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Minotaur I (Orbital Sciences Corporation)

Minotaur I
Photo Credit: NASA

The Minotaur I is a non-reusable, active launch vehicle manufactured by Orbital Sciences Corporation. It undertook its inaugural launch on 01/27/2000.

The Minotaur I launch system is derived from converted Minuteman II ICBMs and is used to launch small satellites for the US Government. The first and second stages, taken directly from decommissioned Minuteman missiles, are mated to the Orion third and fourth stages taken from the Pegasus XL air-launched rocket family. An optional hydrazine-powered fifth stage called HAPS can be used.The Minotaur I launch system is derived from converted Minuteman II ICBMs and is used to launch small satellites for the US Government. An optional hydrazine-powered fifth stage called HAPS can be used.

Minotaur I Specifications

Technical specifications for Minotaur I
AliasMinotaur OSP-SLV
Length19.21 m
Diameter1.67 m
Stages4-5
Launch Mass36 T
Takeoff Thrust935 kN
LEO Capacity580 kg
SSO Capacity331 kg

Minotaur I Launch Record

Launch statistics for Minotaur I
Total Launches12
Successful Launches12
Consecutive Successful Launches12

Manufacturer

Orbital Sciences Corporation (OSC)
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