OSCAR 1

OSCAR 1 is no longer on orbit
OSCAR 1 is classified as:

Amateur radio

NORAD ID: 214

Int'l Code: 1961-034B

Launch date: December 12, 1961
Source: United States (US)
Launch site: AIR FORCE WESTERN TEST RANGE (AFWTR)
Decay date: 1962-01-31

Uplink (MHz):
Downlink (MHz): 144.983
Beacon (MHz): 144.983
Mode: CW
Call sign:
Status: Reentered

OSCAR 1 was a quasi rectangular box, about 30 x 25 x 12 cm. The two approximately square surfaces were slightly curved, but were concentric with each other. One was slightly smaller than the other. A monopole transmitting antenna about 60 cm long extended from the center of the convex surface of the larger square. Reflective striping was applied for temperature control. This satellite was made by volunteer effort of a group of amateur radio operators and was launched as ballast on an AF launch vehicle. The spacecraft was battery operated and had no attitude control system.