NEXT SPACEFLIGHT

Status

Success

KH-3 4 (Discoverer 32)

Launch Time
Fri Oct 13, 1961 19:22 UTC

Rocket

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

Mission Details

KH-3 4 (Discoverer 32)

The KH-3, or Keyhole-3, represented the third iteration within the Corona program aimed at developing optical reconnaissance satellites, all launched under the Discoverer name. Enhanced with the C''' (Corona triple-prime) single panoramic camera, manufactured by Itek Corporation, the KH-3 payload offered improved imaging capabilities. With an f/3.5 aperture and a 61 cm focal length, the C'''-camera provided a ground resolution of 7.5 meters, enhancing image clarity. Operating atop the Agena-B upper stage for orbital maneuvering, the satellite facilitated attitude control during its mission. Upon completion, the film return capsule employed its own solid-fuel retro motor for deorbiting, with mid-air recovery facilitated by specialized aircraft.

Location

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

Stats

1961

36th orbital launch attempt

Thor-Agena

32nd mission
13th mission of 1961
20th successful mission
4th consecutive successful mission