# Explorer 24

> NASA atmospheric density research satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q49879](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q49879)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Explorer_24)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/explorer-24

## Summary
Explorer 24 is a NASA atmospheric density research satellite launched in 1964 to study Earth's atmospheric density.

## Key Facts
- It is a research satellite operated by NASA, with a mass of 8.6 kilograms.
- Launched on November 21, 1964, from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 5 using a Scout X-4 launch vehicle.
- Part of the Explorers Program (specifically designated as 24), and followed Explorer 23.
- Followed by the Injun 4 satellite.
- Its COSPAR ID is 1964-076A, and NSSDC ID is also 1964-076A.

### FAQs
### Q: What is Explorer 24?
A: Explorer 24 is a NASA atmospheric density research satellite launched in 1964 to study Earth's atmospheric density.
### Q: When was Explorer 24 launched?
A: It was launched on November 21, 1964, at 17:09:39 from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 5.
### Q: What was its primary mission?
A: Its primary mission was atmospheric density research, studying Earth's atmospheric density.

### Why It Matters
Explorer 24 played a role in advancing atmospheric science by providing data on Earth's atmospheric density, contributing to the understanding of upper atmospheric conditions. As part of NASA's Explorer program, it helped establish methodologies for atmospheric research from space, influencing subsequent satellite missions in the field.

### Notable For
- It was the 24th satellite in NASA's Explorer program, dedicated specifically to atmospheric density research.
- Launched using the Scout X-4 vehicle, which was part of the American Scout launch vehicle family.
- Its mission focused on atmospheric density studies, a key area for understanding space weather and atmospheric dynamics.
- Operated by NASA, the primary funder and operator, ensuring scientific collaboration and data collection for atmospheric research.

### Body
#### Launch and Mission
Explorer 24 was launched on November 21, 1964, at 17:09:39 UTC from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 5 in the United States. It was carried by a Scout X-4 launch vehicle, designated S135R. The satellite's primary mission was atmospheric density research, as part of NASA's broader efforts to study Earth's upper atmosphere.

#### Technical Specifications
With a mass of 8.6 kilograms, Explorer 24 was designed as a research satellite. Its COSPAR ID is 1964-076A, and the NSSDC ID matches this, indicating its unique identification in space mission catalogs. The satellite was part of the Explorers Program, specifically designated as Explorer 24, and followed the Explorer 23 mission.

#### Operational Timeline
After launch, Explorer 24 orbited Earth, conducting its atmospheric density research. The satellite remained operational until its orbit decayed on October 18, 1968, marking the end of its mission. This decay event was documented, providing data on the satellite's orbital lifespan and atmospheric interaction.

#### Significance in Atmospheric Research
As a dedicated atmospheric density research satellite, Explorer 24 contributed to the scientific community's understanding of Earth's upper atmosphere. Its data helped refine models of atmospheric density, which is crucial for space mission planning, satellite operations, and understanding space weather phenomena. The mission's findings influenced subsequent atmospheric research missions, including those in the Injun series (like Injun 4, which followed Explorer 24).

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  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "Explorer 24",
  "description": "NASA atmospheric density research satellite",
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## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. [Source](https://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/nmc/spacecraft/display.action?id=1964-076A)