Today, 61 years ago, on January 29, 1964 (December 15, 1963) the Saturn rocket launched its heaviest satellite into space. On January 29, 1964, a Saturn rocket launched a 10-ton satellite into orbit, the heaviest ever. This made the United States the first time to surpass the Soviet Union. Six years ago, the United States first launched a 31-pound satellite into orbit. Today's launch was broadcast by national television. The key to the success of the Saturn rocket was the use of hydrogen fuel at the third level. This was pretty well performed in the first test. Three months later, the Saturn rocket will send a model of the 10-ton Apollo moonboat into orbit.