Category: Orbiter - Spaceships
Vanguard 1 Add-on for Orbiter

File Description:
Originally a simple nose cone was to be carried aloft, but in July of 1957 it was decided that a small 1.47 kilogram (3.25 pound) test satellite would be used instead to exercise the tracking stations. This test satellite would consist of a simple 16 centimeter (6.4 inch) polished aluminum alloy sphere equipped with two transmitters operating at frequencies around 108 MHz, 6 small solar panels, and 6 dowel like antennas. The satellite was Vanguard I, in which its successes set the pattern for a multitude of other space ventures in this country and abroad. Vanguard also served as a springboard for scientists to launch several series of space probes to study various aspects of radiation phenomena. Vanguard I introduced much of the technology that has been applied in other U.S. satellite programs. For example, it proved that solar cells could be used for several years to power radio transmitters. Vanguard's solar cells operated for about seven years, while conventional batteries used to power another onboard transmitter lasted only 20 days. Now the oldest man-made satellite still in orbit to this day, Vanguard I has been 100 percent successful in meeting all its scientific objectives. Now you can fly this historical satellite in orbit. Unlike all the US Navy failed attempts, the Orbiter version will always get you there.