1950s-70s Space Race to The Moon: 1964-01-29 USA Saturn I SA-5

SA-5, launched on January 29, 1964, marked the inaugural flight of the Block II Saturn I rocket and was part of the Apollo program. Notable changes for SA-5 included the introduction of a two-stage configuration, featuring the S-I first stage and the S-IV second stage. Additionally, the fuel tanks on the first stage were enlarged as part of the design modifications.

"SpaceCraft" Saturn SA-5 launch cover, postmarked Cape Canaveral, Jan 29, 1964.

Photo: "Cape of Moon Hope" situated along Florida's Cape Canaveral, Complex 37 for Saturn launches is part of a larger initiative aimed at achieving a manned moon landing by 1970. The Atlantic coast of the cape serves as the eastern endpoint of a space-age arc that begins in Houston, Texas. This transformation is reshaping the region—and, to some extent, the entire state of Florida—from a tourist and retirement destination into a thriving industrial hub.


Photo: A Saturn 1 rocket.

For the first time, the rocket was set to carry its intended 750,000 lb (340,000 kg) of propellant and utilize eight enhanced engines, each generating a thrust of 188,000 lbf (836 kN). Additionally, the guidance and control computer was located above the second stage, mirroring its position on the Saturn V flights that would eventually take astronauts to the Moon. The Instrument Unit managed the rocket's ascent through the atmosphere, automatically adjusting for any wind conditions or loss of thrust. This mission was an orbital flight, made possible by the upgraded first stage and the inclusion of a second stage. The rocket would achieve an elliptical orbit and re-enter a few days later as its orbit decayed.