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Explorer 38 RAE-A low-frequency radio observatory spacecraft family

Explorer 38, also known as RAE-A or RAE-1, was NASA’s first successful radio astronomy satellite and the first spacecraft designed exclusively for radio astronomical studies. Launched in July 1968, it measured long-wavelength radio phenomena from the magnetosphere, solar corona, Sun, and Galaxy, including galactic sources and sporadic solar radio outbursts.

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Identity

Aliases
Explorer 38RAE-ARAE-1Radio Astronomy Explorer-AExplorer 38 spacecraft
Family Name
Explorer 38
Full Name
Explorer 38 RAE-A low-frequency radio observatory spacecraft family
Roles
orbiterobservatoryresearch
Status
retired
Type
spacecraft

Details

Description
Explorer 38, also known as RAE-A or RAE-1, was NASA’s first successful radio astronomy satellite and the first spacecraft designed exclusively for radio astronomical studies. Launched in July 1968, it measured long-wavelength radio phenomena from the magnetosphere, solar corona, Sun, and Galaxy, including galactic sources and sporadic solar radio outbursts.
First Flight Year
1,968
Operator

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Creation Time
August 13, 2026 at 12:32:17 UTC
Updated Time
August 14, 2026 at 21:23:56 UTC