Luna
Soviet R-7-derived lunar probe launch rocket
The Soviet Union's dedicated lunar probe launcher, an R-7 with a new upper stage. Luna 2 in September 1959 was the first object ever to reach the Moon's surface; Luna 3 a month later took the first photos of its far side.
Service 1958–1960
1958 first flight 1959 peak (4 launches) 1960 last flight
- launches
- 9
- success · 2/9
- 22%
Full Launch History
Apr 16, 1960Failure | Luna 1960B Russia • Luna |
Apr 15, 1960Failure | Luna 1960A Russia • Luna |
Oct 4, 1959 | Luna 3 Russia • Luna |
Sep 12, 1959 | Luna 2 Russia • Luna |
Jun 18, 1959Failure | Luna 1959A Russia • Luna |
Jan 2, 1959Partial failure | Luna 1 Russia • Luna |
Dec 4, 1958Failure | Luna 1958C Russia • Luna |
Oct 11, 1958Failure | Luna 1958B Russia • Luna |
Sep 23, 1958Failure | Luna 1958A Russia • Luna |