# Titan 3A-1

> American rocket stage

**Wikidata**: [Q9358823](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q9358823)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/titan-3a-1

## Summary
The Titan 3A-1 is an American rocket stage and part of the Titan family of launch vehicles developed for space missions. It served as a first-stage component with two LR-87 engines powering its ascent. Designed for heavy-lift capabilities, it played a key role in advancing U.S. space launch infrastructure during the mid-20th century.

## Key Facts
- Part of the Titan class, an American rocket family used primarily for military and civilian space launches.
- Gross mass: 116,573 kg; dry mass: 5,443 kg.
- Height: 22.28 meters; diameter: 3.05 meters.
- Powered by two LR-87 engines.
- Country of origin: United States.
- Subclass of: Titan, rocket stage.
- Has one Wikipedia language version (Polish).
- Described on Astronautix.com with detailed specifications.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the Titan 3A-1?
A: The Titan 3A-1 is a first-stage liquid-fueled rocket used within the Titan family of American launch vehicles. It was designed to support heavier payloads than earlier models and featured dual LR-87 engines.

### Q: How much does the Titan 3A-1 weigh?
A: The gross weight of the Titan 3A-1 is approximately 116,573 kilograms, while its dry weight is around 5,443 kilograms.

### Q: What engines power the Titan 3A-1?
A: The Titan 3A-1 is powered by two LR-87 engines, which provide the thrust necessary for liftoff and initial ascent into orbit.

## Why It Matters
The Titan 3A-1 represents a significant evolution in the development of large-scale American rocketry. As part of the broader Titan program, it contributed to national security and scientific advancement through reliable delivery of satellites and other payloads into orbit. Its design influenced later iterations in the Titan series, supporting both government and commercial missions throughout the Cold War era and beyond. By increasing payload capacity and improving engine performance, stages like the Titan 3A-1 enabled more ambitious space projects and helped establish the United States as a leader in space technology.

## Notable For
- Being part of the Titan rocket family, known for long-term service in U.S. space programs.
- Featuring two LR-87 engines, enhancing lift-off power compared to single-engine predecessors.
- Having a high gross mass relative to its dry mass, indicating efficient fuel usage.
- Serving as a foundational element in the expansion of heavy-lift launch systems during the 1960s–70s period.
- Representing early engineering advancements that paved the way for future expendable launch vehicles.

## Body

### Overview
The Titan 3A-1 is a first-stage rocket module belonging to the Titan family of launch vehicles. Developed in the United States, it formed part of larger configurations intended for launching substantial payloads into low Earth orbit or geostationary transfer orbits.

### Technical Specifications
- **Gross Mass**: 116,573 kg  
- **Dry Mass**: 5,443 kg  
- **Height**: 22.28 meters  
- **Diameter**: 3.05 meters  
- **Engines**: Two LR-87 liquid-propellant rocket engines  

These specifications indicate a robust propulsion system optimized for delivering heavy payloads from ground level into space.

### Role Within the Titan Family
As part of the Titan class, the 3A-1 variant reflects incremental improvements made over time to meet evolving mission requirements. The Titan family has been instrumental in deploying reconnaissance satellites, interplanetary probes, and classified Department of Defense payloads.

### Country of Origin & Development Context
Developed in the United States, the Titan 3A-1 emerged during a critical phase of aerospace innovation driven by competition in the Space Race. It built upon earlier Titan designs but incorporated enhanced structural and propulsion features tailored for greater efficiency and reliability.

### Legacy and Influence
Although no longer active, the Titan 3A-1's contributions remain embedded in historical records of successful orbital launches. Its configuration informed subsequent variants such as the Titan IIIE and Titan IV, ensuring continued relevance in discussions of American spaceflight history.

## References

1. [Source](http://astronautix.com/t/titan3a-1.html)