Titan 34D

Infobox Rocket

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caption = Launch of the last Titan 34D (CT-3) with Mars Observer
function = Heavy carrier rocket
country-origin = USA
manufacturer = Martin Marietta
status = Retired
sites = LC-40, CCAFS
SLC-4E, VAFBThe Titan 34D was an American rocket, used to launch a number of satellites for mostly military applications. Subsequent to its retirement from military service, a small number were launched under the Commercial Titan III or CT-3 designation. Several communications satellites, and NASA's Mars Observer spacecraft were launched by CT-3s.

Derived from the Titan III, the Titan 34D featured stretched first and second stages, and more powerful solid boosters. A variety of upper stages were available, including the Inertial Upper Stage, Transfer Orbit Stage, and Transtage. It made its maiden flight on 30 October 1982 with two DSCS communications satellites for the United States DoD.

Launches were conducted from LC-40 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and SLC-4E at Vandenberg Air Force Base. 19 launches were conducted, of which four failed. On 18 April 1986, a Titan 34D exploded 8.5 seconds after launch, destroying a Big Bird (KH-9) satellite, and scattering debris and toxic propellant over Vandenberg AFB.

Use with Vortex satellites

Three Vortex satellites were launched using Titan 34D vehicles between 1984 and 1989.

ee also

*Titan III
*Titan IIIB

References

* [http://www.astronautix.com/lvs/titan34d.htm Encyclopedia Astronautica - Titan 34D]