Small satellite used to test the Vanguard three-stage launch vehicle. December 6, 1957 at 16:44 UTC · Launch Failure Vanguard — US Navy, to Low Earth Orbit Launch Complex 18A, Cape Canaveral SFS, FL, USA The world's 3rd orbital launch attempt, and 3rd of 1957. Data: Launch Library 2, The Space Devs. Image by NASA (NASA Image and Media Guidelines) via The Space Devs.