ATS-6 (Applications Technology Satellite-6) was the world's first educational satellite as well as world's first experimental Direct Broadcast Satellite. It was launched May 30, 1974 and decommissioned July, 1979.
During its 5 year life, ATS-6 transmitted educational programming to various countries, including India, the US and other regions. The vehicle also conducted air traffic control tests, was used to practice satellite-assisted search and rescue techniques, carried an experimental radiometer subsequently carried as a standard instrument aboard weather satellites, and pioneered direct broadcast TV.