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Explorer 8 1960 XI direct-ionosphere-measurement spacecraft family

Explorer 8 was a NASA scientific Earth satellite launched November 3, 1960 into an elliptical orbit to make direct measurements of the ionosphere. Its probes measured ion concentration, electron density, and electron temperature in the upper atmosphere; it transmitted data through December 27, 1960.

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Identity

Aliases
Explorer 8Explorer VIII1960 XIIonosphere Direct Measurement SatelliteExplorer 8 spacecraft
Family Name
Explorer 8
Full Name
Explorer 8 1960 XI direct-ionosphere-measurement spacecraft family
Roles
orbiterobservatoryresearch
Status
retired
Type
spacecraft

Details

Description
Explorer 8 was a NASA scientific Earth satellite launched November 3, 1960 into an elliptical orbit to make direct measurements of the ionosphere. Its probes measured ion concentration, electron density, and electron temperature in the upper atmosphere; it transmitted data through December 27, 1960.
First Flight Year
1,960
Last Flight Year
1,960

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Creation Time
August 13, 2026 at 12:52:55 UTC
Updated Time
August 13, 2026 at 12:52:55 UTC