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This is the transponder used to send data to ground stations from the Datasphere, the first instrumented package to be recovered from space by the United States. Launched by a U.S. Air Force Thor ballistic missile on 13 June 1958 from Cape Canaveral, Florida, it transmitted and recorded information such as temperatures, pressures, and stresses critical to progress in the nation's spaceflight programs. The Datasphere reached an altitude of over 200 miles, reentered the atmosphere at more than 10,000 miles an hour, and was recovered intact in the South Atlantic. Made by the Ordco Division of Bermite, this transponder was donated by the Air Force.

 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-Instruments & Payloads Manufacturer Ordco Division, Bermite
 Dimensions Overall: 9 1/2in. x 3in. (24.13 x 7.62cm)
 Materials Steel, resin, electrical wires, stainless steel, resin, rubber, adhesive decal
 Inventory Number A19590106000 Credit Line Transferred from the United States Air Force Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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