One of several replicas and backup Explorer spacecraft in the collection. It is a full-size replica that consists of a machined metal shell of the payload section devoid of instrumentation, and is attached to a Sergeant, propellant-less, solid fuel rocket motor. It was transferred to the Smithsonian Institution by the Army Ballistic Missile Agency in September 1958. Explorer-1, also known unofficially as Satellite 1958 alpha, was the first American satellite to orbit the earth.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
SPACECRAFT-Uncrewed
Manufacturer
Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology
U.S. Army Ballistic Missile Agency, Redstone Arsenal
Dimensions
Overall: 83 1/2 in. tall x 6 1/4 in. wide (212.1 x 15.9cm)
Materials
painted metal
Inventory Number
A19610039000
Credit Line
Transferred from the U.S. Army Ballistic Missile Agency
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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