Discoverer XLIII (43) Parachute Fragment Note: This item is currently in storage. The Discoverer/Corona satellite program was the first successful reconnaissance satellite program operated by the United States of America. The Discoverer program was operated by the U.S. Air Force and was described as a satellite technology development effort, but primarily served as cover for a secret reconnaissance satellite project (Corona) operated by the Central Intelligence Agency. Discoverer/Corona satellites made use of recoverable film canisters which were recovered in midair during a parachute descent by specially equipped U.S. Air Force C-119 recovery aircraft. This parachute fragment was autographed by all crewmen on board and is dated (handwritten) "June 1, 1962 16:15 Local." The mission was not successful since the aircraft was not able to catch the film capsule during its descent. The donor was the flight engineer on board that aircraft. Donated by Tech. Sgt. (Ret.) Bernard Glansbeek. Click here to return to the Featured Accessions index. Find Out More Related Fact Sheets Fairchild C-119J Flying Boxcar Note: The appearance of hyperlinks does not constitute endorsement by the National Museum of the USAF, the U.S. Air Force, or the Department of Defense, of the external website, or the information, products or services contained therein.