1957: R7 (USSR)

The R-7 Semyorka was the world’s first intercontinental ballistic missile. In modified form, it launched Sputnik, the first artificial satellite, into orbit, and became the basis for the Soyuz space launcher and the Molniya, Vostok and Voskhod variants. The R-7 was 34 m long, 3 m in diameter and weighed 280 tons. It was two-stage, powered by rocket motors using liquid oxygen (lox) and kerosene and was capable of delivering its payload at around 8800 km, with an accuracy (CEP) of around 5km. The initial launch was boosted by four strap-on liquid rocket boosters making up the first stage with a central ’sustainer’ motor powering through both the first and the second stage. Each strap-on booster included two vernier thrusters and the core stage included four. The guidance system was inertial with radio control of the vernier thrusters. The first testing of the new missile took place on 15 May 1957 from Baikonur Cosmodrome. A fire in a strap-on rocket led to an unintended crash 400 km from the site. Following another unsuccessful test the first successful long flight, of 6000 km, was made on August 21. It was announced by TASS on August 26. A modified version of the missile later placed Sputnik 1 in orbit from Baikonur on October 4 and Sputnik 2 on November 3. Music: Marcus P. Graf