Object Details
Manufacturer
RCA Astro Electronics
Summary
Launched by NASA in 1962, Relay 1 was one of several satellites placed in orbit in the decade after Sputnik to test the possibilities of communications from space. Relay 1 received telephone and television signals from ground stations and then transmitted them to other locations on the Earth's surface. The satellite relayed signals between North America and Europe and between North and South America, and it also monitored the effects of radiation on its electronics. In conjunction with the Syncom 3 communications satellite, Relay 1 transmitted television coverage of the 1964 Olympics in Japan.
This prototype of Relay 1 is covered with solar cells. The antenna on top is for receiving and transmitting communications signals; those at its base are for telemetry, tracking, and control. In orbit, Relay used spin-stabilization to orient the antennas to communicate with Earth.
NASA transferred this artifact to the Museum in 1967.
Alternate Name
Relay 1 Communications Satellite
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Inventory Number
A19670216000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
SPACECRAFT-Uncrewed
Materials
Aluminum, copper, plastic, glass, steel, adhesive, synthetic fabric, epoxy, solder
Dimensions
Overall: 4 ft. 4 in. tall x 2 ft. 6 in. wide (132.1 x 76.2cm) Weight: 170 lbs
Country of Origin
United States of America
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Location
National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC
Exhibition
One World Connected
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A19670216000