Altair (rocket stage)

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The Altair was a solid-fuel rocket with a fiberglass casing, initially developed for use as the third stage of Vanguard rockets.[1] It was manufactured by Allegany Ballistics Laboratory (ABL) as the X-248. It was also sometimes called the "Burner 1".

Contents

[edit] Use with Vanguard

The X-248 was one of two third-stage designs used during Project Vanguard. Early launches used a stage developed by the Grand Central Rocket Company, but later launches used the X-248 which enabled the Vanguard to launch more massive payloads.

[edit] Use with Thor

The X-248 was used as the second stage of some early Thor flights. These vehicles were designated "Thor-Altair".

[edit] Use with Delta

Altairs were used as the third stage of early Delta rockets.

[edit] Use with Scout

The fourth stage of the Scout rocket also used the "Altair" stage.

[edit] References

  1. ^ Launius, Roger D.; Dennis R. Jenkins (2002). To Reach the High Frontier: A History of U.S. Launch Vehicles. University Press of Kentucky, pp. 186-213. 


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