Object Details
Manufacturer
Reynolds Metals Company
Summary
This is a full-scale reproduction of the Jupiter-C launch vehicle built by the Reynolds Metals Company. It has a replica of the Explorer I satellite on top. The Jupiter-C launched the Explorer I on January 31, 1958 as the U.S.'s first artificial satellite.
The Jupiter-C was a modified Army Redstone liquid-fuel rocket with solid-fuel upper stages and a slightly more powerful main stage engine. The Explorer 1 instruments recorded cosmic rays, micrometeorites, temperatures, and radiations. This rocket was transferred to the Smithsonian by the Army in 1959.
Alternate Name
Jupiter-C Rocket (Replica)
Key Accomplishment(s)
Launch Vehicle for First U.S. Artificial Satellite
Brief Description
This is a full-scale reproduction of the Jupiter-C launch vehicle with a replica of the Explorer I satellite on top. A Jupiter-C rocket launched the Explorer I satellite on January 31, 1958.
Credit Line
Transferred from the U.S. Army
Date
1958
Inventory Number
A19590068000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
CRAFT-Missiles & Rockets
Materials
Body, mainly aluminum; some steel including rocket engine and launch stand; exhaust vanes, carbon phenolic.
Dimensions
Overall: 66 ft. 7 3/16 in. × 5 ft. 10 in., 64200lb. (2030 × 177.8cm, 29120.9kg)
Country of Origin
United States of America
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A19590068000