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Today in History: Prospero: First British Satellite Launched on Rocket

10/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On October 28, 1971, the United Kingdom successfully launched the Prospero satellite, also known as X-3, from Woomera, South Australia. This marked a significant milestone as Prospero was the first British satellite to be launched by a British rocket, Black Arrow. The satellite conducted experiments on the effects of space on communications technology until 1973.

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Story summary

On October 28, 1971, the United Kingdom successfully launched the Prospero satellite, also known as X-3, from Woomera, South Australia. This marked a significant milestone as Prospero was the first British satellite to be launched by a British rocket, Black Arrow. The satellite conducted experiments on the effects of space on communications technology until 1973.