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Space · launch vehicle

SM-65B Atlas

CONVAIR RETIRED
At a glance
Launches
1
Success rate
100%
1 ok · 0 failed
Payload to LEO
68 kg
Payload to GTO
—
Manufacturer
Convair
Status
Retired
First flight
19 Jul 1958
Reusable
No
Height
31.4 m
Diameter
3.66 m
Launch mass
3 t
Liftoff thrust
—
Stages
1
Launch cost
—
Booster landings
—
About

The Convair SM-65B Atlas, or Atlas B, also designated X-12 was a prototype of the Atlas missile. First flown on 19 July 1958, the Atlas B was the first version of the Atlas rocket to use the stage and a half design with an operational sustainer engine and jettisonable rocket booster section. Unlike later Atlas models, the Atlas B used explosive bolts to jettison the booster section.