NEXT SPACEFLIGHT

Status

Success

KH-1 4 (Discoverer 7)

Launch Time
Sat Nov 07, 1959 20:28 UTC

Rocket

Thor DM-18 Agena-A
US Air Force
Status: Retired
Stages: 3
Strap-ons: 0

Mission Details

KH-1 4 (Discoverer 7)

The KH-1, the inaugural endeavor in the Corona program, aimed to construct an optical reconnaissance satellite. These satellites, collectively known as Discoverer, were the precursors to modern reconnaissance technology. The KH-1 payload comprised the C (Corona) single panoramic camera and a General Electric return vehicle (SRV), enabling data capture and retrieval from space. The satellite utilized the Agena-A upper stage for orbital maneuvering and control. Upon mission completion, the film return capsule employed its own retro motor for deorbiting, facilitating mid-air recovery by specialized aircraft.

Location

SLC-1W (75-3-4), Vandenberg SFB, California, USA

Stats

1959

21st orbital launch attempt

Thor-Agena

7th mission
7th mission of 1959
4th successful mission
3rd consecutive successful mission