KH-5 2 (Discoverer 23)

Launch Success

Liftoff Time (GMT)

19:21:00

Saturday April 8, 1961

Mission Details

KH-5 2 (Discoverer 23)

The KH-5, also known as Keyhole 5 or codenamed Argon, served as the area survey component within the Corona program. Equipped with the Argon camera, also referred to as Corona-A, this single-frame camera was integrated with standard Corona hardware, including the return vehicle (SRV). Operating with a ground resolution of approximately 140 meters, the KH-5 relied on the Agena-B stage for three-axis control and propulsion throughout its mission. Upon completion, the SRV was deorbited using its own small solid rocket motor.

Rocket

Retired
Thor DM-21 Agena-B

Active 1960 to 1965


Stages

3

Launch Site

SLC-1E (75-3-5)

Vandenberg SFB, California, USA

Fastest Turnaround

27 days 18 hours

Stats

Thor-Agena


23rd

Mission

4th

Mission of 1961

1961


13th

Orbital launch attempt