![]() Delta A launchingExplorer 14 | |
Function | Expendable launch system |
---|---|
Country of origin | United States |
Launch history | |
Status | Retired |
Launch sites | Cape CanaveralLC-17 |
Total launches | 2 |
Success(es) | 2 |
First flight | 2 October 1962 |
Last flight | 27 October 1962 |
TheDelta A, orThor-Delta A was an Americanexpendable launch system used to launch twoExplorer spacecraft in October 1962. A derivative of theThor-Delta, it was a member of theDelta family of launch vehicles. TheThor-Delta itself was a Thor booster with anAble second stage and Altair third stage.[1][2]
The first stage was aThor missile in the DM-21 configuration, and the second stage was theDelta-A, an uprated version of the originalDelta. AnAltairsolid rocket motor was used as a third stage. Both launches occurred fromCape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS)Launch Complex 17B, and were successful. The first launchedExplorer 14, and the secondExplorer 15.