Fairchild C-119 capsule recovery, 1960s C016 / 4237
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Fairchild C-119 capsule recovery, 1960s C016 / 4237
Fairchild C-119 capsule recovery. US Air Force C-119J Fairchild Flying Boxcar aircraft using a trailing grapple to catch and recover a capsule of reconnaissance photographs (lower left), descending by parachute from orbit. The C-119J was specially modified for the mid-air retrieval of space capsules re-entering the atmosphere from orbit. The first retrieval, at 2450 metres altitude, 580 kilometres south-west of Hawaii, on 19 August 1960, was of a capsule from the Discoverer 14 spy satellite (part of the Corona series). This was the first successful recovery of film from an orbiting satellite and the first mid-air recovery of an object returning from Earth orbit
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9204505
© US AIR FORCE/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1900s 1960s Aeronautics Aeroplane Aircraft Airplane Aviation Canister Capsule Catch Catching Espionage Flying Hawaii Hawaiian In Flight Military North American Pacific Pacific Ocean Parachute Recovering Recovery Space Flight Spaceflight United States Air Force Us Air Force Usaf Grapple Grappling Retrieval Retrieving
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a pivotal moment in the history of space exploration and military technology. In the 1960s, amidst the height of espionage and technological advancements, the US Air Force successfully recovered a capsule containing reconnaissance photographs from an orbiting satellite. The image showcases a specially modified US Air Force C-119J Fairchild Flying Boxcar aircraft using a trailing grapple to catch and retrieve the descending capsule. Suspended by parachute, this canister holds invaluable information gathered from space. The significance of this event cannot be overstated - it marked both the first successful recovery of film from an orbiting satellite and the first mid-air retrieval of an object returning from Earth's orbit. Taking place at an altitude of 2450 meters over Hawaii's Pacific Ocean on August 19th, 1960, this groundbreaking achievement pushed boundaries in aviation and demonstrated America's prowess in spaceflight capabilities. The monochrome composition adds to its historical allure, transporting us back to that era when every step forward was met with anticipation and excitement. This photograph serves as a testament to human ingenuity, showcasing how cutting-edge technology enabled us to bridge gaps between land, air, and outer space. It stands as a reminder that even in times shrouded in secrecy and competition between nations, collaboration across scientific disciplines can lead to remarkable achievements for all humankind.
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