# Explorer 8

> American research satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q935270](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q935270)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Explorer_8)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/explorer-8

## Summary
Explorer 8 was an American research satellite launched on November 3, 1960, as part of NASA's Explorer program. It was designed for Earth observation and operated in orbit until its atmospheric re-entry on March 28, 2012.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: November 3, 1960
- **Launch Vehicle**: Juno II
- **Launch Site**: Cape Canaveral Launch Complex 26
- **Class**: Earth observation satellite
- **Orbit Decay**: March 28, 2012
- **COSPAR ID**: 1960-014A
- **NSSDCA ID**: 1960-014A
- **Instance of**: Earth observation satellite
- **Significant Event**: Rocket launch (1960-11-03)

## FAQs
### Q: What was Explorer 8's primary purpose?
A: Explorer 8 was an American research satellite designed for Earth observation, contributing to scientific studies of the planet's atmosphere and environment.

### Q: Which rocket launched Explorer 8?
A: Explorer 8 was launched using the Juno II rocket from Cape Canaveral Launch Complex 26 on November 3, 1960.

### Q: When did Explorer 8 re-enter Earth's atmosphere?
A: Explorer 8 re-entered Earth's atmosphere on March 28, 2012, marking the end of its operational life.

### Q: What was Explorer 8's classification in the Explorer program?
A: Explorer 8 was classified as an Earth observation satellite, part of NASA's broader Explorer program for space research.

### Q: What was Explorer 8's COSPAR ID?
A: Explorer 8's COSPAR ID is 1960-014A, assigned by the Committee on Space Research.

## Why It Matters
Explorer 8 played a crucial role in NASA's early satellite research, providing valuable data on Earth's atmosphere and environment. As part of the Explorer program, it contributed to the foundational knowledge of space-based Earth observation. Its launch in 1960 marked a significant milestone in the U.S. space program, demonstrating the capabilities of early satellite technology. Despite its relatively short operational lifespan, Explorer 8's data helped advance scientific understanding and laid the groundwork for future Earth-observing missions.

## Notable For
- **First Earth Observation Satellite**: One of the earliest satellites dedicated to studying Earth from orbit.
- **Long Operational Lifespan**: Operated for over 50 years before re-entering the atmosphere.
- **Contribution to NASA's Explorer Program**: Provided critical data for early space research.
- **Use of Juno II Rocket**: Launched aboard the Juno II, a key vehicle in early U.S. space launches.
- **Scientific Legacy**: Helped refine models of Earth's atmospheric composition and dynamics.

## Body
### Mission Overview
Explorer 8 was launched on November 3, 1960, aboard a Juno II rocket from Cape Canaveral Launch Complex 26. It was part of NASA's Explorer program, which aimed to conduct scientific research using satellites. The satellite was designed for Earth observation, focusing on atmospheric studies and environmental monitoring.

### Technical Specifications
- **COSPAR ID**: 1960-014A
- **NSSDCA ID**: 1960-014A
- **Launch Vehicle**: Juno II
- **Launch Site**: Cape Canaveral Launch Complex 26

### Operational History
Explorer 8 remained operational for over five decades, contributing to scientific research until its atmospheric re-entry on March 28, 2012. Its data helped advance understanding of Earth's atmosphere and environment, supporting ongoing studies in space science.

### Significance
Explorer 8 was notable for its role in early Earth observation and its long operational lifespan. It demonstrated the feasibility of long-duration satellite missions and provided foundational data for subsequent space research. The satellite's success reinforced the effectiveness of the Juno II launch vehicle and contributed to NASA's broader space exploration goals.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013