>>This Vanguard 1 satellite, what is it's purpose (if it's not too much trouble)? Vanguard 1 came about from a DOD project that was tasked with developing a launch vehicle that would put a satellite in orbit. Part of the test was that the satellite was to be able to perform a scientific experiment. The experiment onboard Vanguard 1 proved that the earth is slightly pear-shaped. It was launched in March 1958 and transmitted data for about three years. >>And BTW, what is the purpose of the newly launched Starshine sateelite, and >>will it stay up there for a while? I haven't gotton a chance to see it yet. See the web page http://www.azinet.com/starshine then click on "Starshine Project Description" Ralph McConahy 34.8829N 117.0064W 670m