Atlas SLV-3C Centaur | Pioneer 10

Atlas SLV-3C Centaur | Pioneer 10 rode a Atlas SLV-3C Centaur into space from Cape Canaveral SFS, FL, USA, deploying its payload to Solar Esc..

Launch time
Status
SUCCESS
Operator
United States Air Force
Mission type
Robotic Exploration
Rocket
Atlas SLV-3C Centaur
Launch site
Cape Canaveral SFS, FL, USA
Launch pad
Launch Complex 36A
Payload
—
Target orbit
Solar Esc.
Atlas SLV-3C Centaur | Pioneer 10 cover image

Mission timeline

  1. 1972-03-03T01:49:04.000Z
    Liftoff
    Atlas SLV-3C Centaur roars off the pad at Cape Canaveral SFS, FL, USA.
  2. Max-Q
    The vehicle reaches Max Q, the highest aerodynamic load of the flight.
  3. Main engine cutoff (MECO)
    MECO — first-stage propulsion ends after a nominal burn.
  4. Stage separation
    Clean stage separation confirmed.
  5. Second-stage ignition
    The upper-stage engine lights up after separation.
  6. Orbit insertion
    Orbit insertion confirmed — now circling in Solar Esc..
  7. Mission success
    All mission objectives achieved.

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