NSSDCA/COSPAR ID: 1963-016A
This US Air Force very high resolution (2') surveillance satellite was launched from Vandenberg AFB onboard a Thor Agena D rocket. This was the second launch KH-6 LANYARD satellite. The initial stimulus for the added resolution was suspected ABM sites around Leningrad. The best resolution achieved was 6', the same as KH-4B, so LANYARD was discontinued after 3 launches in 1963.
This spacecraft achieved orbit but the Agena rocket failed in flight and no film data were returned.
Launch Date: 1963-05-18
Launch Vehicle: Thor Augmented Delta-Agena D
Launch Site: Vandenberg AFB, United States
Mass: 1500 kg
Questions and comments about this spacecraft can be directed to: Coordinated Request and User Support Office