Inaugurated in the early 1960s, the Nimbus weather satellite program was designed to complement the first series of meteorological spacecraft, TIROS. Nimbus tested advanced instruments for observing earth's weather and studying the atmosphere as well as evaluated improved spacecraft designs.
Nimbus 1, launched in April 1964, failed after a month in orbit. Nimbus 2, launched in May 1966, operated for over two and a half years, demonstrating the observational value of an improved television camera system (the Advanced Vidicon Camera System) and of new infrared sensors (the High Resolution Infrared Radiometer and the Medium Resolution Infrared Radiometer). Of particular significance was a three-axis stabilized spacecraft design that allowed the satellite's instruments to point continuosly at the Earth's surface and gather data.
Altogether seven Nimbus satellites were launched; the last in 1978.
This artifact is a full-scale model of Nimbus 2, donated by General Electric, Missile and Space Division, to the Museum in 1968.
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
Dimensions
Overall (complete model): 10 ft. × 10 ft. 11 in. × 5 ft. (304.8 × 332.7 × 152.4cm)
Materials
Aluminum, paint, plastic, steel, wood, cadmium plating
Inventory Number
A19680229000
Credit Line
Gift of General Electric, Missile & Space Division
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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