The Transit satellite system was the first satellite navigation system to be used operationally. The system was used to provide accurate location for the US Navy ships. Transit 1A failed to make orbit. September 17, 1959 at 14:34 UTC · Launch Failure Thor Able II — United States Air Force, to Low Earth Orbit Space Launch Complex 17A, Cape Canaveral SFS, FL, USA The world's 48th orbital launch attempt, and 17th of 1959. Data: Launch Library 2, The Space Devs.