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Thor-Delta L Launch Vehicle

Thor-Delta L was a three-stage long-tank, thrust-augmented Delta configuration using three Castor II strap-on motors. Two vehicles flew for NASA: the Pioneer-E launch failed in August 1969 after a first-stage hydraulic malfunction, while the second vehicle successfully launched HEOS 2 in January 1972.

Thor-Delta L Launch Vehicle
NASA Marshall Space Flight Center · NASA asset; NASA’s 9141922 catalog identifies Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) and describes the exact Thor/Able 3 launch carrying Explorer VI, with no third-party photographer or copyright holder listed. NASA’s current Images and Media Usage Guidelines generally permit factual or informational/editorial use with NASA attribution and without implying NASA endorsement. Commercial, promotional, merchandise, logo/insignia, or other protected-rights uses may require separate clearance; verify any third-party rights if later identified. · Source
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Identity

Aliases
Delta LThor Delta LLong-Tank Thrust-Augmented Improved DeltaDSV-3L
Family Name
Thor-Delta L
Full Name
Thor-Delta L Launch Vehicle
Status
retired
Type
rocket
Variant Name
L

Details

Description
Thor-Delta L was a three-stage long-tank, thrust-augmented Delta configuration using three Castor II strap-on motors. Two vehicles flew for NASA: the Pioneer-E launch failed in August 1969 after a first-stage hydraulic malfunction, while the second vehicle successfully launched HEOS 2 in January 1972.
First Flight Year
1,969
Last Flight Year
1,972
Manufacturer
Operator
Parent Vehicle Family
Rocket Specs
Reusability
expendable
Stages Count
3

Links

Assets & Meta

Creation Time
July 18, 2026 at 06:08:57 UTC
Updated Time
July 19, 2026 at 10:03:19 UTC

Other

Search Name
Thor-Delta L Launch Vehicle Delta L Thor Delta L Long-Tank Thrust-Augmented Improved Delta DSV-3L