# Titan IIIB

> model of Titan III launch vehicle

**Wikidata**: [Q1187387](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1187387)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Titan_IIIB)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/titan-iiib

## Summary
The Titan IIIB was a model of the Titan III series of American expendable launch vehicles, derived from the Titan ICBM. It played a critical role in launching U.S. reconnaissance satellites, particularly the KH-8 series, during the Cold War. First launched in 1966, it was retired in 1969 after a relatively short operational lifespan.

## Key Facts
- **First flight**: July 29, 1966  
- **Service retirement**: June 3, 1969  
- **Manufacturer**: Glenn L. Martin Company  
- **Payload capacity**: 3,300 kg to low Earth orbit  
- **Mass**: 156,540 kg (gross weight)  
- **Height**: 45.0 meters  
- **Diameter**: 3.05 meters  
- **Country of origin**: United States  
- **Notable payloads**: KH-8 reconnaissance satellites (e.g., KH-8 01, KH-8 02, KH 8-20)  
- **Alternate names**: Titan 23B, Titan 24B, Titan 33B, Titan 34B  

## FAQs
### Q: What was the primary purpose of the Titan IIIB?
A: The Titan IIIB was designed to launch U.S. reconnaissance satellites, notably the KH-8 series, into low Earth orbit during the Cold War.  

### Q: How long was the Titan IIIB in service?
A: It operated for only three years, from its first flight in 1966 to its retirement in 1969.  

### Q: What made the Titan IIIB distinct from other Titan III variants?
A: It used an Agena D upper stage and was specifically configured for launching high-priority reconnaissance missions.  

## Why It Matters
The Titan IIIB was a key component of U.S. space-based reconnaissance efforts during the Cold War, ensuring critical intelligence gathering through the KH-8 satellite program. Despite its short service period, it demonstrated the adaptability of the Titan III family, which became a backbone of American space launch capabilities. Its reliability and payload capacity filled a niche for sensitive military missions, bridging earlier rocket designs and later advancements in launch technology.

## Notable For
- **Reconnaissance focus**: Exclusively launched KH-8 satellites for photoreconnaissance.  
- **Agena D upper stage**: Enhanced mission flexibility for orbital maneuvers.  
- **Short operational tenure**: Retired in 1969 after just 13 launches.  
- **Multiple configurations**: Included variants like Titan 23B and Titan 24B for different mission profiles.  

## Body
### Development and Design
The Titan IIIB was part of the Titan III series, adapted from the Titan II ICBM. It featured a two-stage design with an Agena D upper stage, enabling precise orbital insertions. The rocket had a gross mass of 156,540 kg, stood 45 meters tall, and had a 3.05-meter diameter.  

### Operational History
- **First launch**: July 29, 1966 (KH-8 01 satellite).  
- **Final launch**: June 3, 1969 (KH-8 20 satellite).  
- **Total launches**: 13 missions, all for KH-8 satellites.  

### Technical Specifications
- **Payload to LEO**: 3,300 kg.  
- **Capital cost (1985 dollars)**: $24,940,000 per launch.  
- **Propulsion**: First stage powered by two LR-87 engines; second stage by one LR-91 engine.  

### Variants
- **Titan 23B/24B**: Designations reflecting specific mission requirements.  
- **SLV-5B**: Alternative U.S. Air Force designation.  

### Legacy
Though short-lived, the Titan IIIB ensured continuity in U.S. reconnaissance capabilities before being succeeded by other Titan III variants. Its integration with the Agena D stage influenced later launch vehicle designs.

## References

1. [Source](http://www.astronautix.com/t/titaniiib.html)
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013