Historical Events tagged with "satellite"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Space Exploration

Space Shuttle Discovery Launches on STS-85

August 7th, 1997 27 years ago

The Space Shuttle Discovery launched on STS-85 from the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida. This mission was significant as it included important scientific research and the deployment of the Japanese satellite H-II. Discovery carried a six-member crew, who conducted experiments focusing on materials science and fluid dynamics in microgravity. The successful launch marked another step forward in NASA's efforts to foster international cooperation in space exploration and scientific research.

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Space Exploration

Ariane 5 Rocket Fails Shortly After Launch

June 4th, 1996 28 years ago

The first flight of the Ariane 5 rocket, a European space launch vehicle manufactured by Arianespace, was conducted as part of a Cluster mission, which aimed to study the Earth's magnetosphere. Unfortunately, just 37 seconds post-launch, the rocket exploded in a catastrophic failure. This incident revealed critical software issues and led to significant changes in the European space program's approach to satellite launches and vehicle design.

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Space Exploration

Space Shuttle Endeavour Launches on STS-77 Mission

May 19th, 1996 28 years ago

Space Shuttle Endeavour launched on mission STS-77 from Kennedy Space Center. This mission focused on deploying multiple satellites and conducting scientific experiments. Among the payload was the Spartan satellite, designed for astrophysics research, marking an important step in the understanding of the universe. The shuttle's crew included seven astronauts, underlining the collaborative spirit of NASA.

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Space Exploration

NEAR Shoemaker Launch: Asteroid Exploration Begins

February 17th, 1996 29 years ago

NASA's NEAR Shoemaker spacecraft was launched, marking the beginning of the Discovery Program. This mission aimed to be the first to orbit and land on an asteroid, specifically targeting 433 Eros. The launch took place from Cape Canaveral, Florida, showcasing the United States' commitment to advance space exploration and study the characteristics of asteroids.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Long March 3B Rocket Crashes in Rural Village

February 15th, 1996 29 years ago

A Long March 3B rocket launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center carrying the Intelsat 708 satellite veered off course shortly after liftoff. The rocket crashed into a nearby rural village, resulting in casualties ranging from six to 100 people. The incident raised serious concerns about the safety protocols of China's space program and the risks posed to surrounding communities.

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Space Exploration

Discovery Launches TDRS-7 Satellite into Orbit

July 13th, 1995 29 years ago

The Space Shuttle Discovery launched on the STS-70 mission from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This mission successfully deployed the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS-7), which enhanced NASA's communications capabilities with spacecraft in low Earth orbit. The launch was notable for its flawless execution and the role it played in maintaining the TDRS constellation, vital for supporting future missions.

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Space Exploration

Declassification of Corona Satellite Program

February 22nd, 1995 30 years ago

The Corona reconnaissance satellite program was declassified, revealing its significant contributions to U.S. intelligence and reconnaissance during the Cold War. Initiated in 1959 and operating until 1972, the program allowed for the collection of critical photographic intelligence from space, marking a pivotal shift in surveillance technology. The declassification unveiled operational details, technical innovations, and the scope of its impact on military strategy and policy. Experts applauded the program's role in enhancing U.S. national security and understanding global military movements during tense geopolitical times.

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Space Exploration

Space Shuttle Endeavour's STS-68 Mission Launch

September 30th, 1994 30 years ago

Space Shuttle Endeavour was launched on the STS-68 mission from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission focused on conducting advanced Earth observation studies utilizing the Space Radar Lab (SRL-2). This launch marked Endeavour's sixth spaceflight and was notable for its inclusion of remote sensing technology to analyze Earth’s resources, which directly supported scientific research and environmental monitoring.

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Space Exploration

Space Shuttle Discovery Launches on STS-64

September 9th, 1994 30 years ago

Space Shuttle Discovery took off on its STS-64 mission from Kennedy Space Center, Florida. The launch occurred at 8:04 AM ET and marked a significant advancement in space exploration technology. The mission included various experiments, notably the first flight of the recently developed Ultraviolet Spectrograph and the Atmospheric Trace Molecular Hyper-spectral Imaging System. The successful launch and subsequent activities underscored NASA's continued commitment to scientific missions in low Earth orbit.

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