Feb 18

Space Rocket History #433 – Skylab – Crashdown

Despite predictions, events seldom occur precisely as expected. The calculated breakup altitude of Skylab was based on its intended structural strength specifications. However, the actual vehicle was stronger than the specified strength requirements.

Mgrs. & Controllers Monitor Re-entry

Garriott with Oxygen Tank Debris. Credit David Hitt

Ground-track of Skylab final passes.



Feb 02

Space Rocket History #432 – Skylab – Reboost

The official decision to proceed with the Skylab reboost mission was made on September 1st 1977, initiating a two-year preparation period for the development and production of the required hardware and systems.

Teleoperator Retrieval System

Skylab Boost Mission

STS-3 Launching in March of 1982

Jan 19

Space Rocket History #431 – Skylab – Skylab 5 & Skylab B

Early in the planning stages of the Skylab flight, there was a desire to keep it in orbit long enough to use it as the core of a larger station.

Skylab 5 Crew-Brand, Lenoir,Lind

Skylab B at Smithsonian

Saturn V at Houston

Jan 05

Space Rocket History #430 – Skylab – Skylab 4 – Leaving Skylab

Activating the station upon arrival was a challenge, but packing up to return home was also a major event that took several days. For Carr and his crew, this was the last planned visit, but they left open the possibility of a return visit at some point in the future.

Departure Fly-around

Splashdown Skylab 4

Gibson-Pogue-Carr on Recovery Ship