Launched by the U.S. Air Force in 1963, the West Ford satellite used a unique concept to test the new undertaking of communications from space. Once in space, the dispenser via a spring mechanism pushed the canister (this artifact), packed with millions of tiny needles (dipoles), into orbit. The needles in the canister slowly separated and formed a ring around the Earth. Antennas on the ground bounced radio signals off the ring of needles to communicate.
The museum's satellite is a prototype.
Transferred from the National Museum of American History to the Museum in 2004.
Display Status
This object is on display in James S. McDonnell Space Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
SPACECRAFT-Uncrewed-Instruments & Payloads
Manufacturer
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Lincoln Laboratory
Dimensions
Overall: 8.89 high x 13.97 wide x 13.97cm deep, 5.4kg weight (3 1/2in. x 5 1/2in. x 5 1/2in., 12lb.)
Materials
Plastic, copper, aluminum
Inventory Number
A20040113001
Credit Line
Transferred from the Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of American History
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.