NOTS 4
Project Pilot
US Navy
Mission
NOTS 4
- Type: Government/Top Secret
- Orbit: Low Earth Orbit
The project pilot payloads were small cylindrical satellites. These missions intended to be the first to launch a satellite from an aircraft. They had only a single instrument, a very primitive infrared line scanning device to make IR images of the ground.
Location
Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake
Air launch to Suborbital flight
Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake has witnessed the launch of 6 rockets, including 6 orbital launch attempts. While Air launch to Suborbital flight, has been the site for 86 rocket launches.
Rocket
US Navy Project Pilot
The NOTS-EV-1 Pilot, also known as NOTSNIK was an expendable launch system and anti-satellite weapon developed by the United States Navy's United States Naval Ordnance Test Station (NOTS).
Agency
US Navy
The Navy was competed with the Army to put the first American satellite into orbit. Their first two Vanguard missions failed, with the second being a highly publicized failure, as it exploded on the launchpad. They went on to put 3 satellites into orbit but did not beat the Army to be the first. Their work in space continues today largely on military satellites.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Project Pilot launch scheduled?
The US Navy Project Pilot launch carrying the NOTS 4 mission was scheduled for:
.
Where did the Project Pilot launch from?
The US Navy Project Pilot rocket launched from Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake at Air launch to Suborbital flight.
What rocket was used for the NOTS 4 mission?
The NOTS 4 mission launched aboard a US Navy Project Pilot rocket. The NOTS-EV-1 Pilot, also known as NOTSNIK was an expendable launch system and anti-satellite weapon developed by the United States Navy's United States Naval Ordnance Test Station (NOTS). Detailed rocket specifications and performance data are available in the rocket details above.
What weather conditions could have delayed this launch?
The Project Pilot launch could have been delayed by various weather conditions including lightning within 10 nautical miles, high winds (especially upper-level winds), thick cloud layers, precipitation, and poor visibility. Weather must be favorable at the launch site, downrange landing zones, and abort landing sites.
How can I get updates if the launch is delayed?
This page is updated in real-time with the latest launch status, including any delays or scrubs. You can also check our space launch schedule for the most current information. Enable push notifications through our mobile app to receive instant alerts about launch status changes, weather holds, or new launch times. We recommend following official live streams for the most immediate range updates.
