Question

What was the first space telescope built by NASA?

Answer 1

OAO-2 was the first NASA observatory to successfully launch and complete its mission from 1968 to 1973.

Explanation:

The first space observatory successfully launched by NASA and managed to remain in orbit for the duration of its mission was the Orbiting Astronomical Observatory - 2 (OAO-2, nicknamed Stargazer). It was launched into orbit on December 7, 1968 and remained in contact until January or 1973.

It had 2 experiment packages; the Smithsonian Astronomical Observatory (SAO) and the Wisconsin Experiment Package (WEP). SAO contained four 1 ft diameter telescopes for studying UV light and finished its mission in 1970. WEP contained eleven telescopes, also for studying UV. Its mission ended when contact was lost in 1973

OAO-2's predecessor, OAO-1 was successfully launched in 1966 but lost control in orbit after 3 days due to power failure.