The C-119J
was specially modified for the mid-air retrieval of space
capsules
re-entering
the atmosphere from orbit. On August 19, 1960, this aircraft made the
world's
first midair recovery of a capsule returning from orbit when it
"snagged"
the parachute lowering the Discoverer XIV satellite at 8,000 feet
altitude
360 miles southwest of Honolulu, Hawaii.
.....
Span: 109
ft. 3 1/4 in.
Length: 86 ft. 5
3/4 in.
Height: 26 ft. 7
3/4 in.
Weight: 66,900
lbs. max.
Armament:
None |
Engines: Two
Wright R-3350s
of 3,500 hp. ea.
Maximum speed:
290 mph.
Cruising speed:
200 mph.
Range: 2,000
miles
Service Ceiling:
30,000
ft. |
|
