This is one of several full-scale replicas of Explorer 1 in the NASM collection. It consists of the payload section attached to an empty Sergeant fourth-stage, solid-fuel rocket motor. It was transferred to NASM by the U.S. Army Ordnance Museum in 1988. Explorer 1, also known unofficially as Satellite 1958 alpha, was the first American satellite to successfully orbit the Earth. Data from this and two subsequent Explorer satellites led to the discovery by James Van Allen of a belt of intense radiation surrounding the Earth.
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
Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology
Dimensions
Overall: 6 in. wide x 5 ft. 8 1/2 in. long, 28 lb. (15.2 x 174cm)
Materials
Metal shell
Inventory Number
A19890568000
Credit Line
Transferred from the U.S. Army Ordnance Museum
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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