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Explorer 16 (Micrometeoroid Satellite)

Explorer 16 was NASA’s micrometeoroid satellite launched on December 16, 1962 to measure particle penetration and the meteoroid environment around Earth with multiple impact-detection systems.

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Identity

Aliases
Explorer XVIExplorer 161962 BETA CHI 1NASA S-55BS115
Name
Explorer 16 (Micrometeoroid Satellite)
Status
completed

Details

Astronauts
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Description
Explorer 16 was NASA’s micrometeoroid satellite launched on December 16, 1962 to measure particle penetration and the meteoroid environment around Earth with multiple impact-detection systems.
Destination
Low Earth orbit
End Date
1963-09-15
Outcome
Explorer 16’s three micrometeoroid detection systems recorded punctures in thin metallic and polymer samples and produced sustained measurements of the meteoroid hazard for spacecraft design.
Programs
Start Date
1962-12-16
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Creation Time
August 14, 2026 at 19:45:42 UTC
Updated Time
August 14, 2026 at 19:45:42 UTC

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