Canopus 2 was a single stage, sub-orbital sounding rocket that was built by Argentina.[1]
A first version, Canopus 1, was tested between 1966 and 1967. Canopus 1 was also used as the first stage of the Rigel sounding rocket between 1969 and 1973.[2]
Canopus 1 was launched two times from CELPA Chamical:[3]
| Date | Mission Type | Nation | Apogee | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| November 1966 | Test mission | Argentina | 40 km | |
| July 1967 | Test mission | Argentina | 40 km |
Canopus 2 was introduced in 1969. There were a total of three launches during 1969 from CELPA Chamical and CELPA Mar Chiquita with no failures. Another launch happened in 1971 from CELPA Chamical. The launch apogee was 150 kilometres in altitude. The vehicle had a length of 4 metres and launch mass of 300 kilograms. It was capable of lifting a 50 kg payload to an altitude of 100 km,[4] and on some flights had an apogee of 150 kilometres.
Canopus 2 was also used for both stages of Castor A and the second stage of Tauro sounding rocket.[5] [6]
Canopus 2 was launched four times:[7]
| Date | Mission Type | Nation | Apogee | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1969 April 16 | Test mission | Argentina | 150 km (90 mi) | |
| 1969 October 23 | Test mission | Argentina | 150 km (90 mi) | |
| 1969 December 23 | Test / biology mission | Argentina | 150 km (90 mi) | |
| 1971 November 5 | Argentina |