Little Joe 1B, launched from Wallops Island, Virginia, on January 21, 1960, aimed to test the escape system designed to separate the capsule from the rocket in the event of an early abort, as well as to study the effects of the flight's stresses on a primate. The mission proceeded as planned and was deemed successful. Miss Sam, the test primate, was retrieved by a MAG-26 helicopter, while the USS Opportune recovered the submerged escape tower, which was found in two pieces.
 |
| "Miss Sam" launch cover with Goldcraft cachet, postmarked Wallops Island, January 21, 1960. |
