1 Images

Launched by the U.S. Air Force in 1963, the West Ford satellite used a unique concept to test the new undertaking of communications from space. Once in space, the dispenser (this artifact) via a spring mechanism pushed a canister, packed with millions of tiny needles (dipoles), into orbit. The needles in the canister slowly separated and formed a ring around the Earth. Antennas on the ground bounced radio signals off the ring of needles to communicate.

The museum's satellite is a prototype.

Transferred from the National Museum of American History to the Museum in 2004.

Display Status

This object is on display in James S. McDonnell Space Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

James S. McDonnell Space Hangar

Object Details

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

SPACECRAFT-Uncrewed-Instruments & Payloads

Manufacturer

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Lincoln Laboratory

Dimensions

Overall: 5 in. high x 5 in. wide x 25 3/4 in. long, 23lb. weight (12.7 x 12.7 x 65.41cm, 10.4kg)

Materials

Aluminum, copper, plastic.

Inventory Number

A20040113000

Credit Line

Transferred from the Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of American History

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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