This is the Scout D, a low-cost, all-solid fuel, four-stage U.S. launch vehicle for boosting small payloads into low-Earth orbits. This specimen is cutaway on the top to reveal its dual payloads, the Injun V (Explorer 40) and Explorer 39 satellites that were launched in 1968. The satellites shown here were backups of the original satellites.
The first Scout was launched in 1960. The vehicle continued to evolve over the years with upgraded motors. The D model Scout appeared in 1972. The last Scout was launched in 1994. This rocket was donated to the Smithsonian in 1977 by the NASA Wallops Island, Virginia, facility.
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
Date
ca. 1968
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
CRAFT-Missiles & Rockets
Manufacturer
LTV Corporation
Dimensions
Overall: 73 ft. long x 4 ft. diameter, 43200 lb. (2225.04 x 121.92cm, 19595.4kg)
Materials
Stainless steels and other metals; fiberglass fairings on upper stages; plexiglass on cutouts of upper stage to reveal mockup of satellites
Alternate Name
Scout D Rocket
Inventory Number
A19772726000
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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