Explorer I

Explorer I - America's First Satellite
31 January 1958
Complex 26
Launch Pad A

A full-sized mockup of the Explorer I satellite is on display inside the blockhouse. Accompanying story boards describe the people, places and events leading up to its launch from Complex 26.

The Explorer I satellite undergoing testing. Note that the satellite itself is detached from the 4th stage rocket motor that accompanied it into orbit.

Listen to the sound of data being transmitted back to earth from Explorer I

Explorer I satellite held overhead at a press conference by (L to R): Dr. James Pickering, Dr. James Van Allen, Dr. Wernher Von Braun

Explorer I satellite
Standing L to R: Dr. William Mrazak, Dr. Walter Haeussermann
Seated L to R: Dr. Ernest Stuhlinger, Major General John Medaris,
Dr. Wernher Von Braun, Dr. Eberhard Rees

Preparation of the Jupiter C launch vehicle inside Cape Canaveral hangar

Launch crew inside Firing Room A of the Complex 26 blockhouse
31 January 1958

Listen to Complex 26 blockhouse communication link during countdown operations. Begins at approximately T-3:30 minutes and continues through launch to T+1 minute.

Major General John Medaris and Dr. Kurt Debus in the
Complex 26 blockhouse
31 January 1958

Jupiter C Launch Vehicle inside the gantry on Pad 26A, 31 January 1958. A technician (right side of photo) is walking past the railing around the stairwell to the under-pad tunnel.

Standing L to R: Dr. Kurt Debus, Albert Zeiler, Dr. Hans Grune
Pad A, Complex 26
31 January 1958

Pre-launch of Explorer I with liquid oxygen still venting from the first stage.

Pre-launch of Explorer I, note the umbilical line running up the side of the vehicle.

Explorer I launch, shortly after engine ignition. Note the umbilical line falling away from the vehicle.

Explorer I launch, a few seconds after liftoff. The distinctive domed roofline of the blockhouse is visible in silhouette to the right.