NEXT SPACEFLIGHT

Status

Success

KH-1 8 (Discoverer 11)

Launch Time
Fri Apr 15, 1960 20:30 UTC

Rocket

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

Mission Details

KH-1 8 (Discoverer 11)

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-1E (75-3-5), Vandenberg SFB, California, USA

Stats

1960

9th orbital launch attempt

Thor-Agena

11th mission
3rd mission of 1960
5th successful mission
1st consecutive successful mission