MISSION NAME
Syncom 2 2
Status
Success
DATE
26 JUL 1963
LAUNCH PROVIDER
United States Air Force
Launch Pad
Space Launch Complex 17A
Description
Syncom 2 was the first geosynchronous satellite. Although the period was 24 hours and the spacecraft remained at a nearly constant longitude, the orbit was inclined at 33 degrees so it was not truly geostationary but moved in an elongated figure eight pattern 33 degrees north and south of the equator.
Thor Delta B
Rocket Description
American orbital launch vehicle family with Thor first stage and a delta second stage.