Object Details
Manufacturer
NASA - Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Summary
One of several replicas of the Explorer 1 spacecraft including payload and fourth stage booster in the collection. It was transferred to NASM by NASA, Marshall Space Flight Center in October 1974.
Explorer-1, also known unofficially as Satellite 1958 alpha, was the first American satellite to successfully orbit the earth. This is a full-scale replica consisting of a machined metal shell representing the payload section. Attached to an empty Sergeant fourth stage solid fuel rocket motor, the payload section is devoid of instrumentation. This is one of several replicas and backup Explorer spacecraft in the collection. It was transferred to NASM by NASA, Marshall Space Flight Center in October 1974.
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Inventory Number
A19760760000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
MODELS-Uncrewed Spacecraft & Parts
Materials
Shell: machined metal
Dimensions
Overall: 81 in. tall x 6 1/2 in. wide (205.7 x 16.5cm)
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_A19760760000