Launches: Whirlwind IV & V

Customers:

• Integrated Integrals
• Rockomax Conglomerate

Mission Objectives:

1. Launch the first satellites to Minmus
2. Record thermal data around Minmus
3. Reach specified orbits around Minmus

Crew:

• None

This is the first satellite with advanced guidance capabilities. After circularization, the upper stage performs a third burn transferring the satellite to Minmus. The satellite then performs a series of correction burns before capturing and placement into its final orbit.

Year 4, Day 35: Whirlwind IV

The rocket launches when the launch site is under Minmus's longitude of ascending node.

The upper stage performs its first two burns, placing itself in a parking orbit around Kerbin.

The upper stage performs its TMI burn.

Following the TMI burn, the satellite is deployed. It performs a small correction burn as the trajectory was not going to reach Minmus.

A mid-course correction burn further refines the intercept.

​A capture burn places the satellite into its equatorial parking orbit.

An inclination change burn sets up the target longitude of ascending node as well.

Finally, the periapsis is lowered with the appropriate argument of periapsis.

Year 4, Day 58: Whirlwind V

Another contract required placing an identical satellite into a similar orbit.