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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.

 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 NASA - Jet Propulsion Laboratory
 Dimensions Overall: 81 in. tall x 6 1/2 in. wide (205.7 x 16.5cm)
 Materials Shell: machined metal
 Inventory Number A19760760000 Credit Line Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.