The sign accompanying the Echo adapter. It reads
Echo Adapter
Grumman Echo Adapter
Echo 1 was the first communications satellite. Grumman's first space project
was to build the rocket adapter and satellite container (seen here) for the
Echo 1 satellite. Echo, launched in 1960, was the first experimental attempt
at developing a communications satellite. Essentially a 135' diameter silver
mylar balloon, which inflated in space, Echo served as a passive relay as
signals were bounced off it. Grumman also made the adapter and container for
Echo 2, launched in 1964, which was larger and a more successful balloon
satellite.
On Loan: National Air & Space Museum