Discoverer 1 served as a technology demonstration satellite aimed at testing the propulsion and guidance systems of the booster, as well as evaluating systems for the Discoverer and Corona reconnaissance satellite program. Unlike subsequent missions, Discoverer 1 didn't carry a camera or film capsule but instead featured a cylindrical Agena-A upper stage with a conical nosecone, measuring 5.73 m in length and 1.52 m in diameter, made of magnesium. Its 18 kg payload primarily consisted of communication and telemetry equipment housed within the nosecone, including high-frequency low-power and radar beacon transmitters for tracking, along with fifteen telemetry channels to monitor spacecraft performance.