SM-65B Atlas

From Spacefaring




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 booster engine section. Unlike later Atlas models, the Atlas B used explosive bolts to jettison the booster section.

Convair XSM-65B launchConvair XSM-65B launch
Atlas b lift-offAtlas b lift-off
A Mark 49 thermonuclear warheadA Mark 49 thermonuclear warhead
A cross-section diagram showing a W-49 nuclear warhead inside of its re-entry vehicle. The warhead and firing set are shown in red; the fuzing system is shown in green.A cross-section diagram showing a W-49 nuclear warhead inside of its re-entry vehicle. The warhead and firing set are shown in red; the fuzing system is shown in green.