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Explorer 22 Beacon Explorer-B Ionosphere and Laser-Ranging Spacecraft Family

Explorer 22, also known as Beacon Explorer-B, was a NASA ionosphere research satellite launched October 10, 1964. It made global charged-particle measurements and carried laser retroreflectors that enabled the first successful satellite laser-ranging experiments, linking ionospheric science with precise orbital and geodetic tracking.

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Identity

Aliases
Explorer 22Explorer XXIIBeacon Explorer B1964 64AExplorer 22 spacecraft
Family Name
Explorer 22
Full Name
Explorer 22 Beacon Explorer-B Ionosphere and Laser-Ranging Spacecraft Family
Roles
orbiterobservatoryresearchtechnology_demonstrator
Status
retired
Type
spacecraft

Details

Description
Explorer 22, also known as Beacon Explorer-B, was a NASA ionosphere research satellite launched October 10, 1964. It made global charged-particle measurements and carried laser retroreflectors that enabled the first successful satellite laser-ranging experiments, linking ionospheric science with precise orbital and geodetic tracking.
First Flight Year
1,964
Last Flight Year
1,968

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Creation Time
August 14, 2026 at 07:28:04 UTC
Updated Time
August 14, 2026 at 07:28:04 UTC