Atlas G Centaur (Convair)
The Atlas G Centaur is a non-reusable, inactive launch vehicle manufactured by Convair (established in 1943). It undertook its inaugural launch on 06/09/1984.
The Atlas G, also known as Atlas G Centaur-D1AR was an American expendable launch system derived from the Atlas-Centaur. It was a member of the Atlas family of rockets, and was used to launch seven communication satellites during the mid to late 1980s. Atlas G consisted of an improved Atlas core with modernized avionics and stretched propellant tanks. The Centaur stage also had several updated components and other technical improvements. It was replaced by the Atlas I, which had an improved guidance system.
Atlas G Centaur Specifications
| Variant | G Centaur |
|---|---|
| Length | 38 m |
| Diameter | 3.05 m |
| Stages | 2 |
| Launch Mass | 166 T |
| Takeoff Thrust | 1896 kN |
| LEO Capacity | 3630 kg |
Atlas G Centaur Launch Record
| Total Launches | 7 |
|---|---|
| Successful Launches | 6 |
| Failed Launches | 1 |
| Consecutive Successful Launches | 1 |
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.