Titan II GLV

Titan II GLV

Launch of Gemini 11 on a Titan II GLV from LC-19
Function Manned launch system
Manufacturer Martin
Country of origin  United States
Size
Height 33.2 metres (109 ft)[1]
Diameter 3.05 metres (10.0 ft)
Mass 154,220 kilograms (340,000 lb)
Stages 2
Capacity
Payload to
LEO		 3,600 kilograms (7,900 lb)
Associated rockets
Family Titan
Launch history
Status Retired
Launch sites Cape Canaveral LC-19
Total launches 12
Successes 12
Maiden flight 8 April 1964
Last flight 11 November 1966
Notable payloads Gemini
First Stage
Engines 2 LR-87
Thrust 1,900 kilonewtons (430,000 lbf)
Specific impulse 258 sec
Burn time 156 seconds
Fuel Aerozine 50/dinitrogen tetroxide
Second Stage
Engines 1 LR-91
Thrust 445 kilonewtons (100,000 lbf)
Specific impulse 316 sec
Burn time 180 seconds
Fuel A-50/N2O4

The Titan II GLV (Gemini Launch Vehicle) or Gemini-Titan was an American expendable launch system derived from the Titan II missile, which was used to launch twelve Gemini missions for NASA between 1964 and 1966. Two unmanned launches followed by ten manned ones were conducted from Launch Complex 19 at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, starting with Gemini 1 on 8 April 1964.

The man-rated Titan II was a liquid-propelled rocket, and consisted of two stages. The first stage was powered by two LR87 engines, whilst the second stage was propelled by an LR91 engine.

The rockets were purpose-built for the Gemini launches, and featured some modifications compared to the Titan missiles. A malfunction detection system was installed to inform the crew of the rocket's status, and improve response in an emergency. Redundant systems, including a backup flight control system, were fitted to reduce the chances of launch failures. The second stage was modified to accommodate the Gemini spacecraft, and unnecessary vernier engines and retro-rockets were removed. An inertial guidance system replaced the radio control system used on the missiles, and modifications were made to the tracking, electrical and hydraulics systems. Modifications were overseen by the Air Force Systems Command.

See also

Notes

  1. ^ Gatland, Kenneth (1976), Manned Spacecraft (2nd revision ed.), New York: MacMilan, p. 37, ISBN 0025428209 

References

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