KH-2 1 (Discoverer 16)

Launch Failure

Liftoff Time (GMT)

20:26:00

Wednesday October 26, 1960

Mission Details

Launch Notes

Maiden flight of Thor-Agena B. Agena staging failed. Vehicle fell into the Pacific Ocean.

KH-2 1 (Discoverer 16)

The KH-2, the second iteration within the Corona program, aimed to advance optical reconnaissance capabilities. These satellites, known collectively as Discoverer, continued the pioneering efforts of their predecessor. The KH-2 payload featured the enhanced C' (Corona prime) single panoramic camera and a General Electric return vehicle (SRV), enhancing imaging capabilities and data retrieval. Manufactured by Fairchild Camera Co., the improved C'-camera boasted a f/5.0 aperture and a 61 cm focal length, resulting in a ground resolution of 10.7 m, offering improved image quality. Utilizing the larger Agena-B upper stage for enhanced maneuverability and control, the KH-2 satellites aimed for improved mission success.

Rocket

Retired
Thor DM-21 Agena-B

Active 1960 to 1965


Stages

3

Launch Site

SLC-1W (75-3-4)

Vandenberg SFB, California, USA

Fastest Turnaround

18 days 23 hours

Stats

Thor-Agena


16th

Mission

8th

Mission of 1960

1960


28th

Orbital launch attempt