Small Space Launchers, Card No 40 (RaceIntoSpace 1971)
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Card No. 40: Small Space Launchers
Space programmes are no longer restricted to the major powers. France got into orbit with her Diamant A rocket from the Sahara in November 1965, and Japan with Lambda 4-S from the Ushinoura Space Centre in February 1970, following with the larger Mu satellite launcher (illustrated).
China’s first satellite, 381 pounds, was launched in April 1970. Britain's Black Arrow programme is launched from Woomera in South Australia. France has now opened a new equatorial launch centre in French Guiana for her second-generation Diamant B rocket which can place a 220-pound satellite into a 370 mile circular orbit.
The smaller countries have also found it expedient to have satellites and instruments launched as part of international programmes by the United States and the Soviet Union.
