This full-size mock-up of the Explorer 8 spacecraft is one of two specimens of this satellite in the collection. Explorer 8 was launched on November 3, 1960 atop a Juno II vehicle and successfully went into orbit. The spacecraft carried six specialized instruments designed to study the field of charged particles that surround the earth called the ionosphere. Explorer 8 continued to provide data until December 27, 1960. The mock-up was transferred to the Smithsonian Institution in May 1974 by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, where the flown version was built and operated.
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
SPACECRAFT-Uncrewed
Manufacturer
NASA Marshall Space Flight Center
Dimensions
3-D: 78.7 × 76.2cm (2 ft. 7 in. × 2 ft. 6 in.)
Materials
HAZ MAT: Cadmium
Magnesium
Non-Magnetic White Metal
Solder
Rubber
Natural Fiber Thread
Ferrous Alloy
Electrical Components
Inventory Number
A19750180000
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.