SM-65F Atlas (Convair)
The SM-65F Atlas is a non-reusable, inactive launch vehicle manufactured by Convair (established in 1943). It undertook its inaugural launch on 08/08/1961.
The SM-65F Atlas, or Atlas-F, was the final operational variant of the Atlas missile, only differing from the Atlas E in the launch facility and guidance package used. It first flew on 8 August 1961, and was deployed as an operational ICBM between 1961 and 1966. Following retirement as an ICBM, the Atlas-F, along with the Atlas-E, was refurbished for orbital launches as the Atlas E/F.
SM-65F Atlas Specifications
| Variant | F |
|---|---|
| Stages | 1 |
SM-65F Atlas Launch Record
| Total Launches | 9 |
|---|---|
| Successful Launches | 8 |
| Failed Launches | 1 |
| Consecutive Successful Launches | 4 |
Manufacturer
Convair, previously Consolidated Vultee, was an American aircraft manufacturing company that later expanded into rockets and spacecraft. The company was formed in 1943 by the merger of Consolidated Aircraft and Vultee Aircraft. In 1953 it was purchased by General Dynamics, and operated as their Convair Division for most of its corporate history.