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Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere. Nation: USA. Agency: U.S. Air Force.

12 foot diameter. balloon; atmospheric density studies.

Typical orbit: 757 km x 2433 km at 39 degrees inclination. Mass: 6.50 kg (14.30 lb).


S-56 Chronology
  • 1960 December 4 - Explorer (9) S 56 - Program: Explorer. Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: LA3. Launch Vehicle: Scout. FAILURE: Second stage malfunction. Mass: 6.00 kg (13.20 lb).

  • 1961 February 16 - Explorer 9 - Program: Explorer. Launch Site: Wallops Island. Launch Complex: LA3. Launch Vehicle: Scout. Mass: 7.00 kg (15.40 lb). Perigee: 757 km (470 mi). Apogee: 2,433 km (1,511 mi). Inclination: 38.80 deg. Period: 118.00 min.
    12 foot dia. balloon; atmospheric density studies. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B).


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