29 September - Alouette 1 a Canadian satellite launched in 1962

 

Alouette 1, Canada's first satellite, was launched on 29 September 1962 by NASA, marking Canada as the third country in the world to design and build its own satellite. It was sent into space aboard a Thor-Agena-B rocket from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California.

Alouette 1's primary mission was to study the Earth's ionosphere, which affects radio communications. The data it gathered helped scientists better understand the ionospheric conditions that affect long-distance communication. This satellite was part of Canada's contribution to the International Geophysical Year, and its successful operation for nearly a decade was a significant achievement in space research.

This event also established Canada as a pioneer in space technology, particularly in satellite communications.