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Titan II GLV

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Titan II GLV
Launch of Gemini 11 on a Titan II GLV from LC-19
FunctionManned launch system
ManufacturerMartin
Country of origin United States
Size
Height31.4 metres (103 ft)
Diameter3.05 metres (10.0 ft)
Mass154,000 kilograms (340,000 lb)
Stages2
Capacity
Payload to LEO
Mass3,600 kilograms (7,900 lb)
Associated rockets
FamilyTitan
Launch history
StatusRetired
Launch sitesCape Canaveral LC-19
Total launches12
Success(es)12
First flight8 April 1964
Last flight11 November 1966
Type of passengers/cargoGemini
First stage
Powered by2 LR-87
Maximum thrust1,900 kilonewtons (430,000 lbf)
Specific impulse258 sec
Burn time156 seconds
PropellantA-50/dinitrogen tetroxide
Second stage
Powered by1 LR-91
Maximum thrust445 kilonewtons (100,000 lbf)
Specific impulse316 sec
Burn time180 seconds
PropellantA-50/N2O4

The Titan II GLV 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

References

  • Krebs, Gunter. "Titan-2-GLV". Gunter's Space Page. Retrieved 2009-04-29.
  • Wade, Mark. "Titan". Encyclopedia Astronautica. Retrieved 2009-04-29.