SOLRAD 2

SOLRAD 2
SOLRAD reserve satellite (similar to SOLRAD 2)
NamesGRAB (2)
SOLar RADiation 2
SR 2
GREB (2)
Mission typeSolar X-rays
OperatorNaval Research Laboratory (USNRL)
COSPAR ID1960-F16 (SRD-2)
Mission durationFailed to orbit
Spacecraft properties
Spacecraft typeSOLRAD
ManufacturerNaval Research Laboratory (USNRL)
Launch mass18 kg (40 lb)
Dimensions51 cm (20 in) of diameter
Power6 watts
Start of mission
Launch date30 November 1960, 19:50 GMT
RocketThor-Ablestar
Launch siteCape Canaveral, LC-17B
ContractorDouglas Aircraft Company
End of mission
DestroyedFailed to orbit
Orbital parameters
Reference systemGeocentric orbit (planned)
RegimeLow Earth orbit
Perigee altitude930 km (580 mi)
Apogee altitude930 km (580 mi)
Inclination66.70°
Period100.0 minutes
← GRAB-1
GRAB 2 →

SOLRAD (SOLar RADiation) 2 was the public designation for a combination surveillance and solar X-rays and ultraviolet scientific satellite, the second in the SOLRAD program developed by the United States Navy's Naval Research Laboratory. The SOLRAD scientific package aboard the satellite provided cover for the GRAB (Galactic Radiation and Background) electronic surveillance package, the mission of which was to map the Soviet Union's air defense radar network.

SOLRAD 2 was launched along with Transit 3A atop a Thor-Ablestar rocket on 30 November 1960, but both satellites failed to reach orbit when the booster flew off course and was destroyed, raining debris over Cuba, which prompted official protests from the Cuban government. As a result, future SOLRAD flights were programmed to avoid a Cuban flyover during launch.