 598 . COSPAR: 1963-021E. Apogee: 859 km (533 mi). Perigee: 170 km (100 mi). Inclination: 69.9000 deg. Period: 94.90 min. Summary: Identified by McDowell as probable NRL ELINT satellite..
  • 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). .
  • Solrad 6A - . Mass: 39 kg (85 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: GRAB. Decay Date: 1963-08-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 599 . COSPAR: 1963-021C. Apogee: 869 km (539 mi). Perigee: 170 km (100 mi). Inclination: 69.9000 deg. Period: 95.10 min. Summary: Solar radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • SURCAL 1B - . Mass: 3.00 kg (6.60 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Military. Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: SURCAL. Decay Date: 1963-07-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 597 . COSPAR: 1963-021F. Apogee: 802 km (498 mi). Perigee: 172 km (106 mi). Inclination: 69.9000 deg. Period: 94.40 min. Summary: Surveillance Calibration. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1963 June 16 - . 01:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-3. LV Configuration: Scout X-3 S120.
  • Transit 5A-3 - . Payload: Transit 5A-3. Mass: 55 kg (121 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Transit. Class: Navigation. Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. Decay Date: 1990-08-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 594 . COSPAR: 1963-022A. Apogee: 360 km (220 mi). Perigee: 350 km (210 mi). Inclination: 89.8000 deg. Period: 91.60 min. First operational prototype with a redesigned power supply. A malfunction of the memory occurred during powered flight that kept it from accepting and storing navigation messages, and the oscillator stability was degraded during launch. The satellite could not be used for navigation, but it was the first to achieve gravity-gradient stabilization, and its other subsystems performed well.
1963 June 18 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF04. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 521.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 June 20 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-C. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-22.
  • Thread Needle - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Summary: Research and development launch. Mk 6 re-entry vehicle..
1963 June 27 - . 00:37 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 381 / Agena D 1166.
  • KH-4 9056 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9056 / Agena D 1166. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1963-07-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 609 . COSPAR: 1963-025A. Apogee: 338 km (210 mi). Perigee: 199 km (123 mi). Inclination: 81.6000 deg. Period: 89.90 min. Summary: KH-4. Experimental camera carried. Film affected by light leaks..
  • Hitch Hiker 1 - . Payload: P-11 No. 2. Mass: 80 kg (176 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: SSF. USAF Sat Cat: 614 . COSPAR: 1963-025B. Apogee: 2,506 km (1,557 mi). Perigee: 323 km (200 mi). Inclination: 82.1000 deg. Period: 114.10 min. Summary: Radiation data. First successful flight of P-11 bus, mainly used for radar signals intelligence gathering..
1963 June 28 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF02. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 546.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 June 29 - . 22:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena B SLV-2A/B. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena B 380 / Agena B 2314.
  • OPS 1440 - . Payload: Ferret 4 / Agena B 2314. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF; CIA. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: Ferret. Decay Date: 1969-10-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 613 . COSPAR: 1963-027A. Apogee: 530 km (320 mi). Perigee: 487 km (302 mi). Inclination: 82.3000 deg. Period: 94.80 min.
1963 July 1 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Black Brant. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant 3. LV Configuration: Black Brant III AA-3-7?.
  • Test mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1963 July 3 - . 21:13 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576C. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 69E.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
1963 July 5 - . 21:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF05. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 518.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 July 11 - . 23:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF03. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 650.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 July 12 - . 20:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC4W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena D 201D / Agena D S01A 4702.
  • KH 7-01 (Gambit) - . Payload: KH-7 no. 1. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-7. Decay Date: 1963-07-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 618 . COSPAR: 1963-028A. Apogee: 212 km (131 mi). Perigee: 173 km (107 mi). Inclination: 95.3000 deg. Period: 88.30 min. Summary: KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1963 July 16 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-A2. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-24.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 July 19 - . 00:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D. LV Configuration: Thor Agena D 388 / Agena D 1412.
  • KH-4 9057 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9057 / Agena D 1412. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1963-08-13 . USAF Sat Cat: 621 . COSPAR: 1963-029A. Apogee: 382 km (237 mi). Perigee: 197 km (122 mi). Inclination: 82.9000 deg. Period: 90.40 min. Summary: KH-4. Best mission to date..
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.
  • Midas 9 - . Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1207. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Military. Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft: Midas. USAF Sat Cat: 622 . COSPAR: 1963-030A. Apogee: 3,726 km (2,315 mi). Perigee: 3,676 km (2,284 mi). Inclination: 88.4000 deg. Period: 167.90 min. Summary: Missile Defense Alarm System. Did not eject ERS 10 subsatellite..
  • TRS 10 - . Payload: ERS 10. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: ERS. COSPAR: 1963-030xx.
  • TRS 4 - . Payload: ERS 9. Mass: 2.00 kg (4.40 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Technology. Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: TRS. USAF Sat Cat: 635 . COSPAR: 1963-030B. Apogee: 3,736 km (2,321 mi). Perigee: 3,661 km (2,274 mi). Inclination: 88.4000 deg. Period: 167.80 min. Summary: Radiation damage data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • Dash 2 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Technology. Type: Military technology satellite. Spacecraft: Dash. Decay Date: 1971-04-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 624 . COSPAR: 1963-030D. Apogee: 3,839 km (2,385 mi). Perigee: 3,573 km (2,220 mi). Inclination: 88.5000 deg. Period: 168.00 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1963 July 26 - . 19:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 24E. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi).
1963 July 27 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF06. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 514.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 July 30 - . 18:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576C. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 70E.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
1963 July 31 - . 00:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 382 / Agena D 1167.
  • KH 4A-07 - . Payload: KH-6 s/n 8003 / Agena D 1167. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-6. Decay Date: 1963-08-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 626 . COSPAR: 1963-032A. Apogee: 455 km (282 mi). Perigee: 152 km (94 mi). Inclination: 74.9000 deg. Period: 90.60 min. Summary: KH-6. Third and final KH-6 mission (LANYARD). Mission was successful but image quality was poor. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1963 July 31 - . 20:52 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 143D.
  • ST COOL WATER I test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 August 8 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF02. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 520.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 August 15 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-A1. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-7.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 August 24 - . 09:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 72E.
  • NTMP/OT DASO test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
1963 August 25 - . 00:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 377 / Agena D 1162.
  • KH-4A 1001 - . Payload: KH-4A s/n 1001 / Agena D 1162. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Decay Date: 1963-09-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 636 . COSPAR: 1963-034A. Apogee: 320 km (190 mi). Perigee: 161 km (100 mi). Inclination: 75.0000 deg. Period: 89.40 min. Summary: KH-4A. First mission of KH-4A. Some film was fogged. Two buckets but 1001-2 was never recovered..
1963 August 28 - . 23:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 142D.
  • ST COOL WATER II test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1963 August 29 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF07. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 625.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 August 29 - . 20:31 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 394 / Agena D 1169.
  • KH-4 9033 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9033 & Lampo / Agena D 1169. Mass: 1,000 kg (2,200 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1963-11-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 637 . COSPAR: 1963-035A. Apogee: 324 km (201 mi). Perigee: 292 km (181 mi). Inclination: 81.9000 deg. Period: 90.80 min. Summary: KH-5; deployed ELINT subsatellite. Considered to be best mission to date in Argon program..
  • LAMPO - . Payload: 0.1 Square Meter Target. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: LAMPO. Decay Date: 1963-09-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 638 . COSPAR: 1963-035B. Apogee: 422 km (262 mi). Perigee: 315 km (195 mi). Inclination: 81.9000 deg. Period: 92.00 min. Summary: Radar monitoring. Not identified as a subsatellite ferret by McDowell..
1963 August 30 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-A3. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-56.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 September 6 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC4W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena D 212D / Agena D S01A 4701.
  • KH 7-02 - . Payload: KH-7 no. 2. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-7. Decay Date: 1963-09-13 . USAF Sat Cat: 641 . COSPAR: 1963-036A. Apogee: 243 km (150 mi). Perigee: 171 km (106 mi). Inclination: 94.4000 deg. Period: 88.70 min. Summary: KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1963 September 6 - . 21:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 63D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • ST COOL WATER III test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1963 September 11 - . 21:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 84D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • ST COOL WATER IV test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,700 km (1,000 mi).
1963 September 17 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-A2. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-83.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 September 23 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-D. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-23.
  • Tar Top - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Summary: Research and development launch. Mk 6 re-entry vehicle..
1963 September 23 - . 23:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 383 / Agena D 1163.
  • KH-4A 1002 - . Payload: KH-4A s/n 1002 / Agena D 1163. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Decay Date: 1963-10-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 668 . COSPAR: 1963-037A. Apogee: 442 km (274 mi). Perigee: 162 km (100 mi). Inclination: 74.8000 deg. Period: 90.60 min. Summary: KH-4A. Severe light leaks, 1002-2 never recovered, indefinite postponement of KH-4A series..
1963 September 25 - . 11:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576C. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 71E. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1963 September 26 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF08. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 770.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
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 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • Initial launch of Thor/Able-Star from Vandenberg - . Nation: USA.
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-2 375 AB013.
  • Transit 5BN-1 - . Mass: 70 kg (154 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Transit. Class: Navigation. Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. USAF Sat Cat: 670 . COSPAR: 1963-038B. Apogee: 1,125 km (699 mi). Perigee: 1,066 km (662 mi). Inclination: 90.1000 deg. Period: 107.20 min. First test of nuclear-powered Transit operational prototype. Carried SNAP-9A nuclear power source. The satellite achieved gravity-gradient stabilization, but upside down, making the signal level too low for operational users with low-gain antennas. However, geodetic and navigational evaluation data were obtained.
  • 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 October 4 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF07. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 695.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 October 4 - . 05:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 45F. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC.
1963 October 7 - . 21:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 163D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • ST COOL WATER V test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1963 October 17 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF04. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 672.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 October 24 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. Launch Vehicle: Dac Roc.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 50 km (31 mi).
1963 October 25 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC4W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena D 224D / Agena D S01A 4703.
  • Agena D - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-7. Decay Date: 1963-10-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 678 . COSPAR: 1963-041B. Apogee: 276 km (171 mi). Perigee: 116 km (72 mi). Inclination: 99.0000 deg. Period: 88.41 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • KH 7-03 - . Payload: KH-7 no. 3. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-7. Decay Date: 1963-10-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 677 . COSPAR: 1963-041A. Apogee: 312 km (193 mi). Perigee: 123 km (76 mi). Inclination: 99.0000 deg. Period: 88.80 min. Summary: KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1963 October 29 - . 21:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 386 / Agena D 1601.
  • KH-5 9059A - . Payload: KH-5 s/n 9059A/Agena D 1601. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-5. Decay Date: 1964-01-21 . USAF Sat Cat: 681 . COSPAR: 1963-042A. Apogee: 318 km (197 mi). Perigee: 283 km (175 mi). Inclination: 89.9000 deg. Period: 90.60 min. Summary: KH-5; deployed ELINT subsatellite. Fourth film payload retrieved in ARGON program. Film comparable to that of 9058A. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
  • Hitch Hiker 2 - . Payload: P-11 s/n A3. Mass: 80 kg (176 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: SSF. Decay Date: 1965-05-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 682 . COSPAR: 1963-042B. Apogee: 581 km (361 mi). Perigee: 288 km (178 mi). Inclination: 90.0000 deg. Period: 93.30 min. Summary: Radar monitoring..
1963 October 31 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF06. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 664.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 November 2 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF03. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 613.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 November 4 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • First launch in the ABRES program - . Nation: USA. Summary: First launch in the Advanced Ballistic Reentry System (ABRES) program at Vandenberg AFB. Vehicle used for this mission was an Atlas D..
1963 November 4 - . 09:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 232D.
  • ABRES REX-III re-entry vehicle test flight - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1963 November 7 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Black Brant. Launch Vehicle: Black Brant 3. LV Configuration: Black Brant III AA-3-8?.
  • Test mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 116 km (72 mi).
1963 November 9 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-C. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-27.
  • Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 November 9 - . 20:27 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 400 / Agena D 1171. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • KH-4 9060 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9060. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1963-11-09 . COSPAR: F631109A. Summary: KH-4. Mission failed..
  • SRV 632 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-4. COSPAR: F631109B.
1963 November 13 - . 22:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576B2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 158D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • ST COOL WATER VI test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1963 November 14 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-A1. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 1. LV Configuration: Titan I SM-68.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 November 18 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Honest John. Launch Vehicle: HJ Nike Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike Nike HAD-1.
  • LRL HAD-1 test - . Nation: USA. Agency: Livermore. Apogee: 163 km (101 mi).
1963 November 27 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF07. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 842.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 November 27 - . 21:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2 Agena D 406 / Agena D 1172.
  • KH-4 9061 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9061 / Agena D 1172. Mass: 1,150 kg (2,530 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1963-12-15 . USAF Sat Cat: 695 . COSPAR: 1963-048A. Apogee: 368 km (228 mi). Perigee: 182 km (113 mi). Inclination: 69.6000 deg. Period: 90.00 min. Summary: KH-4. Mission failed. Return capsule separated from satellite but remained in orbit..
1963 November 29 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF06. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 642.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 December 3 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • Air Staff decision that the SAC manage Vandenberg - . Nation: USA. Summary: Air Staff decision that the Strategic Air Command would continue as host organization over the combined Point Arguello/Vandenberg AFB (effective 1 July 1964) with Air Force Systems Command responsible for all matters pertaining to management and operation.
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-2 385 AB015.
  • Transit 5BN-2 - . Mass: 75 kg (165 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Transit. Class: Navigation. Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. USAF Sat Cat: 704 . COSPAR: 1963-049B. Apogee: 1,110 km (680 mi). Perigee: 1,061 km (659 mi). Inclination: 90.1000 deg. Period: 107.00 min. Transit operational prototype powered by a SNAP-9A nuclear power source. First operational navigation satellite. It was used regularly by both surface and submarine units of the Navy until November 1964. From this point in time the US Navy had continuous use of satellite navigation.
  • 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 10 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. Launch Vehicle: Dac Roc.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 50 km (31 mi).
1963 December 13 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF04. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 708.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 December 13 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF02. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 854.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 December 17 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-D. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-28.
  • Research and development / Pod T? test / plume study mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 December 17 - . 17:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 4300C. Launch Pad: 4300C. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C. LV Configuration: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C 302.
  • ERCS 279L Communications mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1963 December 18 - . 09:52 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 233D.
  • ABRES LORV-8 re-entry vehicle test flight - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1963 December 18 - . 21:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC4W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena D 227D / Agena D S01A 4802.
  • KH 7-04 - . Payload: KH-7 no. 4. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-7. Decay Date: 1963-12-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 711 . COSPAR: 1963-051A. Apogee: 266 km (165 mi). Perigee: 122 km (75 mi). Inclination: 97.9000 deg. Period: 88.50 min. Summary: KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1963 December 18 - . 22:56 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 109F.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
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 20 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. Launch Vehicle: Seagull.
  • Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 50 km (31 mi).
1963 December 20 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF06. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 515.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 December 21 - . 21:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 398 / Agena D 1168.
  • KH-4 9062 - . Payload: KH-4 s/n 9062 / Agena D 1168. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1964-01-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 718 . COSPAR: 1963-055A. Apogee: 337 km (209 mi). Perigee: 178 km (110 mi). Inclination: 64.8000 deg. Period: 89.70 min. Summary: KH-4; deployed ELINT subsatellite. Corona static fogged much of film..
  • Hitch Hiker 3 - . Payload: P-11 s/n A4. Mass: 80 kg (176 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: SSF. Decay Date: 1964-11-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 719 . COSPAR: 1963-055B. Apogee: 394 km (244 mi). Perigee: 316 km (196 mi). Inclination: 64.5000 deg. Period: 91.70 min. Summary: Radar monitoring..
  • P-11 motor - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-4. Decay Date: 1964-01-08 . COSPAR: 1963-055xx.
1964 January 10 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF07. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 883.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 January 11 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 390 / Agena D 2354.
  • Agena D 2354 - . Mass: 700 kg (1,540 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: ELINT. Spacecraft: Ferret. USAF Sat Cat: 727 . COSPAR: 1964-001A. Apogee: 937 km (582 mi). Perigee: 906 km (562 mi). Inclination: 69.9000 deg. Period: 103.50 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • 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). .
  • Unidentified - . Payload: NRL PL135. Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRL. Program: ELINT. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: NRL ELINT. USAF Sat Cat: 731 . COSPAR: 1964-001E. Apogee: 919 km (571 mi). Perigee: 902 km (560 mi). Inclination: 69.9000 deg. Period: 103.20 min. Summary: Identified by McDowell as probable NRL ELINT satellite..
  • Solrad 7A; NRL Solar Rad - . Payload: GRAB 5. Mass: 45 kg (99 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRL. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: GRAB. USAF Sat Cat: 730 . COSPAR: 1964-001D. Apogee: 920 km (570 mi). Perigee: 902 km (560 mi). Inclination: 69.9000 deg. Period: 103.20 min. Summary: Solar radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • GGSE 1 - . Mass: 39 kg (85 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRL. Class: Technology. Type: Gravity gradient technology satellite. Spacecraft: GGSE. USAF Sat Cat: 728 . COSPAR: 1964-001B. Apogee: 916 km (569 mi). Perigee: 899 km (558 mi). Inclination: 69.9000 deg. Period: 103.20 min. Summary: Gravity gradient stabilization tests. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 January 16 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF02. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 870.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 January 19 - . 10:59 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 384 / Agena D 2303.
  • OPS 3367A - . Payload: DAPP / OPS 3367 A. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Technology. Type: Military technology satellite. Spacecraft: AFP-43. USAF Sat Cat: 734 . COSPAR: 1964-002B. Apogee: 810 km (500 mi). Perigee: 789 km (490 mi). Inclination: 99.0000 deg. Period: 100.90 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • OPS 3367B - . Payload: DAPP / OPS 3367 B. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Technology. Type: Military technology satellite. Spacecraft: AFP-43. USAF Sat Cat: 735 . COSPAR: 1964-002C. Apogee: 815 km (506 mi). Perigee: 791 km (491 mi). Inclination: 99.0000 deg. Period: 100.90 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 January 23 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-C. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-26.
  • Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 January 24 - . 01:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF04. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 551.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 January 25 - . 13:59 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 397 (TA2) / Agena B 6301.
  • Echo 2 - . Payload: Echo C A-12. Mass: 256 kg (564 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Langley. Class: Technology. Type: Communications technology satellite. Spacecraft: Echo 2. Decay Date: 1969-06-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 740 . COSPAR: 1964-004A. Apogee: 1,315 km (817 mi). Perigee: 1,030 km (640 mi). Inclination: 81.5000 deg. Period: 108.80 min. Summary: Passive commsat; balloon; 1st joint US/USSR space mission. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). .
1964 January 29 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF03. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 808.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 February 6 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Honest John. Launch Vehicle: HJ Nike Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike Nike HAD-2. FAILURE: Failure.
  • LRL HAD-2 Solar x-ray mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: Livermore. Apogee: 5.00 km (3.10 mi).
1964 February 11 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF06. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 692.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 February 12 - . 19:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 48E. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • ST - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 0 km ( mi).
1964 February 15 - . 21:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 389 / Agena D 1174.
  • KH-4A 1004 - . Payload: KH-4A s/n 1004 / Agena D 1174 / OPS 3444. Mass: 1,590 kg (3,500 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Decay Date: 1964-03-09 . USAF Sat Cat: 752 . COSPAR: 1964-008A. Apogee: 429 km (266 mi). Perigee: 172 km (106 mi). Inclination: 74.9000 deg. Period: 90.50 min. Summary: KH-4A. Main cameras operated satisfactorily. Minor degradations due to static and light leaks..
1964 February 17 - . 16:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-B. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II B-15.
  • Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 February 25 - . 02:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF02. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 813.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 February 25 - . 02:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF03. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 688.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 February 25 - . 18:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC4W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena D 285D / Agena D S01A 4803.
  • KH 7-05 - . Payload: KH-7 no. 5 / OPS 2423. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-7. Decay Date: 1964-03-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 754 . COSPAR: 1964-009A. Apogee: 135 km (83 mi). Perigee: 135 km (83 mi). Inclination: 95.6000 deg. Period: 87.20 min. Summary: KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 February 28 - . 03:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 402 / Agena D 2316.
  • OPS 3722 - . Payload: Ferret 5 / Agena D 2316. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: Ferret. Decay Date: 1969-02-19 . USAF Sat Cat: 759 . COSPAR: 1964-011A. Apogee: 516 km (320 mi). Perigee: 491 km (305 mi). Inclination: 82.1000 deg. Period: 94.70 min.
1964 February 29 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF04. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 581.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 February 29 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF05. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 636.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 March 6 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF07. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 686.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 March 11 - . 20:14 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC4W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena D 296D / Agena D S01A 4804.
  • KH 7-06 - . Payload: KH-7 no. 6 / OPS 3435. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-7. Decay Date: 1964-03-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 764 . COSPAR: 1964-012A. Apogee: 203 km (126 mi). Perigee: 163 km (101 mi). Inclination: 95.7000 deg. Period: 88.20 min. Summary: KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 March 13 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-C. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II N-30.
  • Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 March 14 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Honest John. Launch Vehicle: HJ Nike Nike. LV Configuration: HJ Nike Nike HAD-3.
  • LRL HAD-3 Solar x-ray mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: Livermore. Apogee: 143 km (88 mi).
1964 March 24 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF02. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 812.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 March 24 - . 22:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 396 / Agena D 1175. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • KH-4A 1003 - . Payload: KH-4A s/n 1003. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Decay Date: 1964-03-24 . COSPAR: F640324AA. Summary: KH-4A. Mission failed..
  • ORBIS 1 - . Payload: ORBIS 1. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-4A. COSPAR: F640324AD.
  • SRV 630 - . Payload: SRV 1003-2. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-4A. COSPAR: F640324AC.
  • SRV 631 - . Payload: SRV 1003-1. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-4A. COSPAR: F640324AB.
1964 March 25 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF03. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 738. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).
1964 March 26 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF05. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 597.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 March 31 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF04. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 557.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 April 3 - . 20:26 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF2. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. LV Configuration: Atlas F 3F. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
  • Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 0 km ( mi).
1964 April 13 - . 19:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF07. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 734.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
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-2 379 AB014. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • Transit 5BN-3 - . Mass: 75 kg (165 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Transit. Class: Navigation. Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. Decay Date: 1964-04-21 . COSPAR: F640421A. Summary: Carried SNAP-9A nuclear power source. After this launch failure it was decided that operational Transits would be solar-powered only..
  • Transit 5E-4 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Transit. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. COSPAR: F640421B. Summary: Radiation monitoring..
1964 April 23 - . 11:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF03. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 917.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 April 23 - . 16:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC4W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena D 351D / Agena D S01A 4805.
  • KH 7-07 - . Payload: KH-7 no. 7 / OPS 3743. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-7. Decay Date: 1964-04-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 786 . COSPAR: 1964-020A. Apogee: 336 km (208 mi). Perigee: 150 km (90 mi). Inclination: 103.6000 deg. Period: 89.40 min. Summary: KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 April 27 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF05. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 605.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 April 27 - . 23:23 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 395 / Agena D 1604.
  • KH-4A 1005 - . Payload: KH-4A s/n 1005 / Agena D 1604 / OPS 2921. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Decay Date: 1964-05-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 796 . COSPAR: 1964-022A. Apogee: 445 km (276 mi). Perigee: 175 km (108 mi). Inclination: 79.9000 deg. Period: 90.80 min. Summary: KH-4A. Mission failed. Recovery vehicle impacted in Venezuela..
1964 May 7 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF02. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 1002.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 May 11 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF06. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 718.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 May 18 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF03. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 997.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 May 19 - . 19:21 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC4W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena D 350D / Agena D S01A 4806.
  • KH 7-08 - . Payload: KH-7 no. 8 / OPS 3592. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-7. Decay Date: 1964-05-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 799 . COSPAR: 1964-024A. Apogee: 380 km (230 mi). Perigee: 141 km (87 mi). Inclination: 101.1000 deg. Period: 89.70 min. Summary: KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 May 25 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF07. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 889.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 June 4 - . 03:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC5. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Scout X-4. LV Configuration: Scout X-4 S125R.
  • Transit 5C-1 - . Payload: Transit 5C / OPS 4412. Mass: 54 kg (119 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Transit. Class: Navigation. Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. USAF Sat Cat: 801 . COSPAR: 1964-026A. Apogee: 898 km (557 mi). Perigee: 825 km (512 mi). Inclination: 90.5000 deg. Period: 102.20 min. Summary: Operational prototype similar to the 5A series but with some redesign to improve performance. Operated successfully until 23 August 1965..
1964 June 4 - . 22:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 403 / Agena D 1176.
  • KH-4A 1006 - . Payload: KH-4A s/n 1006 / Agena D 1176 / OPS 3483. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Decay Date: 1964-06-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 802 . COSPAR: 1964-027A. Apogee: 429 km (266 mi). Perigee: 149 km (92 mi). Inclination: 80.0000 deg. Period: 90.30 min. Summary: KH-4A. Highest quality imagery attained to date from the KH-4 system..
1964 June 9 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF05. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 532.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 June 10 - . 05:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. LV Family: Astrobee. Launch Vehicle: Astrobee 200. LV Configuration: Astrobee 200 CRL AC15.373.
  • Sphere Aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 343 km (213 mi).
1964 June 11 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF06. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 715.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 June 13 - . 15:47 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 408 / Agena D 1606.
  • KH-5 9065A - . Payload: KH-5 s/n 9065A / OPS 3236. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-5. Decay Date: 1965-06-02 . USAF Sat Cat: 811 . COSPAR: 1964-030A. Apogee: 362 km (224 mi). Perigee: 352 km (218 mi). Inclination: 114.9000 deg. Period: 91.70 min. Summary: KH-5; carried Star Flash experiment. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
  • Starflash 1A - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: Starflash. COSPAR: 1964-030xx.
1964 June 15 - . 12:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF02. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 910.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 June 18 - . 04:56 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2 Agena D 407 / Agena D 2304.
  • OPS 4467A - . Payload: DAPP / OPS 4467 A. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Technology. Type: Military technology satellite. Spacecraft: AFP-43. USAF Sat Cat: 812 . COSPAR: 1964-031A. Apogee: 820 km (500 mi). Perigee: 812 km (504 mi). Inclination: 99.8000 deg. Period: 101.20 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • OPS 4467B - . Payload: DAPP / OPS 4467 B. Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Technology. Type: Military technology satellite. Spacecraft: AFP-43. USAF Sat Cat: 813 . COSPAR: 1964-031B. Apogee: 822 km (510 mi). Perigee: 814 km (505 mi). Inclination: 99.8000 deg. Period: 101.30 min.
1964 June 18 - . 14:56 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 243D.
  • ABRES LORV-1 / Pod 31 Re-entry vehicle test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1964 June 19 - . 23:18 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 410 / Agena D 1609.
  • KH-4A 1007 - . Payload: KH-4A s/n 1007 / Agena D 1609 / OPS 3754. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Decay Date: 1964-07-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 814 . COSPAR: 1964-032A. Apogee: 451 km (280 mi). Perigee: 180 km (110 mi). Inclination: 85.0000 deg. Period: 90.90 min. Summary: KH-4A. Out-of-focus area on some film..
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 June 29 - . 21:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF09. Launch Pad: LF09?. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 1141.
  • Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 June 30 - . 00:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF04. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 631.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 July 1 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg.
  • Point Arguello transferred to Air Force - . Nation: USA. Summary: Point Arguello (nearly 20,000 acres) transferred from the Navy to the Air Force and annexed to Vandenberg AFB..
1964 July 2 - . 23:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 409 / Agena D 2315.
  • OPS 3395 - . Payload: Ferret 6 / Agena D 2315. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: Ferret. Decay Date: 1969-08-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 824 . COSPAR: 1964-035A. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). Perigee: 502 km (311 mi). Inclination: 82.1000 deg. Period: 94.90 min.
1964 July 6 - . 18:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC4W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena D 352D / Agena D S01A 4807.
  • KH 7-09 - . Payload: KH-7 no. 9 / OPS 3684. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-7. Decay Date: 1964-07-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 825 . COSPAR: 1964-036A. Apogee: 345 km (214 mi). Perigee: 121 km (75 mi). Inclination: 92.9000 deg. Period: 89.10 min. Summary: KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • OPS 4923 - . Payload: EHH A3. Mass: 80 kg (176 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: SSF. Decay Date: 1965-01-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 826 . COSPAR: 1964-036B. Apogee: 505 km (313 mi). Perigee: 156 km (96 mi). Inclination: 92.9000 deg. Period: 91.10 min. Summary: Radar monitoring..
1964 July 7 - . 19:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF02. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 1007.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 July 7 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF05. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 663. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1964 July 9 - . 19:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF07. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 973.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 July 10 - . 23:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 404 / Agena D 1177.
  • KH-4A 1008 - . Payload: KH-4A s/n 1008 / Agena D 1117 / OPS 3491. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Decay Date: 1964-08-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 828 . COSPAR: 1964-037A. Apogee: 346 km (214 mi). Perigee: 173 km (107 mi). Inclination: 84.9000 deg. Period: 89.70 min. Summary: KH-4A. Cameras operated satisfactorily, some light leaks..
1964 July 13 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF03. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 861.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 July 27 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF06. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 617.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 July 29 - . 09:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 248D.
  • NTMP KX-13 Target mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1964 July 30 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-D. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II B-28.
  • Cobra Skin - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Summary: Demonstration and shakedown operations launch.
1964 August 5 - . 23:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 413 / Agena D 1605.
  • KH-4A 1009 - . Payload: KH-4A s/n 1009 / Agena D 1605 / OPS 3042. Mass: 1,540 kg (3,390 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Decay Date: 1964-09-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 846 . COSPAR: 1964-043A. Apogee: 436 km (270 mi). Perigee: 182 km (113 mi). Inclination: 80.0000 deg. Period: 90.70 min. Summary: KH-4A. Cameras operated successfully..
1964 August 7 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF03. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 998.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 August 7 - . 20:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576E. LV Family: Atlas. 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).
1964 August 11 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-C. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II B-9.
  • Double Talley - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Summary: Demonstration and shakedown operations launch.
1964 August 13 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-B. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II B-7.
  • Gentle Annie - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Summary: Demonstration and shakedown operations launch.
1964 August 14 - . 22:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC4E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D SLV-3. LV Configuration: SLV-3 Agena D 7101 / Agena D S01A 4808.
  • KH 7-10 - . Payload: KH-7 no. 10 / OPS 3802. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-7. Decay Date: 1964-08-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 850 . COSPAR: 1964-045A. Apogee: 300 km (180 mi). Perigee: 165 km (102 mi). Inclination: 95.4000 deg. Period: 89.10 min. Summary: KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • OPS 3316 - . Payload: P-11 s/n 4202. Mass: 79 kg (174 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: SSF. Decay Date: 1979-03-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 851 . COSPAR: 1964-045B. Apogee: 3,751 km (2,330 mi). Perigee: 272 km (169 mi). Inclination: 95.7000 deg. Period: 127.40 min.
1964 August 17 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF05. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 556.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 August 21 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF08. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 1072.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 August 21 - . 15:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 412 / Agena D 1603.
  • KH-5 9066A - . Payload: KH-5 s/n 9066A / Agena D 1603 / OPS 2739. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-5. Decay Date: 1965-03-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 861 . COSPAR: 1964-048A. Apogee: 363 km (225 mi). Perigee: 351 km (218 mi). Inclination: 114.9000 deg. Period: 91.70 min. Summary: KH-5. 15% of stellar film degraded by flare. Image smearing on leading edge of main camera film. Final ARGON mission. Officially: Spacecraft Engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
  • Starflash 1B - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: Starflash. Decay Date: 1965-03-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 861 . COSPAR: 1964-048xx. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi). Perigee: 196 km (121 mi). Inclination: 115.0000 deg. Period: 88.50 min.
1964 August 25 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF07. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 989.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
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 27 - . 09:54 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg OSTF1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. LV Configuration: Atlas E 57E.
  • ST/KX-48 Target mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
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 29 - . 09:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LC-A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1B(m). LV Configuration: Blue Scout Jr SLV-1B(m) 21-2.
  • Ion Engine Test B Technology mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 2,000 km (1,200 mi). The launch was designed to provide about 30 minutes of flight above an altitude of 370 km. At seven minutes into the flight the engine was operated with ion beam extraction. Full beam current of 94 mA was achieved about 10 minutes later. During the course of engine operation, an electric field strength meter was used to infer payload floating potential relative to space. Spacecraft potential was about 1000 V negative during most of the engine operation with the filament neutralizer. The absolute value of payload potential was about ten times higher than anticipated, and it was suspected that there was inadequate neutralization of the ion beam. The contact ion engine operated for 19 minutes until spacecraft reentry into the atmosphere. In addition to withstanding the environmental rigors of space flight, the ion propulsion system demonstrated electromagnetic compatibility with other spacecraft subsystems and the ability to regulate and control a desired thrust level.
1964 August 31 - . 15:46 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576D. LV Family: Atlas. 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).
1964 September 1 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF04. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 668.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 September 8 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF06. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 576.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 September 10 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF02. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 1024.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 September 14 - . 22:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 405 / Agena D 1178.
  • KH-4A 1010 - . Payload: KH-4A s/n 1010 / Agena D 1178 / OPS 3497. Mass: 1,330 kg (2,930 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Decay Date: 1964-10-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 882 . COSPAR: 1964-056A. Apogee: 455 km (282 mi). Perigee: 174 km (108 mi). Inclination: 84.9000 deg. Period: 90.90 min. Summary: KH-4A. Small out of focus areas on both cameras at random times throughout the mission..
1964 September 15 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF08. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 1179.
  • OT (ECP VER) operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 September 15 - . 15:27 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 245D.
  • ABRES LORV-3 / Pod 26 Re-entry vehicle test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1964 September 21 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF09. Launch Pad: LF09?. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 1108.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 September 22 - . 13:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 247D.
  • NTMP KX-19 Target mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1964 September 23 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF03. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 906.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 September 23 - . 20:06 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC4E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D SLV-3. LV Configuration: SLV-3 Agena D 7102.
  • KH 7-11 - . Payload: KH-7 no. 11 / OPS 4262. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-7. Decay Date: 1964-09-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 884 . COSPAR: 1964-058A. Apogee: 303 km (188 mi). Perigee: 143 km (88 mi). Inclination: 92.9000 deg. Period: 88.90 min. Summary: KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 September 29 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF07. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 994.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 October 2 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-C. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II B-1.
  • Black Widow - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Summary: Demonstration and shakedown operations launch.
1964 October 5 - . 21:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 421 / Agena D SS-01A 1170.
  • KH-4A 1011 - . Payload: KH-4A s/n 1011 / Agena D 1170 / OPS 3333. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Decay Date: 1964-10-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 890 . COSPAR: 1964-061A. Apogee: 440 km (270 mi). Perigee: 182 km (113 mi). Inclination: 80.0000 deg. Period: 90.80 min. Summary: KH-4A. Primary mode of recovery failed on second portion of the mission (1011-2). Small out of focus areas present at random on both cameras..
1964 October 6 - . 17:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC2W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able-Star. LV Configuration: Thor Ablestar-2 423 AB016.
  • Transit O-1 - . Payload: NNS 30010 / Ablestar 016 / OPS 5798. Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Transit. Class: Navigation. Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. USAF Sat Cat: 897 . COSPAR: 1964-063B. Apogee: 1,077 km (669 mi). Perigee: 1,046 km (649 mi). Inclination: 90.2000 deg. Period: 106.40 min. Summary: Naval Avionics Facility-assembled production spacecraft. Failed after a few days operation..
  • Calsphere 1 - . Payload: Dragsphere 1. Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Military. Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Calsphere. USAF Sat Cat: 900 . COSPAR: 1964-063C. Apogee: 1,034 km (642 mi). Perigee: 997 km (619 mi). Inclination: 90.1000 deg. Period: 105.50 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • Calsphere 2 - . Payload: Dragsphere 2. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Military. Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Calsphere. USAF Sat Cat: 902 . COSPAR: 1964-063E. Apogee: 1,078 km (669 mi). Perigee: 1,049 km (651 mi). Inclination: 90.2000 deg. Period: 106.50 min. Summary: Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
1964 October 8 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC4E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D SLV-3. LV Configuration: SLV-3 Agena D 7103. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
  • KH-7 12 - . Payload: KH-7 no. 12. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-7. Decay Date: 1964-10-08 . COSPAR: F641008A. Summary: KH-7 type satellite..
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 October 17 - . 22:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC3W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 418 / Agena D SS-01A 1179.
  • KH-4A 1012 - . Payload: KH-4A s/n 1012 / Agena D 1179 / OPS 3559. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Decay Date: 1964-11-04 . USAF Sat Cat: 911 . COSPAR: 1964-067A. Apogee: 416 km (258 mi). Perigee: 189 km (117 mi). Inclination: 75.0000 deg. Period: 90.60 min. Summary: KH-4A. Vehicle attitude became erratic on the second portion of the mission necessitating an early recovery..
1964 October 23 - . 18:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC4W. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D. LV Configuration: Atlas Agena D 353D.
  • KH 7-13 - . Payload: KH-7 no. 13 / OPS 4384. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-7. Decay Date: 1964-10-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 912 . COSPAR: 1964-068A. Apogee: 267 km (165 mi). Perigee: 140 km (80 mi). Inclination: 95.5000 deg. Period: 88.50 min. Summary: KH-7 type satellite. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
  • SRV - . Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Spacecraft: KH-7. Decay Date: 1965-02-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 914 . COSPAR: 1964-068B. Apogee: 344 km (213 mi). Perigee: 311 km (193 mi). Inclination: 95.5000 deg. Period: 91.10 min. Summary: Radar monitoring..
  • OPS 5063 - . Payload: EHH A4. Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: SSF. Decay Date: 1965-02-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 914 . COSPAR: 1964-068xx. Apogee: 185 km (114 mi). Perigee: 185 km (114 mi). Inclination: 95.4000 deg. Period: 88.20 min.
1964 November 2 - . 21:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1W. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 420 / Agena D SS-01A 1173.
  • KH-4A 1013 - . Payload: KH-4A s/n 1013 - Agena D 1173 / OPS 5434. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Decay Date: 1964-11-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 921 . COSPAR: 1964-071A. Apogee: 210 km (130 mi). Perigee: 181 km (112 mi). Inclination: 51.2000 deg. Period: 88.40 min. Summary: KH-4A. Program anomaly occurred immediately after launch when both cameras operated for 417 frames. Main cameras ceased operation on rev 52D of first portion of mission negating second portion. About 65% of aft camera film is out of focus..
1964 November 3 - . 00:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF08. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 853.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 November 3 - . 00:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF03. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 644.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 November 4 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF06. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 537.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 November 4 - . 02:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC1E. LV Family: Delta. Launch Vehicle: Thor Agena D SLV-2A/D. LV Configuration: Thor SLV-2A Agena D 430 / Agena D SS-01A 2317.
  • OPS 3062 - . Payload: Ferret 7 / Agena D 2317. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Military. Type: Military naval signals reconnaisance satellite. Spacecraft: Ferret. Decay Date: 1969-11-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 922 . COSPAR: 1964-072A. Apogee: 526 km (326 mi). Perigee: 512 km (318 mi). Inclination: 82.0000 deg. Period: 95.00 min.
1964 November 4 - . 17:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 395-D. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan 2. LV Configuration: Titan II B-32.
  • High Rider - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Summary: Demonstration and shakedown operations launch.
1964 November 5 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF09. Launch Pad: LF09?. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 873.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 November 6 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF02. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 960. FAILURE: Failure.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 0 km ( mi).
1964 November 6 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF07. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1B 848.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 November 9 - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg LF05. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. LV Configuration: Minuteman 1A 661.
  • Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1964 November 18 - . 20:35 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 416 / Agena D SS-01A 1180.
  • KH-4A 1014 (ORBIS) - . Payload: KH-4A s/n 1014 & Orbis / Agena D 1180 / OPS 3360. Mass: 1,500 kg (3,300 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; CIA. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Decay Date: 1964-12-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 930 . COSPAR: 1964-075A. Apogee: 329 km (204 mi). Perigee: 177 km (109 mi). Inclination: 70.0000 deg. Period: 89.60 min. Summary: KH-4A. Cameras operated successfully..
  • ORBIS - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Spacecraft: KH-4A. Decay Date: 1964-12-06 . USAF Sat Cat: 930 . COSPAR: 1964-075xx. Apogee: 276 km (171 mi). Perigee: 167 km (103 mi). Inclination: 70.0000 deg. Period: 88.90 min.
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 1 - . 08:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A1. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 210D.
  • ABRES LORV-5 re-entry vehicle test flight - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1964 December 4 - . 11:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg 576A3. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. LV Configuration: Atlas D 300D.
  • NTMP RMV-303 Target mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1964 December 4 - . 18:57 GMT - . Launch Site: Vandenberg. Launch Complex: Vandenberg SLC4E. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D SLV-3. LV Configuration: SLV-3 Agena D 7105 / Agena D 7105.
  • KH 7-14 - . Payload: KH-7 no. 14 / OPS 4439. Mass: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NRO; USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Military surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: KH-7. Decay Date: 1964-12-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 946 . COSPAR: 1964-079A. Apogee: 357 km (221 mi). Perigee: 158 km (98 mi). Inclination: 97.000