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Gemini XI
Pad LC-19 (26)
Titan-II (11)
Gemini-XI capsule |
Altitude: 1368.9 km (739.2nm)
Inclination: 28.83 degrees
Orbits: 44
Duration: 71 hours 17 min 8 seconds
Distance: 1,983,565 km |
Primary objective was to rendezvous and dock with Gemini Agena target vehicle
(GATV-5006) which was launched 9/12/66 from Launch Complex 14 as TLV-5306 in 1st
revolution. Secondary objectives included: Practice docking, Perform EVA. Conduct 11
experiments, Maneuver while docked (high apogee excursion), Conduct tethered vehicle test, Demonstrate automatic reentry and Park GATV-10 in 352.4km orbit. Spacecraft
weight: 3798kg. GATV weight: 8097kg.
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September 12, 1966 9:42:26.546 am EST. The launch was postponed twice; On September 9 due to a small leak in the first stage oxidizer tank of the
GLV; and on the 10th
due to a suspected malfunction of the autopilot on the GLV. On the day of the launch there
was a 16 min hold due to a suspected leak around the command pilot's hatch. |
September 15, 1966. Landing was at 24deg 15.4min North and 70deg 0.0min West. Miss
distance was 4.9km (2.65nm). Recovery ship USS Guam (crew onboard in 24 min).
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All Primary objectives and most secondary objectives were achieved. Experiment D-16,
Power Tool Evaluation was canceled when the EVA was terminated early. During EVA,
astronaut Gordon tethered the two spacecraft together with a 30-meter line. Automatic
reentry was successful.
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