This may be a flight backup for the balloon payload from the Explorer 9 satellite. The object is a deflated balloon made up of laminated layers of aluminized mylar-polyester film, whose surface is marked with nodules. The Explorer 9 mission was intended to study low orbit atmospheric density by measuring the decay of the satellite's orbit as a result of drag. The inflated sphere was sufficiently reflective so that it could be tracked with optical instruments as well as by radar, providing sufficent data to estimate atmospheric density.
The balloon was, in essence, a target to allow ground-based radio and optical telescopes to study its motion. It was launched from Wallops Station Virginia on a Scout rocket on February 16, 1961. The balloon successfully inflated once it was in orbit. The radio beacon that was to mark its progress failed in the course of the first orbit. The satellite stayed aloft until April 9, 1964.
The balloon was transferred to NASM from NASA in March 1971.
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-Parts & Structural Components
Manufacturer
NASA, Langley
Dimensions
Storage (Rehoused on an aluminum pallet with one other object): 183.8 × 123.8 × 116.8cm, 95.3kg (72 3/8 × 48 3/4 × 46 in., 210lb.)
Materials
Aluminum, Mylar (Polyester), Adhesive
Inventory Number
A19770454000
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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