It was used as the upper stage, and provided improved performance. On 13 April 1960, a Thor-Ablestar launched Transit 1B, the first experimental satellite of what eventually became the Global Navigation Satellite System. On 22 June 1960, a Thor-Ablestar launched the first Galactic Radiation and Background (GRAB) electronic intelligence (ELINT) satellite for the United States Navy.
It was utilized as the upper stage, enhancing performance. On April 13, 1960, a Thor-Ablestar launched Transit 1B, the initial experimental satellite that eventually became part of the Global Navigation Satellite System. On June 22, 1960, a Thor-Ablestar sent up the first Galactic Radiation and Background (GRAB) electronic intelligence (ELINT) satellite for the United States Navy.