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In 1965, the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (Intelsat) launched the Early Bird satellite (also known as Intelsat 1). This event marked the beginning of day-to-day, operational communications via space and established Intelsat, a consortium of tens of nations, as the primary means for providing this new capability. Over the next two decades, Intelsat and its satellites helped change the way communications flowed around world--from telephone calls, to television, and data.

A total of nine Intelsat V and V-A satellites (built by Ford Aerospace) were launched from 1980 through 1984.

This artifact is a 1/16 scale model, donated by Ford Aerospace to the Museum in 1989.

 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 MODELS-Uncrewed Spacecraft & Parts Manufacturer Ford Aerospace
 Dimensions Approximate: 40.64 x 34.29 x 106.68cm (1ft 4in. x 1ft 1 1/2in. x 3ft 6in.)
 Materials Plastic, brass, aluminum, paint, steel
 Inventory Number A19890005000 Credit Line Gift of Ford Aerospace Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.