# Solrad 6
**Wikidata**: [Q9339406](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q9339406)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SOLRAD_6)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/solrad-6

## Summary
Solrad 6 was a reconnaissance satellite launched on June 15, 1963, as part of the Solrad series. It was deployed from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 using a Thor-Agena D rocket and was also known by the alias Poppy 2A. The satellite was designed for covert intelligence or military data collection.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: June 15, 1963
- **Launch Vehicle**: Thor-Agena D
- **Launch Site**: Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2
- **Classification**: Reconnaissance satellite
- **Series**: Solrad
- **Alternative Name**: Poppy 2A
- **COSPAR ID**: 1963-021C
- **NSSDCA ID**: 1963-021C
- **SCN (Satellite Catalog Number)**: 00599

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of Solrad 6?
A: Solrad 6 was a reconnaissance satellite designed to covertly collect data for intelligence or military applications, as part of the Solrad series.

### Q: Which rocket launched Solrad 6?
A: Solrad 6 was launched using a Thor-Agena D rocket from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 on June 15, 1963.

### Q: What is the significance of the Solrad series?
A: The Solrad series was a group of American satellites, with Solrad 6 being one of them, primarily used for reconnaissance and data collection in military and intelligence contexts.

### Q: What is the COSPAR ID for Solrad 6?
A: The COSPAR ID for Solrad 6 is 1963-021C.

### Q: What is the SCN (Satellite Catalog Number) for Solrad 6?
A: The SCN for Solrad 6 is 00599.

## Why It Matters
Solrad 6 played a crucial role in the early days of reconnaissance satellite technology. As part of the Solrad series, it contributed to the development of covert data collection methods for intelligence and military purposes. Launched in 1963, it utilized the Thor-Agena D rocket, a key launch vehicle of the era. The satellite's operations, though classified, were part of a broader effort to enhance surveillance capabilities during the Cold War. Its inclusion in the Solrad series highlights the strategic importance of satellite reconnaissance in national security. While specific details of its mission remain classified, Solrad 6 stands as a notable example of early reconnaissance satellite technology.

## Notable For
- **Part of the Solrad Series**: One of several satellites in the Solrad program, designed for military and intelligence applications.
- **Thor-Agena D Launch**: Utilized the Thor-Agena D rocket, a reliable launch vehicle of the 1960s.
- **Reconnaissance Satellite**: Primarily used for covert data collection, aligning with the reconnaissance satellite classification.
- **Vandenberg Launch**: Launched from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2, a significant spaceport for military and reconnaissance missions.
- **Cold War Era**: Operated during the Cold War, reflecting the era's emphasis on satellite-based surveillance.

## Body
### Overview
Solrad 6 was a reconnaissance satellite launched on June 15, 1963, as part of the Solrad series. It was deployed using a Thor-Agena D rocket from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2. The satellite was also known by the alias Poppy 2A and was assigned the COSPAR ID 1963-021C and the NSSDCA ID 1963-021C. Its Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) is 00599.

### Mission and Classification
Solrad 6 was classified as a reconnaissance satellite, indicating its role in covertly collecting data for intelligence or military applications. The Solrad series, of which it was a part, was a group of American satellites designed for such purposes. The satellite's operations were part of broader efforts to enhance surveillance capabilities during the Cold War.

### Launch Details
The satellite was launched on June 15, 1963, using a Thor-Agena D rocket. The launch occurred at Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2, a key site for military and reconnaissance missions. The Thor-Agena D rocket was a reliable launch vehicle of the 1960s, contributing to the successful deployment of Solrad 6.

### Identification and Tracking
Solrad 6 is identified by several tracking and cataloging systems, including the COSPAR ID 1963-021C, the NSSDCA ID 1963-021C, and the SCN 00599. These identifiers help in tracking and cataloging the satellite within the broader context of space operations.

### Historical Context
Solrad 6 operated during the Cold War, reflecting the era's emphasis on satellite-based surveillance. Its inclusion in the Solrad series highlights the strategic importance of reconnaissance satellites in national security. While specific details of its mission remain classified, Solrad 6 stands as a notable example of early reconnaissance satellite technology.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report