Discoverer 17 was the second of the KH-2 Corona spy satellites, which was distinguished from the predecessor KH-1 series in its incorporation of the improved C' camera, which replaced the C model carried on KH-1 missions. The improved camera had variable image motion compensation so that its carrying satellites could be flown in differing orbits. In addition to its reconnaissance payload, Discoverer 17 carried a biological research payload, intended to investigate human tissues in space. Since at that time the United States did not publicly acknowledge its reconnaissance satellite programs, this was officially the satellite's primary mission. Unexpectedly high radiation levels during the flight led to the data from this experiment being considered particularly valuable by US Air Force scientists. Nevertheless, "samples of human gamma globulin and rabbit antiserum specific for human gamma globulin showed an increase in reactivity, and samples of synovial and conjunctival cells showed no changes in their cytological characteristics."
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| Discoverer 17 launch cover with Goldcraft cachet, postmarked at Vandenberg Air Force Base, November 12, 1960. |
(Reference from
Discoverer 17)
