NSSDCA/COSPAR ID: 1960-007A
The two Transit program objectives were (1) to develop and demonstrate equipment to provide a reliable means of fixing the position of surface craft, submarines, and aircraft--anywhere and in any weather--more precisely, and (2) to provide more accurate maritime and aerial navigation in any weather than currently available. The Transit 2A spacecraft had as its instrument complement the following: cosmic-noise radiometer, transmitters, infrared scanner to measure satellite rotation before despin was initiated, and temperature sensors. The power supply was a nickel-cadmium battery, recharged by solar cells. The transmitters operated at the following frequencies: 54, 162, 216, and 324 MHz.
Launch took place from Cape Canaveral on a Thor booster on 22 June 1960 at 6:00 UT. The SOLRAD 1 satellite was mounted on top of the Transit 2A satellite, as pictured, to be separated at deployment. Image credit: National Museum of the U.S. Navy
Launch Date: 1960-06-22
Launch Vehicle: Thor
Launch Site: Cape Canaveral, United States
Mass: 101 kg
Questions and comments about this spacecraft can be directed to: Coordinated Request and User Support Office