A cover for an effector, such as a projectile, missile, or gun-launched effector, includes two parts that are translatable relative to one another, such that the cover separates in stages as the effector launches. The cover includes an outer cover portion that is made up of multiple outer cover segments that together define a central opening through which part of an inner cover portion extends. In a launch of the effector, the effector first makes contact with the inner cover portion. This pushes the inner cover portion forward, breaking the attachment with the outer cover portion, and allowing the inner cover portion to translated forward relative to the outer cover portion. As the inner cover portion translates forward relative to the outer cover portion, the inner cover portion eventually makes contact with the outer cover portion, with both being pushed forward, and separating from the launcher.