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This miniaturized tape recorder is a flight spare (backup) for one that flew on Explorer 3, launched on 26 March 1958. Data were saved on tape until they could be transmitted to a ground station that could accept telemetry data. These data included measurements of the distribution of cosmic ray intensity, micrometeorites, and temperature and they confirmed the existence of the Van Allen Radiation Belt, a huge area of charged particles that circles the earth. This first tape recorder to be flown on a satellite was designed and built by the Department of Physics at the University of Iowa under James Van Allen's supervision. He donated the flight spare to the Smithsonian Institution in 1968 along with a presentation mounting and provenance. It was refurbished at the University of Iowa in 1981 and was returned to the collection in 1982.

 Display Status

This object is on display in Space Science at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

Space Science
Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type SPACECRAFT-Uncrewed-Instruments & Payloads Manufacturer University of Iowa
 Dimensions Overall: 2 1/2 in. tall x 3 in. wide (6.4 x 7.6cm)
 Materials Shell: gold plated metal
 Inventory Number A19700332000 Credit Line Gift of the University of Iowa Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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