# GGSE-1

> experimental satelite

**Wikidata**: [Q11699131](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q11699131)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GGSE-1)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ggse-1

## Summary
GGSE-1 was an experimental reconnaissance satellite launched on January 11, 1964. As a covert payload designed for intelligence or military applications, it was deployed into orbit using a Thor-Agena D rocket from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 1. It is identified by the international designation COSPAR ID 1964-001B.

## Key Facts
- **Classification:** GGSE-1 is an instance of a reconnaissance satellite, a class of spacecraft designed to covertly collect data for intelligence or military applications.
- **Launch Date:** The satellite was successfully launched on January 11, 1964.
- **Launch Vehicle:** It was delivered to orbit by a Thor-Agena D, an American orbital launch vehicle.
- **Launch Site:** The launch originated from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 1.
- **COSPAR ID:** The international identifier for this space object is 1964-001B.
- **Satellite Catalog Number:** It is tracked under the Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) 00728.
- **Description:** The entity is explicitly described as an "experimental satellite."

## FAQs
### Q: What was the primary function of GGSE-1?
A: GGSE-1 functioned as an experimental reconnaissance satellite. Its role was to covertly collect data, likely for intelligence or military applications, as part of early space-based surveillance efforts.

### Q: When and how was GGSE-1 launched?
A: GGSE-1 was launched on January 11, 1964, aboard a Thor-Agena D rocket. The launch took place at Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 1.

### Q: What does the designation "1964-001B" mean?
A: This is the COSPAR ID (Committee on Space Research international identifier). The "1964" indicates the year of launch, "001" indicates it was part of the first launch of that year, and "B" identifies it as the second object (or the payload) resulting from that specific launch event.

## Why It Matters
GGSE-1 represents a specific era of the Cold War space race characterized by the rapid development and deployment of military space assets. Launched in early 1964, this vehicle serves as an example of the transition from theoretical space observation to practical, albeit experimental, reconnaissance operations. As an "experimental satellite" categorized under reconnaissance, GGSE-1 likely played a role in testing technologies that would later become standard for intelligence gathering, such as high-resolution imaging or signals interception.

The use of the Thor-Agena D launch vehicle highlights the reliance on robust, American-made rocketry to place these sensitive payloads into orbit. Launching from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 1— a site historically used for polar orbits—suggests the satellite was intended for specific observational paths that maximize Earth coverage. By establishing a presence in space for military applications, satellites like GGSE-1 paved the way for modern space-based situational awareness and global monitoring systems.

## Notable For
- Being an early example of an **experimental reconnaissance satellite**, distinguishing it from purely scientific probes.
- Utilizing the **Thor-Agena D** launch system, a workhorse for American military payloads.
- Launching from **Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 1**, a critical site for polar orbital missions.
- Being identified as the **first successful launch payload of 1964** (based on COSPAR ID 1964-001).

## Body

### Mission Profile and Classification
GGSE-1 is formally classified as a reconnaissance satellite. According to knowledge base definitions, this class of spacecraft is designed to covertly collect data for intelligence or military applications. The specific designation of GGSE-1 as an "experimental satellite" indicates that the mission may have been designed to test sensor systems, communication relays, or orbital mechanics relevant to future operational reconnaissance satellites rather than serving as a permanent operational asset itself.

### Launch Operations
The launch of GGSE-1 was a significant event in the early 1964 space calendar.
*   **Date:** The mission lifted off on January 11, 1964.
*   **Location:** The launch was conducted from **Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 1**. This location is strategically significant as it allows launches to fly south over the ocean, enabling polar and sun-synchronous orbits which are ideal for Earth observation.
*   **Rocket:** The launch vehicle was a **Thor-Agena D**. This was a two-stage rocket system where the Thor missile served as the first stage and the Agena D served as the upper stage, frequently used for US Air Force and intelligence missions during this period.

### Technical Identifiers
In space surveillance and cataloging, GGSE-1 is identified by specific alphanumeric codes that track its orbit and origin.
*   **COSPAR ID:** 1964-001B
*   **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 00728
*   **Wolfram Language Entity Code:** `Entity["Satellite", "00728"]`
*   **Google Knowledge Graph ID:** `/g/1q5bfb282`

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report