1963-08-28 USA Little Joe II (Qualification Test Vehicle)

The Little Joe II Qualification Test Vehicle was launched on its first flight from White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico on August 28, 1963 from Launch Complex 36, Area number 3.

The spacecraft consisted of a dummy launch escape system and a boilerplate command and service module (CSM). The mission objectives were to prove the Little Joe II rocket's capability as an Apollo CSM test vehicle and to determine base pressures and heating on the rocket. Most objectives were achieved, and the only failure was a malfunction in the destruct system.

Little Joe II launch cover with "Velvatone" cachet, postmarked at White Sands Missile Range, August 28, 1963.