NEXT SPACEFLIGHT

Status

Success

KH-2 3 (Discoverer 18)

Launch Time
Wed Dec 07, 1960 20:20 UTC

Rocket

Thor DM-21 Agena-B
US Air Force
Status: Retired
Stages: 3
Strap-ons: 0

Mission Details

KH-2 3 (Discoverer 18)

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.

Location

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

Stats

1960

35th orbital launch attempt

Thor-Agena

18th mission
10th mission of 1960
10th successful mission
2nd consecutive successful mission