# Transit 5A
**Wikidata**: [Q9361182](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q9361182)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/transit-5a

## Summary
Transit 5A is a geodetic satellite launched on December 19, 1962. It was utilized for the research and application of geodesy and was deployed into orbit using a Scout X-3 rocket from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 5.

## Key Facts
- **Classification:** Transit 5A is an artificial satellite categorized specifically as a geodetic satellite.
- **Launch Date:** The satellite was launched on December 19, 1962.
- **Launch Vehicle:** It was delivered to orbit by a Scout X-3 rocket.
- **Launch Site:** The launch originated from Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 5.
- **COSPAR ID:** The international designation for this object is 1962-071A.
- **Satellite Catalog Number:** It is tracked under the identifier 00509.
- **Primary Function:** As a geodetic satellite, its role was to aid in the research and application of geodesy (measuring the Earth).

## FAQs
### Q: What was the primary purpose of Transit 5A?
A: Transit 5A served as a geodetic satellite. This means it was an artificial satellite used specifically for the research and application of geodesy, which involves measuring the Earth's shape, orientation, and gravitational field.

### Q: When and how was Transit 5A launched?
A: Transit 5A was launched on December 19, 1962. It was sent into space using a Scout X-3 rocket from the Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 5.

### Q: What are the specific identifiers for Transit 5A?
A: The satellite is identified by the COSPAR ID 1962-071A and the Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) 00509. In the Wolfram Language, it is coded as Entity["Satellite", "00509"].

## Why It Matters
Transit 5A represents a specific effort in the early 1960s to utilize space technology for the precise measurement of the Earth. As a geodetic satellite, it played a role in the broader scientific objective of understanding the planet's geophysical properties. By orbiting the Earth, satellites like Transit 5A allowed scientists to gather data that was difficult or impossible to obtain solely through ground-based observations. This data is crucial for creating accurate maps, coordinating global navigation systems, and understanding gravitational variations across the planet.

The mission also highlights the use of the Scout X-3 rocket, a solid-fuel launch vehicle, and the operational activity at Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 5 during this era of space exploration. Its launch in 1962 contributes to the historical timeline of artificial satellite deployment during the height of the Space Race.

## Notable For
- **Geodetic Research:** Specifically designed for the advancement of geodesy.
- **Scout X-3 Deployment:** An example of a payload launched aboard the Scout X-3 class of rockets.
- **Historical Launch Site:** One of the missions launched from the Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 5.
- **Early 1960s Space Activity:** Represents satellite technology deployed in late 1962.

## Body
### Mission Classification and Purpose
Transit 5A is formally classified as an instance of a **geodetic satellite**. This category of artificial satellite is defined by its application in the research and execution of geodesy—the science of accurately measuring and understanding the Earth's geometric shape, orientation in space, and gravitational field.

### Launch Specifications
The satellite successfully reached orbit during a significant event taking place in late 1962.
*   **Date of Launch:** December 19, 1962.
*   **Launch Vehicle:** The satellite was propelled into space by a **Scout X-3** rocket.
*   **Location:** The launch operations were conducted at **Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 5**.

### Technical Identifiers
Transit 5A is tracked and referenced in various scientific and academic databases through specific codes:
*   **COSPAR ID:** 1962-071A (Committee on Space Research identifier).
*   **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 00509 (United States Space Command identifier).
*   **Wolfram Language Entity:** Entity["Satellite", "00509"].

The satellite has limited language coverage in public encyclopedias, with a sitelink count of 1 (referencing the Polish Wikipedia).

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report