MIDAS2_v_bw_o_n (USAF photo, AFBMD 09014-60)

“The AGENA satellite vehicle to be launched in the second Project MIDAS flight test is prepared for mating with the booster -- an Air Force ATLAS ICBM. The AGENA shown here at the base of the gantry will be hoisted to the top and bolted into place. Project MIDAS is an Air Force research and development program to perfect a satellite-borne ballistic missile warning system based on the use of infra-red sensors which will detect the heat radiating from the exhaust flames of ballistic missiles within seconds after their launch. MIDAS employs the Air Force AGENA satellite vehicle developed in Project DISCOVERER. The vehicle for the second MIDAS flight test is an AGENA “A”. Later MIDAS flight tests will use AGENA “B”, a larger version of the reliable Lockheed-built satellite having a re-start capability. Project MIDAS is under the executive management of Hq., Air Force Ballistic Missile Division, ARDC.”

 

See also:

 

2.bp.blogspot.com/-eI1YoPBmzCI/Tqa9zZwILjI/AAAAAAAAB1k/u6...

Credit: SPACERUBBLE website

 

www.daviddarling.info/encyclopedia/M/MIDAS.html

David Darling's website

 

"The second satellite, MIDAS 2 was successfully launched into orbit on 26 May 1960, but the satellite tumbled as it circled the Earth and, after the first dozen orbits, the Agena communication link failed. The payload could not be operated as planned."

 

space.skyrocket.de/img_lau/atlas_lv3_agena_a_3.jpg

Credit: Gunter's Space Page

 

www.losangeles.af.mil/Portals/16/documents/AFD-060912-025...

Credit: Los Angeles Air Force Base website

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